Air Freight Shipping from/to United States

Air freight is the fastest way to move goods between the United States and the rest of the world. As the world’s largest economy, the U.S. exports and imports massive volumes of pharmaceuticals, aerospace parts, automotive components, electronics, agricultural products, and consumer goods. With multiple world-class cargo airports, the U.S. is a central hub for global trade. iContainers connects your business to major trade routes with instant online quotes, transparent pricing, and expert customs support.

Get an Air Freight Quote from/to the United States

Instant Online Rates

Get real-time quotes for air freight shipments to and from the U.S. with just a few clicks. Compare multiple airlines and transit times, then book the most convenient option 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 complete support with customs clearance in the United States and destination countries. From compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to food and agricultural inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and pharmaceutical regulations under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), our team ensures your shipments meet all U.S. trade requirements. You also benefit from end-to-end shipment tracking for full visibility.

Air Freight Services from/to the United States

Shipping Large Cargo and Pallets (LCL by Air)

Key U.S. exports and imports shipped by air include:

• Pharmaceuticals and medical equipment
• Aerospace and automotive parts
• Electronics and semiconductors
• Agricultural products (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy)
• Consumer goods and apparel
• Chemicals and industrial machinery

Typical Transit Times for Air Freight U.S. Routes

• New York (JFK) → Frankfurt: ~2–3 business days
• Chicago (ORD) → London: ~2–3 business days
• Los Angeles (LAX) → Tokyo: ~3–4 business days
• Miami (MIA) → São Paulo: ~2–3 business days
• Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) → Shanghai: ~4–6 business days

Main Airports in the United States for Air Freight

• Chicago O’Hare (ORD): One of the busiest U.S. cargo airports, handling electronics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial machinery.
• Los Angeles (LAX): Major gateway for trade with Asia-Pacific, especially electronics and apparel.
• Miami (MIA): Hub for perishables, pharmaceuticals, and trade with Latin America.
• New York (JFK): Key hub for luxury goods, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products.
• Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW): Strong in industrial equipment, aerospace, and e-commerce.
• Anchorage (ANC): Strategic refueling and transshipment hub for trans-Pacific cargo.

Air Freight Costs from/to the United States

Weight, Volume, and Cargo Type Factors

Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight (actual vs. volumetric). Pharmaceuticals often require temperature control, while perishables require cold-chain handling.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

U.S. export and import cycles affect freight rates:

• Pharmaceuticals (year-round): Consistent demand, cold-chain costs.
• Agricultural products (seasonal): Demand spikes during harvest periods.
• Consumer goods (Q3–Q4): Demand increases before Black Friday and Christmas.
• Holiday season (Oct–Dec): Peak season with higher freight rates globally.

Customs Duties, Surcharges, and Local Fees

In addition to freight charges, shipments may include:

• Customs duties and tariffs under CBP.
• Inspection fees from USDA and FDA for food and pharmaceuticals.
• Handling and security fees 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 breakdown of goods.
• Export Declarations (via AES – Automated Export System): For shipments leaving the U.S.
• Certificates: USDA sanitary/phytosanitary certificates for agricultural goods, FDA clearance for pharmaceuticals and food.

Packaging Standards for Palletized Cargo

• ISPM-15 certified pallets for international shipments.
• Refrigerated/insulated packaging for perishables and pharmaceuticals.
• Secure packaging and clear labeling for electronics and high-value goods.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

The U.S. follows IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) plus federal restrictions:

• Prohibited: Narcotics, counterfeit goods, explosives, hazardous waste.
• Restricted: Firearms, pharmaceuticals (FDA clearance required), agricultural goods (USDA clearance), cultural artifacts (regulated by the U.S. Department of the Interior).