International Air Freight​ Services

Efficient and Reliable Air Transport Solutions Worldwide

What is air freight?

Air freight is a method of transporting goods by plane. Due to its speed and efficiency, it is widely used in international trade and transnational logistics. It is especially suitable for urgent materials, high-value goods, perishable goods, and other goods that require a shorter transit time. Air freight can connect most countries and regions around the world and is currently one of the fastest and most reliable methods of international freight transport.

air freight companies

International air transport process

  1. Cargo preparation: After the cargo is ready, the customer needs to prepare the relevant documents (such as invoices, packing lists, transport insurance, etc.).
  2. Selecting the airline and flight: The cargo owner or the freight forwarder selects the appropriate airline and flight according to requirements.
  3. Cargo delivery to the freight forwarder: The cargo is handed over to the freight forwarder or airline for processing, and the necessary packaging and customs clearance procedures are carried out.
  4. Air transport: The cargo is loaded onto the plane and flown to the destination.
  5. Destination customs clearance: After arriving at the destination, the cargo needs to pass through local customs for clearance.
  6. Delivery of goods: Once customs clearance has been completed, the goods will be delivered by ground transport to the specified destination.

What is the transit time for air freight?​

Air freight is the fastest way to transport goods, and it usually takes 1-7 days, depending on the distance and destination. Domestic air freight usually takes 1-2 days to arrive, while international air freight usually takes 3-7 days. It is usually used to transport high-value, urgent or time-sensitive goods. However, the transit time of air freight is also affected by factors such as weather, airline arrangements, flight delays, etc. Therefore, although air freight is one of the fastest ways to transport goods, there is always the possibility of unexpected delays. When choosing air freight, you must also consider the size, weight, and cost of the goods, in addition to transit time. While air freight is excellent for fast transport, it is usually more expensive than other methods like Ocean Freight and rail transport. So, if you need something really fast, air is the way to go. But if you need to save costs, other shipping methods may be more suitable.

Air Freight From China

How are air freight costs calculated?

Air freight costs are usually calculated based on the following factors:

  1. Cargo weight: Air freight costs are calculated based on the actual weight or the volumetric weight (whichever is heavier). The formula for calculating volumetric weight is volume (cubic meters) × 167 = volumetric weight (kilograms).
  2. Destination and origin: Costs vary depending on the flight route and are affected by the distance between the origin and destination and the complexity of the journey.
  3. Airline and shipping method: Different airlines and shipping methods (e.g. express, standard freight, etc.) can affect the cost.
  4. Insurance costs: If you choose freight insurance, the cost will increase.
  5. Additional fees: For example, fuel surcharges, insurance fees, overweight fees, customs clearance fees, etc.

Understanding Air Freight Rates: Transparency and Fair Pricing

Rate Calculation: Air freight rates are based on the shipment’s weight, volume, nature of goods, origin, destination, and service level. The pricing is typically per kilogram, considering either the actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater.

Additional Charges:

  • Fuel and Security Surcharges: Reflecting fluctuating fuel costs and enhanced security measures.
  • Miscellaneous Fees: Include container freight station fees, terminal handling charges, and airport transfers.

Getting Started with Hong Ocean: Simplified Process

how to calculate volume weight for air freight

Contact Hong Ocean to obtain a customized quote for your air freight needs. 

Volume Calculation

  • Air freight: 1 m³ = 167 kg
  • Truck freight: 1 m³ = 333 kg
  • Sea freight: 1 m³ = 1000 kg
  • Rail freight: 1 m³ = 500 kg

Volumetric Weight Calculation

Volumetric weight refers to the overall size of a parcel and is measured in volumetric kilograms. Volumetric weight can be calculated by multiplying the length, width and height of a parcel (in cm) and dividing that figure by 5000 (some carriers use a divisor of 4000).

You may often find that the price of your shipment is dictated by the volumetric weight of your parcel(s) rather than the physical weight. This is because our pricing is calculated based on whichever is the greater out of the volumetric weight and the physical weight.

Key Airports in China for Air Freight

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a major air freight hub with extensive cargo facilities. It is one of the busiest airports in the world for international cargo, featuring advanced handling equipment and a vast network of logistics services. PVG is renowned for its efficiency and capacity to manage large volumes of freight, making it a crucial node in global supply chains.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Hong Kong International Airport serves as a key international freight gateway, connecting China with markets around the globe. The airport boasts state-of-the-art cargo facilities, including the expansive Asia Airfreight Terminal and the Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited. Its strategic location and free port status enhance its appeal for international logistics.

Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB)

Ningbo Lishe International Airport is equipped with advanced storage and handling facilities, supporting the thriving industrial and manufacturing sectors in the region. The airport’s modern cargo infrastructure ensures efficient processing and transportation of goods, catering to both domestic and international freight needs.

Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport features a modern cargo terminal with advanced automation systems. It is a pivotal freight hub in Southern China, offering comprehensive logistics services and seamless connections to major global markets. The airport’s cutting-edge technology and efficient operations support the high demand for air freight in the region.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (GUA)

Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport features a modern cargo terminal with advanced automation systems. It is a pivotal freight hub in Southern China, offering comprehensive logistics services and seamless connections to major global markets. The airport’s cutting-edge technology and efficient operations support the high demand for air freight in the region.

Qingdao Liuting International Airport (TAO)

Qingdao Liuting International Airport handles large cargo throughput, serving the industrial heartland of Shandong Province. The airport’s comprehensive cargo services and strategic location facilitate the efficient movement of goods, supporting both import and export activities.

Tianjin Cargo Airport (TSN)

Tianjin Cargo Airport, home to the headquarters of Cargolux, boasts extensive warehouse space and specialized cargo handling capabilities. The airport’s proximity to the major port of Tianjin enhances its role as a key logistics center, providing seamless multimodal transportation options.

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG)

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is equipped for efficient cargo handling, featuring advanced logistics infrastructure and facilities. The airport serves as a vital gateway for goods moving to and from Western China, supporting regional economic growth and development.

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

Beijing Capital International Airport is the main hub for major airlines and a critical node in China’s air freight network. The airport’s extensive cargo facilities and strategic location in the capital city ensure it plays a central role in both domestic and international logistics, facilitating the flow of goods across continents.

Choosing the Right Cargo for Air Freight

Air freight is ideal for high-value, time-sensitive items such as:

Fashion and Apparel: Meet market demands swiftly.

Pharmaceuticals: Ensure timely delivery of life-saving medicines.

Electronics: Transport high-tech gadgets securely.

Artwork: Safeguard precious and fragile items.

Perishables: Maintain the freshness of food and other perishables.

Critical Shipments: Urgently needed materials for projects.

Handling Oversized Cargo: Hong Ocean offers chartered flight options for large projects, utilizing aircraft like the Antonov An-225 Mriya for exceptional loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most frequent questions and answers
  • The cost is determined by the greater of the actual or volumetric weight.
  • Use the formula: Volume (CBM)×167\text{Volume (CBM)} \times 167Volume (CBM)×167

Essential documents include the Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and any specific documents required by customs.

Use the AWB number to track your shipment online for real-time updates.

Contact Hong Ocean immediately to assist in filing a claim with the insurance provider.

Yes, we have the expertise to manage hazardous goods in compliance with international regulations.

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