Air Freight Weight and Size Limitations

Air freight, as a fast and efficient mode of transportation, plays a vital role in global trade. To ensure flight safety, improve loading efficiency, and maintain operational economy, airlines have established strict standards for the weight and dimensions of air freight cargo. The following outlines general weight and size restrictions for air cargo, along with references to specific airline requirements, to help shippers better plan their logistics needs.

I. Overview of General Restrictions

1. Weight Calculation:
   • The weight of cargo is typically calculated based on gross weight (i.e., the total weight of the goods plus packaging materials), measured in kilograms (kg).
2. Size Restrictions:
   • For non-widebody aircraft, the weight of a single piece of cargo generally should not exceed 80 kg, and the volume should not exceed approximately 40cm x 60cm x 100cm.
   • These standards may be adjusted according to different airlines, routes, and airport ground equipment conditions and handling capabilities.
3. Oversized Cargo:
   • Large or heavy cargo exceeding the above limits may need to be transported using widebody aircraft or undergo special loading arrangements, and must be notified to the airline in advance for reservation and approval.

II. Dimensional Weight Calculation

• In addition to actual weight, airlines may also calculate the dimensional weight of cargo (also referred to as volumetric weight), especially for light, bulky items. The calculation method typically involves dividing the volume of the cargo (length x width x height, in centimeters) by a specific factor, which may vary depending on the airline and region.

III. Important Notes

• Advance Declaration: Overweight, oversized, or special cargo must be declared to the airline in advance and may require detailed descriptions of the goods, packaging methods, and loading plans.
• Packaging Requirements: All cargo must be properly packaged according to international air freight safety standards to prevent damage during transit or any threat to aircraft safety.
• Cost Considerations: Cargo exceeding standard limits may incur additional charges, including overweight fees, oversize fees, or special handling fees.

Air Cargo Size and Weight Restrictions

Air cargo has restrictions on single-piece weight and dimensions: the weight of a single piece generally should not exceed 150 kg. The dimensions of a single piece should not exceed 120cm wide x 80cm high x 200cm long. Overweight or oversized cargo requires advance confirmation with the airline. Widebody aircraft can accommodate larger cargo, but arrangements must be made in advance.

Bofeng Logistics specializes in domestic container sea freight, international sea freight (FCL/LCL), Hong Kong and Macau logistics services, as well as trucking, customs clearance, and warehousing one-stop logistics services. Contact number: 130-7567-8958 (Manager Huang). Call now for a customized quote!