Discover the most efficient ways to ship goods from China to France by air, sea, and rail. Here’s a guide to help you compare transit times, costs, schedules, and customs processes for each method.
Shipping cost from China to France
Here’s a reference for shipping prices from China to France in December 2024:
- Air freight: Balances speed and cost for medium-sized shipments, with a rate of $6.69 per kg.
- Express shipping: Rapid but higher cost, around €100-€200 for small packages (5 kg), suitable for urgent deliveries.
- LCL sea freight: Cost-effective for smaller shipments. The rate for LCL remains around €215 per cubic meter for shipments from China to Le Havre.
- FCL sea shipping: Ideal for larger shipments. The cost for a 20-foot container is $2,800~$4,050, while a 40-foot container costs approximately $4,500~$6,750.
Shipping costs can vary due to fuel surcharges, freight market trends, and specific rates. For an accurate quote, provide the following details to our forwarding experts:
- Type of shipped goods.
- Preferred shipping method (e.g., air, sea, or express).
- Weight and dimensions of the shipment.
- Pick-up and delivery locations.
Best shipping methods from China to France
Air freight to France from China
While air freight may cost more than sea freight, its distinct advantages make it a compelling choice:
- Unmatched speed: Airplanes are significantly faster than any other mode of transportation. This method is perfect for urgent deliveries, high-value items, or perishable goods.
- Flexible scheduling: Multiple flights operate regularly between China and France, allowing you to pick the most convenient option for your timeline.
- High security: Strict international regulations ensure a high protection level for your cargo, minimizing potential risks.
- Lower insurance costs: Faster transit times reduce the likelihood of damage, resulting in lower insurance premiums—ideal for cost-conscious businesses.
However, airfreight isn’t suitable for oversized shipments. Depending on your urgency, you can choose:
- Express air freight: Delivers in 1 to 3 business days—great for time-sensitive goods.
- Standard air freight: Typically takes 3 to 7 business days and is a more economical option.
Major airports from China to France
In China, key cargo hubs include Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, Shenzhen Baoan Airport, and Beijing Capital Airport.
Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, and Marseille Provence Airport handle most air freight shipments on the French side.
Choosing the right airports depends on the origin and destination of your goods. It allows us to strategically align routes, minimizing transit time and air shipping costs while ensuring efficient delivery.
Sea Freight from China to France
Ocean freight offers fewer restrictions since cargo ships can transport a wide variety of goods in different sizes and weights than air or road transport.
When shipping by sea, the cost largely depends on the type of container you select—LCL (Less than Container Load) or FCL (Full Container Load).
For LCL shipments, expect longer transit times than FCL, as the goods should be consolidated at the origin port and de-consolidated upon arrival. However, this added time can be worthwhile, as you only pay for the space you use.
It’s important to note that shipments to France must use EU-standard pallets, typically measuring 120 cm by 80 cm or sometimes 120 cm by 100 cm. Additionally, ISPM 15 compliance is mandatory for wooden pallets to prevent the spread of pests.
Key sea ports for shipping from China to France
Several seaports in China serve as major hubs for shipments to France. These include:
- Tianjin
- Dalian
- Shanghai
- Guangzhou
- Qingdao
In France, two primary ports handle the majority of goods arriving from China:
- Port of Marseille Fos: The largest port in France, capable of handling all types of cargo.
- Port of Le Havre: The second-largest port in France, known for its significant role in cargo and passenger transportation.
If you want to ship containers to France or have questions about sea freight solutions, contact us for a quote.
Rail freight from China to France
Rail freight provides a balanced solution for medium-sized shipments from China to France. This option is perfect for goods that need faster delivery than sea freight but at a lower cost than air freight. Typically, railways shipping times range from 18 to 25 days.
Key rail routes connecting China and Europe include:
- Yiwu to Europe
- Wuhan to Europe
- Suzhou to Europe
- Chongqing to Europe
- Zhengzhou to Europe
Shipping time from China to France
| Shipping Method | Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Air Freight | 3-7 days |
| Express Delivery | 1-3 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL & LCL) | 30-45 days |
| Rail Freight | 18-25 days |
Keep in mind that actual delivery times may vary due to factors like customs clearance or port efficiency. To find the best shipping solution and accurate schedules, consult ASLG’s logistics experts for tailored advice.
Custom duty in France
Understanding the customs tax and duty structure is crucial when importing goods from China to France. You better familiarize yourself with the Harmonized System (HS Code), an internationally recognized classification system for traded goods, which can help determine applicable tariff rates.
For shipments valued under €22, it would not be subject to both customs duties and VAT tax. However, taxes will apply depending on the product category for higher-value items. Here are the most common imported products:
- Electronic goods, such as laptops and phones, are duty-free in France.
- Clothing and textiles, however, generally incur customs duties ranging from 10% to 20%.
Additionally, the EU anti-dumping tax applies to certain imports. Goods subject to duty include:
- Items for secondary residences (duties + 20% VAT).
- Raw materials and semi-finished products.
- Tobacco products.
- Alcohol and wine provisions.
To avoid unexpected costs, verify the products’ HS Code and duty status before shipping. For further assistance, consult a customs broker or our experts to navigate the import process smoothly.
Import regulations to France
When shipping from China to France, you better know:
- For shipments under 1,000 kg or valued at less than €1,000, a verbal declaration and proof of purchase (e.g., receipt) are typically sufficient.
- For goods exceeding these thresholds, you need to file a formal customs declaration.
Specific requirements for certain goods
- Textiles: Importing textile products from China requires an export document, a monitoring document, and an import license.
- Agricultural goods: Trade involving plants, seeds, or aircraft must be declared and certified by relevant authorities, including the National Inter-Professional Organization for Seeds and Plants (GNIS), the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Defense.
Special import cases
- Samples:Samples can be shipped to buyers if marked as “Not for Sale” and provided free of charge.
- Cosmetics:France, in line with EU regulations, prohibits the import of cosmetics tested on animals or containing ingredients tested on animals.
Essential customs documents
Once your goods reach an EU customs office, they are held in temporary storage (up to 90 days) before being cleared for release. You should prepare the proper documentation to ensure a smooth customs process. Essential documents include:
- Bill of Lading
- Packing List
- Commercial Invoice
- MSDS for dangerous goods
We can assist in preparing these documents to meet all requirements for shipping from China to France.
French customs officials will review your documentation to confirm compliance with regulations. If everything is in order, you should pay the applicable import duties and taxes. After that, customs will inspect your shipment and approve its release.
Prohibited items for shipping to France
- Firearms, replica weapons, ammunition, toxic chemicals, powders liquids, gels, and strong magnets.
- Financial instruments: Cash, checks, counterfeit currency, and bearer securities.
- Medical and biological items:Prescription drugs, narcotics, medical waste, and biological samples.
- Animals and plants:Live animals, plants, carcasses, and harmful organisms.
- Flammable goods: Aerosol sprays, butane lighters, and oxidizing agents.
ASLG: Best China to France freight forwarder
Airsupply is a well-established cargo agency with years of experience shipping goods from China to worldwide destinations. We offer a solid track record of reliable delivery, strong airline partnerships, and an excellent reputation with customs authorities.
Our focus is on customer satisfaction, ensuring you receive the best shipping service from China to France. In addition to freight forwarding, we handle warehousing, customs clearance, cargo insurance, and more. Regardless of the transportation method, we offer competitive rates and comprehensive services tailored to your needs.
FAQs:
What’s the cheapest way to ship from China to France?
Sea freight is generally the most budget-friendly option for transporting goods from China to France. Depending on your shipment size, you can choose between FCL or LCL. The most economical choice will depend on your specific cargo requirements and volume. You can contact us for personalized advice and competitive pricing!
What are the guidelines for shipping dangerous goods from China to France?
Transporting hazardous materials from China to France must strictly follow ICAO and IATA regulations. This includes using UN standard packaging, accurate labeling with appropriate hazard symbols, and providing essential documentation such as MSDS reports and Certificates for Safe Transport. For more details, check this article or get a quote from our shipping experts.
Can I ship directly from a Chinese supplier to Amazon FBA?
Yes. You can. However, you should adhere to Amazon’s strict packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements. Partnering with ASLG, an experienced provider in FBA shipments, can streamline the process, ensuring your products meet Amazon’s standards and are delivered efficiently.
