Calculate the Air Freight Cost Instantly
How the Air Freight Calculator Works (Chargeable Weight Explained)
Air freight pricing is usually based on chargeable weight, which is the higher of:
- Actual weight (kg)
- Volumetric weight (kg)
Volumetric weight formula (typical):
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) / 6000
Your quote is then built from the chargeable weight plus common cost components such as fuel, security, terminal handling, and (when applicable) pickup/delivery and customs.
If you want the full step-by-step logic (with examples), see how to calculate air freight charges and verify dimensions with the CBM calculator.
Calculate & Compare the Cost of Air Freight Instantly
Instantly access the rates for your selected air freight routes. Easily and quickly compare rates across various shipping options with our online air freight calculator. Here’s how to use it:
- Enter Shipment Details: Fill in the form with information about your cargo, including weight, dimensions, origin, and destination.
- Select from a range of optional services such as expedited shipping, special handling, and insurance.
- Pick the departure schedules that suit your timeline and requirements.
- Receive easy-to-understand quotes with a breakdown of all pricing elements.
Why Choose iContainers for Your Air Freight Needs?
iContainers is your go-to solution for streamlining international trade endeavors through our online air freight calculator. Our features include:
- Rates for a wide range of air trade routes.
- A user-friendly form for entering your air freight requirements.
- Transparent quotes with a clear breakdown of pricing components.
- One calculator, multiple quotes. No need to repeatedly enter shipment details.
- Unsure about the best air freight option for your goods? Start by requesting a multi-quote. Compare prices for each air freight mode.
AI-Powered Freight Services at iContainers
AI-Driven Shipping Intelligence (What It Actually Helps With)
Air freight quotes change fast due to capacity constraints, cut-off times, and surcharges. iContainers uses AI-assisted freight decision making to help you:
- Validate chargeable weight automatically (actual vs volumetric)
- Compare service levels (standard vs expedited vs express) based on delivery urgency
- Surface cost drivers clearly (fuel, security, handling, optional services)
- Reduce quoting back-and-forth by showing multiple options from one input
If you’re comparing speed vs cost, pair this tool with the Transit Time Calculator and review Air Freight vs Air Express.
rates available
routes to choose from
airports around the globe
About iContainers – Revolutionizing Air Freight
iContainers combines the benefits of traditional air freight forwarding with the convenience of modern technology. Our priority is to offer you fast and easy access to global air shipping services.
Our online air freight calculator provides access to shipping rates for various air freight options. Our online air freight calculator provides access to pricing for different air shipping options from small parcels and courier-style shipments to palletized air cargo. You can compare quote options side by side and select the best balance of speed, handling, and total landed cost.
Understanding Air Freight – Efficiency in Global Shipping
Air freight is a vital component of the global transportation system, ensuring swift movement of goods worldwide. Various factors influence air freight costs, such as shipment weight, dimensions, origin, destination, and aircraft type.
Our air freight calculator considers these factors to provide you with accurate cost estimates. But let's delve into what air freight truly entails.
When Air Freight Makes Sense (Common Use Cases)
Air freight is typically used when:
- Cargo is time-sensitive (production stops, urgent replenishment)
- Goods are high-value / low-volume (electronics, components)
- Shipments require reliability and lower handling risk
- You need faster international delivery than ocean freight
For packing and risk reduction, see packaging for air freight and consider cargo insurance for high-value shipments.
The Ins and Outs of Air Freight
Air freight involves shipping goods by air, either through dedicated cargo carriers or passenger airlines. While it's a speedy and efficient method, it comes with a higher price tag.
Advantages of Air Freight
- Speed: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments due to quick international transportation.
- Reliability: Known for on-time deliveries and dependability.
- Flexibility: Offers flexible schedules and routes.
- Safety: Strict safety regulations ensure secure transportation.
- Capacity: Efficiently handles large shipments.
Disadvantages of Air Freight (Realistic Trade-Offs)
- Higher cost than ocean freight, especially for bulky cargo
- Capacity volatility during peak seasons (rates and space can change quickly)
- Restrictions for certain goods (batteries, aerosols, chemicals) that may require additional compliance and airline acceptance
- Airport cut-off times can impact same-week departures if documents or cargo aren’t ready
Calculating Air Freight Costs
The cost of air freight depends on factors like aircraft fuel, airport fees, and insurance. Size, weight, and distance also impact costs. Consolidators and air freight forwarders can offer discounts for smaller shipments.
Shipping large items requires specialized air freight forwarders with their aircraft and expertise. While more costly, air freight offers speed and reliability advantages.
What’s Typically Included in an Air Freight Quote
Most air freight quotes are a combination of:
- Base air freight rate (driven by chargeable weight)
- Fuel and security surcharges
- Terminal handling / airport fees
- Optional services (insurance, special handling, temperature control)
- If door-to-door: pickup/delivery trucking and possibly customs-related services
To understand documents needed for booking, see air freight shipping documents and air freight customs clearance.
Tools
iContainers Toolkit & Calculators
FAQs
Chargeable weight is the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight. Air freight is billed on chargeable weight to reflect both mass and space used.
A common formula is (L × W × H in cm) / 6000. Confirm your shipment volume with the CBM Calculator.
Quotes commonly reflect base rate plus typical surcharges (fuel, security, handling). The exact breakdown can vary by lane, airline, and service level.
Most shipments require an AWB, commercial invoice, and packing list. Use Air Freight Shipping Documents as a checklist.
Air express is best for smaller, urgent shipments; standard air freight is more cost-efficient for pallets and heavier cargo. See Air Freight vs Air Express.