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Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between El Salvador and international markets. With exports including textiles, apparel, coffee, sugar, seafood, and electronics assembly, El Salvador relies on fast and reliable logistics to maintain its competitive edge in global trade. iContainers connects your business to major trade lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.


Get an Air Freight Quote from/to El Salvador


Instant Online Rates


Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from El Salvador with just a few clicks. Compare routes and airlines, and instantly book the option that best suits your business 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 assistance with customs clearance in El Salvador and destination countries. From requirements set by the Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA) to agricultural and health approvals from the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG) and Ministerio de Salud, our experts ensure compliance with national and regional trade rules. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for full visibility.


Air Freight Services from/to El Salvador


Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)


Key Salvadoran exports shipped by air include:


  • Textiles and apparel
  • Coffee and specialty foods
  • Sugar and processed food products
  • Seafood (shrimp, fish, shellfish)
  • Electronics assembly and components
  • Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight El Salvador Routes


  • San Salvador (SAL) → Miami: ~1–2 business days
  • San Salvador (SAL) → Los Angeles: ~2–3 business days
  • San Salvador (SAL) → New York: ~2–3 business days
  • San Salvador (SAL) → Mexico City: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
  • San Salvador (SAL) → Madrid: ~3–5 business days

Main Airports in El Salvador for Air Freight


  • Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL, San Salvador): The country’s primary international cargo hub, handling textiles, apparel, coffee, seafood, and electronics.

Air Freight Services

Understanding Air Freight from/to El Salvador

What Is Air Freight?

Air freight is the transportation of goods by aircraft. It is faster and more secure than ocean freight, ideal for urgent or high-value cargo.

When to Choose Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight


  • Choose air freight for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable shipments (e.g., fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, wine).

  • Choose ocean freight for bulk goods like soybeans, corn, or industrial equipment where cost efficiency is the priority.

Benefits of Air Freight for Businesses


  • Speed: Access to global markets within days.

  • Security: Reduced risk of theft or damage compared to other modes.

  • Reliability: Predictable schedules with frequent departures.

Air Freight Costs from/to El Salvador


Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors


Air freight costs are determined by chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Coffee and seafood often require specialized packaging and temperature-controlled logistics, while textiles may be shipped in bulk.


Seasonal Price Fluctuations


El Salvador’s export cycles influence rates:


  • Coffee (Q4–Q1): Export peak following harvest season.
  • Seafood (year-round, peaks in Q2 and Q4): Increased exports for global holidays.
  • Textiles and apparel (year-round): Stable demand with seasonal fashion peaks.
  • Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global demand drives rates higher.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees


In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:


  • Duties and taxes under Dirección General de Aduanas (DGA).
  • Agricultural and phytosanitary inspection fees from MAG.
  • 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: Needed for customs clearance.
  • Packing List: Cargo breakdown.
  • Export Declaration (DUA/DGA forms): Required for goods leaving El Salvador.
  • Phytosanitary/Health Certificates: For coffee, seafood, and agricultural exports (issued by MAG or Ministerio de Salud).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo


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

Prohibited and Restricted Items


El Salvador follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and national laws:


  • Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, flammable goods.
  • Restricted: Agricultural exports (require MAG clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by the Ministerio de Salud), and cultural heritage artifacts (require permits from the Ministerio de Cultura).

Why Choose iContainers for Air Freight El Salvador?

  • Instant quotes and easy booking via our digital platform
  • Coverage international main airports
  • Compliance expertise for SENASA, ANMAT, and customs requirements
  • Shipment tracking from origin to destination
  • Dedicated support team to guide you through documentation and regulations

Frequently Asked Questions about Air Freight from/to El Salvador

What is the average transit time for air freight from El Salvador?

Transit times range from 1 to 5 business days depending on the route.

Which airports handle most air cargo in El Salvador?

San Salvador’s Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) is the main hub for cargo.

What documents are required for air freight from/to El Salvador?

Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Export Declarations, and phytosanitary/health certificates when applicable.

What items are prohibited when shipping by air from El Salvador?

Explosives, narcotics, flammable goods, and restricted agricultural, pharmaceutical, or cultural heritage items under IATA and Salvadoran law.

References

References

  1. Argentina ‒ Import Requirements and Documentation — Trade.gov

  2. Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) — IATA

  3. Import Customs Guide Argentina — FIDI Global Alliance

  4. Customs Procedures in Argentina — Santander Trade santandertrade.com

  5. Argentina ‒ Customs Regulations — Trade.gov

  6. National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC), Argentina — Argentina.gob.arWikipedia

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