Estimate your air freight costs by entering the shipment details below. Air freight charges are typically based on the chargeable weight, which is the greater of the actual gross weight and the volumetric weight.
Shipment Details
Rate & Surcharge Details
Estimated Air Freight Costs
Volumetric Weight: 0.00 kg
Chargeable Weight: 0.00 kg
Base Freight Cost: $0.00
Fuel Surcharge Cost: $0.00
Security Surcharge Cost: $0.00
Terminal Handling Charge: $0.00
Customs Clearance Fee: $0.00
Total Estimated Air Freight Cost: $0.00
Understanding Air Freight Charges
Air freight is a fast and efficient method for transporting goods internationally. However, understanding how its costs are calculated can be complex. This calculator helps you estimate the primary components of your air freight bill.
Gross Weight vs. Volumetric Weight
One of the most crucial concepts in air freight is the distinction between gross weight and volumetric weight. Airlines charge based on whichever is higher, known as the "chargeable weight."
Gross Weight: This is the actual physical weight of your shipment, including packaging, measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
Volumetric Weight (or Dimensional Weight): This reflects the amount of space your shipment occupies on an aircraft. It's calculated using a specific formula:
(Length cm × Width cm × Height cm) / 6000 for shipments measured in centimeters and kilograms.
The divisor (6000) is a standard industry factor for air cargo, representing 1 cubic meter per 166.67 kg (or 1 cubic foot per 10.4 lb).
Chargeable Weight: The airline will compare the gross weight and the volumetric weight. The higher of the two will be used to calculate the base freight charge. This ensures that both heavy, dense cargo and light, bulky cargo are charged fairly for the space they consume.
Key Components of Air Freight Charges
Beyond the base rate, several surcharges and fees contribute to the total air freight cost:
Base Freight Rate: This is the core cost per kilogram (or pound) of the chargeable weight, covering the actual transportation from origin to destination airport.
Fuel Surcharge (FSC): A variable charge added by airlines to cover fluctuations in fuel prices. It's often calculated as a percentage of the base freight charge or a fixed amount per chargeable kilogram.
Security Surcharge (SSC): A fee imposed to cover the increased costs of security measures implemented at airports and during transit. This is typically a fixed amount per chargeable kilogram.
Terminal Handling Charges (THC): These are fees levied by the airline or ground handler for services performed at the origin and destination airports, such as loading, unloading, sorting, and temporary storage. This can be a fixed fee per shipment or per chargeable kilogram.
Customs Clearance Fee: A charge for the administrative work involved in preparing and submitting customs documentation for import or export. This is usually a fixed fee per shipment.
Other Potential Charges: Depending on the specific service and route, you might also encounter charges for dangerous goods, special handling, storage, documentation fees, or insurance.
How to Use the Calculator
Gross Weight: Enter the total actual weight of your packaged shipment in kilograms.
Dimensions: Input the length, width, and height of your shipment in centimeters. If you have multiple packages, calculate the total volume and weight.
Base Freight Rate: Enter the rate per kilogram quoted by your freight forwarder or airline.
Surcharges: Input the applicable percentages or per-kilogram rates for fuel and security surcharges, and fixed amounts for Terminal Handling and Customs Clearance. These rates are usually provided by your freight forwarder.
Click "Calculate Air Freight" to see the breakdown of your estimated costs.
Tips for Reducing Air Freight Costs
Optimize Packaging: Reduce package dimensions and weight as much as possible without compromising product safety. Every centimeter and kilogram counts.
Consolidate Shipments: If possible, combine multiple smaller shipments into one larger consignment to benefit from better rates.
Accurate Documentation: Ensure all paperwork is correct and complete to avoid delays and potential penalty fees.
Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple freight forwarders or airlines, as rates can vary significantly.
Understand Incoterms: Be clear about which party is responsible for which costs under your chosen Incoterms.