TJ International Logistics is dedicated to providing efficient, secure, and precise freight transportation services to our clients. Whether it’s air, sea, or land transportation, we tailor the most suitable shipping solutions based on the client’s needs, ensuring timely and safe delivery to the destination. With an extensive global network and rich industry experience, we ensure the smooth transport of every shipment, giving you peace of mind.
Freight from China to Japan
As global trade continues to expand, the freight demand between China and the UK is steadily increasing. Whether by sea or air, choosing the right mode of transport is crucial for businesses. Freight transport from China to the UK, whether by sea or air, has its unique advantages and applicable scenarios. By understanding costs, transport times, customs procedures, and key port information, businesses can better plan their logistics to ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods.
Cost Overview (Sea Freight and Air Freight)
The shipping costs from China to Japan depend on several factors, including the shipping method (air freight or sea freight), the weight or volume of the goods, the shipping distance, the destination, and whether additional services (such as insurance or customs duties) are required. Here are the key factors that affect the cost:
Shipping Method:
Air Freight: Typically used for urgent, small-batch, or high-value goods. Air freight is more expensive, but the shipping time is shorter. The cost is usually calculated based on weight or volume, depending on the density of the goods.
Sea Freight: Suitable for large quantities or non-urgent goods. Sea freight is generally more economical, especially for large shipments. Costs are based on the size of the container (FCL or LCL).
Weight or Volume of Goods:
Shipping costs are often based on the dimensional weight (the larger of the actual weight or volume) of the cargo. If the cargo has a large volume but is relatively light (e.g., foam boards, plastic products), the shipping cost might be higher.
Container Type (Sea Freight):
Full Container Load (FCL): Suitable for large shipments, typically charged by the size of the container, such as a 20-foot container (about 33 cubic meters) or a 40-foot container (about 67 cubic meters).
Less-than-Container Load (LCL): Suitable for smaller shipments, charged based on the space the goods occupy in the container.
Destination Port or City:
Shipping costs also vary depending on the destination port (such as Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama) or specific cities.
Shipping Timeframe:
Faster shipping usually costs more, especially for air freight or express courier services. If the shipping time is critical, air freight or express services will be more expensive.
Additional Services:
These may include insurance fees, customs clearance fees, unloading fees at the destination port, etc., all of which will increase the total shipping cost.
Rough Cost Estimate:
Air Freight: Costs typically range from a few dollars to tens of dollars per kilogram (the exact cost depends on the airline and flight details).
Sea Freight: FCL (full container load) shipping costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per container. LCL (less-than-container load) rates are approximately $40 to $100 per cubic meter.
Shipping Time
Sea Freight Time: The shipping time from Chinese ports (e.g., Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen) to Japanese ports (e.g., Tokyo, Osaka, or Yokohama) typically ranges from 4 to 7 days. For locations farther from major ports, the shipping time may be longer. For example, shipping from Guangzhou to Tokyo may take around 7 days, while from Shanghai to Osaka may only take 4 to 5 days.
Air Freight Time: The advantage of air freight lies in its shorter transit time, generally taking 1 to 3 days for transportation from China to Japan. Shipping times depend on flight schedules, weather conditions, and the level of congestion at airports. Air freight is a very convenient option for urgent shipments, especially for fast-moving consumer goods and electronics.
Customs and Clearance
Despite the proximity between China and Japan, customs and clearance procedures are still essential parts of cross-border shipping. For importers and exporters, the smoothness of the customs clearance process directly affects the arrival time of goods and additional costs.
Customs Declaration and Reporting
Upon arrival in Japan, goods must undergo customs clearance. Typically, the following documents are required:
Commercial invoice
Packing listTransport documents (e.g., Bill of Lading)
Certificate of Origin
Safety control documents (if applicable)
Customs authorities will assess the duties based on the category, value, and quantity of goods and whether they comply with import regulations.
Tariffs and Taxes
Japan’s tariff policy varies depending on the product category. For instance, some electronic products and machinery may have zero tariffs, while daily consumer goods, textiles, and the like may face tariffs ranging from 5% to 10%. Additionally, Japan imposes a consumption tax (VAT) on imported goods, generally at 10%.
Customs Clearance Time
Japan’s customs clearance efficiency is high, typically taking 1 to 2 days after the goods arrive at the port. If all documents are complete and in order, the clearance process usually does not face delays. However, if there are issues such as incomplete documents or if the goods require additional inspection, clearance times may be extended, and extra clearance fees may apply.
Related Policies
1. Tariff Policy
Tariffs: Japan imposes different tariff rates for various types of goods. Tariff rates are generally set based on the classification of the products (according to the Harmonized System). Most industrial and consumer goods have low tariff rates, but certain agricultural products (like rice, dairy, etc.) have higher rates.
Exemption from Tariffs: Some products, such as raw materials and machinery, may be exempt from tariffs if they are used for production or industrial purposes.
Tariff Transparency: Japan’s tariff policies are relatively transparent, and any importer can check the applicable tariff rate for products via the Japan Customs website.
2. Import Licenses and Regulations
Import License: Certain goods require an import license before they can enter Japan’s market. For example, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and food products are subject to strict control. Importers of these types of products must obtain approval from relevant authorities beforehand.
Product Standards and Certifications: Imported goods must comply with Japan’s technical standards and certification requirements, such as the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS), food safety standards (Food Sanitation Act), and environmental safety standards. Some products (such as electrical equipment, automobiles, etc.) may require safety certifications.
3. Trade Restrictions and Bans
Import Bans: Japan may impose import bans on certain goods for reasons related to safety, environmental protection, or other concerns. For example, there are strict import controls on military goods, certain chemicals, and endangered species.
Export Controls: Japan exercises control over exports of certain sensitive technologies and military materials, particularly high-tech products, precision instruments, and items used for military purposes.
Anti-dumping Measures: Japan may take anti-dumping actions to prevent unfair trade practices, particularly against low-priced products from other countries that could harm domestic markets.
4. Import and Export Procedures
Customs Declaration: All imported goods must be declared to Japanese Customs. Importers need to provide detailed documents such as invoices, shipping documents, and product descriptions.
Import Taxes and VAT: In addition to tariffs, imported goods may also be subject to consumption tax (currently 10%), which is applied to the total value of goods after customs duties.
Quarantine Inspections: Some agricultural products and food items require quarantine inspections to ensure they are free from pests and meet safety standards. Food and drugs are also subject to review under the Food Sanitation Act.
5. Free Trade Agreements (FTA)
Bilateral and Multilateral Trade Agreements: Japan is involved in several free trade agreements (FTA) and economic partnership agreements (EPA), including those with the United States, the European Union, Southeast Asian countries, and others. These agreements typically aim to reduce tariffs and promote bilateral and multilateral trade.
CPTPP: Japan is a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which aims to enhance trade cooperation among countries in the Asia-Pacific region and foster a freer trading environment.
6. Trade Protectionism and Countermeasures
Countermeasures: Japan may take countermeasures in response to unfair trade practices or protectionist actions in external markets, such as raising tariffs or imposing import quotas.
Government Support: Certain key industries, such as agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing, may receive government support to promote their development or to ensure their competitiveness in the global market.
Major Ports Between China and Japan
Major Ports in China
Shanghai Port: As China’s largest port and one of the busiest in the world, Shanghai Port is a key departure point for shipments from China to Japan.
Ningbo Port: Located in Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Port is China’s third-largest port, adjacent to Shanghai, and handles a large amount of import-export goods.
Shenzhen Port: As a major export city in China, Shenzhen also has a significant port that handles many shipments between China and Japan.
Guangzhou Port: Guangzhou, as an important transportation hub in the Pearl River Delta, has a strong port with a high cargo throughput capacity.
Major Ports in Japan
Tokyo Port: As Japan’s largest port, Tokyo handles a large amount of imports from China, particularly consumer electronics, machinery, and raw materials.
Yokohama Port: Located in Tokyo Bay, Yokohama is one of Japan’s key international trade ports and has close trade ties with Shanghai.
Osaka Port: As Japan’s second-largest port, Osaka handles substantial shipments of industrial goods, consumer products, and raw materials.
Kobe Port: An important logistics hub in Japan, Kobe is renowned for its efficient container transport capabilities.
Other issues:
What goods can be imported from China to Japan?
Various goods can be imported from China to Japan, including electronics, machinery, textiles, clothing, chemicals, automotive parts, and raw materials. Consumer goods, food products, and industrial equipment are also commonly shipped.
What does air freight from China to Japan involve?
Air freight from China to Japan typically involves transporting goods by aircraft. This method is faster than sea freight and is often used for high-value, time-sensitive, or smaller shipments.
When should air freight from China to Japan be used?
Air freight should be used for urgent or high-priority shipments, such as time-sensitive products, high-value items, or small parcels that need to be delivered quickly.
How do I arrange air freight from China to Japan?
To arrange air freight, you can contact an air freight carrier or a freight forwarder. You’ll need to provide details about the goods, their dimensions, and destination. The freight forwarder can assist with booking the flight, customs clearance, and delivery.
How can goods be shipped from China to Japan by sea?
Goods can be shipped by sea using containers (FCL or LCL). Larger shipments generally use Full Container Loads (FCL), while smaller shipments can use Less than Container Loads (LCL), where goods are consolidated with other shipments.
When should sea freight from China to Japan be used?
Sea freight is ideal for large, bulky, or non-urgent shipments. It’s typically more cost-effective than air freight but takes longer for delivery.
How can I get the best shipping rates from China to Japan?
To get the best rates, compare quotes from different freight carriers or freight forwarders. You can also negotiate long-term contracts, consolidate shipments, or use a forwarder who can access discounted rates.
How do I calculate shipping costs from China to Japan?
Shipping costs are typically calculated based on the weight or volume of the goods, the shipping method (air or sea), and the specific route. Additional costs may include customs duties, taxes, insurance, and handling fees.
Are there any duty-free/exempt goods when shipping from China to Japan?
Some goods may be exempt from duty or have reduced tariffs, such as certain types of food, medical products, and educational materials. It’s important to check with Japanese customs for specific exemptions.
How do I ship dangerous goods from China to Japan?
Dangerous goods require special handling and must comply with international regulations such as IATA (for air) or IMDG (for sea). You’ll need to declare the items, pack them according to regulations, and choose an experienced freight forwarder.
What are the import restrictions from China to Japan?
Import restrictions may apply to certain products, including agricultural goods, food items, hazardous substances, and items that don’t comply with Japan’s safety and environmental standards.
How does door-to-door shipping from China to Japan work?
Door-to-door shipping involves the freight forwarder handling everything from pickup at the supplier’s location in China to delivery at the recipient’s address in Japan. This includes customs clearance, transportation, and final delivery.
What are the express shipping options from China to Japan?
Express shipping options include international couriers such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS. These services offer fast delivery, usually within 1-3 days.
How much tax/duty do I need to pay when importing from China to Japan?
Taxes and duties depend on the nature of the goods and their value. Japan has a consumption tax (similar to VAT) of 10%, and duties may be applicable based on the customs classification of the goods.
When should I choose LCL or FCL for shipping from China to Japan?
LCL (Less than Container Load) is suitable for smaller shipments, while FCL (Full Container Load) is ideal for larger shipments. FCL is more cost-effective for large volumes, while LCL works well for smaller, mixed cargo.
How do I track shipments from China to Japan?
Shipments can be tracked using tracking numbers provided by the carrier or freight forwarder. Most carriers offer online tracking tools for both air and sea freight.
What does the customs clearance process from China to Japan include?
Customs clearance includes submitting the required documents (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin), paying any applicable duties or taxes, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The process may be handled by a customs broker or freight forwarder.
Why choose to hire a freight forwarder for shipping from China to Japan?
A freight forwarder can manage the logistics, paperwork, customs clearance, and ensure timely delivery. They often have established relationships with carriers and can secure competitive rates.
What is the best time for shipping from China to Japan?
The best time depends on the type of goods and urgency. However, avoid peak seasons like Chinese New Year or Japan’s Golden Week, as shipping times may be longer.
What are the common challenges when shipping from China to Japan?
Common challenges include customs delays, high shipping costs during peak seasons, handling of fragile or sensitive goods, and navigating regulatory requirements.
What Incoterms should I use for shipping from China to Japan?
Common Incoterms for shipping from China to Japan include FOB (Free on Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight), and EXW (Ex Works). These define the responsibilities of the seller and buyer in terms of shipping, insurance, and customs duties.
What documents are required for shipping from China to Japan?
Required documents may include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, import/export permits, and any specific certifications required by Japanese authorities.
Are there packaging requirements when shipping from China to Japan?
Yes, packaging requirements can vary based on the product type, and must ensure that goods are protected during transit. For some goods, specific materials (e.g., wood) may require fumigation to meet Japanese regulations.
Why trust TJ CHINA FREIGHT for all your shipping from China to Japan?
TJ CHINA FREIGHT offers expertise in logistics, competitive rates, reliable services, and strong relationships with carriers. They can handle complex shipments, including customs clearance and dangerous goods, ensuring smooth and timely delivery.