Shipping From China to Germany Reliable Freight Forwarder
EFANDA Logistics provides professional shipping solutions from China to Germany, including sea freight, air freight, rail freight, and door-to-door services.
We support shipments to Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, and other major ports and cities, offering stable transit times, EU-compliant customs clearance, and competitive freight rates.
From commercial cargo to industrial and project shipments, EFANDA tailors reliable logistics solutions to meet your Germany and EU supply chain needs. Get Your Personalized Shipping Quote Today!
Sea Freight to Germany
Air Freight to Germany
Dedicated Logistics Experts
Starting Price
Our Shipping Services from China to Germany
Sea Freight, Air Freight & Door-to-Door Solutions for Germany Importers
Sea Freight from China to Germany
Cost-effective ocean freight for bulk and commercial shipments to Germany. FCL & LCL available.
- Transit time: 30–45 days
- FCL & LCL available
- Support for Germany import clearance
Competitive sea freight rates – request a quote
Air Freight from China to Germany
Fast and secure air cargo solutions for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments to Germany.
- Transit time: 3–7 days
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Express customs clearance
Fast air freight with transparent pricing
Door-to-Door Shipping from China to Germany
Complete door-to-door logistics from pickup to delivery in Germany.
- Export documentation & coordination
- Customs clearance support in Germany
- Delivery to warehouse or final address
All-in-one solution · No hidden charges
Why Choose EFANDA Logistics for China–Germany Shipping
Specialized freight forwarding solutions with proven experience in Germany customs, ports, and delivery networks.
Competitive Rates
Direct contracts with carriers and optimized routing via major China ports help reduce shipping costs without hidden fees.
Fast Transit
Optimized sea and air schedules with reliable ETD/ETA, minimizing delays caused by transshipment or port congestion.
Customs Expertise
Deep understanding of Germany import regulations, HS codes, and documentation requirements to reduce clearance risks.
24/7 Dedicated Support
Dedicated customer support team available 24/7, providing timely assistance and reliable support for all your logistics needs.
Table of Contents
Shipping from China to Germany has become a critical logistics requirement for global importers, wholesalers, e-commerce sellers, and manufacturers. As Germany is the largest economy in Europe and a central EU logistics hub, it plays a vital role in international trade between China and the European Union.
For businesses importing from China to Germany, understanding shipping methods, costs, transit times, customs procedures, and choosing the right freight forwarder China to Germany is essential to maintaining supply chain efficiency and controlling landed costs.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of China to Germany shipping solutions, covering sea freight, air freight, door-to-door shipping，ports and routes, service types, and practical considerations—helping you select the most suitable logistics strategy for your cargo. With professional support from EFANDA Logistics, importers can benefit from reliable, compliant, and cost-effective end-to-end shipping services.
Sea Freight From China to Germany
Sea freight from China to Germany is the most widely used and cost-effective shipping method for international trade, especially for bulk cargo, heavy goods, and full container shipments. With mature shipping routes connecting major Chinese ports to Germany’s key seaports, ocean freight offers stable capacity and predictable transit schedules.
For businesses focused on cost optimization and large shipment volumes, ocean freight China to Germany remains the preferred logistics solution.
When to Choose Sea Freight
Sea freight is the ideal choice when:
You are shipping large volumes or heavy cargo
Cost efficiency is more important than speed
Your supply chain allows for longer transit times
You are shipping FCL or LCL containers
Your goods are non-urgent or replenishment stock
Compared with air freight, sea shipping from China to Germany offers significantly lower freight rates and is suitable for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers importing on a regular basis.
Key Ports and Routes
China–Germany sea freight routes are well established, linking major Chinese export ports with Germany’s primary maritime gateways.
Major Ports in China
Shanghai
Ningbo
Shenzhen
Qingdao
Guangzhou
Main Ports in Germany
Port of Hamburg
Port of Bremerhaven
Hamburg is the most important seaport in Germany and one of Europe’s largest container ports, serving as a key entry point for goods distributed across Germany and the wider EU.
| Route | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai → Hamburg | 30–38 days |
| Ningbo → Hamburg | 32–40 days |
| Shenzhen → Hamburg | 33–42 days |
| Qingdao → Bremerhaven | 34–40 days |
Transit times may vary based on carrier schedules, transshipment, port congestion, and seasonal demand.
Types of Sea Freight Services
EFANDA Logistics provides flexible sea freight services from China to Germany, tailored to different cargo volumes, budgets, and operational needs.
Full Container Load (FCL)
FCL shipping China to Germany is suitable when one shipper occupies an entire container (20ft, 40ft, or 40HQ). This option offers:
Lower cost per unit for large shipments
Reduced cargo handling
Better cargo security
Faster transit compared to LCL
FCL is commonly used for machinery, electronics, furniture, and industrial goods.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
LCL shipping from China to Germany allows multiple shippers to share container space. It is ideal for small or medium shipments that do not require a full container.
Key benefits include:
Lower upfront shipping cost
Flexible shipment volumes
Suitable for SMEs and trial orders
However, LCL shipments may have slightly longer transit times due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes.
Roll-on/Roll-off Ship (RoRo Ship)
RoRo shipping from China to Germany is designed for wheeled cargo such as vehicles, trucks, buses, and construction equipment.
Advantages of RoRo shipping include:
No container required
Faster loading and unloading
Lower handling risk for vehicles
RoRo vessels typically arrive at major European ports, with onward inland transport arranged to Germany.
By understanding these sea freight options from China to Germany, importers can select the most efficient shipping method based on cargo type, volume, and budget. With EFANDA Logistics, businesses benefit from professional route planning, carrier selection, and full shipment visibility throughout the journey.
Air Freight From China to Germany
Air freight from China to Germany is the fastest and most reliable shipping solution for time-sensitive, high-value, or lightweight cargo. With frequent flights connecting major Chinese airports to Germany’s key aviation hubs, air cargo plays a critical role in supporting urgent supply chains and just-in-time deliveries.
For importers prioritizing speed, predictability, and reduced inventory holding costs, China to Germany air freight offers unmatched transit efficiency compared to sea freight.
When to Choose Air Freight?
Air freight is the best option when:
Your shipment is urgent or time-sensitive
You are shipping high-value goods such as electronics or medical products
Your cargo is lightweight or compact
You need stable and predictable transit times
Production or sales schedules cannot tolerate long sea transit delays
While air freight cost from China to Germany is higher than ocean freight, it significantly reduces lead time, making it ideal for fast-moving supply chains and e-commerce businesses.
Key Airports and Routes
Air freight routes between China and Germany are highly developed, with daily flights serving major cargo hubs.
Major Airports in China
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Main Airports in Germany
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) – Europe’s largest air cargo hub
Munich Airport (MUC)
Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ)
| Route | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai → Frankfurt | 3–5 days |
| Shenzhen → Frankfurt | 3–6 days |
| Guangzhou → Frankfurt | 3–6 days |
| Hong Kong → Frankfurt | 2–4 days |
Transit times may vary depending on flight availability, cargo type, and customs clearance procedures in Germany.
Types of Air Freight Services
EFANDA Logistics provides flexible air freight services from China to Germany, tailored to different urgency levels and cargo characteristics.
| Air Freight Type | Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Standard Air Freight | Balanced cost and transit time |
| Express Air Freight | Urgent and time-critical shipments |
| Consolidated Air Freight | Cost-effective solution for smaller cargo |
| Charter Air Freight | Oversized or special cargo |
Our professional team selects the optimal air shipping solution to match your delivery timeline and budget requirements.
Door to Door Shipping From China to Germany
Door to door shipping from China to Germany is a comprehensive logistics solution covering every stage of transportation—from supplier pickup in China to final delivery at your warehouse or business location in Germany.
This service minimizes coordination efforts and reduces operational risks by consolidating transport, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery under one experienced logistics provider.
How Door to Door Shipping Works
EFANDA Logistics manages the entire process:
Cargo pickup from supplier in China
Export customs clearance in China
International transport (sea or air freight)
Import customs clearance in Germany
Final delivery to the designated address
This integrated approach ensures seamless China to Germany logistics with full shipment visibility.
DDP vs DAP Door to Door Shipping
| Incoterm | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| DDP shipping China to Germany | EFANDA handles freight, customs, duties, and VAT |
| DAP shipping China to Germany | EFANDA handles transport; importer pays duties & VAT |
Choosing the right Incoterm depends on your tax structure, import experience, and internal resources.
Benefits of Door to Door Shipping
One-stop logistics solution
Reduced customs and compliance risks
Clear landed cost visibility
Faster and more predictable delivery
Ideal for first-time importers and EU-bound cargo
With EFANDA Logistics, importers gain access to reliable door to door shipping solutions from China to Germany, supported by local customs expertise and a global logistics network.
Shipping Costs From China to Germany
Shipping costs from China to Germany vary depending on transportation mode, cargo volume, weight, Incoterms, and seasonal market conditions. Understanding the cost structure helps importers accurately calculate landed costs and choose the most cost-effective logistics solution.
In general, sea freight China to Germany offers the lowest cost for bulk shipments, while air freight from China to Germany provides faster delivery at a higher price point.
Sea Freight Cost From China to Germany
Sea freight cost from China to Germany is primarily influenced by container type (FCL or LCL), port of origin, destination port, fuel surcharges, and carrier capacity.
Typical Sea Freight Cost Ranges
| Service Type | Estimated Cost Range* |
|---|---|
| 20ft FCL | USD 1,500 – 3,000 |
| 40ft FCL | USD 2,500 – 4,800 |
| LCL (per CBM) | USD 80 – 160 |
*Rates are indicative and fluctuate based on seasonality, carrier demand, and market conditions.
FCL shipping China to Germany is more cost-efficient for large volumes, while LCL shipping suits smaller shipments but may involve higher per-unit costs due to consolidation fees.
Air Freight Cost From China to Germany
Air freight cost from China to Germany is calculated based on chargeable weight (actual weight vs volumetric weight) and urgency level.
Typical Air Freight Cost Ranges
| Air Freight Type | Estimated Cost (USD/kg) |
|---|---|
| Standard Air Freight | USD 4 – 7 |
| Express Air Freight | USD 7 – 12 |
Air freight is best suited for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive cargo where speed outweighs cost considerations.
Shipping Time From China to Germany
Shipping time from China to Germany depends largely on the selected transport mode, routing, and customs clearance efficiency. Businesses must align transit time with inventory planning and delivery commitments.
Sea Shipping Time From China to Germany
Sea shipping time from China to Germany typically ranges from 30 to 45 days, depending on the port of origin and whether the shipment is direct or transshipped.
| Route | Average Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai → Hamburg | 30–38 days |
| Ningbo → Hamburg | 32–40 days |
| Shenzhen → Hamburg | 33–42 days |
| Qingdao → Bremerhaven | 34–40 days |
Sea freight transit time includes vessel sailing time and port handling but excludes potential delays due to customs inspections or congestion.
Air Shipping Time From China to Germany
Air shipping time from China to Germany is significantly shorter, usually 2 to 6 days, making it the fastest international shipping option.
| Route | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai → Frankfurt | 3–5 days |
| Shenzhen → Frankfurt | 3–6 days |
| Guangzhou → Frankfurt | 3–6 days |
| Hong Kong → Frankfurt | 2–4 days |
Air freight transit time includes airport handling and customs clearance and may vary depending on flight availability and cargo screening.
Choosing the Right Balance Between Cost and Time
When planning shipping from China to Germany, businesses should balance shipping cost, transit time, and cargo urgency. EFANDA Logistics helps importers select the optimal solution by offering transparent pricing, professional route planning, and real-time shipment visibility.
Customs Clearance & Documents Required
Customs clearance in Germany is a critical step when shipping from China to Germany, as all imported goods must comply with EU customs regulations and German import laws. Proper documentation and accurate declarations help avoid delays, penalties, and unexpected costs.
Germany follows standardized EU customs procedures, but local enforcement is strict—especially regarding HS codes, import VAT, and product compliance.
Key Documents Required for Importing into Germany
To complete Germany import customs clearance, the following documents are typically required:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares cargo value, seller & buyer details |
| Packing List | Details cargo quantity, weight, and packaging |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Proof of shipment and transport contract |
| HS Code | Determines duty rate and import classification |
| EORI Number | Mandatory EU importer identification |
| Import VAT Documents | Required for VAT calculation and payment |
| CE Certification (if applicable) | Confirms EU product compliance |
| Certificate of Origin (if required) | Supports customs valuation or trade preference |
Missing or inaccurate documentation is one of the most common causes of customs delays in Germany.
Import Duties, VAT & Compliance in Germany
When importing from China to Germany, importers must consider:
Import Duties: Based on HS code and product category
Import VAT (MwSt): Generally 19% (standard rate)
Product Compliance: CE marking, safety standards, and labeling requirements
Working with an experienced freight forwarder China to Germany helps ensure full compliance with EU regulations and smooth customs clearance.
Customs Clearance Time in Germany
EFANDA Logistics provides professional customs clearance services in Germany, assisting with:
HS code classification
Document verification
Duty & VAT estimation
Customs declaration filing
Communication with German customs authorities
This reduces clearance risks and ensures faster cargo release.
Common Mistakes When Shipping From China to Germany
Despite well-established trade routes, many importers still face challenges when shipping from China to Germany. Avoiding common mistakes can save time, money, and operational disruptions.
Most Common Shipping Mistakes to Avoid
| Common Mistake | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Incorrect HS Code | Higher duties, fines, customs delays |
| Incomplete Documents | Shipment holds or rejection |
| Under-declared Cargo Value | Penalties and audits |
| Ignoring CE Certification | Cargo refusal or destruction |
| Poor Incoterm Selection | Unexpected costs and disputes |
| Choosing Unreliable Forwarders | Delays, hidden fees, lack of support |
Why These Mistakes Happen
Many issues arise due to:
Limited understanding of EU customs clearance requirements
Inexperience with Germany import regulations
Lack of professional logistics guidance
Focus on lowest price rather than compliance and reliability
How to Avoid Shipping Problems
To minimize risks when shipping from China to Germany:
Verify all shipping documents before departure
Confirm HS codes and duty rates in advance
Ensure product compliance with EU standards
Choose the correct Incoterm (DAP or DDP)
Work with a reliable and experienced freight forwarder
EFANDA Logistics helps importers avoid costly mistakes by providing professional guidance, transparent processes, and proactive risk management throughout the shipping process.
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
Selecting the right freight forwarder for shipping from China to Germany is a strategic decision that directly impacts shipping cost, transit time, customs compliance, and overall supply chain reliability.
A professional China to Germany freight forwarder does more than arrange transportation. They coordinate carriers, manage customs clearance, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide visibility across every stage of the shipment. With Germany’s strict EU import regulations, choosing an experienced logistics partner is essential for avoiding delays and unexpected costs.
Key Criteria When Selecting a Forwarder
When evaluating a freight forwarder China to Germany, importers should focus on the following critical criteria:
| Selection Criteria | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Proven China–Germany Experience | Reduces route, carrier, and compliance risks |
| Sea & Air Freight Expertise | Provides flexible shipping options |
| Door to Door Capabilities | Simplifies end-to-end logistics management |
| EU Customs Clearance Knowledge | Ensures regulatory compliance in Germany |
| Transparent Pricing | Prevents hidden charges and disputes |
| Local Support in Germany | Faster issue resolution and delivery coordination |
1. Route-Specific Experience
An experienced forwarder understands shipping routes, transit times, and port or airport operations for China to Germany shipping, enabling more accurate planning and fewer disruptions.
2. Comprehensive Service Coverage
Look for a provider offering:
Sea freight (FCL, LCL, RoRo)
Air freight solutions
Door to door shipping (DAP / DDP)
Import customs clearance in Germany
3. Strong Compliance & Customs Expertise
Germany enforces strict EU customs rules. A knowledgeable forwarder ensures correct HS codes, VAT handling, and product compliance such as CE certification.
4. Clear Communication & Visibility
Professional shipment tracking and proactive communication improve reliability and customer confidence.
Why Work With EFANDA Logistics
EFANDA Logistics is a trusted international freight forwarder specializing in shipping from China to Germany, offering tailored logistics solutions for importers, manufacturers, and e-commerce businesses.
With extensive experience in EU-bound shipments and strong operational teams in China and Europe, EFANDA provides reliable, compliant, and cost-effective shipping services.
EFANDA Logistics Advantages
| EFANDA Advantage | Your Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dedicated China–Germany Routes | Stable transit times and optimized costs |
| One-Stop Door to Door Shipping | Reduced coordination and faster delivery |
| Professional Customs Clearance Support | Lower risk of delays and penalties |
| Transparent Quotations | Clear cost structure with no hidden fees |
| Experienced Operations Team | Proactive issue management |
| Customized Logistics Solutions | Tailored to cargo type and business needs |
End-to-End Shipping From China to Germany
EFANDA Logistics supports:
Sea freight & air freight from all major China ports
FCL, LCL, and special cargo handling
Customs clearance & VAT compliance in Germany
Door to door delivery to warehouses or final destinations
Whether you are a first-time importer or an established business, EFANDA acts as your reliable freight forwarder China to Germany, ensuring smooth logistics operations and full shipment visibility.
Your Trusted Logistics Partner
By working with EFANDA Logistics, you gain a long-term logistics partner focused on efficiency, compliance, and customer success. Our expertise in China to Germany shipping helps businesses reduce risk, control costs, and scale international trade with confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to the most common questions about shipping from China to Germany
EFANDA offers sea freight, air freight, rail freight (China–Europe Railway), and door-to-door shipping from China to Germany. We help you choose the most cost-effective option based on cargo type, budget, and delivery timeline.
Transit times vary by shipping mode:
- Sea freight: 30–40 days
- Rail freight: 18–25 days
- Air freight: 5–8 days
Door-to-door delivery time depends on customs clearance and final destination within Germany.
Shipping costs depend on cargo volume/weight, shipping method, Incoterms, and destination city. EFANDA provides competitive freight rates and transparent pricing. Contact us for a customized quote.
Yes. EFANDA provides end-to-end door-to-door logistics solutions, including pickup in China, international transport, customs clearance, and final delivery to your warehouse or address in Germany.
Simply provide cargo details, origin city, destination, and preferred shipping method. EFANDA will send you a fast, accurate, and competitive shipping quote.
Yes. We provide professional customs clearance services in Germany, ensuring compliance with EU import regulations, VAT, and duties, helping you avoid delays and penalties.
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