Air Freight Shipping from/to Panama

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Panama

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Panama in just a few clicks. Compare multiple airlines and routes, 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 expert assistance with customs clearance in Panama and destination countries. From requirements set by the Autoridad Nacional de Aduanas de Panamá to agricultural and sanitary approvals from the Ministerio de Desarrollo Agropecuario (MIDA) and the Ministerio de Salud (MINSA), 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 Panama

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Panamanian exports shipped by air include:

• Seafood (shrimp, lobster, fish)
• Bananas, melons, and tropical fruits
• Coffee and sugar
• Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies
• Manufactured and re-exported goods from Panama’s Free Zones (Colón Free Zone)

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Panama Routes

• Panama City (PTY) → Miami: ~1–2 business days
• Panama City (PTY) → New York: ~2–3 business days
• Panama City (PTY) → Los Angeles: ~2–3 business days
• Panama City (PTY) → Madrid: ~3–5 business days
• Panama City (PTY) → Bogotá: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)

Main Airports in Panama for Air Freight

• Tocumen International Airport (PTY, Panama City): The primary cargo hub for Panama and Central America, connecting seafood, produce, and pharmaceuticals to global destinations.
• Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV, David): Regional hub supporting agricultural exports from Chiriquí province.

Air Freight Costs from/to Panama

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals and seafood require temperature-controlled handling, while fruits need careful packaging to ensure freshness.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Panama’s export cycles impact rates:

• Seafood (Q1 & Q4): Peak demand during holidays in the U.S. and Europe.
• Bananas & melons (seasonal): Harvest-driven export cycles.
• Coffee (Q4–Q1): Export season after harvest.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Higher global demand increases freight costs.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

Shipments may include:

• Duties and ITBMS tax under Panama Customs.
• Agricultural and sanitary inspection fees from MIDA and MINSA.
• Handling and security charges at airports.
• 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: For customs clearance.
• Packing List: Detailed cargo description.
• Export Declarations: Issued through Panama Customs.
• Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food, seafood, and agricultural exports (issued by MIDA or MINSA).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

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

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Panama follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus national law:

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, highly flammable goods.
• Restricted: Agricultural exports (require MIDA clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by MINSA), and cultural heritage items (require approval from the Ministerio de Cultura).