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Air Freight from China to Japan

With increasing trade between Asia’s two largest economies, air freight from China to Japan has become the go-to solution for businesses seeking efficient and reliable shipping. Whether you’re a Japanese retailer sourcing electronics from Shenzhen or a Chinese supplier exporting samples to Tokyo, air shipping offers the speed, predictability, and security modern supply chains demand.

Various factors affect the cost from China, such as weight, size, and type of goods, with air freight generally being more expensive than sea freight. However, the advantage in speed is undeniable—air cargo delivers your goods in as little as 1 to 4 days, while sea freight can take over two weeks.

As a result, many importers now rely on international air freight to minimize lead times, reduce inventory costs, and meet urgent delivery schedules.

Air Freight from China to Japan

Introduction to Shipping

Shipping from China to Japan is a complex process that involves several aspects, including choosing the right shipping method, preparing goods for transport, and ensuring compliance with regulations. With the help of a reliable freight forwarder, businesses can assure efficient and reliable shipping of their goods. In this section, we will provide an overview of the shipping options available from China to Japan, including sea freight, air freight, and express courier services.

Overview of Shipping Options

When it comes to shipping goods from China to Japan, there are several options to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Sea freight is a popular choice for larger quantities of goods, as it is often cheaper than air freight. However, it can take longer to arrive, typically ranging from 10 to 30 days, depending on the specific sea freight method used. Air freight, on the other hand, is faster, with delivery times ranging from 1 to 5 days, but it can be more expensive. Express courier services are also available for smaller packages and documents, offering fast and reliable delivery. To reduce costs, businesses can consider using a freight forwarder that can help them navigate the complex process of shipping goods from China to Japan.

Why Choose Air Freight to Japan?

When time is money, air freight is the fastest and most secure shipping method for transporting goods from China to Japan. Whether you’re shipping high-value electronics, fashion apparel, or medical devices, air shipping offers unmatched delivery speed and reliability.

Major Chinese ports play a critical role in global trade dynamics, serving as essential gateways for exporters connecting China with international markets, particularly Japan. Selecting the right port is crucial to optimize shipping efficiency and reduce costs.

Unlike sea freight, which can take 2–4 weeks, express air shipping completes the journey in 1 to 4 business days, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments. This is especially crucial for businesses facing tight inventory cycles, seasonal demand, or urgent customer requests.

Key Benefits of Air Freight:

  • Speed: No other shipping method delivers goods faster across international borders.

  • Predictability: Fixed flight schedules, minimal delays.

  • Security: Cargo is handled with care, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

  • Lower holding costs: Faster delivery = less warehousing.

For smaller shipments (under 300 kg), courier services like DHL, UPS, and FedEx offer fast and trackable door-to-door air shipping, while bulkier cargo can be shipped more economically via standard air freight handled by experienced freight forwarders.

Whether you’re importing samples for a trade show or fulfilling eCommerce orders, air freight gives you the edge to meet deadlines and exceed customer expectations.

Main Air Freight Routes and Airports between China and Japan

The air freight network between China and Japan is among the busiest in Asia, supported by world-class infrastructure and daily flights connecting industrial zones and commercial hubs. Choosing the right route and airport can significantly affect your shipping costs, transit time, and delivery reliability.

Additionally, the importance of major Chinese ports in facilitating exports to Japan cannot be overstated. The choice of departure port can significantly influence shipping efficiency and cost-effectiveness, highlighting the critical role these ports play in global trade dynamics.

Major Airports in China for Air Freight:

  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) – China’s largest cargo airport, acting as a gateway for international trade, ideal for electronics, machinery, and express freight.

  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) – Specializes in apparel and bulk shipments.

  • Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) – A popular choice for eCommerce and high-frequency courier services.

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) – Supports large-volume air cargo across northern China.

Main Japanese Cargo Airports:

  • Narita International Airport (NRT) – Tokyo’s primary international gateway for air cargo.

  • Kansai International Airport (KIX) – Serving Osaka, Kyoto, and the broader Kansai region, this is a key entry point for heavy industry.

  • Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) – Strategic hub for shipments to Nagoya and central Japan.

  • Haneda Airport (HND) – Close to Tokyo’s city center and ideal for urgent deliveries.

Top Airlines on This Route:

  • China Cargo Airlines, SF Express Cargo, and Air China Cargo from China.

  • Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) and ANA Cargo from Japan.

Thanks to these well-established shipping routes, cargo from China can reach Japan quickly, with options ranging from express freight to scheduled consolidations, depending on your delivery goals.

Air Freight Transit Time and Delivery Process

One of the main advantages of air freight from China to Japan is the short transit time. Most cargo can be delivered within 1 to 4 business days, making air shipping the preferred method for time-sensitive shipments and high-priority orders.

Typical Transit Times:

Route

Estimated Time

Shanghai to Tokyo (Narita)

1–2 days

Shenzhen to Osaka (Kansai)

2–3 days

Guangzhou to Nagoya (Centrair)

2–4 days

Beijing to Tokyo (Haneda)

1–3 days

Step-by-Step Air Shipping Process:

  1. Pickup & Export Consolidation
    Goods are collected from the factory or warehouse and packed for export.

  2. Export Customs Clearance
    A commercial invoice, air waybill, and packing list are submitted to Chinese customs.

  3. Air Transport
    Goods are loaded on a scheduled cargo flight or express courier aircraft.

  4. Import Customs Clearance in Japan
    Carried out by a licensed customs broker, using required documents like air consignment note, import permits, and inspection certificates.

  5. Final Delivery
    Once cleared, cargo is delivered via local trucks or courier services to the consignee.

Proper planning and documentation ensure that your shipment clears customs smoothly, minimizing delays and avoiding penalties.

Air Freight Costs and Price Factors

The cost of air freight from China to Japan depends on several key variables, including cargo weight, volume, service type, and customs-related fees. Understanding these factors can help you better estimate shipping costs and choose the most cost-effective shipping solution.

For sea freight, costs typically range from $30 to $40 per cubic meter for less than container load (LCL), highlighting how prices can vary based on the volume of goods being shipped.

Air Freight from China to Japan-April 2025

Air freight service from China to JapanWeight CategoryAir freight rates (USD/kg)
Air freight cost from Shanghai to Japan – 100kg & 300kg100 kg / 300 kg$2.80 / $2.50
Shipping air cargo from Shenzhen to Japan – updated rate100 kg / 300 kg$2.90 / $2.60
What is the air freight rate from Guangzhou to Japan?100 kg / 300 kg$2.85 / $2.55
How much to ship air freight from Beijing to Japan?100 kg / 300 kg$3.00 / $2.70
Air cargo delivery pricing from Hong Kong to Japan100 kg / 300 kg$2.60 / $2.30
Air freight quote from Hangzhou to Japan – per kg100 kg / 300 kg$2.80 / $2.50
Shipping air freight from Xiamen to Japan – cost overview100 kg / 300 kg$2.90 / $2.60
Air freight rate from Ningbo to Japan – 100kg / 300kg100 kg / 300 kg$2.85 / $2.55
How much to deliver air cargo from Zhengzhou to Japan?100 kg / 300 kg$2.95 / $2.65
Air freight charge from Chengdu to Japan – updated100 kg / 300 kg$3.00 / $2.70
Air cargo rate from Qingdao to Japan – freight service100 kg / 300 kg$2.90 / $2.60
Air Freight from China to Japan-Cargo Airport Loading

Airlines use a billing method called chargeable weight, which is determined by a combination of the shipment’s size and weight.

Note: Prices vary based on fuel surcharges, carrier availability, and express freight options.

Weight vs. Volume: What You’re Actually Charged

Airlines use volumetric weight (dimensional weight) for pricing. If your shipment is large but light, costs may be calculated by cargo volume instead of actual weight. Formula:
CBM = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 6000

Additional Cost Components:
  • Import duties and taxes (based on HS code and product type)

  • Customs clearance fees

  • Handling and security surcharges

  • Optional: DDP shipping, which includes all import costs upfront

Looking for the Cheapest Air Freight Option?

  • Use consolidated air freight for lower per kg rates

  • Choose airport-to-airport delivery instead of door-to-door

  • Work with a freight forwarder offering competitive rates and route options

Customs Clearance and Import Regulations in Japan

Successful air freight from China to Japan doesn’t end at the airport—it must also pass through Japan’s stringent customs clearance process. Ensuring compliance with Japanese import regulations is crucial for timely delivery and cost control.

Understanding the specific rules and regulations set by shipping companies and customs authorities is essential to ensure a smooth shipping process.

Required Documents for Customs in Japan:

  • Commercial Invoice: Must include product description, HS code, declared value, and origin.

  • Packing List: Lists cargo content, dimensions, and weight.

  • Air Waybill (AWB) or air consignment note: Transport agreement between shipper and airline.

  • Import Permit: Required for restricted goods such as food, chemicals, or medical devices.

  • Test or Inspection Certificate: Required for safety-regulated items.

Customs Clearance Procedures:

  • A licensed customs broker submits documents to Japanese authorities.

  • Cargo is assessed for import duties, consumption tax (typically 10%), and other applicable duties.

  • If documents are complete and regulations met, the shipment clears customs smoothly.

🇯🇵 Japan’s Import Regulations You Should Know:

  • Each product category must follow Japan’s import regulations and classification standards.
  • Misclassification or under-declaration may lead to shipment delay, penalties, or rejection.
  • Working with an experienced freight forwarder or customs broker ensures faster processing and fewer errors.

Pro tip: Always verify your product’s HS code and prepare required documents in advance to avoid customs delays.

Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder for China–Japan Shipments

Working with a professional China to Japan air freight forwarder is critical for ensuring fast, cost-effective, and compliant cross-border shipping. A qualified air shipping agent not only books your cargo space but also manages the complete logistics process—from pickup and export documentation in China to customs clearance and final delivery in Japan.

Selecting freight forwarders with specialized expertise to navigate the complexities of shipping and customs clearance is essential.

What Does an Air Freight Forwarder Do?

  • Oversees the entire air shipping process from factory to destination

  • Books cargo space with top carriers like Nippon Cargo Airlines, China Cargo Airlines, and ANA Cargo

  • Prepares all required paperwork: commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, air consignment note

  • Works directly with a customs broker to facilitate import clearance in Japan

  • Arranges door-to-door shipping, including DDP air freight service if required

What to Look for in a Freight Forwarder from China to Japan:

  • In-depth experience with China–Japan air freight routes

  • Familiarity with Japanese import regulations and documentation

  • Transparent pricing for air freight costs per kg

  • Support for both standard air cargo and express courier services

  • Local networks across major ports like Shanghai Pudong, Shenzhen, and Kansai International Airport

Why It Matters:

Many freight forwarders specialize in specific regions. Choosing the right freight forwarder China to Japan helps you:

  • Minimize delays at both origin and destination
  • Avoid customs-related fines or rejections
  • Gain competitive rates and scalable capacity
  • Simplify complex international trade operations

Whether you’re shipping small parcels or full pallet loads, partnering with a reliable air shipping agent ensures your goods arrive on time, with full transparency and peace of mind.

DDP Air Freight Services from China to Japan

If you’re looking for a truly worry-free shipping experience, DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) air freight from China to Japan is your best option. Under DDP terms, the freight forwarder or supplier handles every aspect of the shipment—including air transport, customs clearance, import duties, and final delivery—so the buyer receives the goods at their doorstep without dealing with Japanese customs or taxes.

Defining responsibilities through Incoterms in the shipping process is crucial, as it allocates various responsibilities and liabilities between buyers and sellers, ensuring clarity in payment, insurance, and shipping-related tasks.

What Is DDP Air Freight?

DDP is an international shipping term (Incoterm) that means:

  • All risk and cost is borne by the seller or their agent

  • The buyer receives goods fully cleared and delivered

  • No surprise charges or customs hassles for the importer

What’s Included in a DDP Shipping Service?

  • Preparation of all shipping and customs documentation: air waybill, commercial invoice, packing list

  • Full customs clearance in both China and Japan

  • Pre-payment of all applicable duties and import taxes

  • Door shipping to the consignee’s address in Japan

  • Tracking updates and reliable delivery via courier or local transport

Who Should Use DDP Air Freight?

  • First-time Japanese importers unfamiliar with customs procedures

  • eCommerce sellers shipping to residential buyers

  • Businesses looking to simplify trade compliance and budgeting

  • Companies importing regulated goods (food, health, electronics) needing expert handling

By working with a qualified China to Japan DDP air freight forwarder, you avoid delays, reduce overhead, and provide your customers or partners in Japan with a seamless delivery experience.

At Tonlexing, we specialize in DDP air freight services from major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou to all major delivery zones in Japan.

Door Shipping and Delivery

Door shipping and delivery is a convenient option for businesses that want to have their goods delivered directly to their doorstep. This service typically includes pickup from the supplier’s warehouse, customs clearance, and delivery to the final destination.

Door Shipping Options

There are several door shipping options available from China to Japan, including door-to-door, door-to-port, and port-to-door services. Door-to-door services are the most convenient, as they include pickup from the supplier’s warehouse and delivery to the final destination. Door-to-port services, on the other hand, require the business to arrange for pickup from the port of arrival. Port-to-door services are also available, where the freight forwarder arranges for pickup from the port of departure and delivery to the final destination. When choosing a door shipping option, businesses should consider factors such as cost, efficiency, and reliability. A good freight forwarder can help businesses navigate the complex process of door shipping and ensure that their goods arrive safely and on time. By using a door shipping service, businesses can assure efficient and reliable shipping of their goods, and reduce the risk of delays or losses. Additionally, door shipping services can help businesses to monitor their cargo tracking, and provide them with a tracking number to keep track of their shipment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does air freight take from China to Japan?

The average air freight transit time is between 1 to 4 business days, depending on the origin and destination cities.

  • Shanghai to Tokyo: 1–2 days

  • Shenzhen to Osaka: 2–3 days

  • Guangzhou to Nagoya: 2–4 days

Certain periods in each year, such as the third quarter and Chinese New Year, impact demand and shipping rates.

Express shipping options can further reduce delivery times.

What is the air freight rate per kg from China to Japan?

In 2025, typical air freight rates per kg range from $2.50 to $4.20, based on shipment weight, route, and airline. Consolidated cargo (shared space) is more cost-effective, while express freight is slightly higher in price but faster.

Estimating shipping costs requires consideration of several factors, such as timing and market demand.

What documents are required for customs clearance in Japan?

You’ll typically need:

  • Commercial invoice

  • Packing list

  • Air waybill or air consignment note

  • Import permit (if applicable)

  • Test or inspection certificate (for regulated products)

It is crucial to label packages clearly with shipping information, including the consignee’s details and any specific handling instructions needed to ensure safe transit and prevent damage.

Working with a customs broker ensures that the customs clearance process runs smoothly and avoids delays.

What’s the cheapest air freight method to Japan?

To reduce overall shipping costs:

  • Choose consolidated air freight

  • Ship to a major airport instead of requesting door shipping

  • Avoid unnecessary surcharges by working with an experienced freight forwarder

Is DDP air freight available from China to Japan?

Yes. Many freight forwarders offer Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services for shipments from China to Japan. This includes full import duty coverage, customs clearance, and final delivery to your doorstep—perfect for eCommerce or buyers new to international shipping.

Conclusion: Fast, Reliable, and Compliant Air Freight from China to Japan

When it comes to international shipping, few options are as efficient, secure, and predictable as air freight from China to Japan. Whether you’re working with high-value electronics, fashion apparel, or time-sensitive industrial goods, air freight provides the reliable delivery your supply chain demands.

It is important to be aware of various regulations and choose reliable shipping methods when exporting from China to Japan. From fast transit times and predictable schedules to customs clearance support and flexible service options like DDP delivery, air freight helps businesses stay competitive in one of the world’s busiest trade lanes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Air freight typically delivers goods in 1–4 business days

  • Pricing starts at $2.50–$4.20 per kg, depending on route and volume

  • You can choose between airport-to-airport, door shipping, or delivered duty paid (DDP) services

  • A professional freight forwarder China to Japan will manage the entire shipping process, from pickup to final delivery

At Tonlexing, we offer tailored air shipping solutions that simplify your logistics, reduce risk, and ensure full compliance with Japanese import regulations. Whether you’re an eCommerce brand, wholesaler, or global supplier, we help you ship smarter, faster, and more affordably.

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