Air Freight Shipping from/to Japan

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Japan and global markets. With exports such as automobiles, machinery, electronics, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and seafood, Japan relies on efficient air cargo to support its advanced economy and international trade network. iContainers connects your business to global air freight lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Japan

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Japan in just a few clicks. Compare airlines, routes, and delivery times, then 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 assistance with customs clearance in Japan and destination countries. From requirements set by Japan Customs (税関 – Zeikan) to health and agricultural inspections handled by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), our experts ensure compliance with national and international regulations. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to Japan

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Japanese exports shipped by air include:

• Automobiles and automotive parts
• Electronics and semiconductors
• Machinery and industrial equipment
• Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• Fresh seafood (tuna, shellfish)
• Precision instruments

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Japan Routes

• Tokyo (NRT) → Los Angeles: ~2–3 business days
• Tokyo (NRT) → Frankfurt: ~3–4 business days
• Tokyo (NRT) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
• Osaka (KIX) → Shanghai: ~1–2 business days
• Tokyo (NRT) → London: ~2–3 business days

Main Airports in Japan for Air Freight

• Narita International Airport (NRT, Tokyo): Japan’s largest international cargo hub, handling electronics, machinery, and perishables.
• Kansai International Airport (KIX, Osaka): Major hub for western Japan, supporting industrial and technology exports.
• Haneda Airport (HND, Tokyo): Handles growing volumes of express and international cargo.
• Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO, Nagoya): Serving the automotive and aerospace industries in central Japan.

Air Freight Costs from/to Japan

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals often require temperature-controlled logistics, while seafood requires specialized cold-chain packaging.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Japan’s export cycles influence costs:

• Electronics & semiconductors (year-round): Consistent demand from global manufacturers.
• Automotive parts (steady): Stable demand linked to production cycles.
• Seafood (Q4 peaks): Strong demand during holiday seasons.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Higher global demand raises rates.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Duties and consumption tax under Japan Customs.
• Sanitary and phytosanitary fees from MHLW and MAFF.
• 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 shipper and airline.
• Commercial Invoice: Required for customs clearance.
• Packing List: Detailed cargo description.
• Export Declaration (via Japan Customs NACCS system): For goods leaving Japan.
• Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For seafood, food, and agricultural exports (issued by MAFF or MHLW).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

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

Prohibited and Restricted Items

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

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, highly flammable goods.
• Restricted: Agricultural exports (require MAFF clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by MHLW and the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency – PMDA), and cultural heritage goods (regulated by the Agency for Cultural Affairs).