Air Freight from Beijing to San Francisco
Fast and reliable air freight service from Beijing to San Francisco. Express, standard, and economy options available with door-to-door delivery and real-time tracking.
Transit
2-3 days
Departures
Daily flights
Why Air Freight
Benefits of Air Freight Shipping from Beijing to San Francisco
Fast Delivery
2-3 days vs 15-18 days by ocean freight
Daily Flights
Multiple carrier options available daily
Lower Risk
Reduced handling and shorter exposure time
Pre-Clearance
Expedited customs processing programs
Air freight from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) delivers your cargo in just 2-3 days, making it the fastest shipping method between these two major commercial hubs. Major carriers like United Cargo, Air China Cargo, and FedEx operate regular freighter services on this route, giving you reliable capacity even during peak seasons. Your shipments benefit from climate-controlled environments and minimal handling, which proves crucial for electronics, pharmaceuticals, and high-value manufactured goods that dominate US-China trade.
The speed advantage becomes essential when you're dealing with product launches, seasonal inventory, or emergency restocking situations that can't wait for 15-20 day ocean transit. San Francisco's proximity to Silicon Valley makes this route particularly valuable for tech companies importing components or finished products from Beijing's manufacturing centers.
Route Highlights
2-3 days
Transit Time
Daily flights
Flight Frequency
99%+
On-Time Delivery
Door-to-Door
Full Service Options
Pricing Guide
Air Freight Shipping Rates from Beijing to San Francisco
Current air freight rates from Beijing to San Francisco in 2026 range from $4.50 to $7.20 per kilogram, depending on your shipment size and seasonal demand fluctuations. Peak seasons like pre-holiday periods (September through November) can push rates 25-40% higher, while larger shipments over 1,000 kg typically qualify for better per-kilo pricing. Fuel surcharges add another $0.80 to $1.20 per kilogram to your base rate, and you'll face additional costs like terminal handling fees ($150-300), customs clearance ($200-400), and potential security screening charges for certain product types. Smart shippers reduce costs by consolidating smaller shipments, booking space during off-peak periods, and working with freight forwarders who have negotiated carrier contracts. Documentation accuracy becomes critical since any customs delays at SFO can trigger storage fees of $50-100 per day.
Quick Rate Guide
Express
1-2 day priority
$6-8/kg
Standard
3-5 day transit
$3.50-5/kg
Economy
5-7 day deferred
$3-4/kg
Additional Costs
Delivery Timeline
Transit Times for Air Freight from Beijing to San Francisco
Step 1
Cargo Acceptance
4-8 hrs
Security screening at origin
Step 2
Flight Transit
12-14 hrs
Direct flight to destination
Step 3
Customs Clearance
4-24 hrs
TSA and CBP inspection
Step 4
Release & Sort
2-4 hrs
Cargo release and sorting
Step 5
Final Delivery
Same/Next day
Door delivery
Express
1-2 Days
Door-to-door with priority handling
Standard
3-5 Days
Regular service with full tracking
Economy
5-7 Days
Consolidated for cost savings
Direct flights from Beijing Capital Airport to San Francisco International typically take 11-13 hours, but your total transit time stretches to 2-3 days when factoring in ground handling and customs clearance processes. Express services through carriers like DHL or FedEx can deliver within 48 hours but cost 30-50% more than standard air freight options. Customs clearance at SFO usually takes 4-8 hours for routine shipments, though electronics and regulated goods may require additional inspection time. Preparing accurate commercial invoices, packing lists, and any required certificates before departure significantly speeds up the clearance process. Monday and Tuesday departures from Beijing often result in faster overall delivery since they avoid weekend processing delays at SFO, while Friday shipments may sit until the following business day for final delivery.
Process
How Air Freight Works
Quote & Booking
Same dayGet a quote and book your air freight shipment.
Collection
1 dayWe collect cargo from your location.
Flight Transit
1-5 daysYour cargo flies to the destination.
Customs Clearance
1 dayFast customs processing at destination.
Final Delivery
Same dayCargo delivered to your door.
Track Record
Reliable Service
15+
Years Experience
50K+
Shipments
99%
On-Time Delivery
24/7
Support Available
Cargo Types
What Ships from Beijing to San Francisco?
This route serves as a major trade lane for various goods. Common shipments from Beijing to San Francisco include:
Electronics
High-tech gadgets from smartphones to industrial circuit boards
Home & Office
Flat-pack furniture, office chairs, LED lighting, and bedding
Industrial
Power generators, industrial machinery, and HVAC equipment
Retail & Fashion
Trendy clothing, athletic footwear, and textile goods
Toys & Recreation
Sports equipment, hobby electronics, and children's toys
Dangerous Goods
Lithium batteries and chemicals (requires MSDS documentation)
Documentation
Shipping Documents for the Beijing to San Francisco Route
Every shipment to United States requires proper paperwork. Here's what you need for air freight from Beijing to San Francisco.
Universal Requirements
Certificate of Origin
Required for duty rate determination and trade agreements
Commercial Invoice
Official record of goods, their value, and parties involved
Packing List
Details weights, dimensions, and packaging specifications
Contract/Purchase Order
Proof of the commercial agreement between buyer and seller
Air Freight Requirements for United States
Air Waybill (AWB)
Receipt of goods for air cargo - filed hours before arrival
ACAS Filing
Air Cargo Advance Screening performed by carrier/forwarder
Customs Bond
Single Entry or Continuous Bond required for all US imports
Important: United States Requirements
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
ISF Filing is critical for sea freight - failure to file results in a $5,000 fine
Customs Bond is mandatory for both sea and air imports
FDA prior notice required for food products (filed 15 days before arrival)
Customs
United States Customs Process
Getting your cargo through United States customs involves multiple stages of verification and documentation review. Air freight clearance happens within hours of arrival. Documentation errors result in expensive holds at airport facilities.
Rapid Clearance Timeline
Air freight clears within hours of arrival. Documentation errors can result in expensive airport storage fees.
Section 321 De Minimis
Low-value air freight (under $800) benefits from streamlined Section 321 clearance with no duty payment.
ACAS Screening
Air shipments require ACAS filing prior to loading. This security screening is performed by your logistics provider.
Key United States Import Considerations
FDA prior notice is required for food and pharmaceutical products
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
UFLPA compliance is a current CBP priority for all China shipments
ISF late fees are strictly enforced without exceptions
Hazardous Materials
United States Dangerous Goods Requirements
United States has specific requirements for dangerous goods in addition to international IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) standards. Air freight regulations are stricter than sea, with tighter quantity limits and enhanced battery restrictions.
Universal Requirements for All Dangerous Goods
Dangerous Goods Declaration
Complete the formal declaration document with shipper signature certifying DG compliance
24-Hour Emergency Contact
Provide a phone number (with country code) manned 24/7 by someone familiar with the cargo details
UN-Rated Packaging
Packaging must display valid UN certification matching the dangerous goods classification
MSDS/SDS Documentation
Material Safety Data Sheet required in English and Chinese, dated within the last 12 months
ACAS Screening
ACAS screening is mandatory—dangerous goods information must be submitted prior to loading.
Section II Labeling
Proper Section II labeling is mandatory for all lithium batteries shipped with equipment.
Lithium Battery Restrictions
Strict limits on lithium batteries—UN3480 over 100Wh cannot fly on passenger aircraft.
Key Points for United States Hazmat
Lithium batteries >100Wh are Cargo Aircraft Only
ISF filing must include complete DG details 24 hours before departure
Random CBP inspections are common for DG shipments
US requires exact chemical names—generic descriptions are rejected
Risk Awareness
United States Shipping Risks to Consider
Being prepared means knowing what could go wrong. Here are the air freight risks specific to shipments arriving in United States.
ACAS Security Holds
ModerateAir Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) frequently triggers security holds at JFK, LAX, and ORD, causing 2-3 day delays for inspected shipments.
Space Volatility & Rate Spikes
ModerateAir freight capacity can disappear instantly during big tech launches. When Apple or similar companies ship, expect rates to spike 2-3x with limited availability.
Avoid These Pitfalls With Expert Support
Shipping to United States doesn't have to be risky. Our team knows these challenges inside out and can guide you through them.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does air freight take from Beijing to San Francisco?
Air freight from Beijing to San Francisco typically takes 2-3 days for airport-to-airport transit. Express services can deliver in 1-2 days, while economy options may take 5-7 days. Add 1-2 days for customs clearance and final delivery.
What is the estimated cost of air freight from Beijing to San Francisco?
The estimated cost of air freight from Beijing to San Francisco ranges from $3-12 per kg depending on service level. Express service costs $8-12/kg with 1-2 day delivery, standard service is $4.50-7/kg with 3-5 days, and economy service runs $3-5/kg with 5-7 days transit.
Should I choose air freight or sea freight for shipping from Beijing to San Francisco?
Choosing between air and sea freight from Beijing to San Francisco depends on your priorities. Air freight (2-3 days) is ideal for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive goods. Sea freight (15-35 days) is more economical for large shipments where speed is less critical. Air is best for cargo under 500kg.
What documents do I need for air freight from China to United States?
Documents required for air freight from China to United States include: Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Export Declaration. US-bound shipments require advance cargo information filing. Dangerous goods require MSDS and special documentation.
What items cannot be shipped by air freight from Beijing?
Items that cannot be shipped by air freight from Beijing include explosives, flammable gases and liquids, toxic substances, radioactive materials, and certain lithium batteries. Restricted items like perfumes, aerosols, and some electronics require special handling and documentation. Contact us to verify if your goods qualify.
Which airport in Beijing offers the best air freight services to San Francisco?
Beijing's airport offers excellent air freight connectivity to San Francisco with 2-3 days transit time. This airport provides reliable service with multiple weekly flights.
Are there direct flights for cargo from Beijing to San Francisco?
Yes, there are direct cargo flights from Beijing to San Francisco operated by carriers including Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and China Airlines. Direct flights offer the fastest transit at 2-3 days. Connecting flights via hub airports may be available at lower rates.
How is air freight calculated from Beijing to San Francisco?
Air freight from Beijing to San Francisco is calculated using either actual weight or volumetric weight (L x W x H cm / 6000), whichever is greater. This is called chargeable weight. Rates are then applied per kg based on your chosen service level. Fuel surcharges and security fees may also apply.
Do I need insurance for air freight from Beijing to San Francisco?
Insurance for air freight from Beijing to San Francisco is recommended for valuable cargo. While airlines provide limited liability coverage, comprehensive cargo insurance (typically 0.5-1% of value) protects against loss, damage, or delays during the 2-3-day transit.
What factors affect air freight costs from Beijing to San Francisco?
Air freight costs from Beijing to San Francisco are affected by cargo weight and dimensions, service level (express vs economy), fuel surcharges, peak season demand, and special handling requirements. Rates are typically higher during Q4 holiday season and Chinese New Year.
How can I track my air freight shipment from Beijing to San Francisco?
The best way to track your air freight from Beijing to San Francisco is using your Air Waybill (AWB) number on our tracking portal or the carrier's website. You'll receive real-time updates on flight status, customs clearance, and delivery. SMS and email notifications keep you informed at each milestone.
More Routes
Explore Other Routes
Get Your Air Freight Quote
Ready to ship from Beijing to San Francisco? Get a competitive quote today.
delivered
countries
response