Need a fast delivery to Germany?
Our affordable express air freight service is specialized in larger shipments to Germany when standard services like DHL and UPS are not sufficient. The Air Freight to Germany Service is specifically designed for the transport of multiple boxes or goods with volumes ranging from 0.5m³ to 7m³.
Additionally, we handle customs and import formalities upon request. OTC Global has extensive knowledge of customs regulations in Germany and works with local agents in major logistics centers.
Our Air Freight to Germany Service is also particularly well-suited for fast air freight to Germany with special security requirements or the need for careful handling, such as the transport of artworks, antique furniture, and sensitive items, as well as documents and archives.
Our focus is on the fast air transport of larger shipments. Therefore, we recommend using standard shipping options like DHL and UPS for smaller and simpler packages.
Questions about air freight to Germany?
We address individual questions.
Send an inquiry via email or give us a call!
Our Air Freight to Germany Services
Packaging and securing your air cargo to Germany
The type of packaging for your air freight to Germany is carefully selected by our experts and depends on the nature of the goods. If you require a pickup, we can also handle the initial packaging directly at your location. The final preparation of your air cargo to Germany takes place in our warehouse.
We package your air cargo with materials such as bubble wrap for delicate items, protective blankets to prevent scratches, and straps for secure fastening. Our sturdy cartons, custom-made crates, and pallets ensure protection and facilitate transport and storage. Our primary goal is to safely deliver your shipment to Germany, while making efforts to use environmentally friendly and efficient materials.
Door-to-door express delivery to Germany – Directly to your destination!
Our optional door-to-door service offers a fast and direct solution for transporting your air cargo to Germany. Within an average of one week, we deliver your shipment from your doorstep to the desired destination.
This service includes the complete handling of the process, from pickup and customs formalities to delivery. Upon request, we also offer inside delivery, where the goods are delivered directly to the exact location within your target building.
Combined transport to Germany – Air freight and LCL
Every personal contribution saves you costs!
We also accommodate your own contributions if you wish to include them.
For example, you can pack and document your goods yourself, but leave the securing of the items for air freight to Germany to OTC Global. If you need short-term storage, you can arrange a storage location in Germany yourself, but leave the interim storage until transport to us – or vice versa.
Decide what is important to you! Depending on the agreement, OTC Global can organize the entire transfer including the necessary services, or handle only parts of the transfer, according to your preferences.
SERVICE
Our Additional Services for Your Air Freight to Germany
With our air freight service to Germany, we not only offer efficient and fast transport of your goods, but also a range of additional services to streamline your air freight process.
Our comprehensive additional services for the air freight service include:
We pick up your freight directly from your doorstep. You don’t need to worry about transport to the airport or air freight station. If desired, we can arrange a no-parking zone at your location to ensure a quick pickup process.
We offer a professional packaging service for air freight, tailored to the requirements of air transport. This includes the secure packaging of delicate and valuable goods with high-quality materials such as bubble wrap, transport blankets, cartons, and crates.
Our experts ensure precise and secure loading of your goods, using sturdy straps, ratchet straps, as well as slats and beams for stable securing to prevent any damage during transport.
We provide interim storage options both in Germany and upon arrival in Germany, depending on whether you need to store your goods before shipping to Germany or after their arrival.
Your air freight is comprehensively insured throughout the entire transport process to provide you with maximum security. Our air freight insurance reliably covers all risks and is tailored to your individual needs. If the onward transport within Germany is handled by OTC Global, your freight will, of course, remain insured by us.
Documentation and Customs Clearance
Air Freight Germany – Frequently Asked Questions
Are there restrictions on certain goods for air freight to Germany?
Yes, there are restrictions on certain goods for air freight to Germany. Dangerous goods, such as explosives, flammable materials, and toxic substances, are highly regulated and require special permits. Perishable foods like fresh meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs are generally prohibited. Alcohol and tobacco products are limited; you can import up to 1 liter of alcohol and up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars duty-free. Prescription medications need a valid prescription and may require additional documentation. Weapons and certain types of knives are prohibited. Cash amounts exceeding €10,000 must be declared to customs authorities. Plants and seeds also have strict import regulations and often require phytosanitary certificates.
Is the weight of the shipment crucial for the air freight to Germany?
Yes, the weight of the shipment is crucial for air freight to Germany. The cost of air freight is determined by the higher value of the actual weight and the volumetric weight of the shipment. For shipments that exceed certain weight limits, additional fees may apply. The air freight industry uses a standard calculation where one cubic meter is set at a weight of 167 kilograms.
What documents are required for the import/export of air freight to Germany?
For the import and export of air freight to Germany, the Air Waybill (AWB) and an export declaration are required. The AWB serves as a contract between the shipper and the air carrier. Depending on the nature of the goods, additional documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, permits, and certificates may be necessary. These documents must be included with the shipment and presented to customs authorities.
Can dunnage bags be used in air freight to Germany?
Dunnage bags, also known as air cushions, are not suitable for air freight to Germany because they can burst under high altitude pressure. While they provide effective cargo securing in trucks, rail cars, and sea vessels, they are not recommended for air transport due to the risk of pressure loss. Other cargo securing methods should be considered for air freight to prevent damage to the shipment.
What security regulations apply to an air freight to Germany?
Air freight shipments to Germany must comply with strict security regulations. German authorities require comprehensive security measures, including a security declaration confirming that the cargo does not originate from certain high-risk countries. This complements existing security protocols and documentation requirements. Additionally, all shipments must adhere to the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) regulations, which mandate advance cargo information and security risk assessments before loading and arrival.
How does customs clearance work for air freights to Germany?
For air freight imports into Germany, a formal customs declaration is required for goods valued over €1,000. The process involves submitting import documents, paying customs duties, and complying with specific import regulations. Key documents include the Air Waybill (AWB), commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary permits or certificates. Accurate goods classification and complete documentation are essential for efficient customs clearance. Detailed information can be found on our customs regulations page.
Are there special considerations when shipping dangerous goods or special items by plane?
The transport of dangerous goods by air freight to Germany follows the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). These regulations specify which goods can be transported and the necessary safety precautions. Labels must include UN hazard classes, proper shipping names, packing groups, and net quantities. Shippers must be trained according to IATA-DGR standards, and violations of these regulations can result in legal consequences. Additionally, special items like perishable goods, live animals, and high-value items may require specific handling and documentation.
Important Information – Air Cargo Germany
Infrastructure of Air Freight Logistics in Germany
Germany’s logistics landscape, especially in air freight, is a crucial factor for global trade and the connection between Europe and other continents. In 2020, Germany’s exports reached a value of €1.205 trillion, with efficient seaports and high-performance cargo airports playing a key role.
Importance of Air Freight in Germany for Global Trade
Germany has several major cargo airports that play a central role in international air freight traffic. Key airports include Frankfurt, Leipzig/Halle, Munich, Cologne/Bonn, and Stuttgart. These airports serve as important hubs for goods from around the world and are critical for the fast and efficient handling of air freight. Air freight is the fastest and safest way to transport goods to Germany, with transit times from the USA of only 2 to 3 days, making it a preferred choice for urgent deliveries.
Air Freight and Its Role in Germany’s Logistics Infrastructure
As a logistics hub, Germany is particularly important for trade within Europe and with Asia and the Americas. Many international freight flows, especially in sea transport, are routed through German ports and airports. Companies like DHL and Lufthansa Cargo, both based in Germany, are leading players in the global logistics sector. Due to economic disruptions and increased demand in 2020, container transport times have varied, but air freight from the USA to Germany typically takes between 2 and 3 days.
All leading international transport companies are represented in Germany. There is a high number of small and medium-sized providers in road transport, while rail transport is dominated by Deutsche Bahn. National shipping is regulated by stringent European Union standards, ensuring high safety and efficiency levels.
Contracts often specify delivery terms, frequently using standard commercial terms like INCOTERMS. The German Insurance Association provides an information portal on transport insurance, as about 80 to 90 percent of foreign trade is handled by international logistics companies that cooperate with these insurers.
The Leading Cargo Airports in Germany
Germany is a hub of global air freight, with some of the largest and most efficient cargo airports worldwide. At the forefront is Frankfurt Airport, which handled over 2.2 million tons of cargo in 2022. Leipzig/Halle Airport, closely associated with DHL, managed around 1.4 million tons of freight in 2022.
Another significant hub is Munich Airport, handling approximately 350,000 tons of cargo in 2022. Cologne/Bonn Airport and Stuttgart Airport are also crucial, especially for trade with the Americas and Asia. In 2022, these airports handled 814,000 and 260,000 tons of cargo, respectively.
These airports are vital not only for intra-European trade but also for air freight connections between Germany and the rest of the world, including the USA. They offer efficient and fast transport routes for various goods, from electronics to pharmaceuticals. The strategic location of these airports allows cargo from the USA to arrive in Germany in the shortest possible time and vice versa.
The importance of these cargo airports is highlighted by their ongoing expansions and modernizations, aiming to increase capacities and improve efficiency. This underscores the fact that air freight remains an indispensable part of global trade, with Germany playing a key role in this sector.
Planning and Execution of Air Freight Moves to Germany
When planning and executing air freight moves to Germany, numerous factors are crucial. This section highlights the processes and necessary measures to ensure a smooth and efficient move.
Comprehensive Logistics for Air Freight Moves to Germany
Organizing an international move via air freight to Germany involves more than just the air transport itself. It includes picking up the goods, delivering them to the departure airport, collecting them at the destination, and finally delivering them to the end location. The required logistics are coordinated and executed by the appointed freight forwarder. Often, local partners in the destination country are involved for pickup and delivery after the flight.
Planning and Preparation for Air Freight Moves
The process of an international move by air freight requires careful preparation and planning. This involves extensive formalities such as export permits, customs formalities, and possibly visa applications.
Customs and Import Regulations for Air Freight to Germany
A key aspect of planning and executing air freight moves to Germany is understanding customs and import regulations. Germany has specific rules for the import of goods that must be adhered to during an international move. Delays and additional costs can be avoided by having a thorough knowledge of these regulations.
The basic requirements include the accurate declaration of all moved goods. Each item must be listed in a detailed inventory and correctly described, including information on the value, origin, and purpose of the goods. Special attention must be paid to items that may be subject to specific restrictions or prohibitions, such as certain plants, foods, or materials.
Furthermore, customs duties and taxes for the import of certain goods into Germany must be considered. The calculation of these fees depends on various factors, including the value and type of goods. Utilizing the services of a customs broker familiar with the specific requirements and procedures for importing to Germany can be beneficial.
Thorough preparation considering these aspects can simplify the moving process and avoid unexpected challenges. Understanding the specific customs and import regulations is a key element for the successful completion of air freight moves to Germany.
Commercial Air Freight to Germany
Commercial air freight is a key solution for the fast and efficient international transport of goods and merchandise. At OTC Global, we focus on strategic planning to offer our clients the best possible time and cost efficiency. Thorough preparation is essential, starting with the creation of a detailed list of items to be transported. This list not only aids in organization but also ensures seamless tracking of goods throughout the entire transport process.
Accurately determining the weight and size of the shipment is a crucial step in precisely calculating shipping costs and effectively planning the budget. After weighing and measuring the items, the appropriate packaging size is chosen to ensure safe and efficient transport. Additionally, OTC Global places great importance on securing transported goods through comprehensive insurance to minimize risks during transport.
Understanding and complying with customs procedures abroad is critical for international air freight. OTC Global handles all necessary formalities, including the preparation of the required Air Waybill (AWB), to ensure a smooth process.
OTC Global stands for efficient and cost-effective handling of commercial air freight. Through our extensive expertise and careful planning, we maximize the efficiency of air freight transport for our clients while minimizing costs. Our goal is to ensure a smooth, safe, and fast transport of goods for every client.
Air Cargo Germany – The Advantages
In international transport, it is sometimes necessary to act quickly. In such cases, air freight offers an efficient alternative to traditional methods. This type of transport, where goods are transported by airplane to Germany, is currently the fastest way to move items over long distances. The advantages of this transport method include fast delivery over long distances, high safety standards, accessibility to remote destinations in Germany, and precise cargo planning.
Air Cargo Germany – Conclusion
Air freight to Germany is an essential component of global trade and plays a central role in the logistics infrastructure. The efficient handling of air cargo, especially through leading cargo airports like Frankfurt, Leipzig/Halle, Munich, and Cologne/Bonn, underscores Germany’s importance as a logistics hub. These airports not only enable the rapid transport of goods from the USA but also facilitate efficient distribution within Europe and beyond.
Air freight offers significant advantages over other transport methods, such as rapid transit over long distances and high safety standards. This is particularly relevant for urgent or high-value shipments. The continuous modernization and expansion of cargo airports in Germany demonstrate the commitment to increasing capacity and efficiency in the air freight sector.
The challenges associated with air freight, such as customs clearance and compliance with international regulations, require expertise and careful planning. OTC Global ensures this quality by providing comprehensive services, from packaging to customs clearance to door-to-door delivery.
Air Freight to Germany – With OTC Global!
Efficient air freight logistics between Europe and Germany is crucial for international trade. OTC Global specializes in the professional handling of air freight shipments to Germany. We understand the complexity and demands of transatlantic freight transport and offer tailored solutions for businesses and private customers.
Our service covers a wide range, from the transport of smaller shipments to large freight volumes. We ensure that each shipment, regardless of size, is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Leveraging our extensive experience in dealing with the specific challenges of air freight, such as customs regulations and security requirements, we provide seamless service.
OTC Global stands for reliability and efficiency. We ensure that your cargo not only arrives safely but also on time in Germany. Our expertise in air freight logistics makes us the ideal partner for your transport needs across the Atlantic. Trust our experience and commitment to get your freight to Germany quickly and safely.
Questions about your air freight to Germany? Feel free to contact us via the inquiry form or just give us a call!
Our experienced team provides detailed consulting and will prepare a competitive quote with no obligation.
Headoffice in Berlin:
OTC Global GmbH
Helmholtzstr. 2-9
B 04.010
D-10587 Berlin
Phone: +49 30 208 4883 80
Fax: +49 30 639 697 44
E-Mail: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday 08:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
