Businesses looking to expand their operations in the Philippines now have more air freight options available from Shenzhen to Manila. China Airlines (CI) has introduced multiple weight-based pricing tiers for shipments between Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), providing cost-effective solutions for various cargo volumes.
Freight Rate Overview
While air freight prices remain volatile during peak season, West Coast Freight has released reference pricing in Chinese Yuan (CNY), with final rates to be confirmed at booking:
| Weight Category | Price per kg (CNY) |
|---|---|
| 45kg and above | 27.5 |
| 100kg and above | 19.5 |
| 300kg and above | 18.5 |
| 500kg and above | 17.5 |
| 1000kg and above | 16.5 |
Flight Route and Schedule Details
The pricing applies to general cargo transported by China Airlines (CI) until September 30, 2025, following the route Shenzhen (SZX) - Taipei (TPE) - Manila (MNL).
First Leg: Shenzhen (SZX) - Taipei (TPE)
- CI-528: Departs 17:30, arrives 19:10 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) - B744 (Passenger Aircraft)
- CI-5928: Departs 03:50, arrives 05:40 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) - B747F (Cargo Aircraft)
Second Leg: Taipei (TPE) - Manila (MNL)
- CI-5847: Departs 16:00, arrives 18:10 (Tuesday) - B74F (Cargo Aircraft)
- CI-5879: Departs 00:05, arrives 10:30 (Friday) - B74F (Cargo Aircraft)
- CI-701: Departs 07:35, arrives 09:40 (Daily) - A333/B738 (Passenger Aircraft)
- CI-703: Departs 13:45, arrives 15:50 (Daily) - A333/B738 (Passenger Aircraft)
Cost Structure and Important Notes
The quoted prices include fuel surcharges, war risk insurance, and airport handling fees. Additional charges may apply for customs clearance, documentation, terminal access, and specific regional requirements such as AMS for U.S. routes or ENS for European destinations.
Key Considerations:
- Passenger flights from Shenzhen strictly prohibit all hazardous materials. Shippers must verify cargo classification with China Airlines/Shenzhen Airport prior to booking.
- All bookings since April 1 require detailed product descriptions, particularly in Chinese.
- Document amendments incur a CCA fee of CNY 400 per shipment.
- Individual items exceeding 68kg require six-sided strapping reinforcement, with wooden crates mandating metal strapping.
Industry Analysis: Selecting Optimal Air Freight Solutions
Businesses evaluating air freight options should consider multiple factors including cargo weight and dimensions, which directly impact pricing tiers. The nature of goods also determines service requirements, with special provisions needed for hazardous or oversized shipments. Transit time and flight frequency remain critical for time-sensitive deliveries.
Market Outlook: Strengthening China-Philippines Trade Relations
The growing economic partnership between China and the Philippines continues to drive demand for efficient cargo transportation solutions. Air freight services play a pivotal role in facilitating this bilateral trade, with established carriers like China Airlines expanding service offerings to accommodate increasing volumes. The Shenzhen-Manila air corridor is poised for significant growth as commercial exchanges intensify between the two nations.
Regulatory Compliance and Price Volatility
Air freight rates remain subject to market fluctuations influenced by seasonal demand and capacity constraints. Businesses are advised to verify current pricing and ensure full compliance with aviation regulations and safety requirements prior to shipment.