Air Freight From USA To UK

What is air freight?


Air freight describes the shipment of goods via an air carrier.

Goods can be transported via charter or by commercial flight. By travelling in and out of passenger aviation getaways, air freight shipping allows for the quick transportation of international trade.

How does air freight from USA to UK work?

The process of shipping air freight from USA to UK begins when the goods are properly packaged, labelled, and accompanied by the necessary documentation.
The freight is then transported to an airport in the USA: New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD) and Los Angeles (LAX) are some of the busiest airports in the country.
Key arrival airports in the UK include London Heathrow, Manchester, and Glasgow. Once the goods are appropriately packaged, booking for air freight is then arranged through a freight forwarder.
A customs broker may help the shipper prepare any necessary documents, like the Airway Bill and EORI number, while ensuring that the correct amount of VAT and import duty has been paid.
Once all paperwork has been submitted, the cargo is transported to the airport, where it undergoes customs clearance before being loaded onto the aircraft. After arriving in the UK, the process involves unloading, further customs clearance, and final delivery to the consignee.​
cargo plane flying

The Best Rate For Your Air Freight

Access real-time quotes from leading freight providers. Choose the best ocean and air shipping option for your business.

Compare Prices Contact Us

Why use air freight when shipping goods from USA to UK?

Speed

Air freight is, arguably, the fastest method of transporting goods over long distances.

The rapid transit capability of air freight is crucial for industries where market demands, or product value may be time-sensitive. Goods can be moved across the Atlantic in a matter of days rather than the weeks or months required by sea freight.

Extensive distribution

Air shipping from USA to UK allows for the transportation of goods across vast geographical regions. Both the USA and the UK have landlocked areas where ground/maritime freight would experience delays.

Air freight, however, can quickly reach international airports across the country. From these points, goods are flown directly to the UK, and this extensive network ensures goods can be shipped internationally without the need for extensive logistic chains​.

Safety

Shipping air freight from USA is one of the most secure environments for transporting goods.

Airports adhere to strict security regulations that significantly reduce the risk of theft and damage. The controlled nature of air transport, where cargo handling is minimised, also lessens the risk of accidental damage to goods.

How much does air freight shipping cost from USA?

Costs for moving air freight from USA to UK can vary widely depending on the type of goods shipped, their weight, and the time of year.

Type of goods sent

Importing certain goods via air freight from USA can cost more. Perishable items like meat, milk, cheese or vegetables must be specially stored/refrigerated, and this can incur greater costs for UK businesses.
The same applies to pharmaceuticals or expensive electrical products.

Size and weight of goods

The size and weight of the goods shipped partly determine air freight charges. Airlines calculate costs based on the goods' actual or volumetric weight (the cost is calculated based on the greater of the two).
Volumetric weight is calculated by dividing the good’s dimensions (length, width, height) by a constant (usually between 4000 and 6000). Volumetric measurements allow airlines to factor in both the space and density of a package.

Demand/time of year

When demand for goods increases, global trade can face disruptions, delays, and staff shortages. National US holidays like Christmas, New Year, Thanksgiving, and Easter can cause logistical issues for importing air freight from USA to UK.
A high demand for products can lead to higher prices. Shippers may also benefit from reduced rates for orders placed during off-peak times.

VAT

The standard VAT rate for UK goods is 20%.
However, some goods have a reduced rate of 5% (e.g., children's car seats, home energy), and others are zero-rated (e.g., food, children’s clothes). VAT in the UK is calculated as the sum of your insurance, import costs, the value of your goods and any other costs.

Import duty (excise/customs)

Goods valued over £135 will incur customs duties.
However, prices can also depend on the type of goods shipped. The more expensive goods are, the more air freight from USA will cost. Learn more about tax and customs for goods sent from abroad on the GOV.UK website.

Air cargo insurance

To keep your goods safe during transit, most shippers will protect their goods with air cargo insurance.
Cargo insurance protects goods from loss, damage, or theft while in transit. The cost of air cargo insurance can vary depending on the type of goods shipped and the risk associated with their transport.

Important documents used in air freight from USA?

1. Airway Bill (AWB)


An Air Waybill (AWB) establishes a legal agreement between the shipper (the entity sending the goods) and the carrier (typically an airline).
As a non-negotiable document, it confirms that the carrier has taken possession of the goods and has committed to transporting them to the destination airport specified on the bill. Submission of your AWB to UK customs is required.

2. EORI Number


Registering for an Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number is mandatory for air shipping from USA to the UK. UK customs use this vital code to track all imports entering the country.

3. Commodity Code


Each product imported into the UK needs a specific commodity code. The code consists of ten digits for goods from outside the EU and eight digits for intra-EU trade.
These codes classify goods for customs and tax purposes, determine duty rates, VAT eligibility, and whether an import licence is required.
Accurate declaration of commodity codes is crucial for preparing shipping documentation and avoiding potential issues.

4. Import Licence


Whether an import licence is required depends on the type of goods, their origin, and their intended use. Controlled items such as firearms, certain pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products typically necessitate an import licence.

Shipping Made Simple: Compare Quotes Now

Quickly compare air freight quotes from multiple carriers. Get the most competitive price for your shipment.

Get Instant Price Contact Us

USA to UK air freight time

Air shipping from USA to UK typically takes around 8-10 days. However, transit time can vary based on factors such as the origin and destination cities, the efficiency of customs clearance processes, and the specific arrangements made by the shipping provider.

Top shipping airports in the USA

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Memphis International Airport (MEM)
Louisville International Airport (SDF)
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Get The Best Air Freight Rates Today

Easily compare rates from top ocean and air freight carriers. Save time and money on your next shipment.

Compare Quotes Contact Us