When time-sensitive shipments must travel from Shenzhen to Detroit, air freight emerges as the optimal solution. However, deciphering complex air freight rate sheets with their myriad charges and flight options can be daunting. This guide demystifies the pricing structure, particularly focusing on EVA Air's (BR) offerings, to help shippers make informed decisions.
Decoding Air Freight Rate Sheets
A sample rate sheet for Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), denominated in Chinese yuan (CNY), reveals several key pricing categories. Note that these rates fluctuate seasonally and should be verified with freight forwarders before booking.
- Minimum Charge (M): Applies to exceptionally small or lightweight shipments
- Normal Rate (N): For general cargo under 45 kilograms
- Weight Breakpoints (+45k, +100k, etc.): Represent tiered pricing where heavier shipments enjoy lower per-kilogram rates
The base rate for +45k shipments shows 102.5 CNY per kilogram, with a 2 CNY per kilogram transfer fee. Notably, M-class shipments incur a 470 CNY transfer fee due to higher handling costs for small parcels.
EVA Air's Routing Options
The quoted rates from EVA Air (BR), valid from September 22 to September 30, 2025, follow the SZX-TPE-ORD-DTW routing with truck transport completing the final leg.
First Leg: Shenzhen to Taipei
Multiple flight options exist, including passenger flights (B7186, B7188) and cargo flights (BR6322). The BR6322 cargo flight departs at 3:00 AM on Saturdays, while passenger flights operate at different times throughout the week using 74E (passenger) and 74Y (cargo) aircraft configurations.
Second Leg: Taipei to Chicago
Passenger flights BR012, BR026, and BR028 connect Taipei to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) using Boeing 777-300ER (77W) aircraft. Flight times vary, with BR012 departing at 7:20 PM and arriving at 4:36 AM the following day on Tuesdays.
Final Segment: Chicago to Detroit
With no direct flights, truck service XB7504T completes the journey, departing Chicago at 10:00 PM and arriving in Detroit by 8:00 AM the next morning, operating Monday through Friday and Sunday.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Beyond base rates and transfer fees, several additional charges merit attention:
- Fuel surcharges and war risk insurance (included in this quote but often itemized separately)
- Customs clearance and documentation fees (vary by shipment characteristics)
- Special fees for certain destinations (e.g., Indonesia's Customs Guarantee Charge)
Selecting the Optimal Shipping Solution
To identify the most suitable air freight option:
- Obtain multiple quotes from different freight forwarders
- Clearly specify shipment details (weight, dimensions, contents)
- Scrutinize all line-item charges in proposals
- Verify the forwarder's track record and reliability
- Book early, particularly during peak seasons
Comparative Pricing on Other Routes
Sample rates from various carriers illustrate market variations:
- EVA Air: Guangzhou-Taipei-Munich-Milan: 73.0 CNY (+45k) to 35.5 CNY (+1000k)
- Emirates: Hong Kong-Dubai-Algiers: 92.8 CNY (+45k) to 66.8 CNY (+1000k)
- Air China: Beijing-Frankfurt-Paris: 57.0 CNY (+45k) to 32.0 CNY (+1000k)
Important Considerations
All quoted rates have limited validity periods and may change without notice. Market conditions, fuel prices, and other variables can affect final pricing. This information serves as a reference only and should not substitute for professional logistics consultation.