China and New Zealand have frequent trade exchanges. In the field of cross-border e-commerce and traditional exports, more and more sellers and importers are paying attention to the shipping time. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the shipping time from China to New Zealand.
Introduction to New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its strong economy and strategic location in the Pacific region, facing Australia across the Tasman Sea to the west. China is its largest trading partner, and it mainly imports electronic products, machinery and equipment, clothing, toys, furniture, etc. from China.
How to Ship from China to New Zealand
Understanding the detailed steps of shipping from China to New Zealand will help you grasp the time of each step and the timeliness of the entire transportation process.
Cargo preparation and packaging
Properly package the goods to ensure safety during transportation and comply with international transportation standards and New Zealand’s import regulations.
Choose a shipping method and freight forwarder
Choose the right shipping method (sea or air) based on your cargo type, delivery time and budget – work with a reputable freight forwarder or carrier.
Book a cargo space
Book a shipping space on a ship or aircraft in advance to match your logistics plan and avoid delays, especially during peak season.
Complete China export formalities
Submit export declaration to China Customs and obtain any required licenses or compliance documents.
China domestic transportation
Ship goods from the manufacturer or warehouse to the designated seaport or airport for consolidation and loading.
International transportation
The goods are loaded on a ship or plane and transported from China to New Zealand.
Arrival and unloading in New Zealand
The goods are unloaded and prepared for customs formalities after arriving at the New Zealand port or airport.
Customs clearance
Submit necessary documents, declare imported goods, and pay relevant duties and taxes. Accuracy at this stage is crucial to avoid customs clearance delays or fines.
New Zealand domestic transportation
Arrange transportation from the port or airport to the consignee’s location after customs clearance.
Final delivery
The goods are delivered to the consignee, completing the transportation process.
Shipping Time from China to New Zealand
The logistics network between China and New Zealand is relatively mature, but the transportation time is still affected by many factors:
- Transportation mode: sea freight is slower but cheaper, air freight is faster but more expensive.
- Routes and schedules/flights: Direct flights are faster than transit flights, and may be delayed during peak seasons (such as the Spring Festival and Christmas).
- Customs clearance efficiency: Incomplete documents will cause delays.
- Weather and port congestion: Force majeure factors such as typhoons and strikes.
- Type of goods: Dangerous goods and sensitive goods require additional approval.
Sea Freight Time from China to New Zealand
Sea freight is the most common and affordable option, especially for bulk goods, heavy goods or goods that are not time-sensitive. Goods are usually transported in containers, which are divided into full container load(FCL) and less than container load (LCL) according to the size and volume of the goods. Main ports for transportation:
- Port of Auckland: New Zealand’s largest and busiest port, responsible for handling most of the country’s imports.
- Port of Wellington: The main port serving the capital of the North Island.
- Port of Lyttelton: The main hub for freight in the South Island, supporting a considerable part of import and export activities.
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | Shipping days |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Auckland | 15-22 days |
| Shenzhen | Auckland | 16-21 days |
| Ningbo | Auckland | 14-23 days |
| Shanghai | Tauranga | 17-23 days |
| Shenzhen | Tauranga | 16-25 days |
| Ningbo | Tauranga | 16-24 days |
| Shanghai | Lyttelton | 15-23 days |
| Shenzhen | Lyttelton | 15-22 days |
| Ningbo | Lyttelton | 19-26 days |
Air Freight Time from China to New Zealand
Air freight is the fastest mode of shipping and is ideal for small packages, high-value goods, urgent orders, or perishable items. Although air freight is much more expensive than ocean freight, it has a shorter transit time and a more reliable schedule. Here are the main airports for shipping:
- Auckland International Airport (AKL): New Zealand’s largest and busiest air cargo airport.
- Wellington International Airport (WLG): A smaller air cargo hub.
- Christchurch International Airport (CHC): The South Island’s main air cargo port.
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Shipping days |
| Shanghai Pudong | Auckland | 3-6 days |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Auckland | 2-5 days |
| Beijing Capital | Auckland | 3-5 days |
| Shanghai Pudong | Wellington | 4-6 days |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Wellington | 2-5 days |
| Beijing Capital | Wellington | 4-6 days |
| Shanghai Pudong | Christchurch | 3-6 days |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Christchurch | 4-6 days |
| Beijing Capital | Christchurch | 3-5 days |
If you are interested in shipping time from China to other countries, please refer to the information below:
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Australia
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Canada?
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to USA?
How to Save Time Shipping from China to New Zealand
Efficient logistics management is key to maintaining a competitive advantage in international trade. Here are some practical strategies to help you reduce delays and ensure timely delivery of goods from China to New Zealand:
- Plan ahead: Finalize orders and transportation requirements as early as possible, and reserve sufficient time for production, document preparation, and booking.
- Choose the right mode of transportation: Match efficient ports or airports according to the urgency and value of the goods, and use reputable and well-performing carriers.
- Partner with Ubestshipping freight forwarders: Experienced freight forwarders like Ubestshipping provide tailor-made logistics solutions, manage complex procedures, and provide end-to-end coordination from booking to final delivery.
- Ensure documents are accurate and complete: Prepare all necessary documents in advance, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin. Any discrepancies may cause customs delays.
- Optimize inland transportation: Efficiently coordinate pickup and last-mile delivery. Partner with reliable domestic freight companies to avoid unnecessary delays at both ends of the supply chain.
- Use real-time tracking technology: Monitor the progress of your shipments with tracking tools. Proactive updates can help quickly identify and resolve potential issues during shipping.
- Prefer direct routes: Choose direct flights or nonstop flights whenever possible. Although slightly more expensive, it can significantly reduce shipping time and minimize the risk of transit delays.
- Negotiate and clarify Incoterms: Use appropriate Incoterms to clearly define the responsibilities of both buyers and sellers. Ensuring that the responsible party is in control of each stage helps ensure tight schedules and reduces uncertainty.
Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Container from China to New Zealand
Shipping prices fluctuate over time, affected by supply and demand and carrier strategy adjustments. Knowing the approximate cost will help you better plan your shipping plans.
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Auckland | $1550-$2150 | $2200-$3400 |
| Shenzhen | Auckland | $1500-$2200 | $2150-$3350 |
| Ningbo | Auckland | $1450-$2250 | $2250-$3250 |
| Shanghai | Tauranga | $1500-$2000 | $2150-$3350 |
| Shenzhen | Tauranga | $1650-$2150 | $2050-$3400 |
| Ningbo | Tauranga | $1500-$2200 | $2100-$3400 |
| Shanghai | Lyttelton | $1450-$2050 | $2250-$3250 |
| Shenzhen | Lyttelton | $1600-$2150 | $2150-$3350 |
| Ningbo | Lyttelton | $1550-$2250 | $2050-$3450 |
Learn more: How Much does it Cost to Ship from China to New Zealand
The shipping time from China to New Zealand varies depending on the mode of transportation and specific operational details. When choosing a logistics solution, companies need to consider factors such as timeliness, cost, and customs clearance convenience to ensure that the goods arrive safely and on time.