Article Summary: #

This guide explains the difference between normal and sensitive goods in air freight, the shipping routes, handling procedures, and delivery times — so you can plan your shipment from China to Nigeria with confidence.

What’s the difference between Normal and Sensitive Goods in Air Shipping? #

When shipping goods via air from China, it’s essential to classify your items correctly. Air cargo is typically categorized into two main types:

What’s the Difference Between Normal and Sensitive Goods in Air Shipping? #

When shipping goods via air from China, it’s essential to classify your items correctly. Air cargo is typically categorized into two main types:

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1. Normal Goods #

These are standard items that do not require special handling or clearance. They’re safe, non-reactive, and allowed on standard commercial cargo flights.

Examples include:

• Clothing & fashion items
• Shoes & bags
• Fabric materials
• Plastics, accessories, and simple tools
• Home Decor
• Stationery, etc.

Shipping Route:

• Departs from Guangzhou Airport

Estimated Delivery Time:

• 5–10 business days

📌 Note: Shipping normal goods is typically cheaper and faster than sensitive goods.

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2. Sensitive Goods #

Sensitive goods contain materials or components that require special handling, safety checks, and documentation. These can’t be shipped via regular air freight channels due to safety regulations.

Examples include:

• Power banks
• Mobile phones
• PC
• Electronics
• Devices with in-built batteries
• Liquids (e.g., perfumes, oils, skincare)
• Cosmetics and makeup
• Magnetic or flammable items
• Powders (e.g., baby powder, supplements)
• Wristwatches
• Smartwatches

 

Shipping Route:

• Departs from Hong Kong Airport due to international compliance with IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations

Estimated Delivery Time:

• 14–20 business days

🚨 Sensitive cargo may cost more to ship and take longer due to compliance and transit safety protocols.

 

Express Shipping

There is express shipping. Anything can be sent through express except flammable items, batteries, and power banks.

 

Why the Classification Matters #

Misclassifying your goods can:

• Delay your shipment
• This leads to additional fines or confiscation
• Cause failed shipping at the origin airport (i.e. face sheets sent as normal goods will be rejected at the airport. It will take a little while to arrive back at the warehouse before it can be resent as sensitive goods.)
• Affect your entire supply chain timing.

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Can You Ship All Types of Goods With Us? #

Yes. At FastForth, we support the shipment of both normal and sensitive goods, as long as they are legal and customs-compliant.

In a few cases, some sensitive goods may experience a challenge with security operatives in Hong Kong. Normally, any goods can be sent whether flammable or non-flammable items through Hong Kong. There may be a hard luck day when security operatives may reject such an item.

In this case, returning the item to China Mainland from Hong Kong is a big challenge. It is almost impossible. However sensitive items sent through Guangzhou are easily returned to the warehouse.

We help you:

• Determine the classification of your items
• Choose the right air freight route
• Handle documentation and special packaging
• Provide real-time tracking
• Offer pre-shipment advice to avoid delays

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How to Know if Your Item Is Sensitive #

If your item falls under any of these, it’s likely sensitive:

• Has battery or electronic circuits
• Contains liquid or gel
• Is magnetic, flammable, or powdered
• Is cosmetic, health, or skincare-related

🧠 Still not sure? Just send us a picture, product name, or link and we’ll help you classify it properly before you ship.

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Air Shipping Routes Summary #

Type	Examples	Route	Delivery Time
Normal Goods	Clothes, shoes, bags, decor	Guangzhou Airport	5–10 business days
Sensitive	Batteries, liquids, electronics	Hong Kong Airport	14–20 business days
Express	Phones, liquids, clothes	Guangzhou Airport	3-4 business days

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Plan Smart, Ship Smart #

Knowing whether your goods are normal or sensitive helps you:

• Estimate the right timeline
• Avoid shipping delays
• Choose the most cost-effective option
• Ensure compliance with air freight laws

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Need Help? #

Contact us to review your item list and classify your goods.
[Request a Quote]