Air Freight from China to Australia: Everything You Should Know

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May 24, 2024

Australia is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, stunning landscapes, and abundant business opportunities, making it a desirable destination for many. The appeal of Australia extends beyond potential emigrants and is also a significant trading partner with China. In 2023, China exported $10.6 billion of goods to Australia, while imports from Australia amounted to $4.4 billion. A large portion of this trade is facilitated by air freight services from China to Australia, which offer a speedy and reliable transport method across the globe. Air freight shipments to Australia can typically be completed in just three days.

With over 20 years of experience in cargo transportation, unlike many other freight forwarders, we provide comprehensive air freight services to Australia, catering to both personal effects and specialized freight needs. This includes transporting items classified as hazardous, dangerous, or oversized, which many carriers might not handle.

Our membership with IATA further attests to our commitment to excellence and our recognition within the industry. This prestigious affiliation underscores our capability to transport your cargo to its destination efficiently and reliably regardless of its type (within the bounds of local laws).

Air freight to Australia

air freight to Australia

Shipping your goods from China to Australia via air freight is the fastest way to ensure timely delivery. With an estimated transit time of just 3-5 days, your cargo can arrive quickly and efficiently.

At NewSmartShip, we have established strong relationships with carriers and airports, enabling us to offer a hassle-free, worry-free, and cost-effective solution for getting your items safely to their Australian destination. Whether your cargo needs to arrive in Melbourne, Cairns, Brisbane, or any other location across Australia, our team can make it happen.

Our services go beyond mere transportation. We assist you with all the necessary paperwork, ensuring your items can be shipped smoothly and without unnecessary expense. This support helps you stay on track with your relocation plans or business operations.

We also offer packing assistance to ensure your goods are securely prepared for their journey. Upon arrival in Australia, your items will be carefully handled and swiftly passed through customs to continue to their final destination.
Air freight shipping from China to Australia is simplified with NewSmartShip. Get a bespoke air freight shipping quote and discover how much you can save compared to other freight forwarding companies.

Air freight Cost to Australia

Shipping goods via air freight to Australia is the fastest way to ensure timely delivery, but it can also be one of the more expensive options. Several factors influence the cost of air freight to Australia, including:

  • Weight and Volume: The cost is often calculated based on the weight and volume of the cargo. Heavier and bulkier items will generally incur higher fees.
  • Type of Goods: Certain items, especially hazardous or perishable goods, may require special handling and thus incur additional costs.
  • Distance and Route: The departure location and the specific route can affect the price. Direct flights may be more expensive than routes with layovers.
  • Urgency: Express services or guaranteed delivery times can increase the cost.
  • Customs and Duties: Import duties, taxes, and customs-related fees must be factored into the total cost.

Requirements for Air Freight to Australia

Despite its relaxed nature, Australia has stringent regulations for cargo movement, requiring all documentation to be correctly completed for successful delivery.
From the end of May 2023, a free trade agreement (FTA) between China and Australia will provide more export flexibility. However, since rules can change, here are the essential documents you currently need and will likely continue to need for air shipping to Australia:

  • Commercial Invoice: It confirms the agreement between the buyer and seller.
  • Packing List: This document details descriptions, weight, type of packaging, and more.
  • Certificate of Origin: This helps determine any customs charges. With the FTA, these charges will be either zero or reduced.
  • ATA Carnet: Needed only if items are being shipped temporarily for exhibitions or events.
  • Air Waybills: These allow the cargo to be tracked and provide information about the shipped items, which differs from sea freight waybills.
  • Single Administrative Document: Used to declare exports to customs officials.

Our team at NewSmartShip can advise on the necessary documentation and assist with any completion issues to ensure compliance and smooth shipping.

Controlled Goods in Australia

Australia takes pride in its stringent border protection measures, which help the country thrive while maintaining healthy trade relationships. Knowing the restricted or prohibited items is crucial when shipping freight to Australia by air. Attempting to send these items, or even having them arrive in the country, can result in their seizure, destruction, and, potentially, prosecution.

Restricted Items

The following is a selection of items that are subject to restrictions. Shipping these items may require special permits and declarations. Note that this list is regularly reviewed and may change.

  • Fishing or hiking equipment
  • Fixed blade knives
  • Fur or leather hides
  • Nuts and nut products
  • Alcohol
  • Items made from feathers
  • Certain plants, such as Kava
  • Pet food
  • Sedatives
  • Seashells, fossils, or rocks

Prohibited Items

In addition to restricted items, many goods are prohibited from entering Australia. As with the restricted items list, this is subject to change, so always check with NewSmartShip for the latest updates on banned goods.

  • Cats and dogs
  • Electric shock devices
  • Fireworks
  • Imitation firearms
  • Live plants
  • Animals classified as unique or exotic

It’s important to note that some prohibited items may be allowed into the country if intended for government use or specific purposes like filmmaking. Before sending any air freight to Australia, consult NewSmartShip to ensure your items are not on the restricted or prohibited list.

Why Choose NewSmartShip for Affordable Air Freight to Australia

NewSmartShip stands out from many freight forwarders by offering unique quotes tailored to your needs. This customization ensures you never overspend and are never surprised by hidden costs.

In addition to helping you save money, we provide comprehensive support throughout the entire air freight process to Australia. From loading to landing, our team manages every detail and works closely with you to address any questions. Whether it’s about transit time, required paperwork, or the eligibility of your items for shipment, we’ve got you covered.

Our extensive global network ensures that expert teams are available at departure and arrival points to ensure your cargo is handled carefully and reaches its final destination safely.