Air Freight Shipping from/to Ecuador

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Ecuador and international markets. With exports such as bananas, flowers, seafood, cocoa, coffee, and oil-related products, Ecuador depends on efficient logistics to stay competitive in global trade. iContainers connects your business to major international trade lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Ecuador

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Ecuador in just a few clicks. Compare airlines, routes, and transit times, and book 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 full assistance with customs clearance in Ecuador and destination countries. From regulations set by the Servicio Nacional de Aduana del Ecuador (SENAE) to agricultural and sanitary approvals managed by the Agencia de Regulación y Control Fito y Zoosanitario (AGROCALIDAD), our team ensures compliance with both national and international trade requirements. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to Ecuador

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Ecuadorian exports shipped by air include:

• Cut flowers (roses, carnations, tropical flowers)
• Seafood (shrimp, tuna, tilapia)
• Fresh produce (bananas, mangoes, avocados)
• Cocoa beans and chocolate products
• Coffee and specialty food products
• Medical and pharmaceutical supplies

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Ecuador Routes

• Quito (UIO) → Miami: ~1–2 business days
• Quito (UIO) → Madrid: ~3–4 business days
• Quito (UIO) → Amsterdam: ~3–4 business days
• Guayaquil (GYE) → New York: ~2–3 business days
• Guayaquil (GYE) → Panama City: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)

Main Airports in Ecuador for Air Freight

• Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO, Quito): The country’s main cargo hub, specializing in flowers, perishables, and high-value goods.
• José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE, Guayaquil): Primary hub for seafood, bananas, and agricultural exports.
• Manta Airport (MEC): Supporting seafood exports from coastal Ecuador.

Air Freight Costs from/to Ecuador

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight costs are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Flowers and seafood require cold-chain logistics, while cocoa and coffee often need controlled conditions.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Ecuador’s exports influence pricing trends:

• Flowers (peaks in Feb, May, Nov): High demand around Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and year-end holidays.
• Seafood (year-round, Q2 peaks): Exports increase before global seasonal demand.
• Bananas & produce (steady year-round): Stable demand but affected by weather and harvest cycles.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global demand increases freight costs.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Duties and taxes under SENAE regulations.
• Sanitary and phytosanitary inspection fees from AGROCALIDAD.
• Handling and airport security fees.
• 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 description.
• Export Declarations (DAE/SENAE forms): For goods leaving Ecuador.
• Phytosanitary Certificates: Required for agricultural exports (issued by AGROCALIDAD).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

• ISPM-15 certified pallets for compliance.
• Refrigerated packaging for flowers, seafood, and produce.
• Strapping, shrink-wrap, and clear labeling.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Ecuador follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and national law:

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, flammable materials.
• Restricted: Agricultural exports (require AGROCALIDAD clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by the Ministerio de Salud Pública), and cultural heritage items (require authorization from the Ministerio de Cultura y Patrimonio).