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Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Hong Kong and the rest of the world. As one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs, Hong Kong specializes in high-value exports such as electronics, semiconductors, textiles, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, and perishables. iContainers connects your business to international trade routes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.


Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Hong Kong


Instant Online Rates


Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Hong Kong with just a few clicks. Compare airlines, transit times, and costs, then instantly book 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 Hong Kong and destination countries. With Hong Kong’s Customs and Excise Department regulating trade flows and the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) overseeing agricultural and food imports, our experts ensure compliance with both local and international rules. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for full visibility.


Air Freight Services from/to Hong Kong


Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)


Key exports and imports shipped by air from Hong Kong include:


  • Electronics and integrated circuits
  • Jewelry, gold, and luxury goods
  • Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
  • Textiles and apparel
  • Perishables (seafood, fresh produce, cut flowers)
  • Consumer goods for re-export

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Hong Kong Routes


  • Hong Kong (HKG) → Frankfurt: ~2–3 business days
  • Hong Kong (HKG) → Los Angeles: ~3–4 business days
  • Hong Kong (HKG) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
  • Hong Kong (HKG) → Tokyo: ~1–2 business days
  • Hong Kong (HKG) → Singapore: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)

Main Airport in Hong Kong for Air Freight


  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): The world’s busiest international cargo airport, handling electronics, luxury goods, pharmaceuticals, and perishables. It serves as a key re-export gateway for trade between mainland China and global markets.

Air Freight Services

Understanding Air Freight from/to Hong Kong

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 Hong Kong


Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors


Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Electronics and luxury goods often require secure handling, while pharmaceuticals demand cold-chain logistics.


Seasonal Price Fluctuations


Hong Kong’s export cycles influence air freight costs:


  • Electronics (Q3–Q4): Demand peaks before the global holiday season.
  • Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Consistent demand, cold-chain costs.
  • Textiles & apparel (seasonal): Exports rise ahead of global retail cycles.
  • Perishables (seasonal): Increased demand during festivals like Lunar New Year.
  • Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global air freight congestion increases rates.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees


In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:


  • Customs clearance fees via Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department.
  • Inspection fees from the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) for food imports.
  • Handling and airport security charges.
  • Aviation fuel surcharges.

Documentation & Packaging Requirements


Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice


Every shipment requires:


  • Air Waybill (AWB): Transport contract between airline and shipper.
  • Commercial Invoice: Required for customs clearance.
  • Packing List: Cargo breakdown.
  • Export Declarations (via Hong Kong Customs): For goods leaving Hong Kong.
  • Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food and agricultural imports (issued by CFS).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo


  • ISPM-15 certified pallets.
  • Refrigerated packaging for perishables and pharmaceuticals.
  • Shrink-wrap, strapping, and clear labeling.

Prohibited and Restricted Items


Hong Kong follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus local trade rules:


  • Prohibited: Narcotics, counterfeit goods, explosives, firearms without permits.
  • Restricted: Pharmaceuticals (require clearance by the Department of Health), agricultural products (regulated by CFS), and cultural heritage exports (regulated by the Antiquities and Monuments Office).

Why Choose iContainers for Air Freight Hong Kong?

  • 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 Hong Kong

What is the average transit time for air freight from Hong Kong?

Transit times range from 1 to 6 business days depending on the route.

Which airports handle most air cargo in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is the only major hub for air freight.

What documents are required for air freight from/to Hong Kong?

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

What items are prohibited when shipping by air from Hong Kong?

Narcotics, explosives, counterfeit goods, firearms without permits, and restricted agricultural or pharmaceutical goods under IATA and Hong Kong law.

References

References
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iContainers is a digital freight forwarder based in Barcelona that assists thousands of companies and families around the globe in moving their merchandise internationally.


Our online freight quoting platform has the latest technology in the sector and simplifies ocean freight, quoting and managing your bookings from the same user area.


We work side by side with Shipa Freight to fully cover the demands of our customers.

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