How much does air freight cost? Air freight rates are based on chargeable weight (the greater of actual or volumetric weight), route, and service level. Below are transparent 2026 rate ranges plus an instant, no-registration quote.
Key takeaways
- Economy air freight: ~€1.50–4.00 / kg (slower, consolidated).
- Standard air freight: ~€3.00–8.00 / kg.
- Express air freight: ~€8.00–15.00 / kg (fastest, door-to-door).
- Main cost drivers: chargeable weight, route, fuel & security surcharges, volumetric ratio.
Air freight rates 2026 – guideline (€/kg)
| Service | Transit | €/kg (guideline) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (consolidated) | 5–9 days | 1.50–4.00 € |
| Standard | 3–5 days | 3.00–8.00 € |
| Express (door-to-door) | 1–3 days | 8.00–15.00 € |
Example lane guidelines (standard, €/kg)
| Lane | €/kg |
|---|---|
| Frankfurt → New York (JFK) | 2.50–5.00 € |
| Frankfurt → Shanghai (PVG) | 3.00–6.50 € |
| Frankfurt → Dubai (DXB) | 2.00–4.50 € |
| Frankfurt → São Paulo (GRU) | 3.50–7.00 € |
What affects air freight cost?
- Chargeable weight: the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight (L×W×H cm ÷ 6000).
- Route & capacity: lane demand, direct vs. transit, airline capacity.
- Surcharges: fuel (FSC) and security (SSC) surcharges per kg.
- Service level: economy vs. express; door-to-door vs. airport-to-airport.
- Handling: dangerous goods, temperature control, oversize.
FAQ
How much does air freight cost per kg?
Guideline air freight rates are ~€1.50–4.00/kg economy, €3.00–8.00/kg standard, and €8.00–15.00/kg express, depending on route, chargeable weight and season.
How is chargeable weight calculated?
Chargeable weight is the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight. Volumetric weight (kg) = length × width × height (cm) ÷ 6000.
How long does air freight take?
Typically 1–3 days express, 3–5 days standard, and 5–9 days economy/consolidated, plus customs clearance.
How do I get an instant air freight quote?
Use our free calculator or request a quote below — no registration required. You get an indicative price instantly and a firm rate by email.
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Provider: AirFreightPrice.com – operated by Coservices OÜ (EE). Rates are guidelines, not a binding offer.
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