Air freight China-2026 Guidelines
Air freight is one of the most common transportation modes in international logistics. It provides reliable, time-sensitive shipping solutions for businesses that need speed and consistency to remain competitive. In the first half of 2025, global air freight volumes increased by 12.7% year-on-year, driven primarily by cross-border e-commerce and high-end manufacturing. As the world’s manufacturing hub, China exports a growing volume of goods by air every year. Data from 2024 further highlights this trend: according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), China’s international air freight volume led global growth with an increase of 29.3%. If you are sourcing products from China, air freight may be your preferred shipping option. This guide will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of air freight.
What is air freight？
Air freight is a logistics method for transporting goods internationally and is one of the core modes of international cargo transportation. It is mainly divided into two types: passenger aircraft belly cargo air freight and dedicated freighter air freight. Passenger aircraft belly air freight is suitable for medium or small shipment volumes, while freighter air freight uses aircraft designed exclusively for cargo transport, offering more stable capacity and making it ideal for oversized, heavy, or special cargo.
In international air freight, goods cross national borders and must go through a series of cross-border procedures, including export customs declaration and inspection in the country of origin. Air freight offers advantages such as fast transit times and low cargo damage rates, making it particularly suitable for high-value and urgent shipments.
Our company（batteryshipment） has over 20 years of experience in the international freight forwarding industry, with extensive expertise in China export transportation. We can provide professional, customized logistics services, especially in air freight.
Air freight vs sea freight
In international freight transportation, sea freight and air freight are the most commonly used shipping methods. How to choose between these two options is a common question for most customers.
Air freight
Air freight is known for its speed and reliability. Transit time is usually measured in days, making it ideal for urgent shipments, high-value cargo, and products with tight delivery deadlines. Air freight is especially suitable for urgent sample shipments. In addition, air freight has a lower cargo damage rate and higher security standards. However, air freight has much stricter limitations on weight, dimensions, and cargo categories. For example, vehicles and large machinery are generally not suitable for air freight.
Air freight packing requirements are also very strict and must be customized according to the type of cargo, such as dangerous goods packing, general cargo packing, and other special packaging standards. Air freight costs are relatively high, and for low-value goods, the freight cost may even exceed the cargo value. Most air freight shipments are packed on pallets, in wooden cases, loose cartons, or wooden frames, as air freight does not handle containerized cargo.
Sea freight
Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for large-volume and heavy cargo. It supports Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL), making it suitable for bulk shipments and non-urgent cargo. While sea freight is much cheaper than air freight, transit times are longer and usually take several weeks, depending on the route and port congestion. For dangerous goods transportation, sea freight has fewer restrictions than air freight, especially in terms of documentation and packing requirements. Sea freight packing is more flexible in many cases and often only needs to protect the cargo from damage, except for dangerous goods. If cost control is a priority, sea freight is a better option than air freight.
In short, air freight is best suited for fast delivery, high-value, and time-sensitive cargo, while sea freight is more suitable for cost control and large-volume transportation.
Air freight process
The air freight process is not complicated, but it involves multiple professional operations. Below is a complete air freight process to help you better understand how air freight works.
1. Air Freight Quote and Air Freight Incoterm
First, confirm the cargo details, including cargo description, weight, volume, quantity, and HS code. It is also necessary to verify whether the cargo is classified as dangerous goods (UN number and dangerous goods packing certificate must be prepared in advance). In addition, the air freight Incoterm should be confirmed, such as CIF, DAP, DDU, or DDP. This determines whether the cargo is delivered to the airport, to a designated address, or whether customs clearance and tax payment are required.
After receiving this information, batteryshipment will provide you with a detailed air freight quote and multiple air freight service options.
2. Space Booking / Flight Booking
After the air freight quote is confirmed, you need to submit a booking form to us. We will apply for cargo space with the airline and confirm the tentative flight schedule. For dangerous goods, air freight space is often limited, so advance booking is strongly recommended.
3. Cargo Delivery to Warehouse and Air Freight Packing
The cargo can be delivered to our designated warehouse, or we can arrange pickup from your specified address. If cargo labeling is required, labels must be applied before the cargo leaves the warehouse.
Air freight packing depends on the airline, cargo type, and weight. For general cargo, air freight pallet packing or loose cartons are usually sufficient, with proper cargo protection. For dangerous goods, UN-approved boxes or wooden cases are required.
Our warehouse will inspect every air freight shipment to ensure accurate declaration and compliant packing.
4. Export Customs Declaration
Each air freight shipment must be declared for export. In most cases, you need to provide a commercial invoice and packing list. For dangerous goods, additional documents such as MSDS and UN certificates are required. Our experienced team will handle export customs declaration to improve air freight efficiency.
5. Airport Handling, Loading, Transportation and Tracking
After customs release, the warehouse delivers the cargo to the airline’s assigned terminal or airport ramp according to airline requirements. The airport will recheck the final chargeable weight. Based on the flight schedule, the cargo will be safely loaded onto the aircraft.
Once the flight departs, we will issue the Air Waybill (AWB) and provide air freight tracking, including tracking numbers and tracking websites, so you can monitor shipment status in real time.
6. Destination Airport Customs Clearance and Tax Payment
After arrival at the destination airport, customs clearance will be handled by the consignee, a local customs broker, or our company, depending on the selected air freight Incoterm. Customs clearance and tax payment can be processed simultaneously. The declared value on export and import invoices will directly affect the duty and tax rates.
7. Cargo Pickup and Air Freight Door to Door Delivery
After customs clearance and tax payment are completed, the cargo can be collected from the airport cargo terminal using the AWB, release note, and delivery order (DO).
If you require air freight door to door service, we will arrange trucks for final delivery. We can provide door-to-door delivery for general cargo as well as door-to-door delivery for dangerous goods.
Air Freight Cost
Air freight cost refers to the total expense of shipping cargo by air from the origin airport to the destination airport, or on a door-to-door basis. It is generally higher than sea freight, but it offers much faster transit times and higher reliability, making it ideal for urgent and high-value shipments.
Main factors affecting air freight cost
1.Chargeable weight
Air freight is charged based on chargeable weight, which is the higher of:
Actual gross weight (kg), or Volumetric weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
2.Cargo type
General cargo, dangerous goods, batteries, perishables, and oversized cargo all have different pricing structures. Dangerous goods usually incur higher air freight costs due to special handling and packing requirements.
3.Route and destination
Popular routes with frequent flights usually have lower air freight rates. Remote destinations or routes with limited capacity cost more.
4.Seasonality and capacity
Air freight cost fluctuates during peak seasons (such as Q3–Q4, e-commerce sales periods, and holidays) when capacity is tight and demand is high.
5.Air freight packing
Packaging such as air freight pallets, wooden cases, or UN-approved packing for dangerous goods can increase weight and volume, directly affecting the final cost.
6.Service scope (airport-to-airport vs door to door)
Airport-to-airport services are cheaper, while air freight door to door services include pickup, customs clearance, taxes (if DDP), and final delivery, resulting in higher overall costs.
Advantages of air freight
Air freight offers several key advantages, making it a preferred choice for many international shipments, especially those that are time-sensitive or high in value.
Speedy Delivery
Air freight is the fastest mode of international transportation. Transit times are typically measured in days rather than weeks, which is ideal for urgent shipments, high-value goods, and products with tight deadlines.
High Reliability
Airlines operate on fixed schedules, reducing the likelihood of delays compared with sea or land transport. Cargo handling is also standardized, minimizing the risk of loss or damage.
Lower Cargo Damage Rate
Air freight involves less handling and shorter transit times, which significantly reduces the risk of cargo damage.
Global Reach
Air freight connects major cities and markets worldwide, including remote or landlocked regions, providing access that may be difficult or slow by other transportation modes.
Enhanced Security
Airports and airlines maintain strict security protocols, including secure storage and controlled access, reducing the risk of theft or tampering.
Simplified Supply Chain for Time-Sensitive Goods
Air freight is especially beneficial for urgent samples, perishable goods, medical supplies, and electronics that require fast turnaround.
Air freight provides speed, reliability, and security, making it the best choice for high-value, urgent, or time-sensitive cargo where cost is less critical than delivery time.
China Air Freight Forwarder
1.BatteryShipment
BatteryShipment is a professional China air freight forwarder with over 20 years of international logistics experience. We specialize in air freight door to door, export customs clearance, tax payment, and dangerous goods air freight. With strong airline partnerships and professional air freight packing solutions, BatteryShipment provides fast, reliable, and compliant air freight services from China to worldwide destinations.
We offer one-stop air freight services including DDP, DDU, and Amazon FBA first-mile solutions, covering key markets in the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia. With standard air freight transit times of 3–7 days, 24/7 real-time air freight tracking, and exception alerts, our solutions are fully optimized for Amazon and Shopify sellers’ end-to-end logistics needs.
2. China Sinotrans
Ranked No. 5 globally in air freight forwarding in 2025 and the top Chinese enterprise, China Sinotrans handles an annual air freight volume of 1.028 million tons. Supported by overseas networks in 42 countries, it delivers integrated air freight logistics solutions combining air, sea, rail, and warehousing services.
With in-house charter flight resources, Sinotrans specializes in enterprise supply chains, project logistics, and special cargo air freight, while also providing value-added services such as supply chain finance and trade agency support.
3. CTS International Logistics
Ranked 14th globally among air freight forwarders, CTS International Logistics focuses on cross-border e-commerce air freight lanes and operates its own overseas warehousing and distribution systems across major U.S. and European cities.
Specializing in lightweight goods such as electronics and apparel, CTS offers dedicated air freight charter services, automated customs clearance, and tailored Amazon FBA air freight solutions, including return handling, relabeling, and overseas warehouse value-added services to help sellers reduce operational costs.
4. Shunxin Logistics
Shunxin Logistics holds both IATA DGR and CAAC dangerous goods air freight certifications, specializing in air freight transportation of lithium batteries and new energy equipment across nine hazardous cargo categories.
The company provides full compliance support, including UN38.3 testing and MSDS documentation, with a zero rejection record. Through direct agreements with airline dangerous goods departments, Shunxin excels in oversized power battery air freight transport, covering more than 180 countries worldwide.
5. Best Services International Freight
Ranked 16th globally among air freight forwarders and recognized as a China AAAAA-rated logistics enterprise, Best Services International Freight is known for its digital-driven air freight solutions.
With a proprietary AI-powered booking system and a global network of over 5,300 service points, the company offers flexible air freight options ranging from small consolidated shipments to full charter flights. Its door-to-door air freight services are tailored for cross-border e-commerce sellers, while blockchain technology ensures transparent and secure air freight tracking.
Why Choose BatteryShipment?
BatteryShipment is a professional international freight forwarding company with over 20 years of experience in global transportation. We specialize in providing tailored logistics solutions and a full range of services, including air freight door to door, customs clearance, and tax handling.
Extensive Experience – Over two decades of expertise in international shipments, especially from China, ensuring your cargo is handled safely and efficiently.
Comprehensive Services – From air freight pallet shipments to air freight door to door delivery, customs clearance, and tax payment, we manage every step of your logistics process.
Handling All Types of Cargo – We transport general cargo, high-value goods, urgent shipments, and even dangerous goods with professional air freight packing and UN certification.
Strong Airline Partnerships – Long-term collaborations with major airlines guarantee stable space, competitive rates, and reliable schedules.
Professional Guidance – Our team provides expert advice on air freight Incoterms, documentation, and compliance to ensure smooth and hassle-free shipping. We also provide air cargo packaging service
Real-Time Shipment Tracking – With our air freight tracking system, you can monitor your cargo at every stage, providing full visibility and peace of mind.
With BatteryShipment, you get fast, secure, and efficient air freight solutions designed to meet your unique shipping needs.
FAQ
Yes. BatteryShipment is experienced in handling dangerous goods air freight, including lithium batteries and other regulated cargo. With strong airline partnerships, we help ensure smooth booking, safe transportation, and reliable delivery for dangerous goods shipped by air.
Air freight is the transportation of goods by aircraft and is mainly used for time-sensitive, high-value, or urgent shipments. You should choose air freight when fast delivery, reliability, and cargo safety are more important than transportation cost, such as for samples, electronics, medical supplies, or urgent replenishment orders.
Air freight cost is based on chargeable weight, which is the higher of the actual gross weight or the volumetric weight (length × width × height ÷ 6000). Factors such as cargo type, destination, airline capacity, fuel surcharges, and air freight packing can all affect the final cost.
Air freight door to door service means the freight forwarder handles the entire shipping process, including pickup, export customs clearance, air transportation, import clearance, tax payment (if required), and final delivery to the consignee’s address. This option is ideal for buyers who want a simple, hassle-free logistics solution.
Air freight packing must comply with airline and aviation safety standards. General cargo usually requires cartons or pallets with proper protection, while dangerous goods must use UN-approved packaging and certified labels. Poor or non-compliant packing may lead to cargo rejection or flight delays.