What are the factors to pay attention to when querying international air freight prices?

When querying international air freight prices, it is indeed necessary to pay attention to multiple factors to ensure accurate pricing and meet the transportation needs of the goods. The following are detailed precautions:

1. The name of the air freight item:

Determine whether the item is hazardous or prohibited, as this may involve special handling and document requirements, resulting in additional costs.

Different product names may correspond to different transportation requirements and cost standards.

2. Weight and volume of air freight:

This is the main reference value for air freight charges. Freight is usually calculated based on the larger value of the actual weight or volumetric weight of the goods (calculated based on their length, width, and height).

Some international courier companies offer a billing method based on every 0.5KG.

3. Packaging of air freight items:

The packaging method may affect shipping costs, especially when special packaging materials such as wooden boxes and pallets are required for the goods.

Some express delivery companies offer free packaging services, but usually only for specific types or values of items.

4. Destination Airport:

The location of the destination airport, whether it is a basic point, and whether there are direct flights may all affect freight rates.

Remote areas or airports that require transfer may incur additional ground handling costs.

5. Air freight required time:

Direct flights usually have lower costs than connecting flights, but also shorter delivery times.

The urgency of the goods may affect flight selection and shipping costs.

6. Required flights:

The price of flights may fluctuate with booking times and seasonal changes.

The pricing strategies of airlines and freight forwarders may also differ.

7. Bill of lading category:

The selection of main and sub orders may affect transportation responsibility and cost allocation.

8. Required transportation services:

International air freight may require additional services such as customs declaration, document processing, customs clearance, etc., which typically increase shipping costs.

The value of the goods may also affect whether additional insurance needs to be purchased.

In addition, attention should be paid to the following factors that may affect air freight prices:

Fuel surcharge: Due to fluctuations in aviation fuel prices, fuel surcharge will also be adjusted accordingly.

Seasonal factors: Holidays or peak seasons may lead to an increase in shipping costs.

Price inquiry channels and methods: Different logistics companies or platforms may provide different prices and services.

When querying international air freight prices, the above factors should be comprehensively considered, and sufficient communication should be conducted with logistics companies or freight agents to ensure the most accurate prices and the most suitable transportation plan are obtained.