Understanding Weight Limits for China Air Mail Shipping
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- Source：OrientDeck
Shipping goods internationally? If you're using China Air Mail, you've probably asked: "How heavy can my package be?" Whether you're a small business owner, an online seller, or sending a gift to family abroad, knowing the weight limits and how they affect cost and delivery time is crucial. Let’s break it down in plain English — no jargon, just real talk.
Why Weight Limits Matter
Weight isn’t just about how much your parcel weighs — it directly impacts postage, speed, and even whether your package gets shipped at all. Most international air mail services from China, like China Post Air Mail, ePacket, and AliExpress Standard Shipping, have strict weight caps to keep logistics smooth and affordable.
The general rule? Under 2 kg (4.4 lbs) is ideal for most budget-friendly air mail options. Go over, and you might get hit with higher fees or need to switch to express couriers like DHL or FedEx — which cost way more.
Popular China Air Mail Services & Their Weight Rules
Here’s a quick comparison of common services and their weight allowances:
| Service | Max Weight Limit | Avg Delivery Time | Typical Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| China Post Air Mail | 2 kg | 15–30 days | $2–$8 |
| ePacket | 2 kg | 7–15 days | $5–$12 |
| AliExpress Standard Shipping | 3 kg | 10–20 days | $6–$15 |
| DHL eCommerce | 3 kg | 5–12 days | $10–$20 |
As you can see, ePacket and China Post are favorites for lightweight items, while AliExpress and DHL offer slightly higher limits and faster tracking.
Beyond the Scale: Volumetric Weight
Here’s a pro tip: It’s not just actual weight that matters — it’s volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight). If your package is light but bulky (like a big box of pillows), carriers calculate shipping based on size, not just mass.
Formula: (Length × Width × Height) / 6000 = Volumetric Weight (in kg)
Example: A box measuring 40cm × 30cm × 20cm = 24,000 cm³ → 24,000 / 6000 = 4 kg volumetric weight. Even if it only weighs 1.5 kg, you’ll be charged for 4 kg!
Tips to Stay Within Limits
- Pack smart: Use compact packaging. Remove unnecessary fillers.
- Split heavy orders: Ship one 3kg item as two 1.5kg parcels to stay under cap.
- Check destination rules: Some countries (like Canada or Australia) have stricter import limits.
- Use reliable scales: Don’t guess — weigh before you ship!
Final Thoughts
China’s air mail system is a powerhouse for global e-commerce, but it runs on rules — especially around weight. Stick to under 2–3 kg, pack efficiently, and choose the right service. That way, you save money, avoid delays, and keep customers happy.
Whether you’re shipping phone cases or handmade jewelry, understanding these limits gives you a serious edge. Now go ship smart!