Cost of shipping 20ft container from China to Egypt

Are you wondering how much it costs to ship a 20ft container from China to Egypt and what factors influence these rates? Understanding the ins and outs of container shipping, including LCL and FCL options, is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key elements of shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt, including main ports, transit times, import duties, and a step-by-step process to ensure a smooth journey for your cargo.

Container Shipping from China to Egypt

When considering the cost of shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt, it is essential to understand the available shipping methods, container types, and the major ports involved in the process. Each shipping method—LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load)—offers distinct advantages depending on your cargo volume, budget, and time requirements. Below, I will provide a comprehensive overview of these options and how they relate to the overall shipping costs and efficiency.

LCL Shipping from China to Egypt

LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping is ideal for businesses and individuals whose cargo does not fill an entire 20ft container. This method allows multiple shippers to share space in one container, making it a cost-effective solution for smaller shipments.

Key Features of LCL Shipping:

• Cost Efficiency: You only pay for the space your cargo occupies, which can be significantly less expensive than booking a full container if shipping small volumes.
• Flexible Scheduling: With frequent LCL departures from major Chinese ports, you can ship on a more flexible timeline.
• Consolidation: Cargo from different shippers is consolidated at origin and deconsolidated at the destination, which may add to the transit time.
• Typical Cargo: LCL is suitable for shipments less than 15 CBM (cubic meters).

LCL Process Overview:

1. Cargo is collected and sent to the freight forwarder’s warehouse for consolidation.
2. Cargo is loaded into a shared 20ft or 40ft container.
3. Upon arrival at the destination port in Egypt, cargo is deconsolidated and delivered to each consignee.

Estimated Costs and Transit Times for LCL:

Route	Estimated LCL Rate (USD/CBM)*	Typical Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai – Alexandria	$50 – $80	25 – 32
Shenzhen – Port Said	$55 – $85	26 – 34
Ningbo – Damietta	$52 – $82	24 – 31

*Rates are for general cargo, excluding surcharges, customs fees, and last-mile delivery. Actual rates vary depending on market conditions and cargo type.

FCL Shipping from China to Egypt

FCL (Full Container Load) shipping is the optimal choice when you have enough cargo to fill a full 20ft container (approx. 28 CBM) or if you require a secure, dedicated container for your goods.

Advantages of FCL Shipping:

• Security: Only your cargo is loaded in the container, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
• Faster Handling: FCL containers are not subject to consolidation and deconsolidation, resulting in shorter handling times.
• Cost-Effectiveness: For volumes above 15-18 CBM, FCL rates become more economical compared to LCL.
• Predictability: Schedules and delivery are more predictable with less risk of delays.

FCL Process Overview:

1. Container is delivered to your warehouse or shipper’s location for loading.
2. Sealed container is transported to the port and shipped directly to Egypt.
3. Container is delivered intact to the consignee at destination for unloading.

Estimated Costs and Transit Times for FCL (20ft Container):

Route	Estimated FCL Rate (USD/20ft)*	Typical Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai – Alexandria	$1,200 – $1,700	23 – 30
Shenzhen – Port Said	$1,250 – $1,800	24 – 32
Ningbo – Damietta	$1,180 – $1,650	22 – 29

*Rates are estimates as of 2025 Q4. Actual costs vary with seasonality, fuel surcharges, and route adjustments.

Pro Tip:
When choosing between LCL and FCL, consider not only the initial shipping cost but also handling fees, risk of cargo mixing, and delivery timelines. For shipments close to 15 CBM or higher, FCL is usually the more economical and secure option. If you need expert guidance, Dantful International Logistics offers free consultations to help you select the best transport mode for your specific needs.

For further reading about LCL and FCL, you may find this LCL vs FCL Shipping: How to Choose the Right Option for Small Cargo guide helpful.

Main Ports in China and Egypt

Selecting the right origin and destination ports is crucial for efficient container shipping. China and Egypt both boast several major international seaports, each with unique features and connections.

Main Ports in China

Port Name	Location	Features	Common Destinations in Egypt
Shanghai	East China	World’s largest container port, extensive global routes	Alexandria, Port Said, Damietta
Shenzhen	South China	Leading export hub, advanced logistics infrastructure	Alexandria, Port Said
Ningbo	East China	High efficiency, strong connections to Europe/Africa	Alexandria, Damietta
Qingdao	North China	Major hub for northern exporters	Alexandria, Damietta
Guangzhou	South China	Fast-growing, strong integration with Pearl River Delta	Alexandria, Port Said
Xiamen	Southeast China	Specialized in electronics, textiles, and machinery	Alexandria

Main Ports in Egypt

Port Name	Location	Features	Common Chinese Origin Ports
Alexandria	Northern Egypt	Largest and busiest port, gateway to Cairo and the region	Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Guangzhou
Port Said	Suez Canal (North)	Strategic location for Suez Canal transits	Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao
Damietta	Nile Delta	Modern facilities, strong container handling	Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, Xiamen
Sokhna	Suez (South)	New industrial port, close to major economic zones	Shenzhen, Guangzhou

Route Selection Tips:

• Alexandria is the primary gateway for most containerized cargo to Egypt due to its scale and connectivity.
• Port Said and Sokhna are preferred for shipments destined for the Suez Canal corridor or southern regions.
• Consider proximity to your supplier in China and your consignee in Egypt to minimize inland transport costs.

If you need assistance selecting the most efficient routes and ports or need a competitive quote for your 20ft container shipment from China to Egypt, our experienced team is ready to help you optimize your supply chain and minimize costs.

Shipping From China to Middle East Countries:

• Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia
• Shipping from China to UAE
• Shipping from china to KUWAIT
• Shipping From China To EGYPT
• Shipping from China to Bahrain
•  Shipping From China To Jordan
• Shipping From China To Israel
• Shipping from China to Qatar
• Shipping From China To IRAQ
• Shipping from China to Iran

Cost of Shipping a 20ft Container from China to Egypt

When planning international shipments, understanding the cost structure is essential, especially for a 20-foot container (20FT, with a capacity of 28CBM). The total “Cost of shipping 20ft container from China to Egypt” includes several components: sea freight rates, surcharges, destination charges, customs clearance, and possibly inland trucking fees at either end.

If you are interested in comparing with other markets, you can also check the comprehensive overview of container shipping costs from China to USA.

1. Sea Freight Rates (FCL & LCL)

• FCL (Full Container Load): Shipping a full 20FT container usually offers the best price per unit for larger shipments. As of Q4 2025, spot sea freight rates fluctuate based on global demand, fuel costs, and shipping line capacity.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): If your cargo is less than 28CBM, LCL allows you to share container space and pay only for the volume you use. LCL costs are calculated per CBM, plus handling and consolidation fees.

2. Estimated Shipping Cost Table

Below is a reference table for estimated FCL shipping costs for a 20FT container from key ports in China to main ports in Egypt. Actual prices can vary based on market conditions, commodity, and service requirements.

Origin Port (China)	Destination Port (Egypt)	Estimated Ocean Freight (USD)	Typical Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Alexandria	$1,200 – $1,800	24 – 32
Shenzhen	Alexandria	$1,200 – $1,950	26 – 34
Ningbo	Port Said	$1,250 – $1,900	25 – 33
Qingdao	Damietta	$1,350 – $2,000	27 – 36
Xiamen	Alexandria	$1,250 – $1,950	25 – 34

Note: Rates are based on market quotations as of Q4 2025 for general cargo and exclude surcharges, customs, and inland haulage.

3. Additional Charges to Consider

• Origin Charges: Export customs clearance, documentation, terminal handling, and trucking (within China).
• Destination Charges: Terminal handling, import documentation, delivery order, and local port fees in Egypt.
• Surcharges: Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF), Peak Season Surcharge (PSS), and Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF).
• Inland Transportation: If door-to-door delivery is required, trucking charges from the Egyptian port to the final destination must be included.
• Cargo Insurance: Strongly recommended for international shipments to mitigate risks.

As a highly professional, cost-effective, and one-stop international logistics service provider, Dantful International Logistics offers transparent pricing and comprehensive cost breakdowns for shipments from China to Egypt. Our expertise covers sea freight (FCL & LCL), customs clearance, insurance, and door-to-door solutions, ensuring you receive the most value for your logistics budget.

Import Duties from China to Egypt

Understanding import duties and taxes is crucial for accurate landed cost calculation when shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt.

1. Overview of Import Duty Structure

Egypt follows the Harmonized System (HS) for product classification. The applicable duties and taxes typically include:

• Customs Duty: Ranges from 0% to 40%, depending on the HS code of the goods. Most industrial goods fall within the 5%–30% range.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): The standard VAT rate in Egypt is 14% (applied to the CIF value plus duties).
• Additional Taxes: Certain products (e.g., tobacco, luxury items) may incur extra excise taxes or surcharges.

2. Calculation Example

Here is a simplified formula for calculating the total import duty and VAT:

Total Tax = Customs Duty + (CIF value + Customs Duty) × VAT Rate

Where:

• CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Includes product value, freight cost, and insurance.

Example Table: Estimated Duty & VAT for a 20FT Container

Product Type	Estimated Customs Duty (%)	CIF Value (USD)	Duty (USD)	VAT (14%) (USD)	Total Tax (USD)
Home Appliances	20%	$30,000	$6,000	$5,040	$11,040
Clothing	30%	$25,000	$7,500	$4,550	$12,050
Electronics	10%	$40,000	$4,000	$6,160	$10,160

Note: These examples are for reference only; always check the latest Egyptian Customs Tariff for accurate rates.

3. Documentation Required for Duty Assessment

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin (CO)
• Import License (if applicable)

4. Professional Customs Clearance

Navigating customs regulations and ensuring compliance is critical. Dantful International Logistics provides end-to-end customs clearance services for shipments from China to Egypt. Our in-house experts will help you correctly classify your goods, prepare all required documents, and ensure your cargo clears customs efficiently and cost-effectively.

Key Takeaway:
For accurate cost calculation and risk mitigation, it is highly recommended to consult with a professional freight forwarder experienced in Egypt-bound shipments—such as Dantful International Logistics—to receive up-to-date guidance, optimize your shipping budget, and ensure full customs compliance.

Related reading: Import procedure from china to France for a comparison of customs policies in other markets.

Sea Freight Transit Times from China to Egypt

When shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt, understanding the sea freight transit times is crucial for planning your supply chain and managing delivery expectations. Transit times can vary depending on several factors, including the origin and destination ports, shipping routes, vessel schedules, and potential transshipment points. Below is an overview of typical transit times from major Chinese ports to key Egyptian ports.

Typical Sea Freight Transit Times

Origin Port (China)	Destination Port (Egypt)	Direct Route Transit Time (Days)	Common Transshipment Required?
Shanghai	Alexandria	22–28	Yes (usually via Singapore/Jeddah)
Shenzhen	Alexandria	23–30	Yes
Guangzhou	Port Said	22–29	Yes
Ningbo	Damietta	23–30	Yes
Qingdao	Alexandria	25–32	Yes
Tianjin	Port Said	27–35	Yes

Notes:

• Direct shipping services between China and Egypt are limited. Most shipments require transshipment at major hubs such as Singapore, Jeddah, or Dubai.
• Factors such as weather conditions, port congestion, and seasonal fluctuations can impact actual transit times.
• For urgent shipments, consider alternative transport modes like air freight.

How to Optimize Your Shipping Timeline

• Plan in Advance: Book your shipments early, especially during peak seasons (e.g., pre-Ramadan, Christmas, or Chinese New Year).
• Choose the Right Carrier: Some shipping lines offer faster connections or priority services for specific routes.
• Work with a Professional Freight Forwarder: An experienced partner like Dantful International Logistics provides real-time tracking, route optimization, and proactive solutions for delays.

For more details about shipping times to the Middle East, see how long is freight from china to Egypt.

Customs Clearance for Shipments from China to Egypt

Navigating the customs clearance process is essential to ensure that your 20ft container shipment from China to Egypt arrives smoothly and without unexpected delays or costs. The Egyptian customs procedures are governed by the Egyptian Customs Authority and have seen significant updates in recent years, especially with the adoption of digital systems such as the ACI (Advance Cargo Information) platform.

Key Steps in the Customs Clearance Process

1. Pre-shipment Documentation

   • Commercial Invoice: Must detail product descriptions, values, and HS codes.
   • Packing List: Lists item quantities, weights, dimensions, and packaging.
   • Bill of Lading (BL): Issued by the carrier or freight forwarder.
   • Certificate of Origin: Required for preferential tariff treatment.
   • Import License: Certain products require additional permits.
   • ACI Filing: Since October 2021, Advance Cargo Information (ACI) electronic submission is mandatory for sea shipments to Egypt. The consignee must register the shipment on the Nafeza platform and obtain an ACID (Advance Cargo Information Declaration) number prior to loading in China.

2. Arrival at Egyptian Port

   • Cargo arrival notification is sent, and documentation must be presented to Egyptian Customs.
   • Shipments without a valid ACID number may face severe delays or re-export requirements.

3. Customs Examination

   • Customs authorities review all documents and may physically inspect the cargo.
   • Verification of product compliance, labeling, and import restrictions is performed.

4. Duties and Taxes Payment

   • Duties are calculated based on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
   • Rates vary by product category according to the Egyptian Tariff Schedule.
   • Value-Added Tax (VAT) and other applicable fees must be paid before cargo release.

5. Cargo Release

   • Once cleared, the cargo can be picked up from the terminal or arranged for final delivery.

Typical Documents Required

Document Name	Purpose	Issued By
Commercial Invoice	Declares value and description	Exporter
Packing List	Itemizes shipment details	Exporter
Bill of Lading	Confirms carriage of goods	Carrier/Freight Forwarder
Certificate of Origin	Shows origin of goods	Chamber of Commerce/Authorized Org.
Import License	Authorizes import of restricted goods	Egyptian Authorities
ACID Certificate	Mandatory for ACI compliance	Nafeza Platform (Egypt)

Tips for a Smooth Customs Clearance

• Ensure Full Compliance: Double-check all documentation and comply with the latest ACI requirements.
• Engage a Reliable Freight Forwarder: Dantful International Logistics provides comprehensive customs clearance support in both China and Egypt. Our local teams ensure that your documents are correctly prepared and submitted, reducing risks of delays.
• Transparent Communication: Stay in close contact with your freight partner and Egyptian consignee to address any document or regulatory updates promptly.
• Insurance: Protect your cargo with adequate insurance to cover any potential risks during transit or customs inspection.

With proper planning and the support of an experienced logistics partner like Dantful International Logistics, your 20ft container shipment from China to Egypt can clear customs efficiently and reach its destination on time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a 20ft Container from China

Shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt involves a structured process that, when managed professionally, minimizes risks, controls costs, and ensures timely delivery. Below, I outline each essential step based on my 15+ years of hands-on experience in international logistics.

1. Clarify Shipping Requirements

Begin by defining your shipment’s key details:

• Cargo Description: Type, HS Code, and any special handling needs.
• Volume & Weight: A 20ft container typically accommodates up to 28 CBM (Cubic Meters) and about 22 metric tons.
• Pickup & Delivery Points: Specify the Chinese origin city/factory and Egyptian destination (port or door).
• Incoterms: Common ones include FOB, EXW, or CIF.

2. Choose Shipping Mode: FCL or LCL

• FCL (Full Container Load): You book an entire 20ft container exclusively for your cargo. Recommended for shipments close to 28 CBM or over 10-12 CBM for cost efficiency.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): For smaller shipments, your goods share container space with others.

3. Select Main Ports

• China’s Main Ports: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao, Guangzhou
• Egypt’s Main Ports: Alexandria, Port Said, Damietta, Sokhna

4. Request and Compare Freight Quotes

Gather detailed quotations from reliable freight forwarders. Key cost components:

• Ocean Freight
• Local Charges (Origin & Destination)
• Documentation Fees
• Customs Clearance
• Insurance (optional, but recommended)

Sample Cost Table (2025 Estimates):

Route	20ft Container Ocean Freight (USD)	Estimated Local Charges (USD)	Total Estimated Cost (USD)
Shanghai → Alexandria	$1,300	$450 + $350	$2,100
Shenzhen → Port Said	$1,400	$480 + $380	$2,260
Ningbo → Damietta	$1,320	$460 + $370	$2,150

Note: Actual costs may vary based on seasonality, route, and service provider.

5. Book the Shipment

After finalizing the quote:

• Confirm booking with the freight forwarder.
• Prepare the Shipping Instruction document.
• Reserve space on the vessel (especially during peak shipping seasons).

6. Arrange Pick-Up and Inland Transportation

Coordinate pickup from your supplier’s factory or warehouse and move the cargo to the port of loading. This may involve:

• Trucking
• Rail Freight (if available and cost-effective)

7. Documentation Preparation

Ensure all necessary documents are ready and accurate:

• Bill of Lading (B/L)
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Insurance Policy (if applicable)
• Import/Export Licenses (as required)

8. Customs Clearance in China

A licensed customs broker will process export clearance. Ensure compliance with all Chinese customs regulations to avoid delays.

9. Container Loading and Port Handling

• Container is loaded and sealed at the warehouse (or at the port for LCL).
• Forwarder arranges handover to the shipping line.
• Port handling and terminal charges are paid.

10. Ocean Transit

The container is shipped from the chosen Chinese port and transits to the destination Egyptian port. Typical sea transit time is 20-28 days, depending on the route and port pair.

11. Destination Handling and Customs in Egypt

• On arrival, container is offloaded and cleared through Egyptian customs.
• Pay applicable import duties and taxes.
• Arrange for quarantine or inspection if required.

12. Delivery to Final Destination

• Organize final-mile delivery—either to your warehouse, distribution center, or direct to the client.
• Inspect the cargo on arrival and report any discrepancies or damage.

13. Post-Shipment Support

Work with your freight forwarder for:

• Claims Assistance (in case of loss or damage)
• Supply Chain Optimization for future shipments

Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder

Selecting an experienced and trustworthy freight forwarder is the single most critical factor in ensuring a smooth shipping experience from China to Egypt. Here’s what you should look for:

Key Qualities of a Good Freight Forwarder

Criteria	What to Look For
Expertise	Deep knowledge of China–Egypt shipping routes, customs, and documentation
Comprehensive Services	Offers sea freight, air freight, rail, door-to-door, OOG, warehouse, and more
Global Network	Extensive agency network in both China and Egypt
Reputation & Reviews	Positive client feedback, industry accreditations
Transparent Pricing	Clear, upfront rates with no hidden charges
Technology Support	Real-time tracking, digital documentation, proactive communication
Customer Support	Responsive, multilingual service teams

Why Dantful International Logistics?

As the CEO of Dantful International Logistics, I have seen first-hand how the right freight partner can reduce transit times, control costs, and solve complex problems. Our company is a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality one-stop international logistics service provider for global traders. We offer:

• Sea Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, and Road Freight
• Amazon FBA, Warehouse, and Insurance
• Customs Clearance, Door-to-Door Services
• Specialized in OOG, Consolidated, and Breakbulk Freight

Our expert team ensures compliance with both Chinese and Egyptian regulations, and our transparent process helps customers track their shipments every step of the way.

Pro Tips for Selecting a Freight Forwarder

• Check Licenses & Certifications: Ensure your provider holds relevant licenses and memberships (e.g., FIATA, WCA).
• Request Case Studies or References: Established forwarders can demonstrate successful China-Egypt shipments.
• Assess Communication: Responsive support is crucial for problem-solving during transit.

For more information about freight forwarders specializing in this route, see this dedicated page on freight forwarder from china to Egypt.

Shipping a 20ft container from China to Egypt is a process that demands careful planning, professional coordination, and clear communication. By following the above steps and partnering with a highly qualified freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics, you can secure cost-effective, reliable, and compliant delivery for your global business needs.