How long is freight from china to Switzerland？

Are you wondering how long is freight from China to Switzerland and what shipping options best suit your business? Understanding transit times, costs, and logistics is crucial for efficient international trade. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore key aspects like sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and door-to-door services from Shenzhen to Switzerland. Whether you’re shipping a 20ft or 40ft container, or need details on customs clearance and top freight forwarders, this article covers everything you need to know.

Sea freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland

Shipping via sea freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland is a popular and cost-effective solution for businesses that need to transport large volumes of goods. This mode is especially preferred by importers, exporters, manufacturers, and supply chain managers seeking to balance cost and reliability for their shipments.

As a landlocked country, Switzerland does not have its own seaports. Therefore, sea freight shipments from China typically arrive at major European seaports—such as Port of Rotterdam (Netherlands), Port of Hamburg (Germany), or Port of Antwerp (Belgium)—followed by inland transportation (rail or truck) to the final destination in Switzerland.

Dantful International Logistics specializes in providing seamless, multimodal solutions for shipping from Shenzhen to Switzerland, including sea freight, customs clearance, and efficient inland delivery to Swiss cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Basel.

As part of your decision-making, you might find it helpful to review this practical guide on Sea Freight From China to Switzerland for further details about routing, transit times, and typical challenges when shipping to this landlocked nation.

Why Choose Sea Freight?

• Cost-Effectiveness: Ideal for bulk shipments and full container loads (FCL), resulting in lower per-unit shipping costs.
• Flexible Options: Both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services are available to suit different shipment sizes.
• Comprehensive Services: Dantful Logistics offers door-to-door, consolidated cargo, OOG (Out of Gauge), breakbulk, and warehouse solutions.
• Reliability: Fixed sailing schedules and established routes ensure predictable transit times.

Typical Sea Freight Workflow

1. Cargo Pickup from supplier in Shenzhen or surrounding areas.
2. Warehousing & Consolidation if needed.
3. Export Customs Clearance at the Shenzhen port.
4. Ocean Freight from Shenzhen to major European seaports.
5. Inland Haulage via rail or truck from the seaport to Switzerland.
6. Final Delivery to the consignee’s address.

Estimated Transit Times

Route	Estimated Transit Time (Port to Port)	Final Delivery Time to Switzerland (Including Inland Transport)
Shenzhen – Rotterdam (via sea) + Truck/Rail to Switzerland	27 – 32 days	32 – 38 days
Shenzhen – Hamburg (via sea) + Truck/Rail to Switzerland	28 – 35 days	33 – 40 days
Shenzhen – Antwerp (via sea) + Truck/Rail to Switzerland	27 – 34 days	32 – 39 days

Dantful’s Insider Insight: While many forwarders quote standard “port-to-port” times, the real bottleneck often occurs during the modal switch (Sea to Rail/Truck).

• Rhine Low Water Levels: In dry summers, barges cannot load fully. We monitor hydrographic data to preemptively switch your cargo to rail, avoiding “low water surcharges.”
• Rail Strikes: European rail strikes can happen. Our team maintains a network of “emergency truck fleets” in Germany and Netherlands to ensure your goods keep moving even when trains stop.

Ports in Shenzhen and Switzerland

Major Ports in Shenzhen

Shenzhen is one of the world’s top shipping hubs, boasting several advanced container terminals, each specializing in different types of cargo and shipping lines:

Shenzhen Port Terminal	Location	Specialization/Notes
Yantian International Container Terminal (YICT)	Yantian District	Largest terminal, handles most international FCL/LCL containers, strong connections to Europe
Shekou Container Terminal (SCT)	Nanshan District	Key port for South China, good for LCL & breakbulk
Chiwan Container Terminal (CCT)	Nanshan District	FCL, LCL, and project cargo
Mawan Container Terminal (MCT)	Nanshan District	General containerized cargo, flexible sailings

Dantful Logistics can recommend the most suitable terminal based on your cargo type, destination, and schedule requirements.

Entry Points & Inland Logistics (The “Hidden” Leg)

As Switzerland is landlocked, inbound ocean freight is routed through major European seaports. However, the choice of port significantly impacts the inland transit time and cost stability, a nuance often overlooked by general logistics providers.

European Gateway Port	Country	Typical Inland Mode	Expert Insight
Rotterdam	Netherlands	Barge / Rail	Pro Tip: Offers the most frequent barge connections via the Rhine River to Basel. Warning: In summer months, low water levels on the Rhine can force a switch to rail/truck, causing surcharges and delays.
Hamburg	Germany	Rail	Excellent rail connectivity to Zurich and Basel. Less affected by weather than barge transport, making it a reliable choice for time-critical sea freight.
Antwerp	Belgium	Rail / Truck	Often less congested than Rotterdam. Good for “fast” inland trucking options if rail slots are fully booked.
Genoa	Italy	Rail	A strategic alternative for Southern Switzerland (Lugano/Chiasso), though less common for Shenzhen origin due to sailing schedules.

The “Basel” Advantage: Basel is not just a city; it is Switzerland’s “Golden Gate” for freight. Located at the intersection of France, Germany, and Switzerland, it hosts the country’s only cargo port on the Rhine. Dantful’s strategy often involves routing heavy industrial goods via barge to Basel to minimize costs, while high-value consumer goods take the faster rail link from Hamburg directly to Zurich.

Summary & Value for Clients

Choosing sea freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland is a strategic move for businesses balancing cost and volume. However, navigating the logistics of a landlocked country requires precise coordination—from export documentation in China to the final inland haulage via Rotterdam or Hamburg. At Dantful International Logistics, we simplify this multi-leg journey. Instead of managing separate carriers for sea and rail, we provide a unified solution that ensures your cargo transitions smoothly from the vessel to the truck or train, delivering directly to your warehouse in Zurich or Geneva with full visibility.

For detailed, up-to-date quotations or to discuss the best logistics strategy for your shipment, please contact Dantful International Logistics—your trusted partner for global freight forwarding.

Related reading: Discover how shipping to other European countries compares by visiting our resource on Shipping From China to Germany.

Air freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland

Air freight is the preferred mode for businesses seeking speed, reliability, and security when shipping goods from Shenzhen to Switzerland. With increasing demand for rapid delivery in sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and high-value commodities, air transportation provides a competitive advantage for time-sensitive cargo.

Main airports for Shenzhen to Switzerland

Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) serves as one of the most significant air cargo hubs in southern China. It is well-equipped with state-of-the-art handling facilities, advanced screening technology, and direct connections to global freight networks. For shipments to Switzerland, primary destination airports include:

Origin Airport	Destination Airport	IATA Code	Location	Notes
Shenzhen Bao’an International	Zurich Airport	ZRH	Zurich, Switzerland	Largest and busiest airport in Switzerland
Shenzhen Bao’an International	Geneva Airport	GVA	Geneva, Switzerland	Important for western Switzerland and international orgs
Shenzhen Bao’an International	EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg	BSL/MLH/EAP	Near Basel (serves Swiss, French, German borders)	Key for northwestern Switzerland and tri-national area

Most direct or consolidated air freight services land at Zurich Airport (ZRH), the country’s principal international hub, optimizing customs clearance and onward distribution. Geneva Airport (GVA) and EuroAirport Basel (BSL/EAP) serve regional needs, offering extensive road connections to all major Swiss cities.

Why “Direct” isn’t always “Best” for Air Freight

While a direct flight seems fastest, it is often subject to space constraints and higher costs.

• The “Hub” Strategy: We often route cargo via Frankfurt (FRA) or Amsterdam (AMS) with a “bonded truck” service to Zurich. This is often 30% cheaper than direct air and only adds 12-24 hours to the total transit time.
• Flight Allocation (BSA): During peak seasons (e.g., Q4), airlines overbook. Dantful holds Block Space Agreements (BSA) with key carriers like Swiss WorldCargo and Cathay Pacific, guaranteeing your cargo flies when others are bumped.

Dantful International Logistics offers bespoke air freight solutions, including:

• General cargo and special cargo handling (temperature-controlled, dangerous goods, oversized freight)
• Consolidated shipments to lower costs
• End-to-end visibility and real-time tracking
• Customs clearance expertise at both origin and destination
• Cargo insurance for high-value or sensitive goods

With direct access to major airlines and established relationships with ground handlers, we ensure shipments from Shenzhen to Switzerland are both secure and cost-effective.

Door to Door shipping from Shenzhen to Switzerland

Door to Door shipping provides maximum convenience and efficiency for businesses and individuals importing goods from Shenzhen to Switzerland. Instead of coordinating multiple providers and stages, a single logistics partner manages the entire journey—from the shipper’s warehouse in China to the consignee’s address in Switzerland.

For businesses interested in alternative door-to-door solutions to other European destinations, see our dedicated guide on door to door shipping from China to Netherlands for more best practices within Europe.

This service encompasses:

• Pickup at origin (factory, warehouse, or supplier location)
• Export customs clearance in China
• International transportation (air, sea, rail, or multimodal)
• Import customs clearance in Switzerland
• Final delivery to the designated address

DDP vs. DDU

Understanding the difference between DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) is crucial for cost planning and compliance:

Term	Seller’s Responsibility	Buyer’s Responsibility	Customs Duties & Taxes	Typical Use Cases
DDP	All shipping, insurance, customs clearance, import duties/taxes, final delivery	Receive goods at named place	Paid by seller	Preferred by buyers who want a no-surprise, all-in cost
DDU	Shipping, insurance, export clearance, delivery to destination country	Import customs clearance, duties/taxes, local delivery (if not arranged)	Paid by buyer	Suitable for buyers with local customs expertise or own brokers

• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Under this term, the seller assumes maximum responsibility, covering all costs and risks up to the buyer’s premises. This includes handling Swiss import clearance and advancing VAT and duties. For businesses without a local logistics team in Switzerland, DDP is often the most secure option as it eliminates unexpected arrival fees. Dantful International Logistics frequently manages DDP shipments to ensure compliance with Swiss customs regulations, allowing you to focus on sales rather than bureaucracy. For a deeper understanding of this service type, review our full article on what is Delivered Duty Paid (DDP).
• DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid): The seller or freight forwarder delivers the goods to the destination but leaves customs clearance and payment of duties/taxes to the consignee. This method can reduce upfront costs for the seller but requires the buyer to manage Swiss import processes.

Hidden Costs in Door-to-Door Delivery

Delivering in Switzerland is not like delivering in the US or China.

• Mountain Terrain: Delivery to remote Swiss villages (e.g., Zermatt) often requires special smaller trucks and permits, incurring “mountain surcharges.”
• Tail Lift Requirements: Most Swiss shops/offices do not have loading docks. We automatically assign trucks with tail lifts for non-industrial addresses to ensure the driver can unload the pallet, preventing refused deliveries.

Door-to-door shipping, particularly under DDP terms, effectively removes the complexity of coordinating multiple logistics providers. For importers unfamiliar with Swiss customs procedures or those simply wanting a “sign-on-delivery” experience, this service bridges the gap between the Chinese factory and the Swiss storefront. We at Dantful International Logistics specialize in streamlining this process, ensuring that the transition from Chinese export protocols to Swiss import requirements is handled seamlessly by a single professional team.

Express shipping from Shenzhen to Switzerland

Express shipping is the fastest transportation mode for shipments from Shenzhen, China to Switzerland. This method is ideal for urgent parcels, small batches, high-value items, and samples that require time-sensitive delivery. Major international express carriers such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT operate direct services between China and Switzerland, leveraging robust global networks and advanced tracking technologies.

Transit Time: Typically, express shipments from Shenzhen to Switzerland take 2 to 5 business days, depending on the specific service, pickup location, destination, and customs clearance efficiency. Some premium express options (such as DHL Express Worldwide or FedEx International Priority) can deliver as fast as 2–3 business days.

Key Advantages:

• Speed: Fastest delivery option among all international shipping modes.
• End-to-End Tracking: Real-time visibility on shipment status.
• Convenience: Door-to-door pickup and delivery.
• Reliability: Lower risk of delay, well-established carrier infrastructure.
• Simplified Customs: Many express companies offer customs brokerage as part of the service.

Potential Limitations:

• Cost: Highest per-kilogram freight cost compared to air or sea freight.
• Weight & Size Restrictions: Most carriers have strict limits for express parcels (typically up to 70 kg per piece, with surcharges for oversized shipments).
• Prohibited Items: Dangerous goods or restricted commodities may not be eligible for express shipping.

Recommended Use Cases:

• Urgent samples and prototypes
• High-value electronics, documents, and e-commerce orders
• Small parcel shipments for businesses and individuals

Estimated Express Shipping Costs (Shenzhen to Switzerland, January 2026):

Weight	DHL / FedEx / UPS (Estimated)	Transit Time
Up to 0.5kg	$32–$42	2–4 business days
1kg	$42–$55	2–4 business days
5kg	$105–$130	2–4 business days
10kg	$170–$210	2–4 business days
20kg	$260–$300	2–5 business days

Rates are indicative and may fluctuate due to fuel surcharges, seasonal demand, or promotions. For exact quotes, please contact your freight forwarder or directly reach out to Dantful International Logistics for the best solutions and value-added services.

While major carriers handle the transport, the efficiency of express shipping often hinges on proper documentation. Dantful International Logistics assists in preparing accurate commercial invoices and packing lists to prevent customs delays, ensuring that your “express” shipment truly remains express.

Cost of Sea freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland

Sea freight is one of the most economical options for transporting large-volume goods from Shenzhen to Switzerland. Although Switzerland is a landlocked country, shipments are routed via major European seaports, such as Rotterdam (Netherlands), Hamburg (Germany), or Antwerp (Belgium), and then moved inland by rail or truck to Swiss destinations like Zurich, Basel, or Geneva.

If you are interested in knowing the comparative costs for sea freight to other key European countries, check our in-depth resource on container shipping costs from China to Germany for useful benchmarks and strategies.

Cost of shipping 20ft container from Shenzhen to Switzerland

A 20ft container (standard TEU) is suitable for small to medium-volume cargo, with a typical capacity of 28 CBM (cubic meters). Pricing varies based on seasonality, carrier contracts, surcharge adjustments, and inland transportation requirements.

Shipping Route	Ocean Freight (January 2026, USD)	Total Transit (Port-to-Door)	Notes
Shenzhen – Rotterdam	$1,950 – $2,450	28–35 days	Additional trucking to Switzerland required
Shenzhen – Hamburg	$2,050 – $2,550	28–36 days	Includes inland delivery to Swiss cities
Shenzhen – Antwerp	$2,000 – $2,500	29–36 days

The final cost depends on:

• Inland haulage from European port to Swiss address (typically $500–$1,100 per 20ft container)
• Customs clearance and VAT in Switzerland
• Additional charges for special cargo, overweight, or OOG shipments

Cost of shipping 40ft container from Shenzhen to Switzerland

A 40ft container (standard FEU) is widely used for bulkier or higher-volume shipments, offering a maximum capacity of 56 CBM. This option ensures better cost efficiency per cubic meter.

Shipping Route	Ocean Freight (January 2026, USD)	Total Transit (Port-to-Door)	Notes
Shenzhen – Rotterdam	$3,600 – $4,300	28–35 days	Additional trucking to Switzerland required
Shenzhen – Hamburg	$3,700 – $4,400	28–36 days	Includes inland delivery to Swiss cities
Shenzhen – Antwerp	$3,650 – $4,350	29–36 days

Additional cost factors:

• Fuel and security surcharges, peak season rates
• Port handling and delivery from European hub to Switzerland
• Optional services: insurance, customs brokerage, warehousing

Partnering for Efficiency Rather than just moving boxes, a freight partner should add value through strategic planning. Dantful International Logistics focuses on optimizing your supply chain—whether that means consolidating LCL shipments to reduce costs or selecting the optimal European port of entry to minimize inland transit time. We view every shipment as a commitment to your business’s continuity.

Cost of Air freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland per KG

The cost of air freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland is influenced by several factors, including the type of cargo, volume, current market demand, fuel surcharges, and the level of service (standard, express, or economy). As of 2024, air freight rates have stabilized but can still fluctuate due to seasonal peaks and changes in global trade dynamics.

Key Influencing Factors

• Chargeable Weight: Air freight is calculated based on the greater of gross weight or volumetric weight (Length x Width x Height in cm ÷ 6000).
• Cargo Type: Dangerous goods, oversized or temperature-controlled cargo may incur higher rates.
• Service Level: Express and priority services are priced higher than standard options.
• Origin & Destination Airports: Proximity to major airports like Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) and Zurich Airport (ZRH) affect the rates.
• Fuel & Security Surcharges: These are updated regularly by airlines and can impact the final cost.

Typical Air Freight Rates

The table below provides indicative air freight costs per KG from Shenzhen to major airports in Switzerland:

Weight Tier	Standard Air Freight Rate (USD/KG)	Express Air Freight Rate (USD/KG)	Typical Transit Time (Days)
45 – 99 KG	$5.20 – $6.00	$6.50 – $7.50	3 – 6
100 – 299 KG	$4.80 – $5.60	$6.00 – $7.20	3 – 6
300 – 499 KG	$4.50 – $5.30	$5.80 – $6.90	3 – 6
500 KG+	$4.20 – $5.00	$5.50 – $6.50	3 – 6

Note: Rates vary based on season, airline, and specific requirements. For dangerous or special cargo, expect higher rates.

Example Calculation

If you are shipping 150 KG of general cargo from Shenzhen to Zurich, using standard air freight:

• 150 KG x $4.80 = $720 (estimated)
• Additional fees: airport handling, customs clearance, local delivery may apply.

How to Get the Best Rate

To secure the most competitive air freight rates:

• Consolidate shipments where possible.
• Book in advance during non-peak seasons.
• Work with an experienced freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics, who has strong partnerships with airlines serving the Shenzhen–Switzerland route.

Dantful International Logistics provides transparent, tailor-made air freight solutions, including door-to-door, customs clearance, and cargo insurance – ensuring you receive cost-effective and reliable shipping service from China to Switzerland.

You may also want to compare rates to neighboring regions such as air freight from China to Germany to optimize your logistics strategy.

Sea freight transit time from Shenzhen to Switzerland

The sea freight transit time from Shenzhen to Switzerland depends on the chosen shipping route, transshipment ports, service type (FCL or LCL), and destination logistics arrangements. Since Switzerland is a landlocked country, sea freight arrives at major European ports, typically in Germany or Netherlands, and is then transported by rail or truck to Swiss cities.

Main Routes and Transit Time

The most common shipping routes for sea freight from Shenzhen to Switzerland are via the following ports:

• Port of Hamburg (Germany)
• Port of Rotterdam (Netherlands)
• Port of Antwerp (Belgium)

After ocean transit, cargo is moved by rail or truck to Switzerland (e.g., Basel, Zurich, Geneva).

Shenzhen Port	European Seaport	Final Destination in Switzerland	Estimated Ocean Transit (Days)	Inland Transit (Days)	Total Estimated Time (Days)
Yantian	Hamburg	Basel, Zurich, Geneva	28 – 32	2 – 4	30 – 36
Shekou/Nansha	Rotterdam	Basel, Zurich, Geneva	29 – 34	3 – 5	32 – 39
Yantian	Antwerp	Basel, Zurich, Geneva	30 – 35	3 – 5	33 – 40

FCL (Full Container Load) shipments are usually faster than LCL (Less than Container Load) due to less handling and consolidation.

Factors Influencing Transit Time

• Transshipment Ports: More transshipments mean potentially longer transit times.
• Customs Clearance: Efficient clearance at origin and destination accelerates the process.
• Weather & Seasonal Delays: Peak season (September–January) or adverse weather may cause delays.
• Carrier Schedule: Direct services reduce total duration compared to indirect/consolidated services.

Sea Freight Process Overview

1. Container Stuffing at Shenzhen Port (e.g., Yantian, Shekou)
2. Ocean Transit to European Port (Hamburg, Rotterdam, or Antwerp)
3. Unloading & Customs Clearance at the European entry port
4. Inland Transport to the final Swiss destination via road or rail

Practical Tips

• Book shipments in advance, especially for peak season.
• For urgent goods, consider our rail or air freight solutions.
• Work with a skilled freight forwarder such as Dantful International Logistics to ensure smooth coordination and optimized routing.

Navigating the complexities of sea freight requires more than just booking a slot on a vessel. Dantful International Logistics supports your supply chain by verifying container loading quality in Shenzhen and pre-arranging customs clearance documents before arrival in Europe. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of demurrage charges and ensures a smoother transition to inland transport.

In summary, the cost and transit time for freight from China to Switzerland can vary depending on your requirements and shipping mode. For tailored solutions, up-to-date rates, or a personalized quote, contact Dantful International Logistics—your trusted logistics partner for global trade.

Air freight transit time from Shenzhen to Switzerland

When evaluating air freight transit time from Shenzhen to Switzerland, several factors influence total delivery duration, including flight schedules, cargo handling efficiency, customs clearance, and the final delivery method (airport-to-airport or door-to-door). Generally, air freight is the fastest shipping mode for international cargo, making it ideal for high-value or urgent shipments.

Typical Air Freight Transit Times

Below is an overview of estimated air freight transit times from Shenzhen (Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, SZX) to the main Swiss airports:

Air Freight Route	Airport Pair	Estimated Transit Time (Days)	Comments
Shenzhen to Zurich	SZX → ZRH	2–5	Most direct flights; efficient customs at Zurich
Shenzhen to Geneva	SZX → GVA	3–6	May require transfer via Frankfurt or other European hubs
Shenzhen to Basel (EuroAirport)	SZX → BSL/MUL/MLH	3–6	Often routed through major EU airports
Shenzhen to Bern	SZX → BRN	4–7	Limited direct flights; often involves transshipment

Note:

• The above transit times refer to airport-to-airport transport and do not include pick-up, pre-carriage, or last-mile delivery within Switzerland.
• Door-to-door air freight usually adds 1–3 days, depending on customs and domestic delivery.
• Express air freight (via DHL, FedEx, UPS) is often completed within 2–4 days, but costs are significantly higher.

Factors Affecting Air Freight Transit Time

• Customs clearance in both China and Switzerland
• Seasonal demand and cargo space availability
• Chosen airline and routing (direct vs. indirect flight)
• Cargo nature (dangerous goods, oversized cargo may need special handling)
• Weather and unforeseen disruptions

As a highly experienced freight forwarder, Dantful International Logistics provides tailored flight routing and efficient customs support to minimize delays, ensuring your cargo arrives on time.

Customs Clearance of China to Switzerland shipping

Customs clearance is a crucial step in the international shipping process, ensuring your goods comply with regulations in both China and Switzerland. Proper documentation, compliance with import/export laws, and transparent communication with authorities are essential for a smooth logistics experience.

Critical Concept: The T1 Transit Document

This is where inexperienced forwarders often fail. Since Switzerland is not in the EU (European Union) or the Customs Union, goods arriving in Rotterdam (EU) destined for Zurich (Non-EU) must not be cleared in Rotterdam.

• The Solution: We open a T1 Transit Document at the port of entry. This allows your cargo to travel through the EU “duty unpaid.”
• The Risk: If a forwarder mistakenly clears customs in Netherlands, you pay EU VAT (21%) + Duty, and then pay again upon entering Switzerland. Dantful ensures the T1 is correctly raised and only discharged at the Swiss border, preventing double taxation.

Required Documents

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (Sea) / Airway Bill (Air)
• Certificate of Origin
• Import/Export Licenses (if applicable)
• Special certificates for controlled goods

Key Considerations

• All product information on the invoice and packing list must be accurate.
• Under Incoterms DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), the shipper is responsible for all customs clearance and payment of duties/taxes.
• Under Incoterms DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid), the consignee covers duties and taxes upon arrival.
• Delays are common if documents are incomplete, values are misdeclared, or regulations are not followed.

Customs Duty and VAT Reference Table

Item	China Export Duty	Swiss Import Duty	Swiss VAT (Standard)
General Cargo	Usually Exempt	Varies by HS Code	8.1%
Electronics	Usually Exempt	0–12%	8.1%
Clothing/Textiles	Usually Exempt	0–5%	8.1%
Foodstuffs	Usually Exempt	0–30% (depending item)	2.6% (food) / 8.1%

Note: Please consult with your customs broker or Dantful International Logistics for the latest duty and VAT rates, as they vary depending on the product’s HS code and recent regulatory changes.

How Dantful International Logistics Supports Your Customs Clearance

As a trusted and professional freight forwarder, Dantful International Logistics provides:

• Pre-shipment compliance checks
• Document preparation and review
• Real-time customs status updates
• Problem-solving for inspections or holds
• One-stop logistics solutions, including Sea Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, Road Freight, Amazon FBA, Warehouse, Insurance, Door to Door, OOG Freight, Consolidated Freight, and Breakbulk Freight

With in-depth knowledge of export and import regulations in both China and Switzerland, our team ensures your cargo clears customs smoothly, with minimal risk and optimal efficiency.

Read More:

• Shipping From China To Netherlands
• Shipping From China To Spain
• Shipping From China To Germany
• Shipping From China To France
• Shipping From China to Italy
• Shipping From China To Poland
• Shipping From China to United Kingdom

Step-by-step guide to ship from China to Switzerland

Shipping goods from China to Switzerland involves a series of well-defined steps, each requiring careful planning and execution. As an experienced logistics provider, Dantful International Logistics ensures transparency, efficiency, and compliance throughout the process. Below is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help importers and exporters navigate the journey:

1. Identify Cargo Details and Shipping Requirements

• Product Description: Define the nature of your goods, including commodity type, HS code, and any special handling requirements (e.g. hazardous, temperature-sensitive).
• Dimensions & Weight: Measure the total volume (CBM) and gross/net weight. For example, a standard 20FT container has a capacity of 28CBM, while a 40FT container holds 56CBM.
• Shipping Terms: Decide on Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.), which determine responsibility and risk at each stage.

2. Choose the Suitable Shipping Method

• Sea Freight: Ideal for bulk or heavy goods; economical but slower (typically 30-40 days from Shenzhen to Switzerland).
• Air Freight: Faster (3-7 days), suited for high-value or urgent cargo.
• Multimodal/Rail Freight: Increasingly popular for balancing cost and speed.
• Express & Door-to-Door: For small parcels or e-commerce goods (2-5 days).
• Custom Solutions: Dantful Logistics offers tailored services including Amazon FBA, OOG Freight, and Consolidated Freight.

If you’re considering the advantages of rail as part of your transportation plan, explore our resource on rail freight for shipments between Asia and Europe.

3. Select the Departure Port and Destination

• Major Chinese Departure Ports: Shenzhen (Yantian, Shekou, Chiwan), Shanghai, Ningbo
• Swiss Destination Ports: As Switzerland is landlocked, main entries are via Basel (Rhine river port), with further distribution by truck or rail.

4. Prepare Export Documentation

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List
• Bill of Lading (for sea) or Air Waybill (for air)
• Export Customs Declaration
• Certificate of Origin (if required)
• Insurance Certificate (recommended for risk mitigation)

5. Book Freight and Arrange Pick-up

Coordinate with your freight forwarder (preferably Dantful International Logistics) to:

• Reserve vessel/flight space
• Arrange inland transportation to the port/airport
• Schedule container loading or cargo consolidation

6. Customs Clearance in China

• Submit required documents to Chinese Customs
• Pay applicable export duties (if any)
• Ensure proper inspection and compliance with regulations

7. International Transport

• Sea Freight: Loading onto vessel, tracking in-transit status
• Air Freight: Cargo handed to airline, monitored for real-time updates

8. Arrival at Switzerland or European Port

• For sea freight, containers arrive at major European ports (e.g., Rotterdam, Hamburg) then trucked or railed to Switzerland
• For air freight, arrive at Zurich, Geneva, or Basel airports

9. Import Customs Clearance in Switzerland

• Appoint a local customs broker (Dantful can arrange)
• Submit all import documentation
• Pay import duty and Swiss VAT
• Finalize customs inspection

10. Last Mile Delivery

• Arrange delivery from port/airport to final destination in Switzerland
• Options include standard delivery, express, or warehousing solutions (Dantful offers comprehensive solutions)

11. Receipt and Confirmation

• Check goods for quantity and condition
• Sign relevant delivery and receipt documents
• Report discrepancies immediately

Typical Documentation Checklist:

Document Name	Required For	Remarks
Commercial Invoice	Export/Import Customs	Must match packing list
Packing List	All Shipments	Details items, weight, and dimension
Bill of Lading/Air Waybill	Carrier & Customs	Proof of carriage
Export Declaration	China Export	Filed by forwarder or exporter
Certificate of Origin	Preferential Duties	As needed
Insurance Certificate	Claims/Protection	Strongly advised

Freight forwarder from China to Switzerland

Choosing the right freight forwarder is crucial for a smooth, cost-effective shipping experience from China to Switzerland. As a highly professional and reliable provider, Dantful International Logistics stands out for several reasons:

Why Choose Dantful International Logistics?

• Comprehensive Service Portfolio:

  • Sea Freight: Full container (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL), OOG, breakbulk
  • Air Freight: Direct, consolidated, charter solutions
  • Rail & Road Freight: Flexible intermodal options
  • Amazon FBA, Warehouse, Insurance, Customs Clearance, Door-to-Door, Consolidated Freight

• Global Expertise, Local Support: Our team has over 15 years of hands-on experience in managing complex shipments for global traders, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, and SMEs.

• Cost-Effective Solutions: Customizable services to match your exact shipment profile, ensuring competitive rates and transparency.

• Technology-Driven: Real-time tracking, digital documentation, and data-driven logistics management.

• Regulatory Compliance: Full knowledge of export and import regulations in both China and Switzerland, minimizing delays and risks.

• Value-Added Services: Consulting on optimal routing, insurance, packaging, and supply chain optimization.

Comparative Table: Leading Freight Forwarders (2026)

Company Name	Services Offered	Years of Experience	Strengths
Dantful International Logistics	Sea, Air, Rail, Door-to-Door, FBA, Warehouse, Customs	15+	One-stop, cost-effective, high-quality, E2E
Kuehne + Nagel	Sea, Air, Road, Logistics Solutions	30+	Global network, Swiss expertise
DB Schenker	Sea, Air, Rail, Contract Logistics	25+	Rail solutions, strong in EU
DHL Global Forwarding	Air, Ocean, Customs Brokerage	40+	Express, global reach

Note: Dantful International Logistics combines the cost-effectiveness found in Asian logistics with strict European compliance, making us an ideal partner for both established and first-time importers.

What to Look for in a Freight Forwarder:

• Experience with China-Switzerland Route
• Transparent Pricing and No Hidden Charges
• Customs Clearance Expertise
• Integrated Door-to-Door Capabilities
• Responsive Customer Service

Every shipment is unique. To discuss a logistics strategy that fits your specific timeline and budget—whether for a single pallet or a monthly container volume—reach out to Dantful International Logistics. We are ready to provide a transparent, itemized quotation that helps you plan your 2026 logistics budget with confidence.

If you’re shipping to Switzerland but also want to learn about logistics to other major European destinations, see our guide on freight forwarder from China to Germany.