Air Freight Rates 2026: Cost per kg by Route

Air Freight Rates and Pricing Structure

How Chargeable Weight Is Calculated

Air freight rates are applied to chargeable weight, which is the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight. Volumetric weight reflects the space your cargo occupies. It is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of your shipment in centimeters and dividing by 6,000.

Volumetric weight (kg) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6,000

Chargeable Weight Examples

Example 1: Dense Automotive Parts

You are shipping cast iron engine blocks from Detroit to Frankfurt.

In this example, actual and volumetric weights are equal, so chargeable weight is 600 kg. Freight is charged at the 500–1,000 kg rate tier.

Example 2: Lightweight Packaging

You are shipping corrugated cardboard tubes from São Paulo to Tokyo.

Although the cargo weighs only 25 kg, chargeable weight is 270 kg because of the volume. Rates for the 100–300 kg tier apply.

Factors That Determine Your Rate

The route you select is the primary price driver. A shipment from Asia to Europe faces different supply and demand than one from North America to Europe. Weight brackets create distinct pricing: under 45 kg, 45–100 kg, 100–300 kg, 300–500 kg, 500–1,000 kg, and 1,000+ kg. Commodity type affects the rate: electronics, textiles, chemicals, machinery, and perishables carry different pricing and handling requirements. Service level matters—economy consolidation costs less than express, door-to-door delivery. Seasonal surcharges apply during peak demand periods. Aircraft capacity on your route and shipment date influences the final quote.

Service Levels

Economy service consolidates shipments with other freight on slower schedules, offering the lowest rates. Standard service provides a balance between cost and speed, with typical transit of 3–5 days plus customs processing. Express service prioritizes speed with dedicated aircraft space or priority loading, ensuring fastest delivery in 1–3 days, though at a premium price.

What Is Included in Air Freight Charges

Standard air freight charges cover carriage on the aircraft from origin airport to destination airport, fuel surcharges that reflect current jet fuel costs, security screening required by aviation authorities, and airline or ground handler terminal fees. Documentation processing and basic customs coordination are typically included. Some carriers include origin pickup in standard rates.

What Is NOT Included

Import duties and taxes at destination are buyer’s responsibility and not included in the air freight rate. Final delivery from destination airport to your facility requires a separate quote. Dangerous goods handling (if your cargo is classified as hazardous) is charged separately. Storage, demurrage, special packaging, or extended handling are additional. Insurance beyond basic coverage is an optional charge.

Reference Rates

Spot market rates are published daily but serve as reference points only, not binding offers. Rates depend on real-time capacity and market conditions. Always confirm the rate validity date and any surcharges that may apply to your specific shipment.

Selecting Your Service Options

When requesting a quote, specify whether you need standard airport-to-airport service or prefer door-to-door delivery with pickup and final transport. Indicate if your cargo requires special care: temperature control for electronics or perishables, sensitive handling for fragile items, or compliance documentation for restricted materials. Confirm your required shipment date and preferred delivery window.

Confirming Your Rate

Published rates are estimates based on recent market activity. Your actual confirmed rate depends on available capacity when you book. Always obtain a written quote valid for a specified period before making shipment arrangements. Rates fluctuate with fuel costs, seasonal demand, and carrier schedules, so what you see today may differ tomorrow.