Air Freight Shipping from/to Spain
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Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Spain and the rest of the world. With exports such as automobiles, machinery, electronics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, wine, olive oil, and fresh produce, Spain relies on efficient logistics to strengthen its competitive position in global trade. iContainers connects your business to international air freight lanes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.
Get an Air Freight Quote from/to Spain
Instant Online Rates
Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Spain in just a few clicks. Compare airlines, routes, and costs, then instantly book 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 Spain and destination countries. From requirements managed by the Agencia Tributaria – Departamento de Aduanas e Impuestos Especiales to food and agriculture inspections conducted by the Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación (MAPA) and pharmaceutical regulations enforced by the Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios (AEMPS), our team ensures compliance with EU and Spanish law. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for complete visibility.
Air Freight Services from/to Spain
Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)
Key Spanish exports shipped by air include:
- Automobiles and automotive components
- Machinery and industrial equipment
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
- Electronics and precision instruments
- Wine, olive oil, and specialty foods
- Fresh produce (fruits, vegetables, seafood)
Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Spain Routes
- Madrid (MAD) → Frankfurt: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
- Madrid (MAD) → New York: ~3–4 business days
- Barcelona (BCN) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
- Madrid (MAD) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days
- Barcelona (BCN) → London: ~2 business days
Main Airports in Spain for Air Freight
- Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD): Spain’s main international cargo hub, handling pharmaceuticals, electronics, and perishables.
- Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN): Strong in automotive, textiles, and fresh food exports.
- Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ): A key logistics hub specializing in high-volume and express cargo.
- Vitoria Airport (VIT): Major cargo hub serving northern Spain, particularly for automotive and industrial exports.
Air Freight Services
Understanding Air Freight from/to Spain
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 Spain
Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors
Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals often require temperature control, while food exports like seafood and fruit need cold-chain logistics.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Spanish export cycles influence costs:
- Fresh produce (seasonal): Exports peak in spring and autumn.
- Wine and olive oil (year-round): High demand in Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Pharmaceuticals (steady): Continuous demand with cold-chain compliance.
- Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Higher global air freight demand raises costs.
Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees
In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:
- Duties and VAT under Spanish Customs (Agencia Tributaria) and EU law.
- Veterinary and phytosanitary inspection fees from MAPA.
- 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: Required for customs clearance.
- Packing List: Detailed cargo description.
- EU Export Declarations (EAD): For goods leaving the EU.
- Veterinary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food, seafood, and agricultural products (issued by MAPA).
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
Spain follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus EU and Spanish rules:
- Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, highly flammable materials.
- Restricted: Agricultural exports (require MAPA clearance), pharmaceuticals (regulated by AEMPS), and cultural heritage items (regulated by the Ministerio de Cultura).
Why Choose iContainers for Air Freight Spain?
- 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 Spain
Transit times range from 2 to 6 business days depending on the route.
Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), Zaragoza (ZAZ), and Vitoria (VIT) are the main cargo hubs.
Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, EU Export Declarations, and veterinary/phytosanitary certificates when applicable.
Explosives, narcotics, flammable goods, and restricted agricultural, pharmaceutical, or cultural heritage items under IATA and Spanish law.
References
- Agencia Tributaria – Customs – https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
- Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación (MAPA) – https://www.mapa.gob.es
- Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios (AEMPS) – https://www.aemps.gob.es
- Ministerio de Cultura y Deporte – https://www.culturaydeporte.gob.es
- AENA Cargo (Madrid, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Vitoria) – https://www.aena.es
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) – https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/
