Machines & parts via air freight to India

Why machines & parts by air freight?

Machines and industrial parts are heavy and large — not the first association with air freight. Yet air freight is often the best choice for this type of goods, for three reasons:

1. Downtime costs more than transport — A production line halted due to a defective part often costs €5,000–50,000 per day in lost revenue. The extra cost of air freight versus sea freight is then negligible.

2. Value versus weight — Precision parts (CNC tools, hydraulic pumps, servo motors) have high value per kilogram. The air freight rates are reasonable relative to the value.

3. Time-critical projects — For installations, commissioning or repairs where technicians are waiting, delays are unacceptable. Air freight guarantees certainty about arrival time.

Exporting to India

India is one of the most complex yet promising destinations for air freight. The country is growing rapidly and the demand for specialized European products — machinery, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and high-tech components — is increasing year after year. Schiphol offers direct cargo flights to Mumbai (BOM), Delhi (DEL), and Bangalore (BLR).

Indian customs — be well prepared

India is known for its complex customs procedures. Import duties are high (on average 10–30% per product category) and documentation requirements are strict. An incorrect HS code or incomplete invoice will inevitably lead to delays. Additionally, certain products require prior registration with Indian authorities (BIS, CDSCO for medical devices).

Points of attention

• BIS registration mandatory for many electronic devices
• CDSCO approval for pharmaceuticals and medical devices
• FSSAI registration for food products
• Import license may be required depending on the type of goods
• Payment via Letter of Credit common for higher values

Points of attention for machines & parts

Weight and dimensions

Machines and heavy parts often exceed standard air freight dimensions or weights. Shipments over 500 kg per piece or with oversized dimensions require special freighter flights or positions on a cargo aircraft. Aircargo.nl has access to freighters from KLM Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo and other carriers for oversized cargo.

Detailed packing list

Machines generally have a complex composition: multiple parts, materials and values. A detailed and accurate packing list is essential for customs clearance, especially for destinations with high import duties on capital goods (India, Brazil).

AOG situations

When a mechanical production process stops due to a defective part, every minute is precious. Aircargo.nl has a 24/7 AOG desk for time-critical machine parts — from booking to delivery on the production floor.