Air Freight Costs: A Breakdown of Fees & How to Save

5 min read. Updated Jan 2026

Learn about direct & indirect air freight fees (base rate, FSC, THC) and practical tips to reduce your shipping costs effectively.

Air freight costs are composed of direct and indirect fees. Transparency in cost breakdown helps shippers and agents budget effectively:

  •direct Costs:  

      - Base Rate: Calculated per kg based on cargo type (general, special, dangerous goods) and route.  
      - Fuel Surcharge (FSC): Fluctuates with global oil prices, typically updated weekly/monthly.  
      - Security Surcharge (SSC): Covers post-9/11 airport security costs, charged per kg.  
      - Terminal Handling Charge (THC): For loading/unloading and storage at origin/destination airports.  
   

  •indirect Costs:  

      - Customs Clearance Fees: Charged by customs brokers or agents (varies by country).  
      - Documentation Fees: For Air Waybill (AWB), certificate of origin, and other required documents.  
      - Special Handling Fees: For oversized, temperature-sensitive, or hazardous goods.  
      - Storage/Demurrage Fees: Incurred if cargo exceeds free storage time (usually 24-48 hours) at airports.

Cost-saving tips:  
    • Optimize packaging to reduce dimensional weight.  
    • Choose consolidated freight services for small shipments.  
    • Avoid peak seasons (e.g., Christmas, Chinese New Year) to lower surcharges.  
    • Partner with a reliable forwarder for competitive bulk rates.