With global trade moving faster than ever, businesses looking to import goods from China to France increasingly turn to air shipping for its speed, security, and reliability. Whether you’re shipping electronics, luxury goods, industrial components, or urgent samples, air freight provides a fast, flexible solution that keeps your supply chain moving.
In this article, we’ll cover estimated transit times, cost structure and the airport network across China and France to help you decide if air freight is right for your business.
1. Fastest Transit Time Available
Estimated transit times from major Chinese airports:
Air freight drastically cuts shipping times compared to sea freight. While ocean cargo may take 30–45 days, air shipments from China to France typically arrive in 3–7 business days, including customs clearance.
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (France) | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | 3–5 days |
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Paris CDG, Lyon (LYS) | 4–6 days |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Paris CDG | 4–7 days |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Paris CDG, Marseille (MRS) | 3–6 days |
| Hong Kong International (HKG) | Paris CDG, Lyon (LYS) | 2–4 days (express) |
Express courier services such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS can deliver small shipments in 2–4 days, door-to-door.
2. Air Freight Cost Structure: What to Expect
Air shipping is typically calculated based on chargeable weight, which is the greater of actual weight or volumetric (dimensional) weight. Rates depend on airline, route, time of year, and service level (standard vs express).
Estimated Air Freight Rates from China to France (USD)
| Weight Range | Estimated Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| 45–100 kg | $5.50 – $8.00 | 4–6 days |
| 100–300 kg | $4.80 – $7.00 | 4–5 days |
| 300–500 kg | $4.30 – $6.50 | 3–5 days |
| 500–1000+ kg | $4.00 – $6.00 | 3–5 days |
| Express Courier | $9.00 – $13.00 | 2–4 days |
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services are available for businesses that want a worry-free solution covering freight, customs clearance, VAT, and final delivery.
What’s Included in the Cost?
- Air freight charges (by kg or m³)
- Fuel and security surcharges
- Export documentation
- French customs clearance (if DDP)
- Delivery to final destination (optional)
- Insurance (optional but recommended)
Costs may fluctuate based on peak seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year or year-end holidays), cargo type, and available space.
3. Suitable for a Wide Range of Goods Air shipping is ideal for:
- Electronics & semiconductors
- Fashion & fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG)
- Medical and pharmaceutical products
- Samples, prototypes, and e-commerce inventory
- Perishable or high-value cargo
With fewer handling points, lower risk of damage, and secure airport-to-airport tracking, air freight provides peace of mind for sensitive shipments.
4. Airport Network Across China & France
Air cargo is only as efficient as the airports that support it. Fortunately, both China and France offer world-class international airports with high-volume air freight handling.
Major Cargo Airports in China
| City | Airport Name | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Pudong International Airport | PVG |
| Beijing | Capital International Airport | PEK |
| Guangzhou | Baiyun International Airport | CAN |
| Shenzhen | Bao’an International Airport | SZX |
| Hong Kong | Hong Kong International Airport | HKG |
| Chengdu | Shuangliu International Airport | CTU |
| Zhengzhou | Xinzheng International Airport | CGO |
Major Cargo Airports in France
| City | Airport Name | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | Charles de Gaulle International Airport | CDG |
| Lyon | Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport | LYS |
| Marseille | Marseille Provence Airport | MRS |
| Toulouse | Toulouse–Blagnac Airport | TLS |
This strong infrastructure enables direct flights, fast customs processing, and seamless last-mile delivery across France and the EU.
Why Choose Air Freight to France?
If you need to ship from China to France quickly, securely, and with minimal hassle, air freight is your best bet. It’s ideal for businesses that require:
- Fast delivery (3–5 days)
- Tight supply chain control
- Secure handling of valuable goods
- Reliable scheduling and tracking
With competitive pricing for consolidated shipments, robust airport networks, and DDP options, air shipping makes your China-to-France logistics simple and stress-free.
Why Choose TJ China Freight for Air Shipping?
As a leading China-based freight forwarder, TJ China Freight provides comprehensive air freight solutions designed for speed, savings, and simplicity.
We work closely with major carriers like Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Emirates, Lufthansa, Korean Air, and integrators like DHL, UPS, FedEx to offer:
- Guaranteed space during peak seasons
- Flexible departure schedules
- Real-time cargo tracking
From pickup in China to final delivery in the U.S., we handle:
- Export documentation and customs clearance
- Airport handling and airline booking
- Import clearance, duties, and delivery to your warehouse or Amazon FBA
- Optional express or economy services
We help you choose between standard air, express courier, or consolidated cargo based on your timeline and budget—ensuring you never overpay for speed you don’t need.
Need to replenish stock fast? We offer FBA-compliant labeling, repacking, palletizing, and direct delivery to U.S. fulfillment centers with speed and accuracy.
Need a Shipping Quote?
Click below to get a free, no-obligation quote from TJ China Freight.
We’ll respond within 24 hours with the best shipping options for your cargo.
FAQ
What are the size and weight limits for air freight?
While there’s no strict maximum, air cargo is usually best for shipments under 500 kg or under 2 CBM. Airlines may limit pallet sizes and charge based on volumetric weight.
Is air shipping safe for electronics and fragile goods?
Yes. Air shipping is generally safer and faster for delicate or high-value goods, with less handling and shorter transit times than sea freight.
What documents are required for air shipping?
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin (if needed)
- Import licenses (for restricted goods)
How fast is air freight from China to France?
Most shipments take 3–7 business days, depending on the route, airline, and customs. Express options can deliver within 2–4 days.