As the global supply chain develops more closely, the trade between China and Sweden is increasing. More and more merchants are importing goods from China, and the cost has become their focus. This article will introduce the cost of shipping from China to Sweden in detail.
Introduction to Sweden
Promoted by the EU-China Trade Agreement, Sweden’s economic and trade cooperation with China has gradually strengthened. Sweden is known for its developed economy and active trade activities and is one of the most important markets in Northern Europe. As Sweden continues to grow and develop, the demand for high-quality Chinese products has also increased.
Sweden is located in Northern Europe, and its geographical location gives it an important strategic position in trade. Swedish ports (such as Gothenburg Port) are an important way for Chinese goods to enter Northern Europe. Logistics hub of Sweden
Main ports
- Gothenburg Port: Sweden’s largest port, the main container hub in Northern Europe, undertakes most of the China-Sweden seaborne import and export goods.
- Stockholm Port: Mainly serves the eastern part of Sweden and is suitable for short-distance freight.
- Malmo Port: Connected to the Port of Copenhagen, Denmark, it is suitable for cargo transportation connecting Northern Europe and the European continent.
Main airports
- Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN): Sweden’s busiest international airport, handling a large amount of air cargo.
- Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT): Sweden’s second largest airport, suitable for transit cargo.
- Malmo Airport (MMX): Mainly handles domestic and short-distance international cargo.
Shipping Cost from China to Sweden
The cost of shipping from China to Sweden can vary depending on different modes of transportation (such as sea Freight, air Freight) and specific cargo types, weight, volume and destination.
Sea Freight Cost from China to Sweden
Sea transportation is usually the most economical mode of transportation, especially for bulk cargo, large volume and heavy weight cargo. There are mainly two types of transportation services: FCL and LCL. FCL is calculated according to the container size (20ft and 40ft container), and LCL is calculated according to the volume of the cargo. The following is the detailed cost composition:
- Freight: calculated based on the weight and volume of the cargo.
- Port charges: including loading and unloading fees, terminal fees, container rental fees, etc.
- Customs clearance fees: customs clearance and customs clearance fees for goods, including customs fees for export and import.
- Transportation insurance: In order to prevent the loss or damage of goods during transportation, many merchants will choose to purchase transportation insurance.
- Miscellaneous fees: such as empty container return fees, storage fees, document processing fees, etc.
Influencing factors
- Seasonal fluctuations: Transportation demand varies in different seasons, and freight rates are usually higher during peak seasons (such as before holidays).
- Fuel prices: Shipping companies usually adjust freight rates based on fuel price fluctuations.
- Route selection: Different routes and shipping companies may affect freight rates.
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | LCL shipping cost | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Gothenburg | $90-$180 | $2050-$3350 | $3500-$5000 |
| Shenzhen | Gothenburg | $85-$190 | $2000-$3500 | $3450-$4950 |
| Ningbo | Gothenburg | $70-$180 | $2000-$3400 | $3650-$4850 |
| Qingdao | Gothenburg | $90-$190 | $2050-$3350 | $3500-$5000 |
| Shanghai | Stockholm | $85-$190 | $1950-$3450 | $3350-$4800 |
| Shenzhen | Stockholm | $75-$170 | $2000-$3300 | $3500-$5000 |
| Ningbo | Stockholm | $80-$190 | $2050-$3650 | $3450-$5050 |
| Qingdao | Stockholm | $80-$180 | $2050-$3650 | $3350-$4800 |
| Shanghai | Malmo | $75-$170 | $2100-$3500 | $3650-$4850 |
| Shenzhen | Malmo | $85-$190 | $2000-$3400 | $3500-$4800 |
| Ningbo | Malmo | $80-$190 | $2050-$3350 | $3750-$4950 |
| Qingdao | Malmo | $90-$180 | $2000-$3400 | $3500-$4800 |
Air Freight Cost from China to Sweden
Air transport is relatively fast, but the cost of transportation is higher. It is suitable for small-volume, high-value goods that need to be transported urgently. It is usually charged based on the larger of actual weight and volumetric weight (length cm × width cm × height cm ÷ 6000). The following are the cost components and influencing factors
Cost composition
- Freight: Air freight costs are usually calculated based on weight and volume (i.e. volumetric weight).
- Airline surcharges: including fuel surcharges, security surcharges, etc.
- Customs fees: including customs clearance fees for exports and imports.
- Insurance: Due to the high-value goods transported by air, transportation insurance premiums are usually higher.
- Other fees: such as airport service fees, packaging fees, etc.
Influencing factors
- Flight frequency: The frequency of flights may affect the flexibility and cost of transportation.
- Seasonal factors: Freight costs may increase during holidays or peak seasons (such as Double Eleven).
- Timeliness of flights: Choosing express flights or ordinary flights will affect transportation time and costs.
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (Sweden) | Cost Range (USD/kg) |
| Shanghai Pudong | Stockholm Arlanda | $5.0 – $10.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Stockholm Arlanda | $5.0 – $11.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Stockholm Arlanda | $5.5 – $10.8 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Gothenburg Landvetter | $5.5 – $12.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Gothenburg Landvetter | $5.0 – $11.5 |
| Beijing Capital | Gothenburg Landvetter | $5.5 – $10.8 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Malmo | $5.5 – $12.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Malmo | $5.5 – $10.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Malmo | $5.0 – $11.8 |
If you are interested in the costs of shipping from China to other countries:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Norway
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Denmark?
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Germany?
How to Calculate Tariffs from China to Sweden
Tariff calculation is a key part of the cost from China to Sweden. Here is a detailed introduction:
Determine the customs valuation (duty-paid price)
Customs valuation is the basis for calculating tariffs: CIF = cost of goods + transportation cost + insurance cost
Find the HS code of the product
Each product has an HS code (Harmonized System Code), which is a standard for global commodity classification and is used to determine the tariff rate of the product. It can be found through the EU TARIC tariff query system.
For example:
- Clothing tariffs are about 12%
- Electronic products tariffs may be 0% (most electronic products are tax-free in the EU)
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Sweden’s standard VAT rate is 25%. VAT is levied on almost all imported goods. VAT = (declared value + tariff) × VAT rate
Other possible taxes and fees
In addition to tariffs and VAT, some specific goods may have to pay additional fees, such as:
- Anti-dumping Duty: For example, some steel and aluminum products exported from China may face anti-dumping duties from the EU.
- Environmental Tax: Electronic devices, batteries, etc. may be subject to additional environmental tax.
- Excise Duty: For alcohol, tobacco, and fuel products.
Reduce the Shipping Cost from China to Sweden
To reduce the cost of shipping from China to Sweden, consider the following strategies:
Choose a reliable freight forwarder
Work with an experienced freight forwarder to get more competitive prices and services.
Book in advance
By booking shipping in advance, you can lock in lower freight rates and avoid rising costs during peak seasons.
Optimize cargo packaging
Reducing the volume and weight of cargo can effectively reduce transportation costs.
Comply with Swedish environmental regulations
Sweden has strict requirements on the emissions of transportation vehicles, and using environmentally friendly transportation methods may receive tax benefits
Choose the right port
Some ports are cheaper than others, and choosing the right departure and destination ports can reduce transportation costs.
Bulk shipping
Bulk shipping can significantly reduce unit transportation costs. Transportation should be concentrated at one time.
The logistics cost of transporting from China to Sweden is affected by many factors. Enterprises and individuals can effectively reduce costs by reasonably choosing transportation methods, optimizing packaging, cooperating with reliable freight forwarders, etc. through this article to ensure the smooth arrival of goods.