Shipping from China: Complete 2026 Guide to International Logistics
China Sourcing AI Team
14 min read
Container ship at port representing international shipping
Introduction
Shipping is often the most confusing part of importing from China. With multiple shipping methods, complex customs procedures, and varying costs, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
Container ship at port
Understanding shipping options is crucial for successful importing
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about shipping from China in 2026.
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Shipping Methods Compared
Method
Transit Time
Cost
Best For
Sea Freight (FCL)
25-40 days
$$$
Large orders (20+ CBM)
Sea Freight (LCL)
30-45 days
$$$$
Medium orders (1-15 CBM)
Air Freight
5-10 days
$$$$$
Urgent/high-value items
Express (DHL/FedEx)
3-7 days
$$$$$$
Small packages (<100kg)
Rail Freight
15-20 days
$$$$
Europe-bound cargo
Shipping comparison
Choose the right shipping method based on your timeline and budget
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Sea Freight: The Most Cost-Effective Option
Full Container Load (FCL)
Container loading
FCL is the most economical option for large shipments
Container Sizes:
20ft Container: ~28-30 CBM, ~22,000 kg max
40ft Container: ~58-60 CBM, ~26,000 kg max
40ft High Cube: ~68-70 CBM, ~26,000 kg max
Typical Costs (2026):
Route
20ft
40ft
China to US West Coast
,500-2,500
,500-4,000
China to US East Coast
,500-4,000
,000-6,000
China to Europe
,800-3,000
,000-5,000
China to Middle East
,200-2,000
,000-3,500
Less than Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments that don't fill a container:
Charged per CBM (cubic meter)
Typical rate: -150 per CBM
Minimum charge usually 1 CBM
Longer transit due to consolidation
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Air Freight: Speed at a Premium
Cargo plane
Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive or high-value products
When to Use Air Freight:
High-value, low-weight products
Urgent orders or restocking
Seasonal products with tight deadlines
Products with short shelf life
Typical Costs:
General cargo: -8 per kg
Express air: -12 per kg
Minimum charge: Usually 45-100 kg
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Express Shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Express delivery
Express shipping offers door-to-door convenience
Best For:
Samples and small orders
Packages under 100 kg
Door-to-door delivery needed
Urgent shipments
Typical Costs:
1-5 kg: -80
5-20 kg: -15 per kg
20-100 kg: -10 per kg
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Incoterms Explained
Understanding Incoterms is crucial for knowing your responsibilities:
> Recommendation: FOB is the most common and balanced option for most importers.
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Customs Clearance Basics
Required Documents:
Commercial Invoice - Detailed product and value information
Packing List - Contents of each package/container
Bill of Lading (B/L) - Shipping contract document
Certificate of Origin - Where goods were manufactured
Product Certifications - If required for your product category
Import Duties:
Vary by product category (HS Code)
US: Typically 0-25% (check HTS codes)
EU: Typically 0-12% (check TARIC)
Additional tariffs may apply (e.g., Section 301)
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Amazon FBA Shipping
Amazon warehouse
Direct shipping to Amazon FBA requires careful planning
Options for FBA:
Direct from China - Ship directly to Amazon warehouse
Via 3PL - Use a prep center for inspection/labeling
Hybrid - Ship to your location, then to FBA
FBA Requirements:
Proper labeling (FNSKU)
Correct packaging
Appointment scheduling
Compliance with Amazon guidelines
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Key Takeaways
✅ Sea freight is most economical for large orders
✅ Air freight for urgent or high-value items
✅ Express shipping for samples and small packages
✅ Understand Incoterms before negotiating
✅ Prepare all customs documents in advance
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China Sourcing AI Team
Editorial Team
Expert team specializing in AI-powered supplier discovery and China sourcing strategies. We help businesses find reliable manufacturers and optimize their supply chain.
