This guide will show you everything you should know about shipping from China to Europe. Find the optimal strategies for your upcoming shipments!
Air freight from China to Europe
Air freight offers the fastest shipping option to Europe, with transit times typically ranging from 2 to 5 days. However, external factors such as weather conditions, peak seasons, holidays, and customs procedures can affect the overall delivery time.
Air shipping cost from China to Europe per kg
| Port to Port | Door to Door | |
|---|---|---|
| FR | $4.98/kg | $8.64/kg |
| UK | $5.85/kg | $7.86/kg |
While faster, air freight is more expensive than other shipping methods. Costs are charged per kilogram and can vary based on factors like freight classification, aircraft type, and fuel surcharges.
In addition, it is critical to note that certain items, such as batteries and heavier goods, are restricted under IATA regulations.
Ocean freight from China to Europe
Sea freight is ideal for transporting substantial volumes of goods, significantly reducing the cost per unit. Typically, the shipping time from China to Europe by sea ranges from 30 to 45 days.
Container shipping price from China to Europe
| 20” Container(USD) | 40” Container (USD) | LCL (USD/CBM) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | $2400 | $4025 | 20USD/CBM |
| FR | $2150 | $4000 | 15USD/CBM |
| DE | $2250 | $3350 | 67USD/CBM |
Note: The price is only for reference. To obtain the latest price, contact our shipping experts now.
When opting for container shipping, you can choose between a Full Container Load (FCL) or a Less than Container Load (LCL).
FCL is cost-efficient for large quantities, offering flat rates. It is suitable for bulk items that fill an entire container.
Conversely, LCL is an economical alternative for smaller shipments that do not require a full container. This option allows you to share container space with other shippers, leading to lower freight costs.
However, it typically involves longer delivery times than FCL due to the time needed to consolidate and de-consolidate goods at the origin and destination ports.
Rail freight from China to Europe
Rail transport offers an efficient and cost-saving shipping solution from China to Europe in approximately 18 delivery days. It is quicker than sea freight and is more affordable than air freight.
The innovative rail transportation system, known as the New Silk Road, spans from China through Central Asia to Europe. This advanced network connects China with over fifteen major European cities, including distant hubs such as London, Madrid, and Paris.
Rail freight costs from China to Europe
| 100kg+ | 500kg+ | |
|---|---|---|
| UK | $2.7/kg | $2.7/kg |
| FR | $3/kg | $2.71/kg |
| DE | $2.56/kg | $2.29/kg |
Note: The price is only for reference. To obtain the latest price, contact our shipping experts now.
Major shipping routes from China to Europe
Ocean shipping
- Southern Route (Suez Canal Route):This reliable route begins at southern Chinese ports like Shenzhen, traverses the South China Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Suez Canal, and reaches Western Europe.
- Atlantic Route:Starting from the southern coast of China, this route crosses the Indian Ocean, rounds the Cape of Good Hope, and enters Western Europe via the Atlantic Ocean.
Rail freight
In addition to the New Silk Road, the China-Europe Railway Express is another prominent rail route for transporting goods between China and Europe.
This extensive network includes multiple routes through three main corridors—eastern, central, and western—connecting China with numerous European countries such as Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, and the UK.
If you are uncertain about the most efficient shipping route for your cargo, consider consulting with our shipping experts. They can assess your shipment needs and recommend the optimal logistics solutions.
Customs clearance process in Europe
In the EU, the Union Customs Code (UCC) facilitates customs clearance, governing goods movement within member states. Here’s a simplified breakdown of European customs clearance:
- Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI): EORI numbers are mandatory for EU-based economic operators and those engaging in customs activities. They’re essential for filing customs declarations and entry/exit summaries.
- Document preparation: Ensure you have the necessary documents—commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc.—before your goods reach Europe. The Importer of Record (IOR), which can be yourself, a freight forwarder, or a customs broker, is responsible for customs clearance.
- HS Code acquisition: Each product has a specific 8-digit HS code determining tax rates. You can check the official website to obtain the customs code.
- Customs entry declaration: Submit your declaration form to the European customs authorities, detailing goods type, value, quantity, HS code, origin, and purpose.
- Customs valuation: Customs assesses goods value based on CIF value for tax purposes.
- Duty and tax payment: Import duties, taxes, and fees are calculated based on goods value, classification, and origin, payable by the IOR to customs authorities.
- Customs inspection: Customs may randomly inspect goods for compliance, potentially delaying clearance.
Import customs clearance may take days or weeks, depending on shipment volume. Consider this when planning your import shipment.
After payment of duties and taxes and fulfillment of all customs requirements, the goods are released from customs custody, thereby gaining authorization to access the local market.
European import duty and tax you should pay
When shipping goods from beyond the European Union, it’s crucial to account for import duties, Value Added Tax (VAT), and potentially excise duty. Import duties are applicable for purchases exceeding €150, with rates varying from 0% to 17%.
VAT is levied universally on all import shipments, regardless of their value. For instance, phones incur 0% import duties but carry a 21% VAT, whereas laptops and tablets similarly bear 0% import duties but attract a 21% VAT.
Certain commodities, like alcohol and tobacco products, may necessitate the payment of excise duty. This duty is settled at your Revenue office before shipment.
To check the tax and duty for your shipments from China to Europe, click here. Alternatively, you can send us your cargo specifications, and we can provide an instant quote with all duties included for your peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions:
How long does Shipping from China to Europe take?
Typically, lead times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Air express freight usually takes 3-5 days, air shipping ranges from 2-5 days, rail freight averages 18-20 days, and ocean shipping can take 30-45 days.
These estimates may be influenced by various factors. Therefore, it’s advisable to verify the timelines with your logistics provider.
How much does shipping from China to Europe Cost?
Freight rates are always subject to fluctuation seasonally, especially during peak seasons like the Christmas rush and Chinese New Year. These rates also depend on logistics providers, so it’s best to contact freight carriers directly to calculate shipping costs from China to Europe.
What is the cheapest shipping from China to Europe?
Consider FCL sea freight or rail transport for significant savings. While these methods may take longer, they offer lower costs. However, they’re not ideal for perishable or time-sensitive goods. Reach out to our expert shipping team for further guidance.
How to track shipping status from China to Europe?
Simply input your 11-digit AWB number for air freight or your bill of lading number for sea and rail freight on a tracking website like Track Trace.
If you’re unsure about the process, Airsupply offers 24/7 support. Our remote online tracking platform provides real-time location updates on the status of your goods.
What documents do I need to ship from China to Europe?
Except for the essential document requirement when shipping from China to Europe, you’ll also need an EORI number. Whether you’re VAT registered or not, obtaining this number is a prerequisite for smooth shipping. Click here for VAT-registered individuals, or here if you’re not, to apply for your EORI number.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into shipping from China to Europe. International shipping can pose significant challenges. Choosing the correct freight forwarder is essential to streamlining the process.
At Airsupply, we offer transparent pricing and top-notch shipping services tailored to your shipment needs from China to Europe.
Here’s what we can do for you:
- Freight forwarding: We coordinate the seamless transportation of goods via air, sea, and land, optimizing routes and carriers for timely delivery.
- Customs clearance: Our team navigates complex customs regulations and procedures, ensuring compliance and minimizing delays.
- Warehousing and distribution:With secure storage and tailored distribution services, we manage inventory to meet your specific needs.
- E-commerce logistics: We specialize in providing logistics solutions for online retailers, optimizing fulfillment processes, and facilitating global expansion.
