Air freight from China to Russia has become one of the fastest-growing segments in international shipping. With the rapid expansion of cross-border trade, e-commerce, and manufacturing exports, thousands of tons of cargo are transported daily between major Chinese airports such as Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), and Beijing Capital (PEK) to Russian destinations like Moscow (SVO), St. Petersburg (LED), and Yekaterinburg (SVX).
Air freight is the preferred choice for importers who need rapid delivery, especially for high-value, consumer goods, or perishable food products. Compared to sea freight or rail transport, air shipping offers a shorter transit time, usually ranging from 2 to 3 days, depending on the shipping route and customs clearance efficiency.
For many businesses, choosing air freight ensures speed, security, and reliability. Modern freight forwarders provide flexible door-to-door shipping services, handling everything from supplier pickup to customs declaration and delivery in Russia. Whether you’re shipping small parcels or commercial consignments, understanding the full shipping process from China to Russia is essential to achieve cost-effective logistics and smooth customs compliance.
Why Choose Air Freight for China–Russia Trade
Air freight plays a vital role in fast-growing trade between China and Russia, offering unmatched speed, security, and reliability. When compared with other shipping options such as sea transport or rail, air freight from China to Russia remains the best choice for urgent or valuable cargo. Companies shipping electronics, fashion goods, or machinery benefit from faster delivery and reduced risk of customs delays.
One major advantage of air transport is its rapid delivery time. Cargo that would take weeks by sea can reach Moscow airports within just a few days. This efficiency supports smooth supply chain operations and faster response to market demand. Additionally, multiple carriers operate daily flights from China to Russia, ensuring consistent schedules and real-time tracking.
Air shipping also provides cost-effective solutions for smaller shipments, where volume and weight are limited. Experienced freight forwarders can optimize shipment size and suggest routes that minimize costs while maintaining quick turnaround times. Air freight is also perfect for food products and other consumer goods requiring short transit and temperature control.
Transit Time for Air Freight from China to Russia
The transit time for air freight from China to Russia ranges from 1 to 7 days, depending on shipping routes, flight frequency, and customs regulations.
| Origin Airport (China) | Destination Airport (Russia) | Average Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO) | 2–3 days | Most popular primary route with direct flights |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | St. Petersburg (LED) | 2–3 days | Slightly longer due to connecting flights |
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Moscow Domodedovo (DME) | 2–3 days | Fastest for express cargo |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Yekaterinburg (SVX) | 2–3 days | Suitable for automotive parts |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO) | 2–3 days | Flexible route with multiple carriers |
Delivery times may vary depending on weather, regulatory compliance, or inspection of dangerous goods. Partnering with a professional freight forwarder helps you avoid delays, track progress, and ensure timely delivery through the most specific route possible.
Air Freight Costs and Rates per KG (2025 Guide)
Understanding air freight costs is essential for efficient planning. Rates are typically calculated based on chargeable weight, using either actual or volumetric weight (Length × Width × Height ÷ 6000).
| Weight Range (KG) | Estimated Rate (USD/KG) | Example Routes | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45–99 KG | $3.00 – $3.20 | Shanghai → Moscow / Guangzhou → St. Petersburg | 2–3 days |
| 100–299 KG | $2.60 – $2.80 | Shenzhen → Moscow / Beijing → St. Petersburg | 2–3 days |
| 300–499 KG | $2.30 – $2.60 | Guangzhou → Moscow / Shanghai → Yekaterinburg | 2–3 days |
| 500 KG+ | $2.00 – $2.30 | All main airports → Moscow / St. Petersburg | 2–3 days |
Tonlexing offers competitive rates and a free CBM calculator to help importers estimate shipping expenses. For dangerous goods, temperature-sensitive cargo, or door-to-door shipping, slight rate adjustments may apply.
Importers combining sea and air freight from major Chinese ports such as Shanghai or Shenzhen can also balance cost and rapid delivery. This hybrid transport approach is ideal for large volumes or full container load cargo needing faster arrival in the Russian market.
Main Airports in China and Russia for Air Cargo
Air freight relies on a network of advanced airports that ensure efficient cargo shipping and customs clearance.
Major Departure Airports in China
| Airport | IATA Code | City / Province | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Pudong International Airport | PVG | Shanghai | Main hub for air shipping and international connections |
| Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport | CAN | Guangdong | Supports fast loading and door-to-door shipping |
| Beijing Capital International Airport | PEK | Beijing | Handles large-scale cargo shipments |
| Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport | SZX | Guangdong | Excellent for e-commerce and smaller shipments |
| Hong Kong International Airport | HKG | Hong Kong | Flexible option for transit cargo and direct access routes |
Although air transport uses airports, many major Chinese ports also support sea-air transport for flexible shipping options.
Main Destination Airports in Russia
| Airport | IATA Code | City / Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheremetyevo International Airport | SVO | Moscow | Russia’s main cargo hub |
| Domodedovo International Airport | DME | Moscow | Ideal for courier and DDP delivery |
| Pulkovo Airport | LED | St. Petersburg | Northern key port and gateway to Baltic trade |
| Koltsovo International Airport | SVX | Yekaterinburg | Serves industrial and automotive parts |
| Vladivostok International Airport | VVO | Far East Russia | Excellent for sea-air combined routes |
The primary route between Shanghai and Moscow remains the busiest specific route, connecting Asia’s production zones directly to Russia’s logistics centers.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Road Freight from China to Russia
- DDP Shipping from China to Russia
- Shipping Cost from China to Russia
- Cheapest Way to Ship from China to Russia
- Door to Door Shipping from China to Russia
Air Freight Shipping Process from China to Russia
A smooth shipping process ensures timely delivery and regulatory compliance.
- Cargo Pickup and Packaging – The freight forwarder collects goods, checks essential documents, and ensures packaging meets aviation standards.
- Export Customs Declaration – All customs documents are prepared, including invoices, HS codes, and export licenses.
- Air Transport – Cargo flies via the best shipping route; most shipments take 1–7 days.
- Import Customs Clearance – Russian customs officials review the documents, inspect cargo, and assess customs duties and VAT rate.
- Final Delivery – After clearance, Tonlexing arranges road transport for door-to-door shipping or Delivered Duty Paid service.
Each stage requires careful attention to avoid delays and ensure your cargo moves safely through customs.
Customs Clearance and Documentation Requirements
Efficient customs clearance guarantees a smooth entry into the Russian market. Required documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin
- Import License (for dangerous goods)
- Insurance Certificate
Russia applies customs duties (5–20%) and VAT rate (typically 20%). Freight forwarders assist with documentation handling, verifying every customs declaration to ensure legal compliance.
For food products or automotive parts, customs may require additional inspection. Working with experienced freight forwarders ensures regulatory compliance and fast clearance with no customs delays.
Handling Dangerous or Restricted Goods
Shipping dangerous goods such as batteries, aerosols, or chemicals demands careful attention to documentation and packaging. Cargo must comply with IATA DGR and Russian safety laws.
Essential paperwork includes Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), a Dangerous Goods Declaration, and proper hazard labels. Experienced freight forwarders ensure your shipment meets legal compliance and is accepted by airlines and customs officials.
Proper labeling, UN-certified packaging, and cargo insurance are mandatory to guarantee safe transport. Tonlexing’s certified team handles all regulatory compliance procedures for hazardous cargo, helping clients avoid delays and ship safely.
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
Choosing the right freight forwarder can determine whether your shipment runs smoothly or faces delays.
A reliable freight forwarder offers:
- Comprehensive logistics services (air, rail, and sea freight)
- Transparent air freight costs and competitive rates
- End-to-end door-to-door shipping and DDP service
- Expertise in customs clearance and documentation
- Partnerships with multiple carriers for flexible schedules
Working with an experienced freight forwarder ensures faster delivery, cost-effective logistics, and compliance with Russian import laws. It’s the best way to save money and protect your shipment from unnecessary complications.
Tonlexing: Your Reliable Air Freight Partner to Russia
Tonlexing is an experienced freight forwarder and global leader in logistics, specializing in air freight from China to Russia.
Our main services include:
- Air freight consolidation for better competitive rates
- DDP door-to-door shipping, including customs duties and VAT
- Express air shipping for rapid delivery
- Cargo insurance and documentation handling
- Specialized handling for dangerous goods and valuable items
Tonlexing’s logistics experts manage the full shipping process, ensuring compliance, visibility, and safety across all shipping routes. We help clients minimize costs, improve delivery times, and maintain a strong supply chain between China and Russia.
FAQs about Air Freight from China to Russia
How long does air freight take?
Usually 2–3 days, depending on shipping routes and customs clearance.
What is the air freight cost per KG?
Average USD 2.2–3.2/kg, depending on route and weight.
Can I ship batteries or chemicals?
Yes, with proper dangerous goods documentation and labeling.
What documents are required?
Commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, and certificate of origin.
Does Tonlexing offer DDP air shipping?
Yes, Tonlexing provides Delivered Duty Paid and door-to-door shipping from China to Russia.
Final Thoughts
Air freight remains the fastest and most secure cargo shipping solution between China and Russia. With reliable partners like Tonlexing, you gain end-to-end visibility, regulatory compliance, and stress-free delivery — all at competitive rates.
Get your free quote today! Contact Tonlexing to discuss your shipment details and receive professional air shipping advice tailored to your needs.