The price of air cargo is not determined by distance or volume alone, but by a combination of factors such as flight schedules, fuel prices, capacity and handling. Seasonal influences in particular, such as peak periods around holidays, make the market dynamic. For logistics managers, this means that air freight costs can vary widely and can only be effectively controlled with insight and planning.
With air cargo, the so-called chargeable weight is calculated. This is the highest of the actual weight and the volume weight (calculated on the basis of length × width × height). Thus, a light but bulky shipment can be just as expensive as a heavy shipment.
Price depends greatly on the flight route. Direct flights to major hubs such as New York, Dubai or Singapore tend to be cheaper than less frequent routes to smaller airports.
Express shipments, express services or charters are more expensive than standard air freight. The faster the delivery must be made, the higher the cost.
During peak periods, such as around holidays or Chinese New Year, rates rise due to scarcity of capacity. Geopolitical events and economic trends also have an impact.
Airlines apply fuel surcharges (Fuel Surcharge), which move with oil prices. This can significantly affect the price.
Costs for airport handling, security checks and customs clearance are part of the total price. Additional services, such as temperature control or ADR handling, also add costs.
Specific goods, such as pharmaceuticals, perishables or hazardous materials, require special handling and certifications. This translates into higher rates.
The price of air cargo is not determined by distance or volume alone, but by a combination of factors such as flight schedules, fuel prices, capacity and handling. Seasonal influences in particular, such as peak periods around holidays, make the market dynamic. For logistics managers, this means that air freight costs can vary widely and can only be effectively controlled with insight and planning.
With air cargo, the so-called chargeable weight is calculated. This is the highest of the actual weight and the volume weight (calculated on the basis of length × width × height). Thus, a light but bulky shipment can be just as expensive as a heavy shipment.
Price depends greatly on the flight route. Direct flights to major hubs such as New York, Dubai or Singapore tend to be cheaper than less frequent routes to smaller airports.
Express shipments, express services or charters are more expensive than standard air freight. The faster the delivery must be made, the higher the cost.
During peak periods, such as around holidays or Chinese New Year, rates rise due to scarcity of capacity. Geopolitical events and economic trends also have an impact.
Airlines apply fuel surcharges (Fuel Surcharge), which move with oil prices. This can significantly affect the price.
Costs for airport handling, security checks and customs clearance are part of the total price. Additional services, such as temperature control or ADR handling, also add costs.
Specific goods, such as pharmaceuticals, perishables or hazardous materials, require special handling and certifications. This translates into higher rates.
Our true strength lies in our employees, whose innovation and personal approach make us a leading global logistics company. They are dedicated to delivering on promises and providing customer-oriented solutions to every logistics challenge.
In addition, our unique family of several specialized companies forms our backbone. This combination of knowledge and experience not only makes us versatile, but also strengthens our resilience. Each department contributes to the growth and success of Neele-Vat, all united by a common vision and commitment.
As one cohesive family business, we are ready to take on any challenge and support our customers around the world.
Learn more about our people here.
These organizations are part of our family. They are local heroes with their own specialization, active in various regions worldwide. Thanks to their local knowledge and expertise, they offer customized solutions that reinforce our collective strength.
A European e-commerce player shipped shipments to North America on a weekly basis. By consolidating through Neele-Vat and using alternative hubs, the company saved 18% on air freight costs while keeping delivery times stable.
