Shipping goods via air freight from China to Singapore is a fast, reliable solution for businesses needing speed and efficiency. With one of Asia’s busiest trade corridors and seamless connectivity through Changi Airport, air shipping offers unmatched advantages for urgent deliveries, high-value goods, or time-sensitive inventory. Whether you’re shipping electronics, apparel, or industrial components, understanding the full air freight process—from cost calculation and documentation to customs clearance and delivery—can help optimize your supply chain.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about air freight to Singapore: how much it costs, how long it takes, and how to choose the right freight forwarder to ensure smooth transit. We’ll also explain important factors such as chargeable weight, commercial invoice requirements, and how to comply with Singapore customs.
Why Choose Air Freight from China to Singapore
Choosing air freight for shipping goods from China to Singapore offers several key benefits—especially when speed, reliability, and security are top priorities. This shipping method is favored for urgent shipments, high-value cargo, and just-in-time inventory management.
Faster Transit Times
With frequent direct flights between major Chinese airports like Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), and Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), delivery time typically ranges from 1 to 3 days, depending on the service level and flight availability. This speed is ideal for urgent deliveries, especially in industries such as electronics, medical supplies, or fashion retail.
Greater Reliability and Predictable Schedules
Airlines such as Singapore Airlines Cargo and other leading air carriers operate regular, fixed flight schedules, minimizing delays. Your cargo is handled in secure, temperature-controlled environments, reducing risks associated with spoilage or damage.
Suitable for Small and High-Value Shipments
Air freight is often more cost-effective than sea freight for smaller or lighter shipments when considering the volumetric weight vs actual weight. This makes it a practical option for shipments that require tight deadlines but don’t justify the cost of a full container load.
Seamless Customs and Documentation
Major freight forwarders provide full documentation support, including airway bills, packing lists, commercial invoices, and assistance with the customs clearance process. Shipments into Singapore benefit from a well-developed customs infrastructure, with efficient processing at Singapore customs.
Ideal for E-commerce and Fast-Moving Goods
With the rise of cross-border e-commerce, many businesses rely on air shipping to keep up with demand. Whether you’re importing electronics, apparel, or cosmetics, air freight door-to-door services reduce lead times and improve customer satisfaction.
Major Airports in China for Shipping to Singapore
China is home to some of the world’s busiest cargo hubs, making it easy to arrange air freight from key industrial regions to Singapore. Selecting the right China port or airport can reduce shipping costs, improve transit time, and align with your production or supplier location.
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
A top choice for businesses in southern China, especially near Foshan, Dongguan, and Shenzhen. This airport offers competitive air freight rates to Singapore Changi Airport, with daily cargo flights operated by carriers like Singapore Airlines and China Southern.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Located in eastern China, Shanghai serves as a global logistics hub. It handles massive volumes of air cargo, including bulk shipments, and provides efficient services for electronics, machinery, and fashion exports to Singapore.
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Perfect for factories located in the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone. This airport is known for high cargo handling efficiency and offers excellent connections for express shipping and door shipping services.
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
While located in northern China, Beijing is still a viable option for air freight shipments that require specific flight schedules or connections via northern suppliers.
Chengdu, Zhengzhou, and Xi’an Airports
These inland hubs offer growing air freight forwarding options for shippers based in western and central China, especially for clients looking for cost-effective logistics.
Tip: When choosing your freight forwarder, make sure they evaluate both proximity to your supplier and available flight schedules to optimize shipping performance.
Air Freight Cost from China to Singapore (Updated 2025)
Understanding the air freight cost from China to Singapore is essential for budgeting and choosing the right shipping method. Pricing depends on several factors, including weight, volume, delivery urgency, and departure location.
Key Pricing Factors
Chargeable Weight
Freight charges are based on the higher of actual weight or volumetric weight.
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000
Using a CBM calculator helps determine the accurate shipping costs based on your cargo dimensions.
Type of Service
Standard Air Freight (3–5 days): Lower cost, suitable for general goods
Express Air Freight (1–3 days): Higher cost, ideal for urgent shipments
Origin Airport
Airports like Shenzhen or Guangzhou generally offer lower rates due to proximity to industrial zones and higher flight frequency.
Cargo Type & Handling
Special cargo like battery products, fragile goods, or bulk shipments may incur extra handling fees or require proper packaging.
Air Freight from China to Singapore – May 2025
| Air freight service from China to Singapore | Weight Category | Air freight rates (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Air freight cost from Shanghai to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.20 / $2.00 |
| Shipping air cargo from Shenzhen to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.30 / $2.10 |
| What is the air freight rate from Guangzhou to Singapore? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.25 / $2.05 |
| How much to ship air freight from Beijing to Singapore? | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.40 / $2.20 |
| Air cargo delivery pricing from Hong Kong to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.00 / $1.80 |
| Air freight quote from Hangzhou to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.20 / $2.00 |
| Shipping air freight from Xiamen to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.30 / $2.10 |
| Air freight rate from Ningbo to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.25 / $2.05 |
| Air freight from Chengdu to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.40 / $2.20 |
| Air freight rate from Qingdao to Singapore | 100 kg / 300 kg | $2.30 / $2.10 |
Rates fluctuate based on seasonal demand, fuel surcharges, and airline capacity. Always confirm with your freight forwarder for real-time pricing.
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Transit Time for Air Freight to Singapore
When shipping goods via air freight from China to Singapore, transit time is one of the biggest advantages. Most shipments can reach Singapore Changi Airport within just a few days, making it a preferred shipping method for urgent deliveries.
Standard Transit Time
Route | Estimated Time (Airport to Airport) |
|---|---|
Guangzhou (CAN) → Singapore | 1–2 days |
Shenzhen (SZX) → Singapore | 1–2 days |
Shanghai (PVG) → Singapore | 2–3 days |
Hong Kong (HKG) → Singapore | 1–2 days |
Beijing (PEK) → Singapore | 2–4 days |
Transit time refers to the flight duration and basic cargo processing on both ends. It does not include pickup, customs clearance, or last-mile delivery, which can add 1–2 working days depending on the service.
Factors That May Affect Delivery Time
Flight Schedules and Space Availability: Limited space or peak-season congestion can delay departures.
Customs Clearance at Singapore Airport: Typically efficient, but incomplete documentation can cause delays.
Weather Conditions or Public Holidays: May affect international air cargo movement.
Express vs. Standard Air Shipping
Service Type | Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Express Air Cargo | 1–2 days | Urgent shipments, e-commerce, perishable goods |
Standard Air Freight | 3–5 days | Cost-effective shipping of general goods |
For door-to-door service, add 1–2 days to account for pickup, Singapore customs clearance, and last-mile delivery to your warehouse or customer.
Required Documents and Customs Clearance in Singapore
Smooth customs clearance is critical for successful air freight shipping from China to Singapore. Singapore’s customs system is efficient, but shipments must be accompanied by proper documentation and comply with all import regulations.
Essential Documents for Air Freight Shipments
Commercial Invoice
This is the core document used for valuation and customs duties. It should clearly state:
Description of goods
Quantity and value
HS codes (Harmonized System)
Country of origin
Seller and buyer information
Packing List
Includes details such as packaging type, dimensions, weight, and total cargo volume. Helps authorities verify physical cargo against the shipping orders.
Air Waybill (AWB)
Issued by the air carrier or freight forwarder, this document serves as the contract of carriage. It includes the shipper, consignee, flight route, and tracking number.
Import Permits or Licenses (if applicable)
Certain products—like battery-powered goods, food, electronics, or medical devices—may require prior approval from Singapore agencies.
Singapore Customs Clearance Process
Submission via TradeNet
Most import declarations are filed electronically through Singapore’s TradeNet system, either by the importer or their customs broker/freight forwarder.Customs Duties and GST
Singapore does not impose tariffs on most imported goods, but a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 9% (as of 2025) is applied to the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). Businesses must be ready to pay services tax and customs duties where applicable.Inspection and Release
If your cargo is selected for inspection, it will be examined before release. Otherwise, clearance can be completed within 1 working day for standard shipments.
Tip: Accurate documentation and working with experienced freight forwarding partners reduces delays in Singapore customs clearance.
Door-to-Door Air Freight Services to Singapore
For importers looking for convenience and full supply chain control, door-to-door air freight services from China to Singapore offer a seamless logistics solution. This service simplifies the shipping process by integrating pickup, export clearance, air transport, Singapore customs clearance, and final delivery into one package.
What Is Door-to-Door Air Shipping?
Door-to-door service means your goods are picked up from your supplier’s factory or warehouse in China and delivered directly to your designated address in Singapore—whether it’s a warehouse, store, or end customer.
How the Process Works
Pickup in China
A local freight forwarder arranges cargo collection from your supplier’s facility, even if located in cities far from international airports.Export Documentation and Customs Handling
Your forwarder prepares the required export documents and manages the customs clearance process at the Chinese origin port.Air Freight Transportation
The goods are loaded and shipped on the next available flight to Singapore, often within 24 hours of cargo readiness.Singapore Customs Clearance
Once the goods arrive, your logistics partner handles Singapore customs clearance, pays duties (if any), and ensures compliance with services tax or import permits.Last-Mile Delivery in Singapore
The cargo is transported to your final delivery point, often via express shipping or local trucking, based on the destination type.
Benefits of Door-to-Door Air Freight
- Hassle-free coordination across the entire shipping method
- Time and cost savings via bundled pricing
- Reduced risk of documentation errors or delays
- Ideal for e-commerce, urgent shipments, or businesses without a local team
Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder ensures end-to-end control and transparency over your shipment’s status, especially when handling air freight door solutions.
How to Choose the Right Air Freight Forwarder from China to Singapore
Choosing the right freight forwarder is a critical step in ensuring smooth and cost-effective air freight shipments from China to Singapore. A good partner simplifies international trade, handles documentation, offers real-time tracking, and delivers reliable shipping solutions tailored to your needs.
What to Look for in a Freight Forwarding Partner
Experience with China–Singapore Air Routes
Choose a forwarder with deep knowledge of the shipping options available between China and Singapore, including experience with major airports and Singapore customs requirements.
Transparent Pricing
Reputable forwarders offer clear, all-inclusive pricing. This includes:
- Air freight rates
- Fuel surcharges
- Customs clearance fees
- Last-mile delivery costs
Hidden fees or vague quotes can result in unexpected shipping costs later on.
Customized Services
Look for forwarders who offer door-to-door service, express shipping, and tailored solutions for larger shipments or sensitive goods. They should also provide packaging guidance and cargo insurance for valuable shipments.
Digital Tools and Real-Time Tracking
A professional provider should give access to shipment status updates, flight schedules, and estimated arrival times. This is especially important when handling urgent deliveries.
Strong Logistics Network
Evaluate their relationships with air carriers, customs brokers, and Singapore logistics partners to ensure fast clearance and efficient delivery.
Recommended Questions to Ask
- Are you familiar with Singapore Airlines Cargo and other regional carriers?
- Can you help with both export documentation and Singapore customs clearance?
- What’s your process for handling bulk shipments or restricted goods like batteries?
- Do you provide support for packing list and commercial invoice preparation?
A reliable freight forwarder is not just a service provider—they’re your partner in building a smooth, scalable, and cost-effective air shipping strategy.
FAQs About Air Freight from China to Singapore
How much does air freight from China to Singapore cost?
The air freight cost typically ranges from $1.80 to $3.20 per kg depending on the airport, cargo size, and service level. Prices are calculated based on the chargeable weight, which considers either the actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater.
How long does air shipping from China to Singapore take?
Standard air freight usually takes 2 to 5 days. Express air shipping can deliver goods within 1 to 2 days. Transit times vary based on departure airport, airline schedules, and customs clearance processing.
What documents are needed for air cargo to Singapore?
You’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, and airway bill. Depending on your product, additional licenses or permits may be required by Singapore customs. A good freight forwarder can help ensure you meet all documentation requirements.
Do I need to pay taxes or duties in Singapore?
Yes. Singapore imposes a 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most imported goods, calculated on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). Some goods may also be subject to customs duties.
Is door-to-door air freight service available from China to Singapore?
Absolutely. Many freight forwarders offer full door to door services, including pickup in China, flight booking, customs clearance, and final delivery to your address in Singapore.
How do I choose a reliable freight forwarder for air freight?
Look for a company with experience in air shipping from China to Singapore, transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and strong relationships with air carriers and Singapore logistics partners. They should also support with documentation and cargo handling.
Can I ship batteries or electronics via air freight?
Yes, but these are classified as special or dangerous goods and require compliance with airline safety regulations. Your freight forwarding partner must be experienced in handling such shipments and prepare the proper packaging and documents.
Tonlexing – Your Trusted Air Freight Partner from China to Singapore
At Tonlexing, we specialize in reliable and cost-effective air freight solutions for businesses shipping from China to Singapore. With years of experience as a trusted freight forwarder, we help you navigate complex logistics—from factory pickup to Singapore customs clearance and final delivery.
Our tailored services include:
Competitive air freight rates from major Chinese airports
End-to-end door to door service for urgent and high-value goods
Expert handling of commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations
Real-time tracking and proactive customer support
Solutions for sensitive items including battery shipments, electronics, and e-commerce parcels
Whether you’re managing bulk shipments, exploring new shipping options, or seeking a dependable logistics partner for international trade, Tonlexing is here to support your success.
Need a quick quote or have questions about air shipping to Singapore?
Contact our team today—we’ll provide the most efficient and transparent air shipping solution tailored to your business needs.
