Air Freight from China to Israel

Trade between China and Israel has grown rapidly in recent years, fueled by e-commerce, technology partnerships, and industrial supply chains. As businesses increasingly rely on fast and reliable logistics, air freight from China to Israel has become the preferred shipping method for time-sensitive and high-value goods. Compared to sea freight or land routes, air transportation offers unmatched speed, safety, and predictability — making it ideal for importers seeking timely delivery and stable supply.

In 2025, the demand for international shipping between these two countries continues to expand. Many Israeli companies source products directly from China’s manufacturing hubs in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing, then deliver them to commercial centers such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. With well-established air freight routes and frequent flights, goods can now reach Israel in as little as one to three days, depending on the chosen service level.

Partnering with reliable freight forwarders ensures a smooth shipping process, from pickup and export declaration in China to customs clearance and final delivery in Israel. Whether you are shipping electronics, medical supplies, textiles, or machinery, air freight provides a cost-effective, professional, and efficient logistics solution for your China to Israel business.

Why Choose Air Freight from China to Israel

Choosing air freight from China to Israel offers a range of advantages that make it the most efficient option for importers handling time-sensitive goods or high-value shipments. Unlike sea freight, which may take several weeks, air transportation provides fast, secure, and reliable delivery within just a few days. This quick turnaround helps businesses maintain inventory levels, reduce storage costs, and ensure timely delivery to customers in Israel.

One of the key benefits of air freight is safe transportation. Airlines follow strict handling standards, making this shipping method suitable for electronics, medical devices, fashion items, and precision machinery that require special care. Cargo is loaded and unloaded under controlled conditions, significantly minimizing the risk of damage or loss during transit.

Another advantage is efficiency. With multiple international airports in China offering direct or connecting flights to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, importers can choose the best shipping options for their schedules and budgets. Many forwarders provide both express and economy services to balance shipping costs and delivery time.

Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder also means enjoying good customer service, professional cargo handling, and clear communication at every stage of the air freight process. Whether you need door-to-door delivery, customs clearance, or warehousing, a trusted logistics partner ensures that your goods arrive in Israel quickly, safely, and efficiently.

How Long Does Air Freight Take from China to Israel (Transit Time & Routes)

The air freight transit time from China to Israel depends on the service level, airline schedule, and cargo handling process. Generally, express air freight takes 1–2 days airport-to-airport, including customs inspection, while standard or economical air transportation may take 3–5 days. Even with additional handling at transit hubs, air shipping remains the fastest option for international cargo moving between Asia and the Middle East.

Most shipments from China depart from major international airports such as Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), and Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX). In Israel, all international air cargo is handled at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located near Tel Aviv. This central location allows for efficient customs clearance and smooth distribution to other cities like Haifa, Jerusalem, and Ashdod.

The main air freight routes between the two countries are operated by airlines such as El Al Israel Airlines, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines, offering both direct and indirect connections. Direct flights from Shanghai or Beijing to Tel Aviv typically take around 9–11 hours, while indirect routes via hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or Doha can extend transit times slightly but may reduce freight rates.

During peak seasons or holidays, shipment delays can occur due to airport congestion, increased cargo demand, or customs regulations. Working with reliable freight forwarders helps minimize these risks, as they can secure space early and plan alternative routes when necessary. Whether your goal is quick delivery or cost optimization, understanding the air freight transit time helps ensure smooth planning and predictable delivery time from China to Israel.

Major Airports in China and Israel

When planning air freight from China to Israel, choosing the right airport is key to ensuring smooth operations and competitive transit times. Both China and Israel have well-developed international airports equipped with advanced cargo handling facilities, temperature-controlled warehouses, and efficient customs clearance systems.

Main Airports in China

1. Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – One of Asia’s busiest cargo hubs, ideal for air freight shipments to the Middle East and Europe.
2. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – Handles a large portion of China’s air cargo exports, offering direct and connecting routes to Ben Gurion International Airport.
3. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – Located in southern China, Baiyun Airport is known for fast air transportation of electronics, clothing, and machinery.
4. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) – A preferred choice for exporters in Guangdong, especially for door-to-door air freight services.
5. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) – A global logistics hub handling transit cargo from all over mainland China.

Main Airport in Israel

• Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) – Situated near Tel Aviv, this is Israel’s primary international airport and the only facility capable of processing large volumes of air freight. It offers advanced logistics support, on-site customs inspection, and rapid cargo release for importers and freight forwarders.

For time-sensitive cargo or high-value goods, these airports provide ideal conditions for efficient loading, unloading, and handling. With multiple shipping routes and frequent flights, importers can easily match the best departure airport in China with the most convenient arrival terminal in Israel. A skilled freight forwarder will analyze factors like flight frequency, transit hubs, and cargo type to recommend the most cost-effective and time-efficient route for your China to Israel shipment.

Air Freight Cost from China to Israel (2025 Rates)

The air freight cost from China to Israel depends on several factors, including cargo weight, dimensions, product type, route, and seasonal demand. On average, rates in 2025 range between USD 3.50 to USD 6.50 per kilogram for general cargo, while express air freight services can cost up to USD 8.00–10.00 per kilogram for time-sensitive goods that require faster delivery.

Key Factors Affecting Air Freight Rates

1. Chargeable Weight: Airlines calculate freight charges based on either actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is higher. The volumetric weight (kg) is determined by dividing the total cubic centimeters by 6000.
2. Type of Cargo: Sensitive, oversized, or high-value goods like electronics and medical supplies may incur additional fees for safe transportation or special packaging.
3. Origin and Destination: Rates vary depending on departure airport—Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Guangzhou—and the destination at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.
4. Seasonal Demand: During peak export months or holidays, freight rates can increase due to limited aircraft space.
5. Service Type: Door-to-door, airport-to-airport, and consolidated shipments each have different cost structures based on the level of handling and customs support.

Example of Average Air Freight Rates (Estimated 2025)

While air freight is more expensive than sea freight or LCL shipping, it significantly reduces lead time and ensures quick delivery—an advantage for companies needing products to arrive in Israel quickly. Working with an experienced freight forwarder helps secure the best deal, optimize space, and handle all customs duties and import taxes efficiently.

By comparing air freight rates and service levels, importers can select the most cost-effective and reliable shipping method for their China to Israel cargo.

Air Freight Process from China to Israel (Step-by-Step)

Understanding the full air freight process from China to Israel helps importers avoid unnecessary delays and ensure smooth coordination from supplier to destination. A professional freight forwarder manages each stage carefully—from pickup at the Chinese factory to customs clearance and delivery at the buyer’s location in Israel.

Step 1: Cargo Pickup and Export Preparation

Your freight forwarder arranges pickup from suppliers or factories across China, whether in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, or Yiwu. The cargo is transported to the nearest international airport and inspected for compliance with airline safety standards. The forwarder will also prepare key export documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and air waybill (AWB).

Step 2: Export Customs Declaration in China

Before the goods are loaded, they must go through Chinese customs declaration. The exporter provides accurate product information, including the Harmonized System (HS) code, declared value, and shipping terms. Working with reliable freight forwarders ensures proper documentation and avoids clearance delays.

Step 3: Air Transportation

Once cleared for export, the cargo is loaded onto the aircraft for air transportation to Ben Gurion International Airport. Depending on the selected service (express or consolidated), the shipping time typically ranges from 1 to 5 days. Airlines like El Al, China Southern, and Hainan Airlines operate frequent air freight routes from major Chinese airports.

Step 4: Import Customs Clearance in Israel

After arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport, your shipment undergoes Israeli customs inspection. The importer or their appointed customs broker must provide necessary documents such as the air waybill, packing list, and commercial invoice. Customs officers verify product classification, calculate import taxes, and ensure all customs requirements are met before release.

Step 5: Final Delivery (Door-to-Door Service)

Once customs is cleared, your freight forwarder arranges land transportation to deliver the goods to the final destination—whether in Tel Aviv, Haifa, or other parts of Israel. Many logistics providers offer full door-to-door service, combining air freight and local delivery for maximum convenience and reliability.

This structured shipping process ensures that your goods are moved efficiently, with full visibility and minimal risk of shipment delays. Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder helps coordinate every step, ensuring your cargo reaches Israel safely, on time, and at a competitive shipping cost.

Customs Clearance and Import Regulations in Israel

Efficient customs clearance is essential to ensure your air freight from China to Israel arrives without unnecessary delays or penalties. Israel’s customs system is modern and well-organized, but importers must comply with specific customs regulations, documentation standards, and product requirements before their cargo can be released.

Customs Procedures in Israel

Once the cargo lands at Ben Gurion International Airport, it enters the Israeli Customs system for inspection and verification. The importer or their appointed freight forwarder submits all required documentation electronically through the customs platform. Commonly inspected aspects include product classification (using the Harmonized System code), declared value, and country of origin.

The entire customs clearance process typically takes one to two working days, depending on the accuracy of submitted information and cargo type. Certain categories, such as medical supplies, electronics, and chemical materials, may require additional permits or safety certifications before clearance.

Required Documents

To ensure smooth importation, the following documents are generally required for air freight shipments:

• Commercial Invoice – Specifies product details, value, and trade terms.
• Packing List – Lists weight, dimensions, and packaging details.
• Air Waybill (AWB) – The main document issued by the airline or freight forwarder, confirming shipment and delivery details.
• Certificate of Origin (if applicable) – May be required for specific goods under trade agreements.
• Import License or Declaration (if needed) – For regulated products such as food, pharmaceuticals, or machinery.

Customs Duties and Import Taxes

Israel applies customs duties, VAT, and sometimes additional fees on imported goods. The import tax rate depends on the HS code and trade classification. VAT is typically 17% and applies to the CIF value (cost, insurance, and freight). For some product categories, duty-free entry may apply under bilateral trade agreements.

To prevent issues, work with an experienced freight forwarder who understands Israeli customs procedures and can guide you through each step of the customs declaration. They will ensure that your shipment complies with customs requirements and that your goods are released quickly for delivery across Israel.

Efficient handling of customs not only saves time but also reduces shipping costs associated with storage or demurrage. With professional assistance, you can move your goods from China to Israel seamlessly while staying compliant with all customs regulations.

Documents Required for Air Freight Shipping from China to Israel

Proper documentation is the foundation of a successful air freight shipment. Whether you’re sending small parcels or large commercial cargo, incomplete or inaccurate paperwork can cause shipment delays, penalties, or even confiscation by customs authorities. To ensure smooth international shipping from China to Israel, both exporters and importers must prepare the following key documents.

Commercial Invoice

The commercial invoice is a legally binding document that lists the goods’ description, quantity, unit price, total value, and trade terms (such as FOB, CIF, or DDP). It’s used by customs clearance officers in both China and Israel to assess customs duties and import taxes. The invoice must include accurate product details and the Harmonized System (HS) codes.

Packing List

This document provides detailed information about the packaging, dimensions, and container load (if applicable). It helps both the freight forwarder and customs authorities verify the shipment contents. Each package should be clearly labeled for easy identification during inspection.

Air Waybill (AWB)

The air waybill, often abbreviated as AWB, is issued by the airline or the freight forwarder. It serves as proof of receipt and a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier. It also contains vital information such as the shipper’s and consignee’s names, origin and destination airports (e.g., Beijing Capital International Airport to Ben Gurion International Airport), cargo weight, and air freight cost. The AWB is generally signed by the airline when the goods are accepted for transport.

Certificate of Origin

Although not always required, the certificate of origin can help reduce import taxes or qualify goods for preferential trade terms. It confirms that the products were manufactured or assembled in China and may be requested by Israeli customs for certain categories like textiles, food, or machinery.

Insurance Certificate

An insurance certificate provides proof of coverage against loss, theft, or damage during air transportation. It is especially recommended for high-value goods such as electronics or medical equipment, ensuring safe transportation throughout the shipping process.

Additional Documents (if applicable)

Depending on the cargo type, additional paperwork may be needed:

• Import permits for restricted or regulated goods.
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for hazardous materials.
• Inspection or testing reports for sensitive items such as medical supplies.

By ensuring all documents are complete and consistent, importers can streamline customs declaration in both countries and reduce clearance time. Professional freight forwarders typically assist with documentation preparation and submission, ensuring your China to Israel shipment meets all customs requirements with zero errors.

Explore more shipping guides:

• Air Freight from China to Saudi Arabia
• Air Freight from China to UAE
• Shipping from China to Israel
• How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Israel?

Door-to-Door Air Freight & Value-Added Services

For businesses that value speed, simplicity, and peace of mind, door-to-door air freight from China to Israel is one of the most efficient logistics solutions. Instead of coordinating multiple agents and customs brokers, a single freight forwarder manages the entire shipping process — from supplier pickup in China to final delivery at your warehouse or address in Israel.

How Door-to-Door Air Freight Works

The air freight process begins with your forwarder arranging pickup directly from your supplier or factory. The cargo is then consolidated at a nearby airport such as Shanghai Pudong, Shenzhen Bao’an, or Beijing Capital International Airport. After export customs declaration, your goods are flown directly to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. Upon arrival, your local logistics partner handles Israeli customs clearance, import taxes, and land transportation to the destination city — whether it’s Tel Aviv, Haifa, or Jerusalem.

This full-service model eliminates the need for you to deal with multiple intermediaries or government offices. It also ensures timely delivery and full visibility through digital tracking tools provided by most reliable freight forwarders.

Advantages of Door-to-Door Air Freight

• Time Efficiency: Your shipment moves seamlessly through all logistics stages, avoiding unnecessary handovers or shipment delays.
• Customs Support: The forwarder handles all customs clearance and paperwork for both export and import, ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
• Transparent Pricing: You receive an all-inclusive quotation covering pickup, air freight cost, duties, and delivery time, helping to reduce hidden additional fees.
• Safe Transportation: Goods are insured and handled with care, ensuring high-value goods arrive safely and on time.

Value-Added Services

Many logistics companies offer extra features to make international shipping even smoother:

• Cargo Insurance – Protection against loss or damage during air transportation.
• Warehousing and Consolidation – Combining multiple shipments to reduce shipping costs.
• Repackaging or Labeling – Especially useful for e-commerce or resellers.
• Customs Consultation – Assistance with complex customs duties, customs declaration, or import taxes in Israel.

Working with an experienced freight forwarder like Tonlexing ensures your door-to-door air freight experience is fully managed, cost-effective, and stress-free. Whether shipping time-sensitive goods or regular commercial cargo, this service guarantees quick delivery and reliable logistics performance for all China to Israel air shipments.

How to Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder for Air Freight from China to Israel

Selecting the right freight forwarder is one of the most important decisions when planning air freight from China to Israel. A professional logistics partner ensures your goods are handled efficiently, paperwork is accurate, and your cargo reaches Ben Gurion International Airport or your door in Israel safely and on time.

Key Qualities of a Reliable Freight Forwarder

1. Experience in China–Israel Trade Routes
   Choose a forwarder with a proven track record in international shipping between China and Israel. Experienced agents understand the local customs regulations, import taxes, and air freight process, helping avoid unnecessary shipment delays.
2. Comprehensive Service Coverage
   A good forwarder provides end-to-end solutions — including pickup, warehousing, customs clearance, air transportation, and door-to-door delivery. They should be able to handle various shipping methods like air freight, sea freight, or combined sea and air freight depending on your needs.
3. Transparent Pricing and Cost Control
   Reliable forwarders offer clear quotes with no hidden additional fees. They explain how shipping costs are calculated — by cubic meter, volumetric weight, or actual weight — and help you choose the most cost-effective option.
4. Strong Airline Partnerships
   Reputable forwarders work closely with carriers such as El Al, China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, and others. These relationships ensure better freight rates, faster booking during peak seasons, and guaranteed cargo space.
5. Excellent Customer Service
   A freight forwarder should provide timely communication, accurate tracking updates, and proactive problem-solving. Companies with a reputation for good customer service build long-term partnerships with clients and ensure your cargo moves smoothly from China to Israel.
6. Compliance and Documentation Expertise
   The best forwarders understand customs declaration procedures, prepare proper commercial invoices, air waybills, and ensure all customs requirements are met. This helps prevent clearance issues at both Chinese and Israeli customs.

Why Choose Tonlexing

Tonlexing Logistics has extensive experience managing air freight and door-to-door shipping from China to Israel. With dedicated teams in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, and reliable partners in Tel Aviv, we provide complete logistics solutions — from supplier pickup to final delivery. Our experts handle customs duties, VAT, and import documentation, ensuring safe transportation and timely delivery for every shipment.

Choosing an experienced freight forwarder not only reduces risk but also helps you save time, minimize costs, and maintain a stable supply chain between China and Israel.

Tips to Reduce Air Freight Costs from China to Israel

Shipping by air is the fastest and most reliable way to move goods from China to Israel, but it can also be more expensive than other shipping methods. With strategic planning and the help of a professional freight forwarder, you can significantly reduce your air freight costs while maintaining speed and efficiency.

Optimize Packaging and Cargo Volume

Airlines charge based on chargeable weight, which is determined by either the actual weight or the volumetric weight of your cargo — whichever is higher. To minimize costs, use compact, durable packaging that reduces empty space. Consolidate smaller shipments into one container load when possible to achieve better freight rates.

Plan Shipments Early

Booking your air freight from China to Israel in advance allows your forwarder to secure lower rates and avoid last-minute surcharges. During peak seasons such as Chinese New Year or before major holidays in Israel, freight rates often rise due to high demand and limited space.

Choose Consolidated Air Freight Services

If your cargo does not fill the entire container or ULD (Unit Load Device), consider using consolidated air freight. This service combines multiple shippers’ cargo on the same flight, reducing overall shipping costs while maintaining reliable delivery time.

Compare Different Airports and Routes

Rates vary between departure points — such as Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Beijing Capital International Airport, and Shenzhen Bao’an — depending on distance, airline choice, and customs fees. Sometimes, routing through Hong Kong International Airport can offer more competitive pricing for international shipping to Ben Gurion International Airport.

Avoid Unnecessary Additional Fees

Ensure all commercial invoices, packing lists, and air waybills are accurate to avoid customs penalties or inspection delays. Incomplete documentation can lead to additional fees, storage charges, or longer customs clearance times.

Work with a Reliable Freight Forwarder

Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder who regularly handles China to Israel shipments helps you find the most cost-effective options. They can advise when to use sea and air freight combinations, consolidate multiple suppliers’ goods, and handle customs declaration efficiently.

Use Door-to-Door or DDP Services

While these services may appear more expensive at first, they include all charges such as pickup, air freight, customs duties, import taxes, and delivery — saving you from hidden costs and unexpected expenses later.

By applying these strategies, importers can maintain safe transportation, improve service quality, and achieve more competitive pricing for their air freight from China to Israel. Smart logistics planning not only helps reduce costs but also ensures smooth and reliable deliveries that support long-term business success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Air Freight from China to Israel

How long does air freight take from China to Israel?

The air freight transit time from China to Israel usually ranges between 1 to 5 days, depending on the airport of departure, airline, and chosen service type. Express air freight typically delivers within 1–2 days, while standard or consolidated cargo may take 3–5 days, including customs clearance at Ben Gurion International Airport.

How much does it cost to ship goods by air from China to Israel?

In 2025, air freight rates average between USD 3.00–5.50 per kilogram, depending on cargo weight, dimensions, and shipping routes. High-value goods or time-sensitive cargo may have higher rates, while consolidated air freight offers more cost-effective pricing.

What are the major airports used for China–Israel air freight?

Most cargo departs from China’s major international airports, such as Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), and Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).
In Israel, all air freight shipments arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), the country’s main hub for import and export cargo.

What documents are required for air freight shipping?

To ensure a smooth customs clearance process, you’ll need:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Air waybill (AWB)
• Certificate of origin (if applicable)
• Insurance certificate and import permits for regulated goods

Your freight forwarder will help prepare and submit all documents correctly to avoid shipment delays.

Are there any customs duties or import taxes in Israel?

Yes. Israel applies customs duties, VAT (17%), and sometimes additional fees on imported goods, depending on the Harmonized System (HS) code and product type. An experienced freight forwarder can assist with customs declaration and ensure compliance with customs requirements to minimize costs and delays.

Can I ship door-to-door from China to Israel?

Absolutely. Many freight forwarders offer door-to-door air freight or DDP services, covering pickup from your Chinese supplier, air transportation, customs clearance, and final delivery to your address in Israel. This service simplifies logistics and ensures timely delivery without the need to handle multiple intermediaries.

What are the most common types of goods shipped by air to Israel?

Typical air cargo includes electronics, clothing, medical supplies, machinery parts, and other time-sensitive goods that require quick delivery and safe transportation. Air freight is ideal for importers dealing with short lead times or high-value inventory.

How can I ensure my goods arrive safely and on time?

Partner with a reliable freight forwarder who has experience managing China to Israel logistics. They will arrange secure handling, accurate customs declaration, and end-to-end tracking, ensuring your goods arrive in excellent condition and within the promised delivery time.

Conclusion

Shipping goods via air freight from China to Israel is one of the fastest and most dependable ways to keep your business supply chain running smoothly. With growing trade between the two countries and increasing demand for time-sensitive goods, air transportation has become the preferred shipping method for importers who value speed, reliability, and efficiency.

By understanding the full air freight process — from supplier pickup and export customs declaration in China to customs clearance and final delivery in Israel — you can plan your logistics with confidence. Choosing the right freight forwarder makes all the difference: they help you navigate customs regulations, secure the best freight rates, and manage every step of your shipment with professionalism.

Whether you’re transporting high-value goods, medical supplies, or commercial products, air freight ensures quick delivery, safe transportation, and complete visibility from origin to destination. In comparison to sea and air freight combinations, it provides unmatched speed and reliability, especially for urgent shipments to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

If you’re looking for a trusted logistics partner to handle your China to Israel shipments, Tonlexing Logistics offers a full range of air freight, door-to-door delivery, and customs clearance services. Our team specializes in designing cost-effective solutions tailored to your cargo type, budget, and delivery schedule — ensuring your goods reach Israel efficiently and without delay.

Contact Tonlexing today to get a customized quotation for your next air freight shipment from China to Israel, and experience fast, reliable, and professional service every step of the way.