Shipping from China to Italy offers several options, including air, sea, and rail, each with advantages. Transit times, costs, and schedules vary, so here’s a detailed breakdown to help you make the right choice.
Methods of Shipping from China to Italy
Air freight from China to Italy
Airfreight is the fastest way to ship from China to Italy. It is ideal for high-value or time-sensitive shipments such as electronics or medical supplies and reduces transit time to 3–7 days.
Flights typically depart from major Chinese hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen and arrive at key Italian airports such as Rome, Milan, and Florence. Companies like Airsupply, based in Shenzhen, offer comprehensive end-to-end solutions, including pickup, customs clearance, air transport, and final delivery.
With strong partnerships with major airlines, they secure competitive rates and reliable cargo space, even during peak seasons.
Sea freight from China to Italy
Sea freight from China to Italy nails it on value for large and bulk shipments. It’s the smart choice compared to air freight, particularly for transporting furniture, machinery, or equipment.
Cargo ships sail from bustling ports like Shenzhen, Shanghai, or Ningbo, docking at Italy’s gateways such as Genoa, Venice, or Naples in about 25-35 days. The transit time to Italy might stretch during peak seasons, but the savings compensate for it.
You also have flexibility: choose full container loads (FCL) for larger shipments or less-than-container loads (LCL) for smaller ones. We streamline the process with customs clearance, consolidation, and door-to-door sea freight services from China to Italy. Plus, we partner with trusted carriers like COSCO and Maersk to ensure smooth deliveries.
Rail freight from China to Italy
Rail shipping offers a slick middle ground for shipping from China to Italy. Via the Trans-Eurasian railway network, like the China-Europe Express, it’s faster than sea freight’s 25-35 days and cheaper than air’s sky-high rates. Goods roll from hubs like Chongqing, Chengdu, or Xi’an straight to Milan or Verona in 15-20 days.
Key hubs for shipping from China to Italy
Top seaports in Italy
The Port of Genoa, located in Liguria, is a Mediterranean powerhouse. It handles containers and bulk cargo and connects China’s major ports, such as Shenzhen, to global trade routes.
Further down the coast, the Port of Livorno keeps it smooth for central Italy, tying into Asian and European lanes with ease. In the south, the Port of Naples manages a diverse mix of containers, bulk goods, and passenger traffic, playing a key role in southern Italy’s trade flow.
As for major airports in China, you can check this article.
Major airports in Italy
Rome’s Fiumicino Airport is the leading hub for air freight. As Italy’s largest airport, it receives frequent flights from Asia, including Shanghai and Guangzhou.
In the north, Milan’s Malpensa Airport handles most cargo traffic and is ideal for door-to-door air shipping from China to Italy, supporting distribution across Europe.
Though smaller, Venice’s Marco Polo Airport is a vital northeastern hub for quickly moving goods to the Middle East and other parts of Europe.
On the other hand, you can click here to find prime seaports in China.
Shipping costs from China to Italy
The cost depends on the mode of transport: air, sea, or rail. For example, air freight typically ranges from $4 to $9 per kilogram. Sea freight costs approximately $2,600 to $4,500 for a 20-foot container. Rail freight generally falls between $4,800 and $6,800 for a 40-foot container. Below are the estimated rates for your reference:
Air freight cost per kg from China to Italy
| POL | POD | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai (PVG) | Rome (FCO) | $4~$8/kg |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | Milan (MXP) | $4.5~$8.5/kg |
| Beijing (PEK) | Rome (FCO) | $4~$9/kg |
Container shipping rate from China to Italy
| POL | POD | 20ft Con | 40ft Con |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Genoa | $1900-$3000 | $3150-$4950 |
| Shenzhen | Naples | $1900-$3100 | $3100-$5000 |
| Shenzhen | Trieste | $1900-$2900 | $2900-$4800 |
LCL sea freight price from China to Italy
| POL | POD | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Genoa | $100~$150/CBM |
Prices are for reference only. Contact our ASLG logistics experts for the latest shipping rates.
Shipping time from China to Italy
Sea freight from hubs like Shenzhen or Shanghai to Italian ports such as Genoa or Naples typically takes 30 to 45 days. Air freight is much faster, usually arriving in 3 to 7 days, while rail shipping takes 16 to 20 days. However, port congestion or weather conditions may extend these timeframes. For an accurate schedule and delivery time, contact our logistics experts today!
Tariffs, import taxes, and customs clearance
Tariffs: The Border Toll
As part of the EU, Italy follows the Common Customs Tariff, with rates varying by product according to the Harmonized System (HS) code. For instance, electronics from China might face 2-4%, while clothing could hit 12%. These fees protect local industries and fund the EU. You’ll pay based on your shipment’s CIF value (cost, insurance, freight).
Import taxes: The VAT kick
Beyond tariffs, Italy adds Value-Added Tax (VAT) at a 22% standard rate, though essentials like food might drop to 4% or 10%. It’s calculated on the CIF value plus the tariff. For instance, a $1,000 shipment with a $40 tariff (4%) would incur a VAT of $228: (($1,000 + $40) × 22%). Unlike tariffs, VAT applies to imported and domestic goods.
Customs clearance requirements
To clear customs in Italy, you’ll need critical documents such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Italian customs authorities review the HS code, declared value, and certificate of origin to calculate duties and taxes. A broker or freight forwarder like ASLG can manage the process and ensure your shipment clears smoothly without delays.
Best China to Italy freight forwarder
Choosing the right freight forwarder is key to smooth and efficient shipping from China to Italy. Airsupply is your reliable partner for hassle-free delivery. They offer comprehensive solutions across air, sea, and rail, tailored to your priorities, whether you are focused on speed, cost savings, or a balanced approach.
Airsupply also specializes in deliveries to Italian Amazon FBA warehouses, making them a smart choice for e-commerce sellers. Their Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service covers customs clearance and import duties in Italy, so you can focus on your business while they handle the logistics.
