Air Freight Shipping from/to Switzerland

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between Switzerland and the rest of the world. With exports such as pharmaceuticals, precision instruments, watches, machinery, and specialty foods, Switzerland depends on reliable air logistics to maintain its global competitiveness. 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 Switzerland

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from Switzerland with just a few clicks. Compare airlines, routes, and transit times, 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 Switzerland and destination countries. From requirements set by the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) to food and agricultural inspections carried out by the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) and pharmaceutical regulations under Swissmedic, our experts ensure compliance with Swiss and international trade rules. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for full visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to Switzerland

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key Swiss exports shipped by air include:

• Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• Precision instruments and watches
• Machinery and industrial equipment
• Chemicals and specialty materials
• Specialty foods (cheese, chocolate, dairy products)
• Electronics and high-tech components

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight Switzerland Routes

• Zurich (ZRH) → Frankfurt: <24 hours (hub-to-hub)
• Zurich (ZRH) → New York: ~3–4 business days
• Geneva (GVA) → Dubai: ~2–3 business days
• Zurich (ZRH) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days
• Basel (BSL) → London: ~2 business days

Main Airports in Switzerland for Air Freight

• Zurich Airport (ZRH): Switzerland’s largest cargo hub, handling pharmaceuticals, watches, and machinery.
• Geneva Airport (GVA): Focused on luxury goods, precision instruments, and perishable cargo.
• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL): Major hub for the pharmaceutical industry and industrial exports.

Air Freight Costs from/to Switzerland

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are calculated based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals require temperature-controlled packaging, while luxury watches demand secure handling.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Swiss trade cycles affect costs:

• Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Consistent demand and cold-chain requirements.
• Luxury goods & watches (steady): High-value cargo requires secure transport.
• Food exports (seasonal): Cheese and chocolate demand peaks before holidays.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Global demand increases freight rates.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Duties and VAT under FOCBS rules.
• Food and agricultural inspection fees from FSVO.
• Handling and airport security charges.
• Aviation fuel surcharges.

Documentation & Packaging Requirements

Air Waybill and Commercial Invoice

Every shipment requires:

• Air Waybill (AWB): Contract between shipper and airline.
• Commercial Invoice: For customs clearance.
• Packing List: Detailed cargo breakdown.
• Export Declarations (via Swiss Customs e-dec system): For goods leaving Switzerland.
• Veterinary/Phytosanitary Certificates: For food and agricultural exports (issued by FSVO).

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

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

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Switzerland follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus national trade laws:

• Prohibited: Explosives, narcotics, hazardous waste, counterfeit goods.
• Restricted: Pharmaceuticals (regulated by Swissmedic), agricultural goods (require FSVO clearance), and cultural heritage exports (regulated by the Federal Office of Culture).