Shipping from China to France

TJ International Logistics is dedicated to providing efficient and secure cargo transportation solutions for clients worldwide. With extensive industry experience and a professional logistics network, we ensure that every shipment reaches its destination on time and in perfect condition. Whether by sea, air, or land, we offer customized transportation plans tailored to meet the needs of different scales and types of shipments.

Transport from China to the France

shipping from china
air transport
Door-to-door

Shipping by sea offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness for large shipments, high capacity for bulky goods, and the ability to transport a wide variety of items. It is particularly ideal for long-distance trade, as sea transport can handle significant volumes at relatively lower costs compared to air freight. Additionally, it is more environmentally friendly, producing fewer emissions per ton of cargo transported.

Air freight offers key advantages such as faster delivery times, making it ideal for urgent shipments and perishable goods. It provides greater reliability and flexibility, with frequent flight schedules and the ability to reach remote locations. Although more expensive than sea transport, air freight ensures quicker transit and reduces the risk of damage or theft, making it a preferred choice for high-value or time-sensitive cargo.

Door-to-door shipping offers significant advantages, including convenience and time-saving. It eliminates the need for businesses to handle multiple transport stages, as the service picks up goods from the origin and delivers them directly to the destination. This reduces the risk of delays, damage, or loss, and simplifies the logistics process. Additionally, it provides end-to-end tracking, ensuring transparency and better control over shipments.

Shipping time from China to France

The shipping time from China to France can vary depending on the mode of transportation:

  • Air Freight: Typically takes about 3 to 7 days.
  • Sea Freight: Usually takes around 20 to 40 days, depending on the specific ports and route.
  • Express Shipping (e.g., DHL, FedEx): Can be as fast as 2 to 5 days, especially for smaller, time-sensitive shipments.

Goods that can be shipped from China to France

You can import a wide variety of goods from China to France, including:

  1. Electronics & Electrical Appliances: Smartphones, laptops, televisions, cameras, and home appliances.
  2. Clothing & Textiles: Garments, fabrics, shoes, and accessories.
  3. Toys & Games: Children’s toys, board games, and outdoor play equipment.
  4. Furniture: Home furniture, office furniture, and storage solutions.
  5. Machinery & Industrial Equipment: Production machines, automation systems, and construction equipment.
  6. Automotive Parts: Car components, engine parts, tires, and accessories.
  7. Consumer Goods: Kitchenware, home decor, and tools.
  8. Health & Beauty Products: Skincare products, cosmetics, and wellness equipment.
  9. Footwear & Bags: Shoes, handbags, backpacks, and wallets.
  10. Raw Materials: Steel, aluminum, plastic products, and chemicals.

What's Involved in Air Freight from China to France

1. Pick-up and Collection of Goods
  • The process begins with the collection of your goods from the supplier’s location in China.
  • You can arrange pick-up through a freight forwarder or directly with an air cargo company.
2. Documentation and Customs
  • Before shipment, you’ll need to provide necessary documentation, such as the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and possibly a certificate of origin.
  • The shipment will undergo export customs clearance in China, ensuring all taxes and regulations are adhered to.
3. Cargo Consolidation (If Necessary)
  • If you’re shipping a smaller load, your goods might be consolidated with others into a larger shipment (LCL—Less than Container Load).
  • This reduces shipping costs but may add a little extra time for consolidation.
4. Flight Transit
  • The cargo is transported by air to France. This typically takes between 3–7 days, depending on the airline and whether it’s a direct or connecting flight.
  • The shipment travels to major airports like Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or other French airports.
5. Arrival in France & Customs Clearance
  • Upon arrival, the goods must clear French customs. This involves:
    • Submitting required documents (invoice, customs declarations).
    • Paying import duties and taxes based on the value and type of goods.
  • Customs officers may inspect the goods to ensure compliance with import regulations.
6. Delivery to Final Destination
  • After customs clearance, the shipment is handed over to a local carrier for delivery.
  • Goods can be delivered directly to your specified address in France (door-to-door delivery) or to a nearby warehouse for pick-up.
7. Final Handling & Delivery
  • Depending on the service chosen, your shipment can be handled by courier services (FedEx, DHL, UPS) or a logistics company.
  • The goods are then delivered to you or your warehouse in France.
8. Optional Insurance and Extra Services
  • You may choose to purchase cargo insurance to protect your goods in case of damage or loss during transit.
  • Additional services like tracking can help you monitor the progress of your shipment.

When to use Air Freight from China to France?

1. Urgent Shipments
  • When to Use: When you need to ship goods quickly or meet a tight deadline, air freight is the best option.
  • Why: Air freight is the fastest mode of transport, with typical transit times ranging from 1 to 5 days depending on the route and specific logistics. If you need your goods in France within a short time frame, air freight ensures timely delivery.
2. High-Value or Time-Sensitive Goods
  • When to Use: For high-value, fragile, or time-sensitive items such as electronics, luxury goods, pharmaceutical products, and perishable items like fresh flowers or seafood.
  • Why: Air freight minimizes the time in transit, reducing the risk of damage, spoilage, or theft. It’s the ideal option for goods where security and condition are critical.
3. Light and Compact Shipments
  • When to Use: If your shipment is small, lightweight, and doesn’t take up much space, air freight is a convenient choice.
  • Why: Air freight is more cost-effective for smaller shipments (especially those under 100 kg), since it allows for faster delivery without taking up the space of an entire container, as would be required with ocean freight.
4. Perishable or Temperature-Sensitive Goods
  • When to Use: When shipping perishable goods (e.g., fresh food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals) that need to be delivered quickly to prevent spoilage.
  • Why: Air freight is particularly suited to these types of goods, as it ensures they reach their destination in the shortest time possible, reducing the risk of spoilage or degradation.
5. Reliable, Predictable Scheduling
  • When to Use: When you need a reliable and predictable shipping schedule to meet business demands or customer orders.
  • Why: Air freight offers more consistent delivery schedules with fewer disruptions compared to ocean freight, which can be delayed by weather, port congestion, or customs.
6. Shipments with High Demand or Limited Supply
  • When to Use: For goods that are in high demand or have limited stock, where you need to restock quickly.
  • Why: Air freight allows for rapid replenishment, ensuring you can maintain stock levels and meet customer demand without delay.
7. Less Complex Customs and Documentation
  • When to Use: When dealing with smaller shipments or shipments that require simpler documentation and fewer regulatory checks.
  • Why: Compared to ocean freight, air freight generally involves less complex documentation and customs processes, making it quicker and easier for smaller shipments.
8. International E-commerce or Retail Orders
  • When to Use: If you’re running an e-commerce business or need to ship retail goods internationally on a regular basis with quick turnaround times.
  • Why: Air freight provides the speed needed for businesses that have frequent, small-volume shipments or need to fulfill orders promptly, especially if customers expect rapid delivery.
9. Fragile or High-Risk Goods
  • When to Use: For delicate, fragile, or high-risk items (such as artwork, medical equipment, or technology).
  • Why: Air freight offers a higher level of handling and ensures the goods are transported safely with minimal exposure to potential hazards or damage, especially in comparison to sea freight.
10. Reduced Inventory and Supply Chain Costs
  • When to Use: When you need to reduce inventory holding costs and improve cash flow.
  • Why: Faster air freight shipments allow you to reduce the amount of inventory you need to hold in stock, reducing warehousing costs and ensuring faster turnover of products.
11. Weather and Natural Disasters
  • When to Use: When natural disasters, bad weather, or other disruptions delay ocean freight shipments, and you need to find a faster alternative.
  • Why: Air freight is often unaffected by weather-related disruptions that can cause delays in sea freight, especially for more urgent shipments.
China Airport
French Airports

Main Air Ports in China

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
  • Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

Main Air Ports in France

  • Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – Paris
  • Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
  • Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)
  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)

What's Involved in Sea Freight from China to France

1. Booking the Shipment
  • What it Involves: The first step is booking a space with a shipping carrier, either directly or through a freight forwarder. You will need to provide details such as the type of cargo, its weight, dimensions, destination, and delivery timeframe.
  • Why It’s Important: Securing a booking ensures that your goods will be placed on the correct vessel and routed appropriately.
2. Containerization
  • What it Involves: Goods are loaded into containers for protection and easier handling. Containers come in various sizes (e.g., 20-foot, 40-foot) and types (e.g., standard, refrigerated, open-top).
  • Why It’s Important: Using containers ensures goods are secure during transit and maximizes space utilization.
3. Export Customs Clearance (China)
  • What it Involves: Your goods must clear Chinese customs before they can be shipped. This requires submitting export documentation like invoices, packing lists, and the bill of lading.
  • Why It’s Important: Customs clearance is required to legally ship goods out of China.
4. Ocean Transit
  • What it Involves: After clearance, the goods are shipped by sea, typically on container vessels, with the journey taking several weeks depending on the port of origin and destination.
  • Why It’s Important: Sea freight is the most cost-effective long-distance shipping option for large or bulky shipments.
5. Arrival and Import Customs Clearance (France)
  • What it Involves: Once the goods arrive at a French port (such as Le Havre or Marseille), they must clear French customs. You will need to present various documents, including the import declaration, commercial invoice, and bill of lading.
  • Why It’s Important: This ensures that the shipment meets France’s import regulations and duties are paid before delivery.
6. Delivery to Final Destination
  • What it Involves: Once cleared through customs, the goods are transported to their final destination by road, rail, or sometimes another ship if necessary.
  • Why It’s Important: This final leg of the journey ensures your goods reach the correct recipient or warehouse in France.

When to use Ocean Freight from China to France?

1. Cost-Effectiveness for Large Shipments
  • When to Use: Ocean freight is significantly more cost-effective than air freight, especially for large and bulky shipments. If you are shipping a large volume of goods or heavy items that don’t need to arrive quickly, ocean freight is a good choice.
  • Why: Shipping by sea allows you to transport large quantities of goods at a lower rate per unit compared to air freight, making it ideal for economical long-distance shipping.
2. Non-urgent Shipments
  • When to Use: If your shipment isn’t time-sensitive and you can afford a longer transit time, ocean freight is the preferred option.
  • Why: Ocean freight takes longer (usually between 25 to 40 days from China to France, depending on ports and the specific route), but it’s perfect when you’re not in a rush. The slower transit time allows for better cost control.
3. Shipping Heavy or Bulk Goods
  • When to Use: Ocean freight is the best choice for heavy, bulky, or oversized items that are difficult or expensive to transport by air.
  • Why: Ocean freight containers can handle large volumes of cargo like machinery, raw materials, or construction equipment, which would be difficult to ship by air due to size and weight restrictions.
4. Full Container Loads (FCL) or Less-than-Container Loads (LCL)
  • When to Use:
    • Full Container Load (FCL): If you have enough goods to fill an entire container, ocean freight is highly efficient for transporting large volumes at a lower cost.
    • Less-than-Container Load (LCL): If you have smaller shipments that don’t fill a full container, LCL allows you to share container space with others, still providing a cheaper option than air freight.
  • Why: Both FCL and LCL options make ocean freight flexible, allowing businesses of various sizes to take advantage of sea transport without overpaying for unused space.
5. Shipping Consumer Goods and Manufactured Products
  • When to Use: Ocean freight is commonly used for the transport of consumer products, electronics, clothing, and industrial products that are mass-produced and do not require urgent delivery.
  • Why: These goods are often shipped in bulk, making ocean freight ideal due to its ability to handle large quantities and the cost efficiency it offers.
6. Environmental Considerations
  • When to Use: If sustainability is a concern, ocean freight is generally considered more environmentally friendly than air freight.
  • Why: Although it still has an environmental footprint, shipping by sea produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions per ton of cargo compared to air transport, making it a better choice for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
7. Shipping Goods with Longer Shelf Life
  • When to Use: If the goods being shipped are non-perishable or have a longer shelf life (e.g., clothing, machinery, raw materials), ocean freight is appropriate.
  • Why: It provides slower shipping times, so it works best for items that won’t degrade during transit. For instance, electronics or non-sensitive materials are fine to be transported by sea.
8. Customs and Compliance
  • When to Use: Ocean freight allows for better customs control and documentation when dealing with large-scale international shipments.
  • Why: For businesses moving a lot of inventory or heavy machinery, ocean freight can simplify compliance with international shipping laws and regulations, especially for import/export businesses.
China Seaport
French Harbor

Main Sea Ports in China

  • Shanghai Port
  • Shenzhen Port
  • Guangzhou Port
  • Tianjin Port

Main Sea Ports in France

  • Port of Le Havre
  • Port of Marseille
  • Port of Dunkirk
  • Port of Bordeaux

Why choose TJ China Freight for all your cargo transportation from China to France?

1. Experience and Expertise
  • What it Means: With years of experience in international logistics and shipping, TJ CHINA FREIGHT has a deep understanding of the processes involved in shipping from China to France. They handle all aspects of the shipping process with precision, from documentation to customs clearance.
  • Why It’s Important: Their expertise helps ensure that your goods are handled efficiently, and potential issues are anticipated and addressed before they become problems.
2. Comprehensive Services
  • What it Means: TJ CHINA FREIGHT offers a wide range of services including air and sea freight, customs clearance, warehousing, and door-to-door delivery.
  • Why It’s Important: This all-in-one solution streamlines the shipping process, meaning you won’t have to coordinate with multiple parties. It makes the entire process smoother and more reliable.
3. Cost-Effective Solutions
  • What it Means: TJ CHINA FREIGHT focuses on providing competitive pricing for their services, making it an affordable choice for shipping from China to France.
  • Why It’s Important: Shipping internationally can be expensive, but their cost-effective solutions help you save money without compromising on service quality. They offer value for money for both large and small shipments.
4. Reliable Timelines
  • What it Means: They have a strong reputation for meeting deadlines and ensuring that shipments arrive on time. Their efficient scheduling and tracking systems keep things on track.
  • Why It’s Important: In international shipping, delays can cause significant disruptions. Trusting a company with a proven track record of punctuality minimizes the risk of delays affecting your business.
5. Expert Customs Handling
  • What it Means: TJ CHINA FREIGHT is experienced in handling both Chinese export customs and French import customs. They ensure that all paperwork is in order and that your goods clear customs quickly and smoothly.
  • Why It’s Important: Customs can be a complex and time-consuming part of the shipping process. Having a company with expert knowledge in this area reduces the risk of customs delays and fines.
6. Global Network
  • What it Means: They have a global network of partners and agents in key ports and cities around the world, including France. This gives them the flexibility to handle shipments from any part of China and deliver to any destination in France.
  • Why It’s Important: A strong global network ensures that shipments are handled seamlessly across borders and that any issues can be addressed locally, no matter where you’re shipping from or to.
7. Customer Support
  • What it Means: TJ CHINA FREIGHT offers exceptional customer service with a dedicated team available to answer questions, resolve issues, and provide updates throughout the shipping process.
  • Why It’s Important: Good communication is key to stress-free shipping. Having direct access to knowledgeable support ensures that any concerns or questions are quickly addressed.
8. Tailored Shipping Solutions
  • What it Means: Whether you’re shipping small packages or large volumes, TJ CHINA FREIGHT can offer customized solutions based on your specific needs. They work with you to determine the best method of transportation and ensure optimal cost efficiency.
  • Why It’s Important: Shipping needs vary from business to business. Tailored solutions ensure that you get the best service for your unique requirements, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
9. Safety and Security
  • What it Means: Your cargo will be handled with the utmost care, and they employ secure methods to prevent any damage or loss during transit.
  • Why It’s Important: The safety of your goods is critical, especially for high-value or fragile items. Trusting a company that prioritizes cargo security ensures that your shipment arrives intact.
10. Technology-Driven
  • What it Means: TJ CHINA FREIGHT uses advanced tracking systems and digital platforms to keep you informed about the status of your shipment in real time.
  • Why It’s Important: You’ll have full visibility of your goods in transit, which helps you plan and adjust your schedules accordingly.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get Best Shipping Rates from China to France?

To get the best shipping rates:

  • Compare rates from different freight carriers.
  • Book in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes.
  • Consider shipping during off-peak seasons.
  • Consolidate smaller shipments into larger ones (if possible).
How do you Calculate Cost of Shipping from China to France?

Shipping costs depend on:

  • Mode of transport (air vs. sea).
  • Size and weight of the shipment.
  • Destination (distance to the port/airport).
  • Fuel surcharges and customs fees.
  • Insurance costs (optional).
Are there Goods Exempted from Taxes/Duties when Shipping from China to France?

Certain goods may be exempt from taxes or duties, such as:

  • Personal belongings
  • Items within the personal allowance limits
  • Specific items under trade agreements or special import categories
How do you Ship Dangerous Goods from China to France?

Dangerous goods must comply with international regulations such as:

  • Proper packaging and labeling.
  • Using certified transport carriers experienced in handling hazardous materials.
  • Meeting all safety standards during transit and customs clearance.
Are there Restricted Imports to France from China?

Yes, some goods may be restricted or prohibited, such as:

  • Counterfeit products
  • Certain foodstuffs or agricultural goods
  • Items violating intellectual property rights
How does Door to Door Shipping from China to France Work?

Door-to-door shipping means:

  • Pick-up of goods from the sender’s location in China.
  • Transportation to the destination in France.
  • Delivery to the recipient’s door, including customs clearance and handling.
What are the available Options for Express Shipping from China to France?

Options for express shipping include:

  • Courier services like FedEx, DHL, and UPS.
  • Air freight via express cargo services.
How much Taxes/Duties will you Pay when Importing from China to France?

The taxes and duties depend on:

  • The customs value of the goods.
  • Tariff classifications under the EU Common Customs Tariff.
  • VAT rates in France (typically 20%).
When should you Choose LCL or FCL when Shipping from China to France?
  • LCL (Less than Container Load): Choose LCL if you are shipping smaller quantities of goods that don’t fill a full container.
  • FCL (Full Container Load): Choose FCL if you are shipping large quantities that fill a full container, which may offer better cost efficiency.
How do you Track Cargo when Shipping from China to France?

You can track your cargo through:

  • The tracking number provided by the shipping company.
  • Online tracking systems of freight forwarders or carriers.
What Does Customs Clearance Entail when Shipping from China to France?

Customs clearance involves:

  • Submission of necessary documents (invoice, packing list, bill of lading, etc.).
  • Payment of applicable duties and taxes.
  • Inspection of goods (if necessary).
  • Approval for entry into France.
Why should you Hire Freight Forwarder when Shipping from China to France?

Hiring a freight forwarder helps:

  • Simplify complex logistics processes.
  • Handle customs clearance.
  • Ensure proper documentation.
  • Manage any potential issues during transit.
Is there Best time to Ship from China to France?

The best time to ship is usually during off-peak seasons, avoiding major holidays like Chinese New Year and summer months when demand is higher, leading to delays and higher shipping costs.

What are the Common Challenges when Shipping from China to France?
  • Customs delays.
  • Rising shipping costs during peak seasons.
  • Miscommunication or lack of clarity on shipping terms.
  • Damage or loss during transit.
What are the Incoterms to use when Shipping from China to France?

Common Incoterms include:

  • FOB (Free on Board): Seller covers costs until goods are loaded on the ship.
  • CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Seller includes shipping and insurance in the price.
  • DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Seller covers all costs to the destination.
Which Documents do you need to Ship from China to France?

Required documents include:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Bill of lading
  • Certificate of origin
  • Customs declarations
Are there Packaging Guidelines when Shipping from China to France?

Yes, packaging must meet:

  • Safety standards for the type of goods.
  • Labeling requirements for customs and transport.
  • Durability to withstand handling and transit.