Guide to Air Freight from China to USA in 2025

As globalization accelerates, trade between China and the USA is becoming increasingly frequent. As an efficient and fast logistics method, air freight plays an important role in the transportation of goods between the two countries.

Air freight from China to the USA is a common method used by many companies to deliver products quickly. Although air freight costs are relatively high, its speed and reliability make it an attractive option.

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Air Freight from China to USA

If you have a relatively high budget for shipping from China to the US and your supply chain requires fast delivery, air freight would be the right choice for your business. It is the fastest mode of shipping, although the cost is higher than sea freight. Air freight from China to the US usually takes 3-7 days, depending on the service and route selected.

Air freight shipments are usually time-sensitive goods, such as medical supplies, urgent orders with tight deadlines, or perishable goods. Most of the time, goods shipped by air from China are high-value products, and customers do not want to wait 1 month for their goods to arrive in the US.

In addition, air freight guarantees higher security compared to sea freight. Shorter transit times for air freight also mean less chance of damage or loss, faster cash flow, and higher turnover.

In conclusion, air freight is a fast and secure way to ship goods from China to the US. This is an ideal way if you want to receive your cargo in about 10 days and your shipping budget is sufficient.

Major airports in the United States

Los Angeles
Los Angeles International Airport (IATA CODE: LAX)
The 5th busiest airport in the world in 2021
Perfect destination for air cargo from China to the west part of the United States
Most imports via Los Angeles airport come from China
Direct passenger and cargo flights are available between China and Los Angeles

Atlanta
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (IATA CODE: ATL)
The busiest airport of the United States and one of the busiest in the world
Main air cargo hub

Dallas
Fort Worth International Airport (IATA CODE: DFW)
DFW is focused on air cargo
Record of cargo volume at Dallas Fort Worth hit 1 m tons (Apr, 2022)

Chicago
O’Hare International Airport (IATA: ORD)
Top 3 airports for cargo in the USA
25% of the total air cargo that arrives at ORD comes from China
Over 2 m tons of cargo was handled by ORD in 2021

New York
John F. Kennedy International Airport (IATA CODE: JFK)
6th busiest airport in the US
One of the world’s leading international air cargo centers
Direct passenger and cargo flights are available between China and New York

Miami
Miami international airport, also known as MIA
Handles over 2 m tons of cargo per year
No direct flights from Chinese airports

Why choose air freight from China to USA?

Speed
Air freight is the fastest method of international shipping, with a typical transit time of 3 to 7 days. This is ideal for businesses that need to deliver goods on tight deadlines or respond quickly to market demands.

Reliability
Airlines have fixed flight schedules and scheduled flights, reducing the possibility of delays. This reliability is essential to maintaining supply chain efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Security
Airports have strict security measures, reducing the risk of theft and damage. Therefore, high-value and sensitive goods are safer when shipped by air.

Product Quality
For perishable and time-sensitive products such as electronics, fashion goods, and pharmaceuticals, air freight can ensure that goods arrive in optimal condition.

Learn more: Air Freight With Batteries From China To USA

What products are suitable for air freight from China to USA

Electronics
High-value electronic products such as smartphones, laptops, etc. benefit from the speed and security of air freight.

Fashion and Apparel
Seasonal fashion items and new collections need to be delivered quickly to keep up with market trends.

Medical Supplies
Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies may have a limited shelf life and need to be shipped quickly and safely.

Learn more: Guide To Shipping Medical Devices From China To USA

Perishable Goods
Perishable goods, such as food and flowers, need to be shipped quickly to keep them fresh.

High Demand Goods
Products with high market demand and short lead times are best shipped by air to ensure timely supply.

Air freight is a faster but more expensive option for shipping goods. Air freight charges are calculated by kilogram and depend on the weight and volume of the shipment, destination, transportation company and other factors.

The cost per kilogram of air freight from China to USA varies widely, but usually ranges from $4.50 to $9.50 per kilogram. Prices are affected by market demand, fuel prices and other operating costs. Shippers should also consider additional charges such as handling fees, customs clearance fees, and any surcharges imposed by airlines.

Air freight costs currently fluctuate greatly and will change based on seasons, holidays, and speed.

Air freight from Shenzhen, China to different cities in the United States, the cargo weight is 100kg, and the estimated price per kilogram is as follows

1. From: Shenzhen To: New York, Cost: $6.50 per kg
2. From: Shenzhen To: Los Angeles, Cost: $6.55 per kg
3. From: Shenzhen To: Chicago, Cost: $6.05 per kg
4. From: Shenzhen To: Houston, Cost: $6.00 per kg
5. From: Shenzhen To: Phoenix, Cost: $5.50 per kg
6. From: Shenzhen To: Philadelphia, Cost: $5.65 per kg
7. From: Shenzhen To: San Antonio, Cost: $5.20 per kg
8. From: Shenzhen To: San Diego, Cost: $5.85 per kg
9. From: Shenzhen To: Dallas, Cost: $6.15 per kg
10. From: Shenzhen To: San Jose, Cost: $5.55 per kg

Choosing a freight forwarder can definitely make friends more than going to the airline to ship it yourself. Because the freight forwarder has many freight partners, they will give us the most favorable and complete plan according to the number of pieces, weight, items, etc. we provide. Of course, you can also contact the airline yourself, but the price will definitely be higher.

If you want to know the cost of shipping a container from China to the USA, you can click on the link: 20 FT & 40 FT Container Shipping Cost from China to USA

Cheapest air freight from China to the USA

Looking for the cheapest air freight method requires the following considerations:

• Type of service: Express air freight is faster but more expensive, standard air freight is cheaper but takes a little longer.
• Logistics company: Compare quotes from different logistics companies, including DHL, FedEx, UPS, and freight forwarding companies.
• Discounts and offers: Sometimes logistics companies offer good discounts, especially for large quantities of goods.
• Freight forwarding company: For large quantities of goods, choosing a freight forwarding company can reduce costs.
• Mixed transportation: Combine sea and air transportation, choose sea transportation for the less urgent part of the goods, and choose air transportation for the urgent part.

Learn more: Cheapest Shipping from China to USA

Air shipping from China to USA shipping fee:

Shipping costs are determined by the actual situation. For example, which airline do we use, whether to fly directly to the destination, or choose the method that needs to be transferred. What kind of goods are consigned, the volume and weight also need to be considered, and the prices of the above points will fluctuate to a certain extent.

China to USA Air Freight requires:

Whether it is the size or weight of the cargo, airlines will have strict regulations. Once our consignment does not conform, the shipping airline will reject the consignment. Therefore, you need to know more about air transportation.

How to calculate the price per kG for express air freight from China to the USA

Air Freight from China to USA, Global importers and exporters use air cargo when they need to move goods around the world quickly and reliably. While 90% of imports and exports are shipped by ocean freight, air freight connects the world faster, cutting China-US freight shipping time from 20-30 days by ocean to only three days by air cargo.

International air freight and express freight shipments are not the same things.

Express air freight is typically handled by one company (such as DHL, UPS, or FedEx) that manages the entire shipment lifecycle and ships door to door in under five days. Express air freight shipments are usually smaller than air freight (less than one cubic meter and 200 kilograms).

International air freight shipments can be significantly larger and may move across multiple carriers during shipment.

Air freight shipping prices and costs

When it comes to air freight shipping, weight and volume are key factors. Air carriers will charge by either volumetric weight (also known as dimensional weight) or actual weight, depending on which is more expensive.

To calculate volumetric weight for air shipping, multiply the item’s volume in cubic meters by 167. So, let’s say you have a package with the following measurements: W: 40cm, H: 40cm L:40. This means that the volume is .064 (the product of all sides divided by one million). Multiply this by 167 and you get a volumetric weight of 10.67 kg.

If the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight of the product, the volumetric weight becomes the chargeable weight.

Air freight shipping rates & charges

Beyond the expense of air freight, which is calculated based on the cost above, the total cost to ship by air will also likely include:

• Fuel surcharges
• Security surcharges
• Container freight station/terminal handling charges
• Airport transfers

In addition, for door-to-door costs, the price will also include air cargo services, including:

• Customs brokerage
• Pickup and delivery
• Cargo insurance
• Accessorial charges

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Comparison between express air freight and freight forwarding air freight to the USA

Express air freight
Advantages: fast speed, wide service coverage, door-to-door service.
Disadvantages: high cost, not suitable for large quantities of goods.
Scope of application: small parcels, urgent goods, high-value goods.

Freight forwarding air freight
Advantages: low cost, suitable for large quantities of goods.
Disadvantages: slightly longer time, need to handle some customs clearance and delivery by yourself.
Scope of application: large quantities of goods, non-urgent goods, situations where transportation costs need to be reduced.

Factors Affecting Air Freight Prices from China to USA

The cost of air freight from China to the USA can vary widely based on several factors. These factors include the departure and arrival cities, the weight and dimensions of the shipment, the type of goods being shipped, the level of service (standard air freight, express, etc.), and the specific airline or freight forwarder you choose.

General Estimates: The cost of air freight from China to the USA typically starts at around $3 to $5 per kilogram (2.2 pounds) for standard air cargo services. However, this is a very rough estimate and actual costs can be higher or lower depending on various factors.

Express Shipping: If you require faster delivery, express shipping services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer quicker transit times but at a higher cost. The cost for express services can start at around $20 to $30 for lightweight packages and can go up significantly for larger or heavier shipments.

Cargo Type: The nature of the goods being shipped can influence the cost. For example, hazardous materials or perishable goods might require special handling and packaging, which can impact the cost.

Destination and Origin Airports: The specific airports you are shipping from and to can affect the cost. Major airports with robust shipping facilities might offer more competitive rates.

Peak Seasons: Shipping costs can increase during peak seasons, such as the holiday season, due to higher demand for air freight services.

Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in fuel prices can impact the overall cost of air freight, as fuel is a significant component of operating costs for airlines.

Additional Services: Optional services such as insurance, tracking, and special handling can add to the overall cost.

Customs and Duties: Remember to factor in potential customs duties, taxes, and import fees that might apply when your shipment arrives in the USA.

Air Freight from China to USA, It is important to have access to accurate and up-to-date quotes directly with Basenton logistics, who can provide specific details based on the characteristics of your shipment. Depending on the specifics of your shipment and current market conditions, prices may vary significantly, contact us and get the most cost-effective and efficient air freight solution for your needs.

Express air freight
Standard service: 3-5 days
Expedited service: 1-3 days

Air freight forwarder
Direct flights: 3-7 days
Transit flights: 7-10 days

What documents are needed for air freight from China to USA

Commercial invoice: lists the goods information, value and transaction parties.
Packing list: lists the packaging and quantity of the goods.
Air waybill: a transport document that proves that the goods have been accepted and will be shipped.
Certificate of origin: proves the origin of the goods.
Other certificates: Depending on the type of goods and import requirements, additional licenses or inspection certificates may be required.

You may be interested in: How to Calculate Duties and Taxes for Shipping from China to the USA?

Air freight from China to the United States provides a fast, reliable and safe mode of transportation suitable for a variety of high-value, perishable and urgent goods. By comparing the costs and times of different shipping methods and choosing the right logistics partner, you can effectively reduce costs and ensure that your goods arrive on time. Understanding the required documents and customs clearance process can also help smooth international shipping.