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China to Philippines Shipping: Cost, Duty & Time

With over a decade of study in the logistics industry, we have gathered all the knowledge required to excel in China to Philippines shipping. From delivery methods to customs clearance, this article will support you in enhancing or launching your shipping supply chain.

Cargo shipping from China to Philippines

Shipping cargo from China to Philippines is a multifaceted process that requires meticulous planning. Generally, you can leverage these prime ways: Sea freight and Air Freight to the Philippines. We will delve into these transportation options in greater detail later in this article.

With the right preparation and selection of a trusted shipping partner, you can successfully transport between these two dynamic nations.

Airsupply Logistics specializes in China to the Philippines shipping, providing comprehensive services covering air, ocean, and express freight. We also support door-to-door delivery, simplifying the process for our clients by handling export and import customs clearance.

Furthermore, our services encompass shipping from China to the Philippines for general cargo and sensitive cargo like batteries or electronic cigarettes. We prioritize safety and efficiency to meet all your shipping needs.

Air freight from China to the Philippines

When rapid delivery and the least shipping times are paramount, air freight is your optimal choice.

At the present time, more than 60 airlines operate between China and the Philippines, facilitating extensive cargo movement in both directions daily.

Usually, the primary airports we use in China are Shenzhen Baoan International Airport and Hong Kong International Airport. These hubs host numerous major cargo airlines that support direct flights to destinations like Manila and other Philippine airports.

While direct flights offer faster transit times, certain airports might have limited flight options. Consequently, cargo may be routed through a layover in Hong Kong from other points to the Philippines. Although indirect flights are slower than direct ones, they can be a cost-effective alternative.

Shipping from China to Philippines, a multitude of air freight routes available. Here is a list of some popular routes:

  • Hong Kong to Manila served by Air Hong Kong
  • Hong Kong to Manila operated by Cathay Pacific Cargo
  • Hong Kong to Manila provided by China Airlines Cargo
  • Hong Kong to Cebu offered by Air Hong Kong
  • Shenzhen to Manila through Donghai Airlines
  • Shenzhen to Manila via FedEx Express

Airfreight from China to Philippines depends on the cargo’s weight and volume. This mode of transport is relatively costly. But air shipping can ensure a secure and timely arrival, making it particularly suitable for high-value items.

We at Airsupply engage with airlines departing from major airports and guarantee cargo space by Block Space Agreements. Therefore, you can enjoy the flexibility of arranging your China to Philippines shipping through multiple flights per day.

Sea freight to Philippines from China

Shipping from China to the Philippines by sea constitutes a massive industry. With the Philippines is an archipelagic nation boasting a plethora of ports for international trade, it’s a strategic location for ocean shipping.

It hosts an extensive network of around 429 seaports, including vital entrances to the Pacific trade routes. Below are the prime and large ports in the Philippines:

  • Port of Manila
  • Port of Cebu
  • Port of Davao
  • Port of Batanga

With sea freight service, you can choose between FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL (Less than Container Load) when sending goods from China to the Philippines. For more about FCL and LCL shipping modes, please check this article: FCL vs. LCL. Or, you can contact our dedicated team to receive an online instant quote!

Moreover, opting for sea freight to Philippines offers several benefits, such as cost savings on insurance and total shipping fees.

If your shipments meet any of the following criteria, consider using ocean freight:

  • Your suppliers are conveniently near seaports in China.
  • You have the time and can allow for a longer transit duration.
  • Your cargo volume exceeds two cubic meters (suitable for heavy items, project logistics, and more).

Airsupply, a rapidly growing logistics company based in China, provides a comprehensive array of services, including packing, loading, shipping, and customs clearance. We have established partnerships with renowned shipping lines like ZIM, COSCO, and MSC, enabling FCL and LCL shipping from China to Philippines.

Our primary focus lies in facilitating international shipping, like sea freight from China to the Philippines. We also offer additional services encompassing import customs brokerage and clearance.  

Door-to-door shipping from China to Philippines

When it comes to international shipping to the Philippines, choosing a door-to-door delivery can revolutionize the entire process. This convenient option ensures that your goods are handled from the supplier’s location in China to your doorstep in the Philippines.

For instance, many people source products from Alibaba and ship them to the Philippines, given Alibaba’s reputation as a reliable source for high-quality Chinese manufacturers and suppliers.

With door-to-door service, all you need is a competent freight forwarder to deal with the shipping operation. Typically, the forwarder will coordinate the shipment, clear customs, and offer document guidance.

Additionally, they can help oversee the entire process, allowing you to focus on your business while leaving the complexity to the experts.

It is a beneficial way to simplify your procurement process, sparing you from engaging with other parties at various stages of the import procedure.

To get the best services, you only need to share the details about your shipment with our shipping agents. Our door-to-door services cover air and sea freight for shipping from China to the Philippines. As tapped into a global network with reputable truck and express carriers, we can offer speedy and efficient service for your last-mile delivery.

Shipping cost from China to Philippines

The shipping rate from China to the Philippines is not set in stone. It varies depending on several factors, including:

Weight: The weight of your cargo significantly impacts the shipping cost. Heavier shipments incur higher expenses.

Cargo type: Shipping delicate or hazardous goods involves additional expenses due to safety measures and regulations.

Delivery time: If your shipment requires expedited delivery, it will cause an extra cost. Express services, especially same day delivery, may have higher fees.

Customs clearance: Charges associated with customs clearance can vary, impacting the overall shipping fee.

Apart from these, adverse weather conditions and surcharges can contribute to the overall shipping costs from China to the Philippines.

Generally, air freight is more expensive than sea freight due to its speed and convenience. To provide you with a reference, we’ve compiled a chart of China to Philippines shipping costs of different logistics solutions.

Air shipping fee from China to Philippines

WeightPrice
100kg+$3/kg
Manila500kg+$2.5/kg
1000kg+$2/kg
100kg+ $3/kg
Davao300kg+ $2.4/kg
500kg+ $2.4/kg

For the latest and precise pricing information, you can consult our shipping experts for detailed quotes.

Sea freight cost from China to Philippines

Port in ChinaPort of Destination20 ft Container (USD)40 ft Container (USD)LCL Charge (USD/CBM)
ShenzhenManila$500$600$30-$45
ShenzhenBatangas$550$600 $50-$60

For competitive shipping rates tailored to your specific needs, you can visit Airsupply’s official website.

China to Philippines shipping time 

Typically, under favorable conditions, you can expect your shipments from China to the Philippines within a timeframe spanning from 2 to 15 days. 

To provide you with a more detailed breakdown of delivery times, we’ve outlined the following estimates:

Air freight time

  • Air shipping is the fastest logistics solution, with shipping times ranging from 2 to 3 days. It is an excellent choice for time-sensitive shipments, albeit at a higher cost.
  • With door-to-door delivery, it generally takes 3-5 working days.

Sea freight time

  • LCL ocean:Typically, sea freight for LCL shipments from China to the Philippines can take approximately 8 to 13 days. It includes the time taken to consolidate cargo from various shippers into a single container.
  • FCL ocean:FCL shipments tend to have shorter transit times, often ranging from 7 to 10 days, as they don’t require the consolidation process.
  • Door-to-door:When shipping from China to Philippines by sea with a door-to-door service, the typical transit time is around 15 days.

It’s essential to note that these shipping times are approximate. For precise delivery timelines, you can consult our shipping agents. We can provide accurate estimates based on the specific details of your shipment.

Philippines customs import regulations

If you intend to import into the Philippines from China, you must obtain accreditation from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). You should register as a lawful importer and get an Import Clearance Certificate (ICC) through due process. This accreditation grants you the authority to ship goods into the country.

To apply for an ICC, you need to prepare the required documents. It may include:

  • Business registration certificate
  • Proforma invoice
  • Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) Certificate or other relevant certifications like standards compliance documents.

In addition, certain goods require import permits from relevant government agencies in the Philippines. Products like food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and electronics may need these permits.

Therefore, you should verify which permits are necessary for your specific cargo and initiate the application process well in advance.

china to philippines shipping

Prohibited and Restricted Imports in the Philippines

As with many nations, the Philippines also enforces restrictions on imported items. Below is a list of prohibited goods:

  • Right-hand drive vehicles
  • Hazardous waste
  • Used clothing and rags
  • Items that resemble firearms, like toy guns
  • Narcotic substances such as heroin, opium, marijuana, or synthetic drugs and their derivatives
  • Adulterated or misbranded food and drugs that do not comply with the provisions of the “Food and Drug Act.”
  • Explosives items such as dynamite, ammunition, and gunpowder
  • Gambling equipment, including roulette wheels, loaded dice, marked cards, and other gambling outfits
  • Goods that infringe upon intellectual property rights, as defined under the Intellectual Property Code and related laws

If you’re uncertain about the import eligibility of your goods into the Philippines, you can provide your cargo details to our experts, and we will conduct a thorough check for you.

Required Documents for Smooth Customs Clearance

The specific documents for customs clearance in the Philippines can vary depending on the nature of the goods and the applicable regulations. Commonly required documentations include:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Bill of lading or airway bill
  • Import permits or licenses
  • Certificate of origin
  • Tax Identification Number (TIN) registration

Furthermore, there are additional documents that they may request to verify that your cargo complies with legal and security requirements. Such as:

  • Duty and tax exemption certificate
  • Phytosanitary certificate for agricultural and plant-related products
  • Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) for pharmaceuticals and medical devices

Airsupply is experienced in shipping from China to the Philippines and can guide you in preparing the necessary paperwork for your shipments.

Philippines import duty and tax calculation

The calculation of import duties to the Philippines is based on the customs value, which includes the Cost, Insurance, and Freight. The formula for customs duties is as follows:

Customs Duties = Tariff Rate x (Cost of Goods + Insurance + Freight)

The import tariff rate in the Philippines typically ranges from 0% to 65%. To get the exact rate, you can search on this official website with a Harmonized System (HS) code depending on your product’s classification.

If your goods value does not exceed $200, the Philippines customs authority won’t impose any duty fees. However, you will still be subject to a fixed 12% VAT tax, regardless of the value of your shipment.

The VAT is calculated as a percentage of the sum of the cargo’s customs value and duties using the following formula:

VAT Tax = (Customs Value + Customs Duties) x 12%.

Hiring Airsupply to manage your customs clearance requirements in China to Philippines shipping is a wise choice. They can provide precise duty estimations, allowing you to incorporate these costs into your shipping budget effectively.

Additionally, they will enhance the efficiency of your shipping operations and provide comprehensive guidance throughout the logistics process.

Best freight forwarder from China to Philippines

Airsupply is a global player with a strong presence in China and the Philippines. We offer end-to-end supply chain solutions, including freight management, contract logistics, and e-commerce services.

Moreover, partnering with us guarantees you won’t encounter any concealed charges. Our shipping costs from China to Philippines are entirely transparent, enabling our customers to make well-informed financial preparations.

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