As the two largest economies in Asia, China and India have increasingly frequent trade in recent years. Whether it is electronic products, machinery and equipment, daily consumer goods or textiles and clothing, shipping goods from China to India has become a regular choice for many foreign trade companies and cross-border sellers. This article will introduce the logistics between the two countries in detail.
How to Ship from China to India
India is an important trading partner of China in South Asia. Compared with the Americas and European countries, India has good regional logistics advantages with China geographically, and its sea and air transport networks are becoming increasingly mature. The following are the characteristics of the two modes of transportation:
Sea Freight
Sea transportation is the most widely used logistics method in China-India trade. It has low cost and is suitable for large quantities of goods, long-term stable exports or bulk trade. It has rich port options and stable routes. It can choose full container (FCL) or less than container (LCL)
- FCL: customers use a single container, which is suitable for bulk transportation and cost-effective
- LCL: multiple goods are combined in one container, which is suitable for small and medium-sized quantities, but the operation and customs clearance are more complicated
Major ports
- Nava Sheva Port in Mumbai: It is the largest container port in India, with an annual throughput of about 5 million standard containers. It has advanced container terminals and automated customs clearance systems.
- Chennai Port: Chennai Port is an important port for automobiles and industrial products, with a throughput of more than 1.5 million TEUs. It is strategically located on the southeast coast.
- Kolkata Port: The annual throughput is about 700,000 TEUs. It has a superior geographical location and a complete network of road and rail connections.
Air Freight
Air transport is fast and suitable for urgent shipments. It is flexible in operation, has fast customs clearance, high security, less contact with the ground, low cargo damage rate, many airlines to choose from, frequent routes, and restrictions on cargo types and weights.
Major airports
- Delhi Airport: As one of India’s major cargo hubs, Delhi Airport handles a large number of imported goods from China and has a complete infrastructure for efficient customs clearance and cargo handling.
- Mumbai Airport: Mumbai Airport is located on the west coast of India and is an important hub connecting major airports in China, providing reliable services for cargo shipped to the western and southern regions.
- Bengaluru Airport: Bengaluru Airport serves southern India and is an important entry point for high-tech and electronics products, catering to the needs of India’s technology hub.
Factors Affecting of Shipping Cost from China to India
International logistics costs from China to India involve multiple links. The costs are generally divided according to the mode of transportation, but are also affected by the following factors:
Place of loading and destination port
Transportation costs are directly related to distance. The farther away from the port/airport, the higher the cost. The charging standards of different ports in India are different
Capacity and seasonal changes
Sea and air freight prices will increase during the peak season (September-December, March-April)
Cargo weight and volume
Heavy goods are charged by weight, and light goods are charged by volume weight
Cargo type
Dangerous goods, cold chain products or special goods require special handling and are subject to additional charges
Customs clearance and taxes
Customs may impose additional tariffs on certain goods, and the complexity of customs clearance will also affect the overall cost.
Shipping Cost from China to India
Understanding the composition of transportation costs can help you effectively control costs and arrange transportation plans reasonably. The following cost parts are usually involved in the transportation process, especially sea and air transportation:
Freight
- Sea freight (basic freight): FCL is priced by container, LCL is priced by volume (CBM)
- Air freight: usually charged by actual weight or volume weight (volume ÷ 6000), whichever is greater
Origin Charges
- Trailer fees (from factory to port/airport)
- Customs clearance service fees
- Document fees, certificate of origin processing fees, etc.
Destination Charges
- Customs clearance fees at the port (such as agency service fees, inspection fees)
- Terminal handling fees, document fees, etc.
- Indian import tariffs & GST (value determined)
Surcharges
- Bunker surcharge (BAF)
- Peak Season Surcharge (PSS)
The following is the cost range for shipping from China to India:
Sea Freight Range:
| Port of Departure | Port of Destination | LCL Shipping Cost | 20ft Container Cost | 40ft Container Cost |
| Shanghai | Nava Sheva | $60–$100/CBM | $1,100–$1,800 | $2,100–$2,800 |
| Ningbo | Nava Sheva | $50–$90/CBM | $1,200–$1,800 | $2,000–$2,700 |
| Shenzhen | Nava Sheva | $55–$100/CBM | $1,200–$1,900 | $2,300–$2,800 |
| Shanghai | Chennai | $60–$90/CBM | $1,200–$1,900 | $2,200–$2,750 |
| Ningbo | Chennai | $50–$85/CBM | $1,100–$1,800 | $2,250–$2,730 |
| Shenzhen | Chennai | $60–$100/CBM | $1,150–$1,850 | $2,150–$2,800 |
| Shanghai | Kolkata | $55–$100/CBM | $1,100–$1,800 | $2,220–$2,900 |
| Ningbo | Kolkata | $50–$85/CBM | $1,150–$1,900 | $2,200–$2,950 |
| Shenzhen | Kolkata | $60–$100/CBM | $1,100–$1,900 | $2,100–$2,800 |
Air Freight Range:
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airport | Cost Range (USD/kg) |
| Shanghai Pudong | Delhi | $5.0 – $8.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Delhi | $5.0 – $7.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Delhi | $5.5 – $8.8 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Mumbai | $4.5 – $7.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Mumbai | $5.0 – $7.5 |
| Beijing Capital | Mumbai | $4.5 – $8.8 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Bengaluru | $5.0 – $7.5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Bengaluru | $4.0 – $8.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Bengaluru | $5.0 – $7.0 |
Refer to the following shipping costs from China to other countries:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Singapore
How Much does it Cost to Ship from China to Oman
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to India?
Shipping time is one of the key considerations when choosing a mode of transportation. Understanding the time helps plan the entire transportation plan. The following are the time limits for each mode of transportation:
| Shipping Methods | Port of Departure | Port of Destination | Voyage time (days) |
| Sea Freight | Shanghai | Nava Sheva | 15–25 days |
| Sea Freight | Ningbo | Chennai | 15–25 days |
| Sea Freight | Shenzhen | Kolkata | 15–25 days |
| Air Freight | Shanghai | Delhi | 4–8 days |
| Air Freight | Beijing | Mumbai | 5–7 days |
| Air Freight | Guangzhou | Bengaluru | 4–8 days |
Factors that affect shipping time:
- Weather conditions: Unpredictable weather can delay shipping progress, especially for sea and air freight.
- Port congestion: Heavy traffic at ports can cause delays in unloading and handling.
- Customs delays: Changes in customs clearance processes can extend delivery time.
- Logistics chain efficiency: Inefficiencies in the shipping process, including local transportation and handling, can increase shipping time.
Mitigation strategies:
- Choose the right mode of transportation: Combine the mode of transportation with the delivery deadline and budget constraints to get the best results.
- Work with a reliable freight forwarder: An experienced freight forwarder can solve shipping challenges, provide insights on the most efficient routes, and handle customs clearance.
- Stay informed with tracking information: Monitoring the progress of your shipment allows you to better plan and respond to any delays.
- Understand customs requirements: Having the necessary documents ready and understanding customs regulations can speed up the customs clearance process and reduce potential delays.
Learn about shipping time from China to nearby areas:
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Singapore
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Oman
DDP Shipping from China to India
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is an ideal shipping solution for businesses and individuals seeking a convenient, end-to-end logistics experience from China to India. Under DDP terms, the seller covers all aspects of the shipping process, including transportation, insurance, import duties, taxes, and customs clearance-related costs. This approach allows buyers to receive goods directly in India without having to deal with complex import regulations, duty payments, or last-mile logistics.
Advantages of DDP Shipping
- All-inclusive costs: DDP covers all shipping costs, including duties and taxes, providing a clear and predictable cost structure.
- Convenience: The logistics provider is responsible for the entire shipping process, from pickup in China to final delivery in India, allowing businesses to focus on their core activities.
Shipping Process from China to India
Order Placement and Pickup Arrangement
The seller or freight forwarder is responsible for coordinating the pickup of goods from the origin (such as a warehouse or factory) and ensuring that all packaging and labeling meet international shipping standards.
Document Preparation
The seller is responsible for preparing and managing the documents required for export, which may include:
- Commercial Invoice: Details the value, description, and quantity of the goods.
- Packing list: lists the contents and packaging details.
- Bill of Lading (for ocean shipment) or Airway Bill (for air shipment): serves as proof of contract and shipment.
- Certificate of Origin: may be required to confirm the origin of the goods.
- Additional Certificates: For certain items, such as electronics or chemicals, additional licenses may be required.
China Export Customs Clearance
The seller is responsible for export customs clearance and submitting all necessary documents to China Customs. Customs officials review the documents and may inspect the goods before granting export permission.
Shipping and Forwarding (Air or Sea)
The goods will be shipped from China to India using the mode of transportation you choose (air, ocean, or a combination of air and ocean).
India Import Customs Clearance
Once the goods arrive in India, an import customs clearance application must be submitted. Customs officials will calculate and process import duties, taxes, and related fees.
Final Delivery Destination
The goods will be shipped to the buyer’s designated location in India.
Import Tax and Duties in India
Import taxes and tariffs are significant costs in international shipping. Understanding these tax policies can help you estimate costs in advance and avoid customs clearance obstacles.
| Product Category | Duty Percentage (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Electronics & Components | 10–20% |
| Textiles & Garments | 10–15% |
| Machinery | 7.5–15% |
| Automotive Parts | 15–30% |
| Chemicals | 5–10% |
| Furniture & Home Decor | 20–25% |
| Toys & Sports Equipment | 20% |
Don’t forget: IGST (Integrated Goods and Services Tax) and Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) are calculated on the sum of CIF value + Basic Customs Duty, further raising your total import cost.
Choose A Reliable Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarders play a key role in international shipping, acting as a bridge between shippers and transportation services. Their expertise in logistics ensures that goods are efficiently transported from China to India and effectively handles complex issues such as customs regulations and transportation scheduling.
At Ubestshipping, we specialize in providing comprehensive customized shipping solutions from China to India. Whether you need affordable ocean freight, fast air freight, all-inclusive DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) or convenient door-to-door service, we provide end-to-end services with attention to detail and reliability. Our experienced team will manage every step from pickup to final delivery, ensuring that your goods are delivered on time, safely and hassle-free.
Contact Ubestshipping today to get a personalized quote and experience a smooth shipping process with the support of our experts. Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on growing your business!