Air Freight Shipping from/to Costa Rica

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Costa Rica and the rest of the world. With strong exports in fresh pineapples, bananas, coffee, medical devices, and seafood, Costa Rica depends on efficient logistics to serve both regional and international markets. iContainers connects your business to international trade lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Costa Rica

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Costa Rica with just a few clicks. Compare multiple airlines and routes, and book the most convenient option instantly through our digital platform.

How to Book Air Freight with iContainers

1. Request your online quote.
2. Select your preferred route and airline.
3. Upload shipment details and required documents.
4. Confirm and pay securely online.

Customs Clearance and Tracking Support

We provide support with customs clearance in Costa Rica and destination countries. From requirements set by the Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA – Costa Rica Customs) to agricultural inspections by the Servicio Fitosanitario del Estado (SFE) and health regulations by the Ministerio de Salud, our team ensures compliance with local authorities. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for full visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to Costa Rica

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Costa Rican exports shipped by air include:

• Fresh pineapples, bananas, and mangoes.
• Coffee and cocoa beans.
• Seafood (tilapia, shrimp, mahi-mahi).
• Medical devices and precision instruments.
• Tropical flowers and ornamental plants.

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Costa Rica Routes

• San José (SJO) → Miami: ~1–2 business days
• San José (SJO) → Madrid: ~3–4 business days
• San José (SJO) → Panama City: <24 hours
• San José (SJO) → Los Angeles: ~2–3 business days
• San José (SJO) → Amsterdam: ~3–5 business days

Main Airports in Costa Rica for Air Freight

• Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO, San José): Costa Rica’s main cargo hub, handling fruits, coffee, seafood, and medical devices.
• Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR, Liberia): Supporting agro-exports from northern regions.
• Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ, San José): Smaller airport used for regional cargo and specialized shipments.

Air Freight Costs from/to Costa Rica

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Fruits and seafood require cold-chain handling, while coffee and medical devices have different pricing profiles.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Costa Rica’s export calendar impacts freight costs:

• Pineapple and banana exports (year-round): Stable demand, peak before holidays.
• Coffee harvest (Nov–Feb): Strong seasonal exports to Europe and North America.
• Medical devices (steady year-round): Consistent demand from U.S. and EU markets.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Higher global demand pushes up freight costs.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Customs duties and taxes set by Costa Rica Customs (DGA).
• Agricultural inspection fees by SFE.
• Health certification fees by the Ministry of Health.
• Handling and security fees at airports.
• Aviation fuel surcharges.

Documentation & Packaging Requirements

Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice

Every shipment requires:

• Air Waybill (AWB): Contract between airline and shipper.
• Commercial Invoice: Required for customs clearance.
• Packing List: Detailed cargo breakdown.
• Phytosanitary Certificates: For fruits and plants (issued by SFE).
• Health Certificates: For seafood and animal products (issued by SENASA – National Animal Health Service).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

• ISPM-15 certified pallets for compliance.
• Refrigerated packaging for fruits, seafood, and perishables.
• Shrink-wrap/strapping and clear labeling.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Costa Rica follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus national rules:

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, flammable goods.
• Restricted: Agricultural exports (require SFE clearance), seafood (SENASA certification), pharmaceuticals (regulated by the Ministry of Health), and cultural heritage items (require permits).