Air Freight Shipping from/to France
Quote, Book & Track Your Air Freight With Our Online Platform
- Compare Thousands of Quotes from Multiple Carriers
- Trusted by 10,000+ Customers
- 40,000+ Tradelanes Covered Globally
Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between France and the rest of the world. With strong exports in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, wine, fresh produce, and machinery, France depends on reliable logistics to maintain its role as a global trade leader. 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 France
Instant Online Rates
Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from France with just a few clicks. Compare airlines and routes, and instantly book the most suitable option through our digital platform.
How to Book Air Freight with iContainers
- Request your online quote.
- Select your preferred route and airline.
- Upload shipment details and required documents.
- Confirm and pay securely online.
Customs Clearance and Tracking Support
We provide assistance with customs clearance in France and destination countries. From requirements set by French Customs (Douanes Françaises) to agricultural and health approvals from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty (Ministère de l’Agriculture et de la Souveraineté alimentaire) and the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), our team ensures compliance with national and EU regulations. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.
Air Freight Services from/to France
Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)
Key French exports shipped by air include:
- Aerospace components and machinery
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
- Luxury goods (fashion, perfumes, cosmetics)
- Wines, cheeses, and specialty foods
- Fresh produce and seafood
Typical Transit Times for Air Freight France Routes
- Paris (CDG) → Frankfurt: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
- Paris (CDG) → New York: ~2–3 business days
- Paris (CDG) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
- Paris (CDG) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days
- Paris (CDG) → London: ~1–2 business days
Main Airports in France for Air Freight
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The largest air cargo hub in France, handling pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, and perishables.
- Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS): Strong regional hub for industrial and pharmaceutical exports.
- Marseille Provence Airport (MRS): Serving southern France, handling seafood, chemicals, and machinery.
- Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS): Key hub for aerospace and aircraft parts, home to Airbus operations.
Air Freight Services
Understanding Air Freight from/to France
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 France
Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors
Air freight costs are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals and luxury goods may require temperature-controlled or high-security handling, while perishable foods require cold-chain logistics.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
France’s exports influence pricing:
- Wine & champagne (Q4 peaks): Higher demand during holiday season.
- Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Stable demand with strict compliance.
- Luxury goods (Q3–Q4 peaks): Driven by fashion industry cycles and holiday sales.
- Seafood & fresh produce (seasonal): Higher demand during export harvest periods.
Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees
In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:
- Duties and VAT under French Customs (Douanes) and EU law.
- Veterinary and phytosanitary inspection fees (Ministère de l’Agriculture / ANSES).
- 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: For customs clearance.
- Packing List: Cargo breakdown.
- EU Export Declarations (EAD): For goods leaving the EU.
- Veterinary/Phytosanitary Certificates: Required for food, wine, seafood, and agricultural goods.
Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo
- ISPM-15 certified pallets.
- Refrigerated or insulated packaging for perishables.
- Shrink-wrap, strapping, and clear labeling.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
France follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus EU and French law:
- Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, and highly flammable materials.
- Restricted: Agricultural products (require phytosanitary clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament – ANSM), and cultural heritage items (require permits from the Ministry of Culture).
Why Choose iContainers for Air Freight France?
- 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 France
Transit times range from 1 to 6 business days depending on the destination.
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is the primary hub, with Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse handling regional and specialized exports.
Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, EU Export Declarations, and veterinary/phytosanitary certificates when applicable.
Explosives, narcotics, flammable materials, and restricted agricultural, pharmaceutical, or cultural heritage items under IATA and French law.
References
- French Customs (Douanes) – https://www.douane.gouv.fr
- Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty – https://agriculture.gouv.fr
- ANSES – https://www.anses.fr
- French Medicines Agency (ANSM) – https://ansm.sante.fr
- Ministry of Culture – https://www.culture.gouv.fr
- Paris CDG Cargo – https://www.parisaeroport.fr
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) – https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/
