Air freight plays a crucial role in international trade, offering the fastest shipping method for goods across borders. However, its convenience and speed cost more than other transportation methodsWhat Are Air Freight Charges and Why Are They Important?

Air freight plays a crucial role in international trade, offering the fastest shipping method for goods across borders. However, its convenience and speed cost more than other transportation methods. Understanding air freight charges is essential for businesses aiming to optimize logistics expenses.

Why does air freight cost so much? What factors go into calculating these charges? Understanding these fees is essential for any business involved in international trade. In this article, we’ll explore the components of air freight charges, the factors influencing them, and how ExFreight simplifies the process with its innovative digital platform.

How Are Air Freight Charges Calculated? Key Factors to Understand Costs

Air freight charges refer to the cost of transporting goods via air carriers. Unlike sea or land freight, these charges are calculated based on the more excellent value between the shipment’s actual weight and its volumetric weight.

Breaking Down Air Freight Charges

When you book an air shipment, you might notice a variety of charges on your invoice. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

  • Base Freight Rate: Calculated using your cargo’s actual or volumetric weight.
  • Fuel Surcharge: Adjusted based on market fuel prices.
  • Security Surcharge: Covers the cost of safety protocols like cargo screening.
  • Terminal Handling Charges (THC) include cargo loading, unloading, and storage.
  • Customs Clearance Fees: Costs associated with ensuring compliance with customs regulations.

How to Calculate Volumetric Weight:

  • Volumetric Weight (kg) = Volume (m³) × 167

For instance, a box measuring 1 m × 1 m × 1 m has a volume of 1 m³. Multiply that by 167, and the volumetric weight is 167 kg. If the actual weight is 150 kg, the airline will use the 167 kg figure to calculate the shipping cost.

Real-World Example:

Imagine shipping designer handbags from New York to Paris. Each box weighs 5 kg but takes up the space of a 10 kg box. The airline will charge based on 10 kg because of the space it occupies in the cargo hold.

 What Factors Influence Air Freight Charges? Air freight costs can fluctuate depending on various internal and external factors. Understanding these influences can help businesses plan better and avoid unexpected expenses.

Air freight costs can fluctuate depending on various internal and external factors. Understanding these influences can help businesses plan better and avoid unexpected expenses.

  1. Cargo Weight and Volume:
    • More significantly, heavier shipments cost more. The greater the actual or volumetric weight, the greater the weight applied.
  2. Distance and Destination:
    • Longer distances mean higher costs, especially when routes involve layovers or less accessible airports.
  3. Type of Goods:
    • Fragile, perishable, or hazardous goods incur additional handling and documentation charges.
  4. Seasonal Demand:
    • Rates spike during peak periods like holidays or harvest seasons when shipping demand increases.
  5. Service Level:
    • Express or next-flight-out services cost more than the standard or deferred shipping options.

Example:

During November’s peak shopping season, air freight rates from China to the United States often double those of the off-season due to increased demand for electronics and apparel.

H2: Which Air Freight Cargo Is Worth the Most?

Air freight is often reserved for goods where time, value, or perishability is critical. These cargo types represent the highest value in air freight transport:

High-Value Electronics:

Smartphones, laptops, and semiconductor chips are frequently shipped by air. Tech companies use air freight to meet launch deadlines and minimize stockouts.

Pharmaceutical and Medical Supplies:

Vaccines and medicines often require strict temperature control and fast delivery to maintain efficacy.

Air freight is often reserved for goods where time, value, or perishability is critical. These cargo types represent the highest value in air freight transport:Luxury and Fashion Items:

Jewelry watches and designer apparel rely on air freight for secure, on-time delivery, particularly during fashion seasons.

Automotive and Aerospace Parts:

Factories depend on just-in-time (JIT) deliveries of specialized components to maintain production schedules.

Perishable Goods:

Seafood, flowers, and fresh produce need air freight to preserve freshness during transport.

Industry Insight: Electronics and pharmaceuticals are two of the most transported goods by air, contributing to 35% of global trade value​.

H3: What Is an Air Freight Station (AFS)?

An Air Freight Station (AFS) is a facility where cargo is processed, inspected, and prepared for air transport. These stations streamline the logistics process by consolidating shipments and handling customs documentation.

Key Functions of an AFS:

  • Cargo Reception and Consolidation: Multiple shipments are combined to optimize space.
  • Security Screening: Cargo undergoes security checks in compliance with aviation regulations.
  • Customs Documentation: Preparation of export and import paperwork.
  • Cargo Handling: Loading, unloading, and arranging cargo for transport.

Did You Know?

Many AFS facilities operate 24/7 to accommodate fluctuating flight schedules and prevent shipment delays.

H2: How ExFreight Simplifies Air Freight Costs

ExFreight has redefined the logistics industry by offering a digital-first platform that makes air freight shipping more uncomplicated and transparent. Here’s how:

  1. Instant Rate Quotes

With ExFreight, you no longer must wait hours or days for a freight quote. Their system provides real-time, door-to-door pricing for shipments within the United States and to more than 150 international destinations​.

  1. Easy Online Booking

The user-friendly dashboard allows businesses to book shipments with just a few clicks. Everything is managed by a single interface, whether air, ocean, or ground shipment.The user-friendly dashboard allows businesses to book shipments with just a few clicks. Everything is managed by a single interface, whether air, ocean, or ground shipment.

  1. Live Shipment Tracking

ExFreight connects directly with air carriers, providing GPS-based location tracking. Customers can check their shipment status anytime, anywhere.

  1. Transparent Pricing

The platform clearly outlines all charges, eliminating surprises and hidden fees.

  1. API Integration

Businesses can integrate ExFreight’s services into their logistics systems using open APIs, which ensures seamless data exchange and operational efficiency​.

FAQs: Common Questions About Air Freight Charges

  1. What Are the Different Levels of Air Freight Service?
  • Express (Next Flight Out): Ideal for urgent shipments.
  • Standard: A reliable, cost-effective option with predictable transit times.
  • Deferred: A budget-friendly choice when time isn’t critical.
  1. What Happens After Booking My Air Export Shipment?
  • ExFreight confirms shipment details and pickup schedules.
  • Documentation is prepared and uploaded to the system.
  • Cargo is tracked in real-time until delivery​.
  1. What Happens After Booking My Air Import Shipment?
  • The cargo’s arrival is coordinated with local customs officials.
  • Import documentation is checked and cleared up.
  • The shipment is released and delivered to the destination.

With ExFreight’s digital-first approach, businesses can access instant quotes, seamless booking, and real-time tracking while benefiting from competitive, transparent pricing.Mastering Air Freight Costs for Smarter Shipping

Understanding air freight charges is key to managing shipping costs effectively. Each component tells a story about your shipment’s journey, from weight and volume to external factors like fuel prices and seasonal demand.

With ExFreight’s digital-first approach, businesses can access instant quotes, seamless booking, and real-time tracking while benefiting from competitive, transparent pricing.

Take control of your shipping operations today.

Visit ExFreight and experience a more innovative, more straightforward way to ship.