Chinese Airports: Shipping Services Availability And Accessibility

Air freight is a fast and efficient method of transporting goods, and it is becoming an increasingly popular option for businesses looking to import goods swiftly and securely. Chinese cargo airports are among the largest in the world, with Hong Kong International Airport being the largest cargo airport in the world.

Air freight offers several advantages over other modes of transport, such as speed, reliability, global reach, security, and reduced packaging. It is particularly useful for transporting high-value commodities, perishable goods, or time-sensitive products.

When it comes to air freight from China, there are multiple airports to choose from, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Some of the major airports in China that facilitate air cargo include:

- Shanghai Pudong International Airport

- Beijing Capital International Airport

- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

- Shenzhen International Airport

- Ningbo Airport

- Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

- Qingdao Liuting International Airport

- Tianjin Cargo Airport

- Beijing Capital International Airport

These airports serve as hubs for various airlines and cargo carriers, offering direct connections to destinations worldwide.

The process of shipping air cargo from China involves understanding air freight rates, choosing the right service and airport, and working with a knowledgeable air freight forwarder who can navigate the complexities of the shipping process, including documentation and customs clearance.

Air freight vs sea freight

Chinese airports do offer shipping services, with the Shanghai Pudong International Airport handling the most cargo, followed by the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.

Now, here is some information on air freight versus sea freight:

Air Freight vs. Sea Freight

Air freight and sea freight are two popular methods for transporting goods internationally. While both have their pros and cons, the choice between the two depends on factors such as cost, weight, volume, and delivery time.

Basic Characteristics

Air freight is preferred when time is of the essence. It offers express shipping and fast transportation, usually taking 8-10 days, but an express service can reduce this to 2-3 days. Sea freight, on the other hand, is typically chosen for bulky or heavy shipments that are not time-sensitive, with transit times ranging from 14 days to over 30 days.

Cost

Air freight is generally more expensive than sea freight due to the faster delivery times. For example, a shipment weighing 85 kg might cost $400 by sea and $600 by air. However, as the shipment size decreases, the difference in cost between air and sea freight reduces.

Volume and Weight

Sea freight has a much higher volume capacity than air freight and is more cost-effective for transporting large volumes of cargo. Sea freight containers can also hold more weight than air freight planes.

Security and Reliability

Air freight offers more security checks and is considered safer and more reliable than sea freight. It is also a better option for high-value goods that require greater security.

Environmental Impact

Sea freight has a much smaller carbon footprint than air freight, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

Choosing Between Air Freight and Sea Freight

The decision to choose air freight or sea freight depends on the specific requirements of the shipment. If cost is a primary concern and the goods are not time-sensitive, sea freight is a better option. However, if faster delivery and increased security are priorities, air freight is the way to go. Additionally, the type of goods being shipped, such as hazardous materials, may dictate the mode of transportation due to restrictions.

Shipping lithium batteries

There are three methods of shipping lithium batteries: ocean freight, air freight, and courier service.

Ocean Freight

If you choose the ocean container option, the carrier will most likely load and tie your cargo in a sea container along with other cargo or lithium batteries. LCL (Less than Container Load) service is a low-cost and reliable option because you only have to pay for the space occupied inside your cargo container.

Air Freight

Lithium Battery Air Freight uses specialised cargo aircraft to transport lithium batteries on weekly scheduled flights, currently covering only part of the country. This specialised air freight service for dangerous goods allows for the quick delivery of lithium batteries.

Courier Service

Well-known couriers such as UPS and DHL offer lithium battery shipping services. Shipping companies use specific means of transport, and professional staff deal with lithium batteries. This professional dangerous goods transport can deliver your battery cargo faster, and they offer faster global reach.

Packaging and Labelling

Lithium batteries must be packed properly according to DRG dangerous regulations and affix UN marks on the packaging. The packaging must also include the name and address of the supplier and importer, and a UN Label (i.e., UN 3480). There are strict label size requirements, and only rigid cardboard boxes with at least 5 layers should be used.

Documentation

The following documents are typically required for shipping lithium batteries:

• Shipper declaration for dangerous goods
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Packing instruction and all applicable Special Provisions for the product being shipped
• Air Waybill

Air freight rates

Air freight costs are calculated based on the chargeable weight, which is the higher value between the gross weight and the dimensional weight. The dimensional weight is calculated by multiplying the volume of the item in cubic meters by 167. If the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight, the former becomes the chargeable weight.

Pre-COVID-19, international air cargo rates typically ranged from $2.50 to $5.00 per kilogram, depending on the type of cargo and available space. As of early 2023, rates have dropped to around $3.00 to $7.00 per kilogram, which is still higher than pre-pandemic rates, likely due to increased fuel and labour costs.

For example, in 2024, the Baltic Exchange Airfreight Index prices from Hong Kong to North America breached the $10 per kg mark for the first time since the index started in 2015. Average rates on the route stood at $10.52 per kg, compared to $9.70 per kg the previous week, and $5.15 per kg a year earlier.

In terms of specific airports, prices from Shanghai to North America are understood to be over $11 per kg. From Shanghai to Europe, prices are over $7 per kg.

The cost of air freight also depends on the type of service. Express shipping 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.

Other factors that affect air freight rates include the level of urgency, the transport cost, the type of goods being shipped, and the origin and destination of the cargo.

Air freight restrictions

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) supports airline activity and helps formulate industry policies and standards for airlines worldwide. As of 2023, IATA represents 317 airlines from over 120 countries.

• You cannot legally use air cargo services for illegal purposes.
• Specific packaging requirements must be followed, as outlined by the carrier and the country.
• Certain chemicals and raw materials are prohibited from being transported by air freight. These restrictions depend on the carrier, the origin country, and the destination country.
• Lithium batteries are classified as hazardous materials and are subject to strict regulations regarding packing and labelling.
• Dangerous goods, such as industrial fluids, toxins, gases, combustible items, waste, etc., are subject to international shipping regulations and may be restricted.

It is important to note that air freight restrictions are implemented to ensure the safety and security of aircraft, passengers, and cargo. These restrictions can vary by carrier and country, so it is essential to consult with your chosen carrier and stay updated on the latest regulations.

Air freight forwarders

An air freight forwarder's duties include keeping a constant check on shipments, obtaining a customs brokerage license, staying updated with air freight regulations, negotiating the best airline rates, and arranging storage facilities. They also act as strategic logistics planners, consolidating shipments to reduce costs and optimise space. Additionally, they are responsible for obtaining cargo insurance and preparing the necessary documents, such as the Air Waybill.

Some of the key practices for effective air freight forwarding include:

• Consolidating shipments to reduce costs and carbon footprint.
• Optimising packaging to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Building strategic carrier alliances for better rates and service.
• Ensuring accurate and timely documentation, such as using electronic air waybills.
• Staying updated with international and local regulations, including customs and security measures.
• Implementing advanced technology, such as tracking systems and AI, to automate and improve decision-making.
• Adopting a data-driven logistics approach to analyse shipping data and optimise processes.

The advantages of air freight forwarding include speedy deliveries, global reach, reliable schedules, and enhanced security protocols offered by airlines and airports.

Frequently asked questions