With increasing global trade, demand for freight transport between China and Congo continues to grow. Cost is a key consideration for every business and individual. This article provides the latest cost analysis for shipping goods from China to Congo in 2025, helping you plan your overall transportation costs.
Shipping Cost from China to Congo
The cost of shipping cargo from China to Congo will present new market characteristics in 2025. Ocean freight prices have declined slightly, but space for large and bulk cargo remains in short supply. Air freight prices remain stable, but may increase if demand increases by the end of summer. According to the latest logistics data:
| Shipping Mode | Cost (August 2025) | Best For | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (LCL Shipping) | $170 | Cargo less than 15 cubic meters | 45–55 days |
| Sea Freight (20-foot container) | $3,300 | Large, cost-sensitive shipments | 40–45 days |
| Sea Freight (40-foot container) | $5,500 | Bulk and oversized cargo | 40–45 days |
| Air Freight (1000kg+) | $7 per kg | High-value, urgent shipments | 7–10 days |
Key Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
Shipping costs from China to Congo are not fixed; they fluctuate with the shipping market and are influenced by a variety of factors:
Transport Methods
For bulk shipments, FCL is preferred to reduce unit costs. For small shipments, LCL is preferred, but costs are more complex. Air freight is faster but more expensive.
Cargo Type and Size
Danger goods, temperature-controlled cargo, and large or oversized items are subject to additional charges.
Origin and Destination Ports
Different Chinese departure ports (such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, etc.) and different points of entry into Congo will affect costs and delivery times.
Fuel Surcharges, Seasonal Fluctuations, and Global Trends
Ocean freight prices are significantly affected by fuel prices, seasonal demand fluctuations, and route congestion. International developments, including port delays and trade policies, can also cause price fluctuations.
Impact of Customs Clearance Costs
Taxes and fees are calculated based on CIF (cost, freight, and insurance).
Inland Transportation and Integrated Services
Additional trucking or rail transportation may be required from the port to the final destination (such as an inland city).
Using DDP Service
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means the seller is responsible for all costs and risks involved in delivering the goods to the buyer’s location. This is convenient but can be costly.
Costs of Various Shipping Methods from China to Congo
Shipping costs from China to Congo vary depending on the shipping method. Below are detailed costs for each method:
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most commonly used shipping method. It offers low costs (the lowest unit price, especially for FCL), a large capacity, and can transport large and heavy cargo. It accepts a wide variety of cargo, including general cargo, dangerous goods, large items, and equipment, making it suitable for long-term procurement/export plans.
Cost Structure:
- Ocean Freight: Charged by container type or volume
- Original Port Miscellaneous Charges: Customs clearance, port miscellaneous charges, towing fees, etc.
- Destination Port Miscellaneous Charges: D/O fees, customs clearance, warehousing, etc.
- Surcharges: Fuel surcharge, peak season surcharge, security fee, etc.
- Inland Transportation Fees: Additional charges apply for deliveries to inland cities (such as Kinshasa).
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | LCL Shipping cost | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Matadi | $110-$180 | $1850-$2850 | $3000-$4800 |
| Shenzhen | Matadi | $120-$175 | $1800-$2800 | $3050-$4750 |
| Ningbo | Matadi | $115-$180 | $1850-$3000 | $3050-$4650 |
| Shanghai | Boma | $120-$195 | $1950-$2750 | $3050-$4800 |
| Shenzhen | Boma | $100-$195 | $1900-$2900 | $3000-$5000 |
| Ningbo | Boma | $105-$185 | $1800-$2850 | $3050-$4850 |
Air Freight
Air freight is the fastest and most secure mode of transportation. It offers a low risk of damage/theft, a simple process, more standardized documentation, and more efficient customs clearance. Air freight also offers lower storage fees (compared to ocean port storage fees), making it suitable for high-value products (such as electronics, fashion items, and medical equipment). However, there are strict size and weight restrictions, as well as numerous hazardous material restrictions, requiring additional certification (MSDS, UN certification, etc.).
Cost Structure:
- Freight: Per kilogram, dimensional weight: Length × Width × Height / 6000
- Airline Security Fee: Dangerous goods are subject to an additional charge
- Shipping Miscellaneous Charges: Packaging, customs clearance, warehousing, etc.
- Destination Country Customs Clearance: VAT and customs duties are calculated based on the CIF value
- Inland Delivery: Door-to-door service will incur an additional charge
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (Congo) | Cost Range (USD/kg) |
| Shanghai Pudong | Kinshasa | $5.50 – $9.00 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Kinshasa | $5.00 – $9.50 |
| Beijing Capital | Kinshasa | $5.50 – $8.80 |
Learn more about shipping costs to West Africa below:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Cameroon
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Nigeria
Import Taxes and Duties in Congo
Import taxes and duties are the primary factors affecting landed costs in Congo:
- VAT: 16% for most imported goods (8% for some agricultural products).
- Customs Duties: 5–40%, depending on the product and HS code (electronics, machinery, consumer goods, etc.).
- Other Surcharges: Inspection and security fees may apply, especially for sensitive goods or when documentation is incomplete.
Before completing your shipment, ensure accurate budgeting by confirming the latest CDF/USD exchange rate and all applicable duties with your customs broker.
How to Save Costs Shipping from China to Congo
Optimizing transportation costs for shipping goods from China to Congo is a key step in ensuring profitability and improving competitiveness. Reduce logistics costs through the following strategies:
Reduce costs at the origin (within China)
Choose an export port close to the factory to avoid interprovincial hauling fees.
Optimize packaging methods
Use standard pallets whenever possible, minimize gaps, and minimize volume.
Comparing prices using third-party logistics platforms
Price comparison platforms such as Freightos, Yundehao, and Captain’s Home allow you to view real-time freight rates for different freight forwarders and shipping routes.
Book ahead to avoid peak season price increases
August to October is peak season, and booking capacity one month in advance can reduce costs by 10–20%.
Reduce port charges
Avoid high-fee ports/clearance ports, such as Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo, where port charges are relatively high.
Select a reputable customs broker
Avoid hidden costs such as demurrage and storage fees caused by customs clearance delays.
Reduce tax costs
Appropriately declare the HS code and intended use of the goods, apply for a certificate of origin (Form E, CO), and enjoy tariff reductions.
Optimize transportation processes.
Reduce transit times, reducing transit fees and time.
Select the right freight forwarder.
Establish price partnerships with reliable freight forwarders to lock in low-cost routes and save costs.
Ocean freight prices dipped in early 2025, then stabilized or rebounded slightly. Ocean freight prices are expected to remain stable throughout the year, making it advisable to lock in freight rates in advance or sign long-term contracts to stabilize costs. For a quote, contact Ubestshipping and we’ll arrange a personal contact within 24 hours!