How to ship from China to Europe: (Complete guide for 2026)
Introduction
Shipping goods from China to Europe can be confusing, especially for small businesses and first-time importers. With multiple shipping methods, complex customs rules, and hidden costs, choosing the wrong option can quickly eat into your profit.
In this guide, we’ll explain how international shipping from China to Europe really works, compare different transport methods, break down costs, and help you avoid the most common mistakes.
1. Main Shipping Methods from China to Europe
There are four main ways to ship goods from China to Europe. Each has different costs, transit times, and use cases.
1.1 Sea Freight (FCL & LCL)
Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective option for large shipments.
Options:
FCL (Full Container Load) – You use the entire container
LCL (Less than Container Load) – Your cargo is consolidated with others
Pros:
Lowest cost per unit
Suitable for bulk goods
Stable for long-term supply chains
Cons:
Long transit time
Port congestion and delays possible
Typical transit time:
25–40 days (China → Europe ports)
1.2 Air Freight
Air freight is ideal for urgent or high-value shipments.
Pros:
Fast delivery
Lower risk of damage
Better for electronics or samples
Cons:
Much higher cost
Strict size and weight limits
Typical transit time:
3–7 days
1.3 Rail Freight (China–Europe Railway)
Rail freight is a middle option between sea and air.
Pros:
Faster than sea freight
More affordable than air freight
Stable schedules
Cons:
Limited routes
Not suitable for all cargo types
Typical transit time:
15–25 days
1.4 Express Courier (DHL / UPS / FedEx)
Best for small parcels or documents.
Pros:
Door-to-door service
Easy customs clearance
Tracking available
Cons:
Very expensive for large shipments
Typical transit time:
3–5 days
2. Shipping Cost Breakdown (What You’re Really Paying For)
Many first-time shippers only look at the freight price, but real shipping costs include much more.
Common cost components:
Freight charge (sea / air / rail)
Export customs clearance in China
Import VAT and duties
Destination port fees
Last-mile delivery
Handling and documentation fees
Tip:
Always ask for a full landed cost, not just the freight rate.
3. Customs Clearance & VAT in Europe
Customs clearance is where many shipments get delayed.
Key points:
Commercial invoice and packing list must be accurate
HS codes must match the goods
Import VAT applies in most EU countries
Incorrect declarations can lead to fines or seizure
For EU shipments, VAT rules vary depending on:
Shipment value
Importer type (business or individual)
Destination country
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing the cheapest option blindly
Cheap freight often hides extra fees later.
❌ Incorrect cargo description
This can cause customs delays or inspections.
❌ No clear Incoterms agreement
Always confirm whether it’s EXW, FOB, DDP, etc.
❌ No local delivery plan
Port-to-door costs are often underestimated.
5. How to Choose the Right Shipping Solution
Ask yourself:
How urgent is the shipment?
What is the cargo value?
Is this a one-time shipment or long-term?
Do you need door-to-door service?
There is no “best” shipping method — only the right one for your situation.
6. Get Professional Shipping Support
If you’re unsure which option fits your needs, working with an experienced logistics partner can save both time and money.
At Cargza, we help clients ship goods from China to Europe with:
Transparent pricing
Flexible shipping options
Personalized logistics solutions
📧 Contact us: cargza.CSR@outlook.com
🌐 Website: https://cargza.com