Air freight is a common mode of transport for plastic products. It’s fast, simple and safe – but not always the most cost efficient option compared to Sea freight.
The biggest benefit of air freight is the short time a delivery takes from pick up to delivery.
At The Tool Hub we can often get down to 2 days for plastic parts and 1 week for a tool if things are planned well.
Air freight Cost
The cost of air freight is constantly varying depending on factors such as demand and fuel cost.
Therefore we suggest that you request prices as close to shipping day as possible to avoid the need for safety mark up, and to get the lowest possible price.
Prices normally vary from 3-5 USD per Kg.
Actual weight Vs Volumetric weight
Air freight is calculated in two different ways, either by the kilogram or based on the volumetric weight (also called DMI weight, Dimensional weight). The volumetric weight is based on the volume of the cargo, if the volumetric weight is larger than the actual weight of the cargo – the volumetric weight is applied. The volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the volume in cubic meters with a volumetric factor between 150 and 200.
Case studies
A (Actual weight)
- Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 0.65 m (Equals: 0.65 cbm)
- Weight 171 kg
- Volumetric factor: 200
- Volumetric weight: 0.65 cbm x 200 = 130 kg
- Rate: 5 USD / kg
Result: The actual cargo weight is higher than the volumetric weight and thus the actual weight is applied.
Total price: 5 USD x 171 kg = 855 USD
B (Volumetric weight)
- Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 0.65 m (Equals: 0.65 cbm)
- Weight 91 kg
- Volumetric factor: 200
- Volumetric weight: 0.65 cbm x 200 = 130 kg
- Rate: 5 USD / kg
Result: The actual cargo weight (91 kgs) is lower than the volumetric weight (130 kg) and thus the volumetric weight is applied
Total price: 5 USD x 130 = 650 USD
Conclusion
You can always find out if you should pay based on actual weight or by volumetric weight if you use a multiplication of 200 on your volume in cubic meters.
If the value you get is lower than your actual weight you should pay based on your actual weight.
Good luck with your transport, and please let us know if you have any questions.
The Tool Hub