How much is shipping from China to Syria

Are you wondering how much is shipping from China to Syria and what factors influence the costs? Whether you’re considering sea freight, air freight, or rail freight, understanding the details can help you save time and money. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down shipping costs, import taxes, transit times, and essential tips for smooth customs clearance. Get ready to discover everything you need to know about affordable and efficient freight forwarding from China to Syria!

Sea freight cost from China to Syria

Shipping goods from China to Syria by sea freight remains the most cost-effective solution for large-volume cargo. However, the exact rate is determined by various factors, including container size, shipment origin port in China, destination port in Syria (typically Latakia Port), cargo type, current market demand, fuel surcharges, and any special handling requirements.

To help you understand the current market price structure, here’s a breakdown of the most common FCL (Full Container Load) options:

Container Type	Capacity (CBM)	Average Cost (USD)*	Major Origin Ports (China)	Transit Time (days)
20ft Standard	28 CBM	$3,500 – $4,500	Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao	35 – 45
40ft Standard	56 CBM	$6,500 – $8,000	Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao	35 – 45
40ft High Cube (HQ)	68 CBM	$7,500 – $10,000	Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao	35 – 45

*Rates are indicative (Q3 2025) and subject to fluctuations due to geopolitical factors, fuel prices, and peak season demand. For accurate, up-to-date rates, we recommend contacting Dantful International Logistics directly.

Cost of 20ft container shipping from China to Syria?

A 20ft container (28 CBM) is ideal for small-to-medium shipments or heavy goods. As of Sep 2025, shipping a full 20ft container from a major China port (such as Shanghai or Shenzhen) to Latakia Port in Syria typically ranges from $3,500 to $4,500 (all-in, port-to-port). This price usually covers the basic ocean freight and standard surcharges, but excludes:

• Origin and destination handling charges

• Customs clearance fees

• Duties and taxes

• Local delivery to the final consignee

Key factors affecting 20ft rates:

• Fluctuations in global shipping demand

• War risk surcharges related to the region

• Availability of space and containers

Cost of 40ft container shipping from China to Syria?

A 40ft container (56 CBM) is more cost-effective per cubic meter, suitable for larger shipments or bulky goods. The average cost for shipping a 40ft standard container from China to Syria ranges from $6,500 to $8,000 (port-to-port) as of Q3 2025. For a 40ft High Cube container (68 CBM), expect rates to be slightly higher.

Advantages of a 40ft container:

• Lower cost per unit/CBM compared to 20ft

• Better value for high-volume shipments

At Dantful International Logistics, we recommend consolidating shipments when possible to maximize efficiency and reduce the per-unit freight cost.

For more details about ocean freight in this region, you can refer to our specialized guide: Sea Freight From China to Syria.

Air freight cost from China to Syria per KG

Air freight is the fastest method for shipping goods from China to Syria, commonly used for high-value, time-sensitive, or perishable cargo. The cost is calculated based on chargeable weight (actual or volumetric, whichever is greater).

As of 2025, the average air freight rate from major China airports (such as Shanghai PVG, Guangzhou CAN, and Beijing PEK) to Damascus International Airport or other accessible Syrian airports is as follows:

Weight Bracket	General Cargo Rate (USD/KG)*	Estimated Transit Time
45 – 100 kg	$7.00 – $9.00	4 – 7 days
100 – 300 kg	$6.50 – $8.00	4 – 7 days
>300 kg	$6.00 – $7.50	4 – 7 days

*Rates are indicative, vary by airline, route, and market trends, and may increase due to limited flight capacity or special handling needs.

Important considerations:

• Rates may not include security screening, fuel surcharges, or handling at origin/destination.

• Due to geopolitical circumstances, direct flights are limited. Shipments may route via third countries (such as Turkey or UAE).

• High-risk or restricted cargo may incur additional costs.

Freight rates from China to Syria are shaped by global market conditions, route availability, and regional risk factors. For the best value and up-to-date rates, consult with a reputable freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics. Our team ensures transparent pricing, compliance, and end-to-end service for your shipping needs. If you need a detailed quote or have special requirements, please contact us for tailored advice.

If you’re interested in exploring door-to-door options to Syria or nearby countries, you can review our guide to door to door shipping from China to Syria.

Rail freight cost from China to Syria

Rail freight is an emerging alternative for shipping goods from China to Syria, especially for businesses seeking a balance between cost and transit time. While direct rail routes between the two countries are limited due to regional infrastructure and geopolitical challenges, multimodal rail solutions—combining rail and trucking—are increasingly used for certain types of cargo.

1. Overview of Rail Freight Solutions

Most rail shipments from China to Syria utilize the China-Europe Railway Express, terminating at key hubs in Europe (such as Duisburg, Warsaw, or Moscow). From there, cargo is transferred to trucks or sometimes ships for the final leg to Syria. This makes rail freight suitable for:

• General cargo

• Electronics, machinery, and automotive parts

• Textile and consumer goods not requiring urgent delivery

2. Typical Rail Freight Rates (2025)

Route Segment	Service Type	Estimated Cost (USD/CBM)	Transit Time (Days)
China – Europe (Rail)	FCL/LCL	$80 – $120	15 – 18
Europe – Syria (Truck/Road)	Trucking	$100 – $200	5 – 8
Total (Door-to-Door)	Multimodal	$180 – $320	20 – 30

Note:

• Rates are indicative and can fluctuate due to fuel costs, surcharges, and political factors.

• Rail is best for shipments exceeding 2 CBM or 500kg, providing better value over air freight but faster than sea freight.

• LCL (Less than Container Load) is available for smaller shipments.

3. Key Benefits and Considerations

• Cost Efficiency: Rail freight is generally more affordable than air freight and can be more cost-effective than sea freight for certain routes and urgency levels.

• Transit Time: Rail is faster than sea, with an average journey of 20–30 days from China to Syria via Europe.

• Cargo Safety: Rail offers stable handling and lower risk of damage, suitable for sensitive or valuable goods.

• Environment: Rail has a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to air and road freight.

To learn more about rail logistics and its benefits for international shipments, check out our rail freight service page.

What is the import tax from China to Syria?

Import taxes and customs duties are critical elements of the total landed cost for shipments from China to Syria. Understanding these charges helps businesses accurately budget and avoid unexpected expenses.

1. Major Tax Categories

When importing goods into Syria, the following taxes and levies typically apply:

Tax/Charge Type	Rate/Calculation	Remarks
Customs Duty	1% – 30% (varies by HS code & product)	Rates defined by Syrian Customs Tariff
Value Added Tax (VAT)	Standard: 5%	Applies to most imported goods
Additional Levies	May apply (e.g., excise, inspection)	On specific goods: electronics, luxury items, etc.
Service Fees	$50 – $200 per shipment	Handling, inspection, and processing fees

Note: The exact rate depends on the product’s HS code and the applicable bilateral/trade agreements.

2. Calculation Example

Suppose you are importing machinery with a CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value of $10,000:

1. Customs Duty: $10,000 x 10% (example rate) = $1,000

2. VAT: ($10,000 + $1,000) x 5% = $550

3. Total Import Taxes: $1,000 (duty) + $550 (VAT) + additional fees

3. Compliance and Documentation

To benefit from correct tax assessment and avoid delays:

• Ensure all commercial invoices clearly state product description and HS code.

• Prepare a detailed packing list and bill of lading/waybill.

• Include certificates of origin if available (can reduce tariffs under some agreements).

4. Professional Support

Duties and taxes are subject to change based on Syrian government policies. Working with a professional freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics ensures:

• Accurate classification and customs declaration

• Updated information on current rates and trade policies

• Seamless customs clearance and tax optimization

Our experience with shipments from China to Syria enables us to provide tailored guidance and cost-effective solutions for your import needs.

Syria customs clearance & documents checklist

Navigating Syria customs clearance is a crucial stage of the shipping process when importing goods from China to Syria. Delays or errors in documentation can cause significant disruptions and increased costs. As a logistics expert with extensive experience in Middle East trade routes, I recommend closely adhering to the following checklist to ensure smooth customs clearance:

Essential Customs Documents for Shipping from China to Syria

Document Type	Purpose/Description	Issued By	Notes
Bill of Lading (B/L)	Acts as a shipment receipt and contract of carriage between shipper/carrier and consignee	Carrier/Freight Forwarder	Must match cargo details; original or telex
Commercial Invoice	Details the value and description of the goods, used for customs valuation and duties calculation	Exporter (Chinese Supplier)	Must include HS codes and currency
Packing List	Lists types, quantities, and packaging of each item in the shipment	Exporter	Should align with the Commercial Invoice
Certificate of Origin	Verifies the country of manufacture, may be required for preferential duty rates	Chamber of Commerce/Exporter	Not always mandatory, but often requested
Import License	Authorization for specific controlled or restricted goods	Syrian Ministry of Economy	Needed for certain categories (e.g. electronics)
Insurance Certificate	Proof of cargo insurance coverage during transit	Insurance Provider	Recommended for high-value shipments
Customs Declaration	Formal statement to Syrian Customs, includes all shipment details and values	Importer/Freight Forwarder	Must be accurately completed
Other Permits	Additional certificates (e.g. sanitary, phytosanitary, or conformity) depending on product type	Relevant Authorities	For food, chemicals, machinery, etc.

Key Advice

• All documents must be consistent, clear, and error-free.

• Ensure HS codes are correct; misclassification leads to delays and fines.

• For high-value or sensitive goods, consult with your freight forwarder regarding extra documentation.

Dantful International Logistics provides end-to-end support for customs documentation and compliance, reducing your risk of clearance delays and penalties.

If you want more insights into customs procedures for other Middle East destinations, see our recommendations for Shipping From China to Middle East.

Tips to reduce shipping cost from China to Syria

Controlling freight expenses is critical for every importer and exporter. Here are expert strategies to minimize your shipping cost from China to Syria while maintaining efficiency and compliance:

1. Choose the Right Mode of Transport

• Sea Freight is generally the most cost-effective for large and heavy shipments.

• Air Freight offers speed for urgent, smaller, or high-value goods but comes at a premium.

• Rail Freight (where available) can be a compromise between cost and speed.

2. Optimize Container Utilization

• Fully utilize the capacity of your container:

  • 20ft Container: 28 CBM

  • 40ft Container: 56 CBM

  • 40HQ: 68 CBM

  • 45HQ: 78 CBM

• Consolidate shipments with other exporters/importers (LCL – Less than Container Load) if your cargo volume is low.

3. Plan Shipments in Advance

• Book space early, especially during peak seasons (before Ramadan, end of year, etc.).

• Advance planning avoids high spot rates and emergency airfreight costs.

4. Work with a Professional Freight Forwarder

• A reliable partner like Dantful International Logistics offers tailored solutions, competitive rates, and route optimization.

• We provide FCL, LCL, airfreight, rail, door-to-door, insurance, and customs clearance services.

• Value-added services such as cargo consolidation and warehousing further reduce total logistics costs.

5. Negotiate and Compare Rates

• Obtain quotes from multiple carriers and forwarders.

• Ask for bundled solutions (e.g., combining freight with customs and insurance).

• Watch out for hidden charges (documentation, terminal handling, etc.).

6. Use Cost-effective Ports and Routes

• Shipping to major Syrian ports (e.g., Latakia, Tartous) is usually cheaper due to regular liner services.

• Evaluate alternative transshipment options if direct routes are unavailable or expensive.

7. Minimize Customs Duties and Delays

• Ensure all documents are accurate and compliant to avoid demurrage and storage fees.

• Classify goods correctly to avoid overpayment of duties.

8. Reassess Packaging

• Use lighter, space-saving packaging to increase cargo volume per container.

• Avoid over-packaging which increases volumetric weight and, subsequently, costs.

9. Leverage Consolidation Services

• Combine smaller shipments into one consolidated lot to benefit from lower per-unit shipping costs.

10. Invest in Insurance

• While it may seem counterintuitive, proper cargo insurance can save you significant losses in case of damage, theft, or other incidents.

By following these tips, businesses can effectively manage and reduce their shipping costs from China to Syria. Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics ensures you receive professional guidance, transparency, and cost-saving logistics solutions tailored to your needs.

For regional comparison, you might be interested in our article about the cheapest shipping company from China to Syria, which explores cost-effective providers and strategies for this trade lane.

Transit time from China to Syria

The transit time for shipping goods from China to Syria depends on several factors, including the chosen mode of transport, specific origin and destination points, routing, customs clearance, and the type of service (FCL, LCL, air, or rail). Understanding typical transit times is essential for supply chain planning, inventory control, and meeting your customer expectations.

Below is a comprehensive comparison of the average transit times for different shipping methods from major Chinese ports to key logistics hubs in Syria as of 2025. Please note, transit times can be affected by external factors such as global shipping disruptions, port congestion, and geopolitical situations.

Shipping Mode	Main Route & Notes	Estimated Transit Time (Days)
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)	Shanghai / Shenzhen / Ningbo → Latakia Port or Tartous Port (via transshipment, usually through Mediterranean hubs such as Port Said, Egypt or Piraeus, Greece)	35 – 50
Air Freight	Shanghai / Guangzhou / Beijing → Damascus International Airport (usually with 1-2 stops)	5 – 9
Rail Freight	Yiwu / Chongqing → Istanbul, Turkey (rail), then road to Syria	25 – 32 (including transfer)

Key Considerations:

• Sea Freight is most cost-effective for bulk cargo, but it is the slowest due to multiple transshipments and customs procedures at Mediterranean hubs before reaching Syria.

• Air Freight is fastest, suitable for urgent, high-value, or perishable goods. It is generally more expensive and often involves indirect routes due to limited direct commercial flights.

• Rail Freight is a growing option, utilizing the China-Europe Railway Express to Turkey, then road freight into Syria. It is faster than sea and more affordable than air, though availability can be limited based on current geopolitical conditions.

• Customs clearance and local logistics in Syria may affect final delivery times, depending on documentation accuracy and local regulations.

If your business requires a tailored shipping schedule or urgent deliveries, consulting a professional freight forwarder is strongly recommended to manage route planning and minimize delays.

Transit time from China to Syria

The transit time for shipping goods from China to Syria varies significantly based on the chosen transportation mode, origin and destination points, customs clearance efficiency, and real-time geopolitical or logistical conditions. Here’s a detailed comparison to help shippers make informed decisions:

Shipping Mode	Typical Transit Time	Routing Example	Key Notes
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)	30 – 45 days*	Shanghai – Port of Latakia	Includes transshipment via Mediterranean hubs.
Air Freight	5 – 10 days	Shanghai/Guangzhou – Damascus	Includes layovers and potential customs delays.
Rail Freight	20 – 30 days	Xi’an – Istanbul – Syria (Truck final)	Rail to Turkey, then truck to Syria.
Express Courier	5 – 8 days	Any major Chinese city – Damascus	For parcels, limited by embargo/policy factors.
Road Freight (via Turkey)	18 – 25 days	Shenzhen – Turkey – Syria	Requires multimodal arrangement, limited routes.

*Transit times are estimates as of Sep 2025, subject to change due to ongoing conflicts, customs inspections, and port congestion.

Key Factors Affecting Transit Time:

• Port Congestion: Major Chinese ports (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen) and transshipment hubs (such as Port Said in Egypt or Turkish ports) may experience congestion, causing delays.

• Transshipment: Most sea shipments to Syria require transshipment via Mediterranean or Middle Eastern ports, increasing the overall transit time.

• Customs Clearance in Syria: Customs inspection and documentation at Syria’s entry ports can be time-consuming, especially for restricted or controlled goods.

• Geopolitical Factors: Regional instability or sanctions may affect both the frequency of sailings and border processing times.

Professional Advice:

• For urgent or high-value shipments, air freight is recommended, though it comes at a premium cost.

• For bulk or non-time-sensitive cargo, sea freight remains the most cost-effective, but plan for possible delays.

• Rail and road freight are alternatives for certain cargo types, but require careful coordination and compliance with international transit regulations.

For the most accurate and up-to-date schedules tailored to your cargo and requirements, consult an experienced freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics. With a dedicated team and a global network, we provide real-time tracking, proactive communication, and flexible solutions for shipping from China to Syria.

Freight forwarder from China to Syria

Choosing the right freight forwarder is crucial for a seamless international shipping experience. Forwarders not only arrange the physical movement of cargo but also handle documentation, customs brokerage, cargo insurance, and coordination across multiple carriers and jurisdictions.

Why partner with a reliable freight forwarder for shipments from China to Syria?

• Expertise in complex routes: Shipping to Syria often requires transshipment through third countries and careful navigation of international regulations.

• End-to-end solutions: Integrated services, including cargo consolidation, warehousing, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery, help mitigate risk and improve efficiency.

• Cost optimization: Experienced forwarders leverage strong carrier networks and volume contracts to secure competitive rates, especially for challenging destinations.

• Local compliance: In-depth knowledge of Syrian import regulations ensures smooth customs clearance and avoids costly delays or penalties.

Why choose Dantful International Logistics?

As a highly professional, cost-effective, and one-stop international logistics service provider, Dantful International Logistics brings over 15 years of expertise in facilitating global trade. Our tailored solutions for the China–Syria corridor include:

• Sea Freight (FCL/LCL): Flexible container shipping from all major Chinese ports to Latakia and Tartous, with regular consolidation and deconsolidation services.

• Air Freight: Fast and secure air cargo solutions to Damascus and surrounding regions, with door-to-door options.

• Rail Freight: Multimodal solutions via the China-Europe Railway Express, optimizing transit time and cost where available.

• Customs Clearance: Experienced in Chinese and Syrian import/export regulations, ensuring full compliance and zero hassle for your shipments.

• Value-added Services: Comprehensive insurance, warehousing, Amazon FBA prep, project cargo (OOG, breakbulk), and road transport to inland destinations.

• Dedicated Support: Personalized service from our expert team, fluent in international shipping complexities and local regulatory requirements.

Get a Quote or Consultation

If you are planning to ship from China to Syria, contact Dantful International Logistics for a customized solution that fits your timeline, budget, and specific cargo requirements. Our team is committed to delivering reliable, transparent, and high-quality logistics services.

Contact us today to discuss your next shipment and experience the Dantful difference.

If your supply chain involves shipments to other Middle Eastern countries, consider reading about Shipping From China to Turkey for additional regional logistics insights.

FAQs

Q1: How much is shipping from China to Syria by sea?
A: Sea freight rates vary due to container type, shipping line, origin, and destination. As of 2025, shipping a 20ft container from a major Chinese port to Latakia typically costs between USD 4,800 – 6,500, depending on market demand, surcharges, and service type. For the latest quote, contact Dantful International Logistics for a tailored solution.

Q2: Are there direct shipping routes from China to Syria?
A: Most shipments require transshipment at a hub port, such as Port Said in Egypt or a Turkish port, due to limited direct lines to Syria. This affects both cost and transit time.

Q3: What documents are required for customs clearance in Syria?
A: Essential documents include the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and applicable import licenses. Ensuring document accuracy reduces clearance delays.

Q4: Can I track my shipment from China to Syria?
A: Yes, reputable freight forwarders like Dantful International Logistics provide real-time tracking, shipment updates, and proactive communication throughout the shipping process.

Q5: How can I reduce shipping costs from China to Syria?
A: Consolidate shipments, optimize packaging, plan for off-peak seasons, and work with an experienced freight forwarder such as Dantful International Logistics to negotiate better rates and streamline logistics.

If you have more specific questions or require a customized quote for your shipment from China to Syria, contact Dantful International Logistics for professional, reliable, and cost-effective international logistics solutions.