Introduction
Dubbed as the largest online market, covering half of the global market share, China is not only the largest exporter in the world. With its notable increased consumer spending in beauty, fashion, and culinary discoveries, it’s inevitable the amount of market worth tapping into. Wondering how to ship to China?
Here, we’ll cover the most common questions you have.
Shipping to China
1. What are the Ways to Ship to China?
The quickest and fastest way to ship to China is through air freight. Here, you’ll need to consider the cargo type and dimensional weight. Currently, there are 10 international airports in China which you can choose from depending on your destination. However, consider that there are size restrictions and the higher cost, brought about by higher fuel consumption.
On the other hand, the most common way to ship to China is by ocean freight. The cost is cheaper, hence since traveling by sea has longer transit days. If you’re planning to ship to China, you might want to start negotiating with your Freight Forwarder, to avoid any delays and port congestions.
2. What are the Largest Ports in China?
China has an array of modern commercial seaports and is no exception to the busy life of trade. Contributing largely to the country’s economy, the ports in China have created numerous jobs and opportunities for businesses, domestic and international.
Here are the largest ports in China, by tonnage:
| Port | 2023 TEUs |
| Port of Shanghai | 40.2 million TEU |
| Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan | 30.2 million TEU |
| Port of Shenzhen | 24 million TEU |
| Port of Qingdao | 23.9 million TEU |
| Port of Guangzhou | 20.8 million TEU |
3. How much does it cost to ship to China?
Shipping from the United States to China roughly costs $280 for a 20ft container, and another $100, for 40ft. However, always consider the commodity, and whether it will require IMO charges if transporting dangerous goods.
Exporting agri cargoes that require controlled temperatures will also cost more, than regular standard dry containers. Import processed goods are also common and will require food-grade containers which are additional charges.
As for estimated figures on ocean freight, we compiled the ballpark figures for the most common importing countries.
| Country | 20ft | 40ft |
| Japan (Yokohama) – Shanghai | $ 500 | $ 600 |
| South Korea (Busan) to Shanghai | $ 200 | $ 150 – 250 |
| Australia to Shanghai | $ 900 | $ 1,800 |
| Germany to Shanghai | $1,400 | $1,600 |
| United States (Los Angeles) to Shanghai | $ 360 | $ 460 |
4. What is the Transit Time when shipping to China?
Depending on the route journey, the transit time of shipping to China will vary. On average, it will take about 15-60 days to ship to China. When shipping from US locations, it won’t be all the same since the distances traveled are still different. Say shipping from Seattle to Shanghai can take an average of 28 days, while from Pittsburgh, it would be around 48 days.
| Country | Days |
| Japan | 8 – 10 days |
| South Korea | 15-17 days |
| Australia | 25-28 days |
| Germany | 50-60 days |
| United States | 30-35 days |
5. What paperwork is needed for international shipments to China?
When exporting products to China, you will be required to fill out the Customs Registration code on the invoice. In addition, commodities like cables, switches, video equipment, medical devices, and electrical appliances will need Chinese quality certificates.
It’s best to prepare the paperwork to avoid delays in the customs processing of your shipments. With this, you can coordinate with your freight forwarder, and check if they also include customs services so you have experts working out your shipments for you.
Keep in mind that certain commodities will need more tedious paperwork, so you have to set your expectations accordingly.
Regardless of the country of origin, here are other paperwork you will have to prepare:
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Packing List
- Import and export license
- Certificate of Origin
- Import Quota Certificates for Regulated Commodities
- Sales Contract
- Insurance Policy
- Safety or Quality Licenses
How do I find a freight forwarder in China?
Finding a freight forwarder to handle your shipments to China is essential, in the ease and punctuality of the arrival of goods. If your freight forwarder does not have a direct company in China, might as well check who their agent is, and assess the company’s performance.
It’s also vital to check the company’s familiarity with the commodities, especially if it requires special licenses and certifications.
Pangea has an extensive freight forwarders network in China, who can help you in shipping your containers and goods (if LCL).
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will it take to ship to China?
Shipping to China by sea takes around 15 to 60 days, depending on the port of origin. From the US, it would take an average of 28-60 days by sea and 6-10 days by air.
- How much to ship a 40ft container to China?
The average price of shipping a 40ft container to China from the US is $400 to $500. A 20ft container will range from $270 to $300.
Conclusion
Shipping containers to China is straightforward if you have a trusted Freight Forwarder to assist you. China is a trade titan, hence there are also a lot of opportunities for importers alike. Readying all the paperwork, and being knowledgeable about how to ship to China is crucial for shippers and businesses interested in importing in China.
