China Airlines Cargo tracking

What is China Airlines Cargo?

China Airlines Cargo is the freight division of China Airlines, the national airline of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Founded on December 16, 1959, China Airlines began operations with a modest fleet of two PBY Catalina seaplanes and initial capital of 400,000 New Taiwan dollars. Over the decades, the airline has developed to become one of the major players in air transport in Asia, while its cargo branch has established itself among the world's largest freight carriers.

The history of China Airlines is closely linked to that of Taiwan. Created by I Fuen, a retired officer of the Republic of China Air Force, the airline initially focused on charter flights before gradually developing a regular network. The first regular flight connecting Taipei to Hualien was inaugurated in October 1962, followed by the first international flight to Saigon on December 1, 1966. Transpacific routes began on February 2, 1970, marking the company's entry into intercontinental transport.

From the 1980s onwards, China Airlines invested heavily in dedicated cargo aircraft to support the growth of international commercial exchanges on the island. This strategy proved successful, with the airline regularly ranking among the world's leading air freight operators in terms of tonne-kilometers transported. China Airlines Cargo regularly ranks among the world's top ten air freight carriers according to IATA rankings, with more than one million tonnes of international freight handled each year.

• Date of establishment: December 16, 1959, with two PBY Catalina seaplanes and 26 employees
• Parent company: China Airlines Group, national airline of the Republic of China (Taiwan)
• Headquarters: Taipei, Taiwan, near Taoyuan International Airport
• Main hub: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taiwan's largest airport
• Alliance: Member of SkyTeam since September 28, 2011 and SkyTeam Cargo since October 3, 2012
• Cargo fleet: 21 cargo aircraft including 8 Boeing 747-400F and 10 Boeing 777F

China Airlines' integration into the SkyTeam alliance in 2011, then into SkyTeam Cargo in 2012, significantly strengthened its position in the international air freight market. This membership in a global alliance allows the company to benefit from operational synergies and offer its customers connections with prestigious partner networks such as Air France-KLM Cargo, Delta Cargo, and Korean Air Cargo.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a major turning point for China Airlines Cargo. While passenger transport decreased dramatically, the airline was able to redirect its capacity to air freight, which became vital for transporting medical equipment and protective gear. The year 2021 was particularly successful for the cargo division, which contributed significantly to the group's overall revenue. Today, freight represents an essential activity for China Airlines, ensuring major international presence in goods transport.

Which countries does China Airlines Cargo deliver to?

China Airlines Cargo operates an extensive global network, connecting Taiwan to the main economic centers of Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. With Taiwan at the center of its air network, the airline offers geographic coverage enabling goods to be transported to the most strategic destinations in global commerce. The fleet of 21 dedicated cargo aircraft serves 33 destinations, while the use of cargo holds on passenger aircraft extends this coverage to 97 destinations spread across 27 countries worldwide.

China Airlines Cargo's main hub is located at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan's largest airport, positioned near the capital Taipei. This strategic platform benefits from high-performance handling infrastructure, with dedicated freight terminals and specialized teams ensuring consolidation, temporary storage, and transfer of goods between flights. The company operates more than 1,400 flights per week, including 91 pure cargo flights, to 102 cities spread across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.

In Asia, China Airlines Cargo serves the region's main economic metropolises. Japan is a major destination with regular connections to Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. Hong Kong, a hub of international trade, is among the most frequently served stops. The company also ensures connections to Bangkok in Thailand, Singapore, Seoul in South Korea, Mumbai in India, as well as to numerous cities in mainland China despite the particularities of relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

• Asia-Pacific: Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya), Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, Mumbai, Shanghai, and other major Asian cities
• North America: United States (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York JFK, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle), with possible stop at Anchorage (Alaska)
• Europe: Netherlands (Amsterdam), Germany (Frankfurt), Luxembourg, Dubai (regional hub), and other European capitals
• Oceania: Australia and New Zealand via direct connections or transfers
• Transit hubs: Bangkok and Osaka serve as regional hubs to optimize connections

Connections to North America constitute a strategic axis for China Airlines Cargo. The company regularly serves major American metropolises, notably Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York (JFK), Miami, Atlanta, and Seattle. These transpacific routes often use stops in Anchorage, Alaska, allowing for refueling and segmenting long-haul routes between Asia and North America, thus optimizing cargo aircraft load capacity.

In Europe, China Airlines Cargo operates cargo flights to airports specialized in freight such as Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg. These European platforms facilitate logistics connections throughout the continent. The company has also developed connections to Dubai World Central, a strategic hub for the Middle East and Africa. Membership in SkyTeam Cargo allows for extended geographic coverage through connections with alliance partners' networks.

China Airlines Cargo also relies on sorting centers and strategic stops to optimize its long-haul routes. Regional platforms such as Bangkok or Osaka serve as consolidation points in Asia to redistribute freight to Europe or other destinations. This networked organization ensures competitive transit times even to destinations not served by direct flights from Taipei.

What are the China Airlines Cargo services and delivery times?

China Airlines Cargo offers a complete range of air freight transport services, covering both standard shipments and the most demanding shipments in terms of delivery time or nature of goods. The company has developed solutions adapted to each type of need, from general freight to highly specialized services for sensitive or urgent shipments. This diversification allows it to serve varied business sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare to food and agriculture.

General freight service is the basic offering for transporting standard goods such as consumer products, raw materials, or industrial parts. This service ensures professional handling and optimized delivery times thanks to China Airlines' extensive network. Shipments are transported on the airline's regular flights, benefiting from all the handling infrastructure and tracking systems put in place by the carrier.

For urgent or time-sensitive shipments, China Airlines Cargo offers express services enabling cargo to be transported quickly. These accelerated solutions benefit from dedicated processes that reduce ground waiting times and guarantee loading priority. Processing times at each stage are optimized to ensure that shipments reach their recipients as quickly as possible.

• General freight: Transport of standard goods on regular flights with optimized delivery times
• Express services: Priority solutions for urgent shipments with reduced waiting times
• Cargo charters: Provision of dedicated freighters for customized charter flights
• Cool Chain: Transport of perishable and pharmaceutical products under controlled temperature
• Dangerous goods: Handling compliant with IATA DGR regulations
• Live animal transport: Transport according to IATA LAR guidelines with animal welfare guaranteed
• Valuable goods: Secure procedures for jewelry, high-end electronics, and works of art

China Airlines Cargo also makes its dedicated freighters available for charter flights when a customer needs an entire aircraft. These charters are particularly suitable for industrial projects requiring transport of exceptional volumes, humanitarian equipment that needs to be shipped urgently, or any situation requiring complete flexibility in terms of schedules and routes. This option allows for meeting specific demands outside regular schedules and itineraries.

Freight delivery times via China Airlines Cargo vary depending on destinations, the type of service chosen, and operating conditions. For routes between Asia and North America, transit times typically range from 3 to 7 days for standard freight. Connections to Europe show comparable delivery times. These durations can be significantly reduced with express options, while shipments to more remote destinations or requiring transfers may require additional time ranging from 7 to 14 days depending on the routes.

The volume of freight handled by China Airlines has experienced sustained growth in recent years. International Cargo Tonne Kilometer (CTK) reached record levels, with double-digit growth compared to previous years. The total volume of freight passing through Taoyuan airport now exceeds levels observed before the pandemic, confirming the sector's dynamic recovery. Forecasts project continued growth in air freight demand in the coming years.

What are the China Airlines Cargo rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

China Airlines Cargo rates are calculated according to standard international air freight principles, taking into account multiple parameters to establish the final cost of each shipment. Pricing is based on the concept of billable weight, which corresponds to the greater of the actual weight of the goods and their volumetric weight. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying dimensions (length × width × height in centimeters) then dividing by 6000. This method allows for fairly reflecting cargo space occupation.

Average air freight rates from Asia generally range from 4.50 to 7 US dollars per kilogram, with significant variations depending on routes, service level, and time of year. Routes with strong demand between Asia and the United States or Europe typically show slightly higher rates than intra-Asian regional shipments. Express or urgent services can exceed 10 dollars per kilogram depending on urgency and requested time guarantees.

Several factors influence the final cost of a shipment with China Airlines Cargo. The nature of the goods plays a determining role: products requiring special transport conditions, such as perishables requiring cold chain, pharmaceuticals, or dangerous goods, incur tariff surcharges related to specific equipment and procedures. The distance between origin and destination, possible transfers, and additional services requested also contribute to price formation.

• Billable weight: The greater of actual weight and volumetric weight (L × W × H / 6000)
• Average rate: 4.50 to 7 USD per kilogram depending on destination and service
• Premium Asia-USA/Europe routes: Rates generally above market average
• Express service: Can exceed 10 USD per kilogram for urgent shipments
• Possible surcharges: Fuel surcharge, security fees, special handling, insurance
• Seasonal variations: Higher prices during Chinese New Year, autumn-winter peak season, and holiday periods

Additional fees may be added to the base transport rate. Fuel surcharges, adjusted periodically based on kerosene prices, represent a significant component of total cost. Security fees, handling costs at origin and destination airports, customs clearance services, freight insurance, and temporary warehouse storage constitute various items that may impact the final invoice amount. China Airlines Cargo recommends contacting the company or its authorized agents directly for a personalized quote.

Regarding maximum accepted dimensions and weight, China Airlines Cargo has a fleet capable of transporting large and heavy goods. The Boeing 777F, which now forms the backbone of the cargo fleet with 10 aircraft in service, offers useful load capacity reaching approximately 102 tonnes with generous cargo hold dimensions. The still-operational Boeing 747-400F also allows transport of several dozen tonnes per flight, with a configuration particularly suited to voluminous shipments thanks to their hinged nose facilitating front loading.

Acceptable dimensions depend on the type of aircraft used and loading configuration. Goods are generally packaged in standardized ULD (Unit Load Device) containers or standard air pallets. Oversized or particularly heavy shipments are subject to case-by-case feasibility review, with special loading solutions including reinforced pallets and appropriate positioning on the main deck of cargo aircraft. China Airlines Cargo is currently modernizing its fleet with orders for Boeing 777-8F that will offer capacity equivalent to the 747 with 30% improved energy efficiency.

What are the China Airlines Cargo delivery options?

China Airlines Cargo offers a structured delivery process that ensures complete handling of goods throughout their logistics journey. As an air freight carrier operating between airports, the company primarily offers airport-to-airport services, but can also coordinate integrated solutions including ground transport for first and last mile in collaboration with its logistics partners.

The shipping process begins with delivery of the goods to China Airlines Cargo's freight service, either directly at the cargo terminal of the departure airport or through an authorized freight agent. Transport documents are verified and issued at this time, including the Air Waybill (AWB), customs documents, and any required certificates. A unique AWB number composed of carrier code 297 followed by eight digits is assigned to each shipment to enable tracking throughout the journey.

Before loading, the cargo undergoes strict security checks complying with international regulations, including X-ray inspection to ensure the absence of prohibited items. Goods are weighed, measured, and labeled, then placed in standardized ULD containers or secured on pallets according to their nature. Export customs checks are carried out at this stage, and once formalities are completed, the cargo is transported to the cargo aircraft for loading.

• Delivery at origin: Deposit of goods at the cargo terminal of the departure airport or through authorized agent
• Security checks: Regulatory inspection before loading, document verification
• Air transport: Transport by China Airlines Cargo fleet to destination
• Possible transfer: Connection possible via Bangkok, Osaka, or Anchorage hubs
• Arrival at destination: Unloading and transfer to cargo warehouse, arrival notice to recipient
• Import formalities: Customs clearance by local authorities, goods remain under customs control
• Delivery: Pickup by recipient or their agent once customs authorizations are obtained

If the flight includes a stop, the cargo may be unloaded then reloaded onto another aircraft for the next leg. During this transfer, packages pass through a secure connection warehouse. China Airlines Cargo works to minimize transfer time and ensure flight connections, with each movement recorded in the tracking system. Bangkok and Osaka platforms frequently serve as redistribution points for shipments to secondary destinations.

Upon arrival at the destination airport, goods are unloaded and transferred to China Airlines Cargo's local cargo warehouse or its handling partner's facility. An arrival notice is issued to inform the recipient or their agent that the cargo is available. The recipient must then complete import customs formalities before being able to retrieve their goods. The cargo remains under customs control during inspections by local authorities.

China Airlines Cargo provides an online tracking system allowing consultation of each shipment's status at any time. Using the Air Waybill number, the shipper and recipient can track the various stages of transport, from initial pickup to final delivery. Notifications inform stakeholders of major milestones, facilitating coordination of operations downstream in the supply chain.

What should I do if my China Airlines Cargo package is lost or damaged?

In case of any irregularity concerning a China Airlines Cargo shipment, it is essential to act quickly and follow established procedures to maximize chances of obtaining a satisfactory resolution. The company has defined protocols for handling claims related to lost, damaged, or delayed goods, in compliance with international conventions governing air freight transport.

When you discover damage or abnormality in your cargo upon receipt, the first step is to immediately report the issue to China Airlines' cargo service counter or the handling agent's counter responsible at the destination airport. A staff member will assist you in completing an irregularity report, an essential document to initiate the claim procedure. This on-site notification allows for officially establishing the condition of the goods at the time of delivery and constitutes essential proof for the rest of the process.

Deadlines for filing claims are strictly governed by transport conditions and international conventions. For damaged goods, the written claim must be submitted within 14 days following receipt of the cargo. For delayed shipments, the deadline is 21 days from the date the goods are made available to the recipient. In case of total non-delivery, the claim must be filed by the shipper within 120 days following the date the air waybill was issued.

• Immediate notification: Contact cargo service upon discovering the problem to establish an irregularity report
• Deadline for damage: Written claim within 14 days following receipt of goods
• Deadline for delay: Written claim within 21 days following delivery
• Undelivered goods: Claim by shipper within 120 days following AWB issuance
• Required documents: Air waybill, valid ID, photos of damage, proof of value

Documents to provide for a complete claim file include the original air waybill (AWB) or a copy, a valid identification document, cargo labels, and any documentation establishing the value of goods and extent of damage suffered. It is strongly recommended to keep original packaging and photograph any damage discovered. Commercial invoices, purchase receipts, and any correspondence with the company constitute useful documents to support the compensation request.

The limits of the carrier's liability are governed by applicable international conventions. For international shipments under the Montreal Convention, maximum liability is fixed at 22 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) per kilogram of goods. It is important to note that these compensations are not automatic: the recipient must justify the damage and loss suffered, retaining all receipts for any additional expenses incurred.

For high-value goods exceeding standard liability limits, China Airlines Cargo allows the shipper to declare a higher value at the time of shipment, subject to payment of an additional charge. This value declaration increases compensation caps in case of loss or damage. It is also possible to purchase supplementary transport insurance from a specialized insurer to benefit from extended coverage adapted to the nature and actual value of shipped goods.

For any claims or questions concerning a shipment, customers can contact China Airlines Cargo through its official cargo website cargo.china-airlines.com, or reach the company's local offices in the various regions served. Customer service is available to assist shippers and recipients with their procedures and facilitate processing of claim files.

Does China Airlines Cargo handle international shipments and customs formalities?

China Airlines Cargo is a specialist in international air freight transport, operating from its Taipei hub to destinations spread across all continents. The company has in-depth expertise in international logistics and assists its customers in managing regulatory aspects related to exports and imports, facilitating border crossing for shipments of any nature.

International air freight transport requires rigorous documentation to satisfy customs administration requirements of origin and destination countries. The centerpiece of this documentation is the Air Waybill (AWB), which serves as both the transport contract between shipper and carrier, proof of shipment, and an essential document for customs declarations. China Airlines Cargo uses the electronic e-AWB format which simplifies formalities and reduces administrative delays.

Beyond the AWB, several documents may be required depending on the nature of goods and destinations. The commercial invoice detailing the transaction and value of goods, the packing list specifying the contents of each package, certificates of origin to benefit from any tariff advantages, export licenses for certain categories of controlled products, and appropriate customs declarations must accompany international shipments.

• Air Waybill (AWB): Contract document and proof of shipment, number beginning with 297 for China Airlines
• Commercial invoice: Transaction details, value of goods, HS tariff codes
• Packing list: Detailed inventory of contents, weight and dimensions of each package
• Certificate of origin: Document attesting to goods' origin for preferential agreements
• Customs declarations: Forms required at export and import according to local regulations
• Specific licenses: Authorizations necessary for certain categories of controlled products

Regarding customs formalities proper, China Airlines Cargo ensures transport of goods and transmission of documents to competent authorities, but customs clearance generally remains the responsibility of the shipper at export and the recipient at import. The company or its agents can provide necessary transport documents, but customers must appoint a customs broker or freight forwarder to complete administrative and regulatory formalities.

Customs duties and import taxes are the responsibility of the goods' recipient, unless otherwise agreed between parties (particularly in DDP - Delivered Duty Paid cases). Amounts depend on product tariff classification, declared value, and commercial agreements in force between countries concerned. Additional time may be needed for customs clearance, particularly for goods subject to special inspections or specific regulations.

For dangerous goods, China Airlines Cargo strictly applies IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) regulations. Transport of these products requires specific documentation, including a properly completed Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD), and can only be performed by certified personnel with approved packaging. The company provides resources and forms on its website to assist shippers in appropriately preparing these sensitive shipments.

Specialized solutions and China Airlines Cargo certifications

China Airlines Cargo has developed a range of specialized solutions to meet the needs of goods requiring particular handling. These value-added services allow the company to serve demanding sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food and agriculture, live animal transport, or high-value products, with adapted protocols guaranteeing safety and integrity of sensitive shipments.

The Cool Chain program is China Airlines Cargo's flagship offering for temperature-controlled product transport. Launched in 2013, this service meets the needs of pharmaceutical and food and agriculture industries by ensuring precise temperature maintenance throughout the supply chain. The company pioneered the use of active temperature-controlled containers as early as 2014, allowing transport of vaccines, medications, biological samples, as well as fresh fruit, flowers, and other fresh products under optimal conditions.

China Airlines Cargo obtained CEIV Pharma certification (Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics) issued by IATA, becoming the first Taiwanese airline to receive this recognition. This certification attests to the company's process compliance with the strictest standards for pharmaceutical product transport. The certification was renewed in 2022, confirming China Airlines Cargo's continued commitment to excellence in this field. The company aims for double-digit growth in the pharmaceutical market.

• Cool Chain: Temperature-controlled transport for perishable and pharmaceutical products
• CEIV Pharma Certification: IATA standard for safe transport of medications and vaccines
• Envirotainer containers: Active refrigerated units maintaining precise temperature during flight
• Dangerous goods: IATA DGR compliant handling with certified personnel
• Live animal transport: According to IATA LAR guidelines with animal welfare attention
• Valuable goods: Enhanced monitoring, secure area, and increased traceability

China Airlines Cargo also transports live animals in compliance with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) guidelines. This service primarily concerns domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but also farm animals or aquaculture species. Approved cages are used and animal welfare is ensured through controlled temperature, adequate ventilation, and reduced transfer time. The company strictly prohibits transport of species protected by the CITES convention and products derived from endangered animals.

For high-value goods such as jewelry, high-end electronic devices, works of art, or confidential documents, China Airlines Cargo offers enhanced security procedures. These sensitive shipments benefit from increased monitoring, storage in secure areas with limited personnel access, and enhanced traceability at each transport stage. These measures guarantee optimal protection of precious or irreplaceable shipments.

China Airlines Cargo's fleet is currently undergoing an ambitious modernization program. The company has ordered several Boeing 777-8 Freighters, intended to gradually replace the aging Boeing 747-400F aircraft. These new aircraft will offer load capacity equivalent to the 747 with 30% improved energy efficiency and 60% reduced noise footprint, fitting into the company's environmental strategy. Four Boeing 747-400F will be transferred to Luxembourg carrier Cargolux as part of this transition.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track a China Airlines Cargo package online, various statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress. The company's tracking system uses the Air Waybill number (AWB) composed of carrier code 297 followed by an eight-digit serial number, for a total of 11 digits. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: