Iceland is an island economy in the North Atlantic with a small population and a high dependence on imported goods. Reykjavik and the surrounding port areas handle most cargo, with Keflavik Airport serving as the air gateway.
This is part of the IFN country guide series. It explains how cargo moves into and out of Iceland, and links to the freight network we run at IFN for shippers who need a vetted partner there. The logistics network section covers membership in more detail.
Fisheries and seafood dominate exports, supported by aluminium, tourism related supplies and a growing technology sector, all of which depend on shipping capacity that is limited by distance and weather.
What drives freight demand in Iceland
Icelandic freight demand is built on:
- Seafood exports. Fresh, frozen and processed fish and seafood ship to Europe, Asia and North America, much of it in reefer or air cargo.
- Aluminium and industrial exports. Aluminium smelting and related industrial output generate outbound bulk and container volume.
- Consumer and construction imports. Almost all consumer goods, machinery, vehicles and building materials arrive by sea or air.
- Tourism and seasonal supplies. The visitor economy creates seasonal demand for supplies, equipment and vehicles.
Ports, airports and gateways
The main Icelandic gateways:
- Reykjavik and Hafnarfjordur: the main port complex handling containers, general cargo and much of the country’s imports
- Akureyri and Isafjordur: northern and western ports serving regional communities and fish exports
- Keflavik Airport: the principal air cargo gateway, particularly for fresh seafood and high value goods
- Reykjavik Airport: a secondary domestic air hub for internal distribution
What moves in and out of Iceland
Main exports: fish and seafood, aluminium, ferroalloys, animal products and increasingly technology and design goods.
Main imports: machinery, vehicles, fuel, food products, electronics, construction materials, textiles and pharmaceuticals.
Iceland rewards planning. Sailings are less frequent than on continental routes, so missed bookings cost more in time than money. Work with a partner who books well ahead and monitors connections closely.
Practical notes for Icelandic freight
Frequency is limited
Fewer sailings mean less flexibility. Book early and confirm cut off dates for both container and reefer cargo.
Weather affects schedules
North Atlantic conditions can delay sailings and flights, especially in winter. Build contingency into critical deliveries.
Reefer and air compete
For fresh seafood, air cargo can be the difference between premium and discounted product. Compare both options on total value, not just freight cost.
IFN coverage for Iceland
IFN does not yet have a member physically based in Iceland. What we offer instead is verified coverage on the lanes that serve it, plus a directory you can search by country and service. Start with the member directory to see which vetted partner fits your cargo, or contact our team and we will point you to the right company on your lane.
If you are a forwarder in Iceland and this coverage gap is yours to fill, the membership application takes a few minutes and is reviewed individually.
Why Icelandic freight forwarders join IFN
- Global partners without the guesswork. Access more than 235 vetted companies in over 93 countries through the freight network, so you can quote lanes you do not cover yourself.
- Protected payments. Cargo payment protection covers member to member transactions up to $30,000, which removes the biggest risk in cross border freight.
- Inbound cargo. International partners route requests to the Icelandic member who can handle them, so membership brings work in rather than only sending it out.
- Visibility. A verified profile in the member directory and promotion through the IFN marketing channels.
- Face to face business. Members meet each year at IFN Global Connect, where most long term partnerships actually start.
- Clear rules. Every member accepts the code of ethics, and breaches are published, so quality is enforced rather than promised.
Membership runs from $750 a year. You can compare the tiers on the membership plans page, and the logistics network overview explains what the network does day to day.
Related country guides
You can also visit our freight network page for Iceland, which explains what IFN membership gives companies based there.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a reliable freight forwarder in Iceland?
Use a vetted network. IFN members are individually screened, carry cargo payment protection and accept a code of ethics, so you have recourse even in a small market.
Which Icelandic port handles most cargo?
The Reykjavik and Hafnarfjordur port complex handles the majority of container and general cargo, with Akureyri and Isafjordur serving the north and west.
Is air freight important for Icelandic exports?
Yes, particularly for fresh seafood and high value goods, where speed determines the price achieved in market.
Need an Icelandic freight partner?
Send us your cargo and destination and we will help you find the right Icelandic partner through the IFN network. Icelandic forwarders with seafood or North Atlantic experience can apply to join IFN.
Apply for IFN membership or compare the membership plans. You can also browse the member directory first, or contact the IFN team with your lane and we will tell you who covers it.
Source note: market and gateway details in this guide are compiled by the IFN editorial team from public trade and port data, and refreshed as members and coverage change.
