Air freight from China to Thailand is a fast and reliable logistics solution for businesses handling time-sensitive shipments. With strong bilateral trade under the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement, this key corridor supports the daily movement of electronics, machinery, fashion goods, and industrial parts between major Chinese production hubs and Thai cities like Bangkok and Laem Chabang.
Compared to sea freight, air shipping offers significant advantages for importers working with urgent delivery schedules or high-value products. With frequent departures from well-equipped airports such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, importers benefit from faster transit, smoother customs clearance, and lower inventory holding costs. For shipments ranging from 45 kg to 500 kg, air transport often proves more cost-effective than express courier services like DHL or FedEx.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore all aspects of air freight from China to Thailand —including transit time, freight rates, required documents, major airport routes, and how to select the right freight forwarder for your shipment.
Major Airports Supporting China–Thailand Air Cargo
Efficient international air shipping depends heavily on the infrastructure and frequency of flights between the two countries. China hosts several key export hubs offering daily departures to Thailand’s main international airports, ensuring dependable service for both commercial and eCommerce shipments.
Top Departure Airports in China
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
One of China’s busiest cargo airports, ideal for exporters in Guangdong and southern provinces. - Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Located near many manufacturing centers; frequent daily cargo flights to Bangkok. - Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Major air cargo gateway for electronics, machinery, and medical goods; excellent for long-haul and connecting flights. - Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
A leading international airport for cross-border shipments with excellent transit efficiency and competitive rates. - Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Northern China’s top airport for air exports; suitable for cargo destined for central or northern Thailand.
These airports in China are connected to multiple airlines operating cargo and express routes to Thailand, providing a stable foundation for freight from China.
Main Arrival Airports in Thailand
- Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) – Bangkok
The primary hub for international cargo; well-positioned for deliveries across central Thailand. - Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – Bangkok
A growing secondary airport for low-cost carriers and chartered cargo flights. - Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
Ideal for deliveries to northern Thailand and smaller cargo loads. - Phuket International Airport (HKT)
Serves the southern region, though less commonly used for large-scale air freight.
These airports in Thailand ensure rapid distribution across the country, particularly for time-sensitive goods like electronics, perishable items, or express shipping services. Bangkok’s BKK airport is especially important due to its proximity to industrial zones and its connectivity with the country’s main seaport, Laem Chabang.
Air Freight Transit Time from China to Thailand
Understanding the transit times for air freight is essential for planning your logistics from China to Thailand. Air shipping is one of the fastest ways to move cargo between the two countries, with most shipments arriving within a few days.
Typical Transit Time
- Airport to Airport:
Standard cargo flights from major Chinese cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or Shanghai to Bangkok generally take 1–3 days. These routes are highly active with multiple departures each day. - Door-to-Door:
Including pickup, export clearance, import clearance, and final delivery in Thailand, full air freight shipments typically take 3–7 days total. This depends on the origin and destination cities, as well as customs procedures.
What Affects the Transit Time?
- Origin & Destination Pair
A shipment from Shenzhen to Bangkok may arrive faster than one from inland China like Chengdu to Chiang Mai. - Type of Service
- Direct flight: Fastest, with transit time often under 3 days.
- Transshipment flight (via Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur): May add 1–2 extra days.
- Customs Clearance Delays
Incorrect or missing documents can lead to unexpected delays on both sides of the border. - Peak Seasons & Public Holidays
Golden Week in China or Songkran Festival in Thailand can extend shipping time up to 7–10 days.
Faster than Sea Freight
While sea shipping from China and Thailand (e.g., Ningbo to Laem Chabang Port) can take 14 days or more, air freight provides unmatched speed and flexibility, making it ideal for urgent goods, eCommerce parcels, and perishable products.
Air Freight Cost from China to Thailand (2025 Update)
The shipping cost of air freight from China to Thailand varies based on multiple factors such as weight, dimensions, route, and delivery terms. Typically, air freight is priced per kilogram, with different rate tiers depending on the weight bracket.
Estimated Air Freight Rates (Airport-to-Airport)
| Weight Range | Estimated Rate (USD/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 45–99 kg | $2.50 – $3.00 | Minimum chargeable weight: 45 kg |
| 100–299 kg | $1.80 – $2.20 | Most cost-effective range |
| 300–499 kg | $1.50 – $2.30 | Lower rates for bulk loads |
| 500 kg and above | $1.30 – $2.20 | Custom quote available |
Example: Shipping 100 kg of electronics from Guangzhou to Bangkok may cost around $290–$320 total, excluding pickup or final delivery.
What’s Included in the Rate?
- Airline fuel surcharge
- Security fees
- China export customs declaration
- Air Waybill (AWB) documentation
These are freight costs from airport to airport. Door-to-door or DDP services incur additional charges based on pickup address, Thai customs duties, and delivery location.
Factors That Influence Air Freight Price
- Chargeable Weight:
Air freight is calculated based on chargeable weight, which is either actual gross weight or volumetric weight (whichever is higher).
Try our Chargeable Weight Calculator for accurate pricing. - Origin & Destination Airport:
Routes from Shenzhen, Hong Kong, or Guangzhou usually have lower freight rates to Thailand due to higher flight frequencies. - Cargo Type & Packaging:
Sensitive or oversized goods may incur extra handling charges or require special cargo booking. - Seasonal Surcharges:
During peak shipping seasons (Q4, Chinese New Year), air freight rates often rise by 10–30%.
Cost Comparison – Air vs. Express vs. Sea
| Mode | Transit Time | Avg. Cost (per kg) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 3–5 days | $1.3 – $3.0 | 45–500 kg shipments |
| Express Courier | 1–3 days | $5.0 – $7.0 | Samples, urgent <30 kg |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 10–15 days | $0.20 – $0.50 | Bulk, non-urgent shipments |
Air Freight Process from China to Thailand: Step-by-Step
To ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process, it’s essential to understand each stage involved in air freight from China to Thailand. Whether you’re using airport-to-airport service or door-to-door shipping, each shipment follows a similar operational flow.
Step 1: Cargo Ready & Booking
Once your goods are packed and labeled, your freight forwarder books the space with an airline. You must provide:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Exporter details
- Certificate of Origin (if required for Thai import tax benefits)
At this stage, it’s also important to confirm your shipping method—whether standard air freight, express, or DDP shipping with customs included.
Step 2: Export Clearance in China
Your forwarder will declare the goods with Chinese customs through a licensed broker. This step includes:
- Customs declaration submission
- Cargo inspection (if flagged)
- Generation of export clearance number
Proper documentation ensures fast transit without delays.
Step 3: Air Transport to Thailand
Once cleared, the cargo is loaded onto the scheduled flight.
- Transit time from major cities (e.g., Shenzhen, Shanghai) to Bangkok is typically 1–3 days
- Airline issues the Air Waybill (AWB) as proof of shipment
Your cargo is now officially in international transit.
Step 4: Import & Customs Clearance in Thailand
Upon arrival, the shipment is declared to Thai Customs at the destination airport (e.g., BKK or DMK). Key procedures include:
- Tax & duty assessment
- Presentation of required documents
- Payment of import VAT and duties (unless DDP arranged)
Common import documents include:
- AWB
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Import permit (if required)
Using an experienced local logistics partner can significantly reduce delays at this stage.
Step 5: Final Delivery to Thai Address
Once cleared, your cargo is:
- Transferred to a local delivery truck (if door delivery included)
- Delivered to your warehouse, shop, or fulfillment center
For door-to-door air freight, the whole process typically takes 3–7 working days from pick-up in China to delivery in Thailand.
Customs Clearance in Thailand for Air Cargo
A critical step in the air freight shipping process is customs clearance upon arrival in Thailand. Whether you’re shipping to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket, understanding the clearance process can help you avoid delays, unexpected costs, and potential penalties.
Do You Need to Clear Customs in Thailand?
Yes. All goods entering Thailand via air shipment must be cleared by Thai Customs, regardless of value or commodity type. Depending on the product, you may be subject to:
- Import duties
- Value-added tax (VAT) – typically 7%
- Additional surcharges for restricted goods
Required Documents for Air Cargo Customs Clearance
To complete customs clearance, the following documents are typically required:
- Air Waybill (AWB) – issued by airline
- Commercial Invoice – showing declared value
- Packing List – detailing weight and dimensions
- Certificate of Origin (CO) – especially useful for claiming tax exemptions under ASEAN-China trade
- Import license or permit – for regulated items (e.g., cosmetics, electronics, food)
For shipments arranged with DDP terms, your Chinese freight forwarder or local logistics agent will handle all documentation and duty payments on your behalf.
Clearance Timeframe
- Standard clearance: 1–2 working days
- With inspection or incomplete documents: 3–5+ days
- Express shipments (e.g., via DHL/FedEx) may clear in less than 24 hours
Using an experienced forwarder can help accelerate this process and reduce administrative issues.
Common Issues During Thai Import Clearance
- Incorrect HS code – may trigger excessive duties or seizure
- Missing invoice or CO – delays tax calculation
- Undervalued shipment – flagged by customs for audit
- Prohibited or restricted items – may require extra licensing or be denied entry
It is strongly recommended to consult a Thai customs broker or work with a China-based company that offers end-to-end logistics, including customs clearance and last-mile delivery.
Best Products to Ship by Air from China to Thailand
Choosing the right items for air transport is essential to balance shipping costs and supply chain efficiency. Although air cargo routes between China and Thailand offer unmatched speed, they typically come with higher pricing compared to ocean or rail logistics. As a result, this mode of transport is most suitable for goods that are time-sensitive, lightweight, or carry higher unit value.
Top Air-Suitable Product Categories
- Electronics & Components
Items such as mobile phones, circuit boards, lithium batteries (with proper certification), and LED modules are frequently shipped by air. - Medical Supplies & Devices
PPE, diagnostic kits, and portable medical equipment require fast delivery and temperature-sensitive handling, making air freight ideal. - Fashion & Apparel
High-demand or seasonal fashion lines often rely on freight shipping by air to meet retail deadlines. - E-commerce Parcels
Cross-border sellers on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop often choose air shipping for lightweight packages under 100 kg. - Cosmetics & Skincare
Fast-moving items in the beauty category benefit from lower minimum shipping volumes and faster transit. - Samples & Urgent Prototypes
When speed is critical for business decisions, sending samples via air freight from China is the most practical choice.
When Air Freight is Most Cost-Effective
- Order volumes between 45–300 kg
- Urgent goods from China with short shelf life
- High-value products where time = money
- Avoiding out-of-stock issues in Thai distribution centers
If your shipment doesn’t meet these criteria, sea shipping or LCL freight may be more suitable from a cost effective perspective.
Pro Tip: Combine your air freight shipments with consolidation services to reduce the per-kilogram cost and improve customs clearance efficiency.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Air Freight from China to New Zealand
- Air Freight from China to Moscow
- Air Freight from China to Franc
- Air Freight from China to India
- Air Freight from China to Italy
Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder for China to Thailand Air Shipping
Working with a reliable freight forwarder is essential to ensure your air shipment from China to Thailand is smooth, compliant, and cost-effective. The right partner can help you manage all aspects of your international transportation, from pickup to final delivery.
Why a Freight Forwarder Matters
A professional freight forwarder provides end-to-end logistics coordination, including:
- Cargo booking and space reservation
- Export and import customs clearance
- Documentation: invoices, certificate of origin, AWB
- Route optimization and schedule tracking
- Door-to-door and DDP service
Choosing an experienced forwarder is especially important if:
- You are new to importing to Thailand
- Your shipment contains sensitive or regulated goods
- You don’t have a Thai import license
- You want a full China to Thailand logistics solution with one contact point
Key Factors to Consider When You Choose
- Expertise in China–Thailand Route
Ensure the forwarder regularly handles freight from China to Thailand, not just general international cargo. - Clear Pricing and Fast Quotations
Look for transparent freight rates, clear terms (EXW/FOB/DDP), and quick responses to quote requests. - Thai Customs Support
A forwarder with local agents or partnerships in Bangkok can reduce delays during import clearance. - Flexible Shipping Options
They should offer multiple air freight services—economy, express, DDP, airport-to-airport—to suit different needs. - Tracking and Communication
Modern tools for real-time updates, plus responsive communication via WhatsApp, email, or WeChat, ensure peace of mind.
Tip: Always verify if the forwarder can handle DDP shipments, consolidate cargo from multiple suppliers, and offer insurance for valuable goods.
Tips to Reduce Air Freight Costs from China to Thailand
While air freight offers speed and flexibility, it can be expensive—especially for frequent or high-volume shipments. Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce shipping costs without compromising delivery time or safety.
Consolidate Shipments from Multiple Suppliers
If you’re sourcing from multiple factories in China, ask your freight forwarder to offer consolidation service. This means:
- Collecting all products at one warehouse
- Packing them into a single shipment
- Reducing your total freight costs per kg
Consolidation is especially useful for eCommerce sellers or sourcing agents buying various SKUs.
Choose the Right Shipping Method
Not all air freight services are priced the same:
- Standard economy air freight: Most cost effective for 100–500 kg
- Express air (DHL, FedEx): Fast but costly
- Door-to-door DDP air: Includes clearance & last-mile, great for non-licensed importers
Choosing the right shipping method based on cargo type, urgency, and budget can reduce overall cost.
Optimize Packaging to Reduce Chargeable Weight
Air cargo is charged by chargeable weight:
max (actual weight, volumetric weight)
Volumetric weight = (Length × Width × Height cm) / 6000
Use compact, durable packaging
Avoid unnecessary fillers
Calculate chargeable weight with a CBM calculator
Book During Off-Peak Periods
Avoid high seasons like:
- September–December (holiday inventory rush)
- Before Chinese New Year (factory shutdowns)
During these times, air freight rates can spike by 20–40%. Booking in low season saves money and ensures better flight availability.
Use Freight Forwarders with In-House Logistics Teams
Freight agents who control their own pickup, warehousing, and logistics network in China often offer better freight rates, faster handling, and more stable schedules compared to brokers who outsource.
Air Freight vs Sea Freight vs Express to Thailand
When importing goods from China, choosing the right shipping method is crucial. The decision often comes down to air freight, sea freight, or express shipping—each with different benefits, costs, and transit times.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you select the best freight shipping solution:
| Criteria | Air Freight | Sea Freight (LCL/FCL) | Express Shipping (DHL/FedEx/UPS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transit Time | 3–7 days | 12–25 days (port-to-port) | 1–4 days |
| Freight Costs | $1.3–$3.0/kg | $10–$30/CBM (LCL), or FCL rates | $5–$7/kg |
| Minimum Weight | 45 kg | No limit (LCL/FCL) | 0.1–30 kg |
| Best For | 45–500 kg products | Bulk shipments, low-cost goods | Samples, documents, urgent items |
| Customs Clearance | Required | Required | Included in service |
| Cost Effective? | Mid-cost, fast | Lowest for high volume | High cost for large parcels |
| Tracking Support | Standard & real-time options | Less frequent for LCL | Full real-time tracking |
When to Choose Air Freight?
- Your shipment is between 100–300 kg
- You need goods delivered within a week
- You’re shipping high-value or seasonal products
When to Choose Sea Freight?
- Your cargo is over 2 CBM or in pallets
- Time is flexible (12–25 days)
- You want the lowest cost per unit
When to Choose Express Shipping?
- Your goods are under 20–30 kg
- Delivery must be within 48–72 hours
- Samples, prototypes, or paperwork
Pro Tip: For most medium-weight commercial shipments, air shipping between China and Thailand offers the ideal balance of cost and speed—especially when combined with reliable door-to-door logistics solutions.
Door-to-Door Air Freight from China to Thailand
For businesses without import licenses in Thailand—or those seeking a hassle-free solution—door-to-door air freight is the most convenient shipping service. It covers every stage of the shipment, from supplier pickup in China to final delivery at your Thai destination address.
This is often referred to as DDP shipping—Delivered Duty Paid—where the freight forwarder takes care of:
- Export customs clearance in China
- International air freight
- Import customs clearance in Thailand
- Payment of import duties and taxes
- Final mile delivery to warehouse, shop, or home
What’s Included in DDP Air Freight?
| Included Services | Description |
|---|---|
| Pickup in China | Factory or supplier collection |
| Export documentation | Customs declaration, certificate of origin |
| Flight arrangement | Scheduled air freight |
| Import clearance | Thai customs clearance, tax payment |
| Local delivery | Door delivery to Bangkok or nationwide |
Note: Prohibited or restricted products (e.g. liquids, batteries, chemicals) may require MSDS or be excluded from DDP coverage.
Sample DDP Air Freight Quote (2025)
- Cargo: 100 kg electronic gadgets
- Route: Shenzhen → Bangkok (BKK)
- DDP Price: $2.80/kg (includes tax & delivery)
- Total Cost: $280 USD, all-inclusive
- Transit Time: 5–7 working days
Benefits of Door-to-Door Service
- No need for import license in Thailand
- One-stop coordination via freight forwarder
- Fixed cost, no surprise fees
- Faster market entry and lower admin burden
Whether you’re a Thai importer, eCommerce seller, or first-time buyer, door-to-door air freight from China to Thailand is the easiest and safest way to move commercial cargo across borders.
FAQ: Air Shipping from China to Thailand
How much does air freight from China to Thailand cost?
Standard freight rates range from $2.50 to $4.00 per kg, depending on weight, origin, and service level. DDP rates (door-to-door with tax included) are slightly higher, starting from $5.80/kg for 100+ kg shipments.
How many days does it take for air freight delivery?
- Airport-to-airport: 1–3 days
- Door-to-door: 3–7 working days (including customs clearance)
Delays may occur during Chinese holidays, Thai customs inspections, or peak season.
Do I need a Certificate of Origin for air cargo to Thailand?
It depends. A certificate of origin is not always required, but it helps claim tariff exemptions under the ASEAN–China Free Trade Agreement and speeds up clearance.
Can I ship batteries, liquids, or branded goods?
Yes, but you’ll need special documentation (e.g. MSDS) and approved airlines. Inform your freight forwarder in advance to confirm the eligibility and shipping method.
Do I need a Thai import license?
- Yes, for standard CIF/CFR shipments.
- No, if using DDP service, as the forwarder handles all compliance and tax payments.
What are the most cost-effective air cargo weights?
Air freight becomes cost effective at 45–300 kg. Below 30 kg, express shipping is often cheaper. Over 500 kg, consider partial or full container load (FCL) by sea freight.
What documents are needed for air freight from China?
Minimum requirements:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill (AWB)
- Export declaration
- Certificate of Origin (optional)
How can I get a quick quote?
Simply provide:
- Pickup address in China
- Type of products
- Total weight & dimensions
- Delivery address in Thailand
You can get a fast quotation via email or request a quote online here.
Summary: Why Choose Air Freight from China to Thailand?
Air freight remains the fastest and most reliable way to ship commercial goods from China to Thailand—especially when time is critical. With flexible shipping methods, simplified customs clearance, and door-to-door service options, it’s an ideal choice for eCommerce, manufacturing, and wholesale trade.
Need help with your next shipment?
Tonlexing offers one-stop freight forwarding services from Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to Bangkok and beyond—with DDP, express, and consolidated air cargo options available.