For global buyers, importers, and e-commerce sellers, shipping from China is part of everyday business. However, the experience isn’t always smooth. Uncertain delivery times, limited tracking, and unexpected delays can quickly become headaches. This guide will walk through the shipping time from China, explain the key factors that influence it, and give practical ways to speed delivery up.
How long does shipping from China take?
The shipping time from China varies depending on the delivery method and destination. Here’s a quick overview of typical timelines:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Time | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 20–60 days | Bulk orders that aren't time-sensitive |
| Air Freight | 3–10 days | Mid-size, high-value, or urgent cargo |
| Express (DHL/UPS) | 3–7 days | Small packages that need fast delivery |
That said, your destination makes a real difference. For example:
To the U.S.: Airfreight options often arrive in 2–3 days, while sea freight typically takes 25–40 days, depending on the port—Los Angeles is usually quicker than inland hubs like Chicago
To the U.K.: Air shipping usually lands within 4–8 days, and sea freight can take 30–45 days, especially with customs backlogs at prime ports like Felixstowe.
To Australia: Express delivery generally takes 4–6 days, while sea freight might stretch to 50–60 days, particularly for shipments heading to regional areas.
Contact our logistics experts for the most precise schedule based on your route and goods. We’ll help you plan with confidence.
What affects shipping time from China?
1. Shipping method
Express services and air freight are much faster than sea freight, but they come at a higher cost. For example, a package sent via DHL Express can reach New York in 3–4 days, while sea freight might take 30 days or more. Your choice should balance urgency and cost.
2. Customs clearance
Customs delays often start with incorrect paperwork. Missing an HS code, undervaluing goods, or submitting incomplete forms can keep your shipment at the border for days. To avoid delays, double-check your commercial invoice, packing list, and shipping labels for accuracy and completeness.
3. Peak seasons
Shipping can slow during peak periods like Chinese New Year (late January to early February), Golden Week (October 1–7), Black Friday, and Christmas. Ports and courier hubs experience heavy congestion, turning a typical 25-day delivery into a 40-day wait.
4. Destination Country
Final delivery times vary widely. For instance, shipping to Germany or the U.K. often benefits from efficient customs systems and rail freight options. In contrast, sending goods to remote areas in Africa or South America may take longer due to limited infrastructure.
5. Weather & global disruptions
Natural and unexpected events can disrupt even the best-planned shipments. Typhoons in southern China, port congestion in Los Angeles, and geopolitical conflict have all caused widespread delays.
How to speed up shipping from China?
You can’t control the weather, but you can take a few innovative steps to move your goods faster. Submitting accurate shipping documents and HS codes helps prevent customs delays. Working with a reliable freight forwarder further streamlines the process and keeps your shipments on track.
At Airsupply, we help you tailor a shipping solution based on your timeline, budget, and destination. We partner with trusted carriers like DHL and UPS, often securing better rates than standard booking platforms. Furthermore, we work closely with major providers such as Cathay Pacific (CX), China Southern Airlines (CZ), COSCO, and EMC to ensure faster, more dependable delivery.
With Airsupply, you’ll also benefit from real-time tracking, quick customs clearance, and reliable warehousing in key global markets like the U.S., the U.K., and Australia.
FAQs
Does the Chinese New Year holiday affect shipping times?
Absolutely. Factory shutdowns and port congestion during Chinese New Year (usually late January to early February) can significantly delay shipments. To stay ahead, try to ship at least 3–4 weeks before the holiday.
How can I track my package from China?
Use websites like 17track.net. Just enter your tracking number to see real-time updates.
How long does it take to ship from China to Australia?
Shipping from China to Australia generally takes around 2–2 days for air shipments, while sea freight may take 40–50 days.
How long does shipping from China to the U.K. take?
Shipping from China to the U.K. typically takes around 4–8 days via air freight, depending on the carrier. Sea freight can take 30–45 days.
