Request Your Air Freight Quote
How Quotes Work
When you submit your shipment details, our system queries a network of airlines and freight forwarders to gather competitive rates and delivery options. Most quote requests are processed within business hours, but actual response times depend on carrier availability and request complexity.
What Your Quote Includes
A complete quote breaks down all charges: base freight per kilogram of chargeable weight, fuel surcharges reflecting current jet fuel costs, security screening fees required by aviation authorities, airline terminal handling charges, and documentation processing. If your route or cargo type triggers peak-season premiums, those are itemized separately. Special handling charges for temperature-sensitive, fragile, or restricted cargo are listed individually so you understand the full cost before booking.
How Chargeable Weight Affects Your Quote
Your quote is calculated using chargeable weight—the greater of your shipment’s actual weight or its volumetric weight. The volumetric weight is derived by dividing your cargo’s volume by 6,000 cubic centimeters per kilogram.
Example: Small but Heavy Component
Suppose you are shipping industrial bearings from Munich to Singapore.
| Actual weight | 180 kg |
| Dimensions | 80 cm (L) × 60 cm (W) × 75 cm (H) |
| Volumetric weight | 80 × 60 × 75 ÷ 6,000 = 60 kg |
| Chargeable weight | 180 kg |
Your quote is based on 180 kg because the actual weight is substantially higher. Rate tables for 100–300 kg shipments apply.
Example: Large but Light Items
Now you are shipping inflatable cushioning material from Hong Kong to Chicago.
| Actual weight | 30 kg |
| Dimensions | 150 cm (L) × 140 cm (W) × 110 cm (H) |
| Volumetric weight | 150 × 140 × 110 ÷ 6,000 = 385 kg |
| Chargeable weight | 385 kg |
Your quote is based on 385 kg even though the cargo weighs only 30 kg. Rate tables for 300–500 kg apply because of the volume occupied.
Key Factors That Influence Your Quoted Price
The route between origin and destination has the largest impact on pricing. A shipment from Asia to Europe commands different rates than one from North America to Europe due to demand imbalances and available capacity. Weight thresholds create price tiers: under 45 kg, 45–100 kg, 100–300 kg, 300–500 kg, 500–1,000 kg, and over 1,000 kg each have different unit rates. Cargo classification matters—electronics, textiles, machinery, hazardous goods, and perishables are priced differently based on handling complexity and risk. The service level you choose affects cost: economy consolidated shipments are cheaper than express door-to-door delivery. Seasonal demand also plays a role; shipments during peak holiday or trade seasons may incur surcharges.
What Information You Need to Provide
Clearly state your shipment’s origin and destination. Provide the gross weight in kilograms. Record the outer dimensions of each pallet, carton, or container in centimeters (length × width × height). Write a detailed description of what you are shipping—the product type, material, and quantity. Choose your preferred service level (economy, standard, or express). Note any special requirements such as temperature control, fragile handling, or pickup date preferences. If your shipment contains lithium batteries, hazardous materials, or other restricted items, declare this upfront so the quote accounts for regulatory compliance costs.
What the Quote Covers
Your quote includes base freight charges, fuel and security surcharges, airline terminal handling, and documentation fees. Many quotes include origin pickup service and initial customs documentation. Some forwarders include basic cargo insurance in standard quotes.
What the Quote Does Not Cover
Destination import duties and taxes are not included—these depend on your country’s import regulations and the declared value of goods. Final delivery from the airport to your facility is typically quoted separately. Dangerous goods certification (if applicable) and special handling fees are charged in addition. If you request storage, cold chain maintenance, or specialized packaging, these are quoted separately. Insurance above standard coverage, if selected, is an additional charge.
Why Rates Vary
Air freight rates fluctuate because they reflect real-time supply and demand for aircraft capacity. Fuel costs change daily and drive surcharge adjustments. Peak shipping seasons—around holidays, back-to-school, or trade fair periods—see higher rates due to capacity constraints. Different carriers price differently depending on their route network, partnerships, and utilization rates. The quote you receive is a snapshot of current market conditions for your specific route and shipment date. Published indexes serve as orientation; confirm your rate remains valid up to your booking date.
Air freight spot benchmark
Indicative all-in spot rate for general cargo, US$ per kg, rolling 7 days. Snapshot taken 21 October 2026.
| Global - all lanes | $3.16 /kg |
| Greater China / Asia → Europe | $4.71 /kg |
| Greater China / Asia → North America | $6.03 /kg |
| Greater China / Asia → Middle East | $3.68 /kg |
| Europe → North America | $1.76 /kg |
| Europe → Europe | $2.02 /kg |
| Europe → Greater China / Asia | $1.22 /kg |
| North America → Europe | $1.01 /kg |
| North America → Middle East | $3.29 /kg |
| North America → Greater China / Asia | $1.44 /kg |
| Middle East → Europe | $1.43 /kg |
| Middle East → Middle East | $1.77 /kg |
| Middle East → North America | $2.34 /kg |
Source: Freightos Air Index (FAX) by Freightos. Data and index © Freightos — see Freightos Terminal. Benchmark only; your quoted rate depends on lane, weight, dimensions, commodity and capacity on the day.
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