Shipping Rates from China to France in 2025

Are you wondering how much the shipping cost from China to France really is? With so many options like ocean freight, air freight, and door to door shipping, finding the most cost-effective solution can be challenging. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the key factors influencing shipping costs, import duties, transit times, and additional charges, helping you make the smartest shipping decisions for your business.

Shipping from China to France

Shipping goods from China to France is a key logistical route for global trade. The choice of shipping method—whether ocean freight, air freight, or door-to-door shipping—affects cost, transit time, and service experience. At Dantful International Logistics, we help businesses, e-commerce sellers, manufacturers, and individuals find efficient, cost-effective, and reliable solutions tailored to their needs.

Ocean freight from China to France

Ocean freight remains the most cost-effective option for transporting large volumes or heavy cargo from China to France. This method is ideal for bulk shipments, industrial goods, and non-urgent deliveries. The two main types of ocean freight services are:

• FCL (Full Container Load): You rent the entire container (20ft or 40ft), suitable for large shipments.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Your cargo shares container space with other shipments, perfect for smaller loads.

Major Ports in China

• Port of Shanghai: China’s largest port and one of the world’s busiest; it handles massive container volumes in Sino-French freight, serving as a core hub for trade between the two countries.
• Port of Shenzhen: A key port in South China; it maintains frequent freight links with France, mainly transporting goods like electronics and garments.
• Port of Ningbo: A major container hub in China; it contributes significantly to Sino-French cargo throughput, with strengths in bulk commodity transportation.
• Port of Qingdao: A rare high-quality natural harbor globally; it has close freight connections with France, primarily exporting machinery and chemical products.
• Port of Guangzhou: A historic major port in South China; it has a long history of freight exchanges with France, focusing on light industrial goods such as furniture and toys.

Major Ports in France

• Port of Shanghai: China’s largest port and one of the world’s busiest; it handles massive container volumes in Sino-French freight, serving as a core hub for trade between the two countries.
• Port of Shenzhen: A key port in South China; it maintains frequent freight links with France, mainly transporting goods like electronics and garments.
• Port of Ningbo: A major container hub in China; it contributes significantly to Sino-French cargo throughput, with strengths in bulk commodity transportation.
• Port of Qingdao: A rare high-quality natural harbor globally; it has close freight connections with France, primarily exporting machinery and chemical products.
• Port of Guangzhou: A historic major port in South China; it has a long history of freight exchanges with France, focusing on light industrial goods such as furniture and toys.

Transit time: Generally, ocean freight takes around 25–35 days, depending on the port pair, sailing schedule, and customs clearance.

Ocean freight offers stability in pricing and capacity, making it the preferred mode for most businesses aiming to optimize shipping costs from China to France.

Related: If you are interested in sea freight to other European countries, see Sea Freight From China to Germany for reference.

Air freight from China to France

Air freight is the fastest shipping solution between China and France, widely used for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive goods. It is suitable for electronics, fashion, samples, pharmaceuticals, and items with a short shelf life.

Main airports in China:

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

Main airports in France:

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
• Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS)

Transit time: Generally 3–7 days from major Chinese airports to French destinations, including customs clearance.

While air freight rates are higher than ocean freight, the reduction in transit time can be a critical advantage for time-sensitive shipments or products with high demand fluctuations.

Door to Door shipping from China to France

Door-to-door shipping is a comprehensive logistics solution where the freight forwarder, such as Dantful International Logistics, manages the entire shipping process—from pickup at the supplier’s location in China to final delivery at the consignee’s address in France.

Benefits of Door-to-Door Shipping:

• One-stop solution: Covers pickup, export customs clearance, main freight, import procedures, and final delivery.
• Convenience: Minimizes effort and coordination for the shipper, especially for cross-border e-commerce, SMEs, and first-time importers.
• All-in pricing: Often includes freight, customs, and last-mile delivery charges for easier budgeting.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) options: Dantful Logistics can handle duties, taxes, and compliance on your behalf, minimizing risk and administrative workload.

Door-to-door services are available via sea freight, air freight, or multimodal options, depending on your cargo requirements and deadlines.

How much is shipping from China to France?

Shipping costs from China to France vary widely based on factors like shipping mode, cargo volume, weight, incoterms, and seasonal market changes. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you estimate your logistics budget.

Cost of shipping 20ft & 40ft Container from China to France

Below is a reference table for ocean freight rates (FCL) from major Chinese ports to top French ports. Please note: rates fluctuate based on fuel prices, shipping line surcharges, and demand; always request a live quote for accurate pricing.

Route	20ft Container (USD)	40ft Container (USD)	Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai – Le Havre	$1,500 – $2,400	$2,800 – $4,100	28–35
Shenzhen – Marseille	$1,750 – $2,550	$2,950 – $4,050	27–33
Ningbo – Dunkirk	$1,500 – $2,300	$2,700 – $3,900	30–35
Qingdao – Le Havre	$1,700 – $2,500	$2,900 – $4,100	29–36

Note: Rates are for reference (Q3 2025), for general cargo, excluding destination charges, customs duties, and optional insurance. Prices may vary by commodity, container type (standard, high cube, refrigerated, etc.), and market conditions.

For more specific cost analysis on this route, you can refer to How much is shipping from China to France.

Air Shipping from China to France Cost per kg

Air freight pricing is typically calculated per kilogram, with rates varying by shipment size (chargeable weight), service level (express vs. standard), and airline. For 2024, typical air freight rates from major Chinese airports to France are as follows:

Chargeable Weight (kg)	General Cargo Rate (USD/kg)	Express Service (USD/kg)	Transit Time (Days)
45–99	$4.00 – $5.00	$5.50 – $8.00	3–5
100–299	$3.50 – $4.50	$5.00 – $7.50	3–7
300+	$3.20 – $4.00	$4.80 – $7.00	3–7

• Surcharges: Fuel, security, and peak season surcharges may apply.
• Minimum charges and dimensional weight (volumetric weight) calculations affect total cost.

For urgent parcels or e-commerce, express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) offer door-to-door solutions at higher rates ($9.00–$15.00/kg) with 2–4 days delivery.

Door to Door shipping cost from China to France

Door-to-door shipping costs combine all logistics elements into an all-inclusive price. The cost depends on shipment size, delivery address, mode of transport, and service options (DDU, DDP, etc.).

Shipping Mode	Typical Cargo Size	Door-to-Door Rate (USD)	Delivery Time (Days)	Service Includes
Sea (LCL)	1 cbm – 5 cbm	$300 – $600/cbm	32–40	Pickup, export & import clearance, delivery
Sea (FCL)	20ft / 40ft container	$3,000 – $5,200/container	30–40	Same as above, all-in
Air Freight	100 kg+	$5.50 – $8.00/kg	5–10	Same as above
Express	<100 kg	$8.00 – $14.00/kg	3–6	Pickup, customs, last-mile delivery

• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is available for most door-to-door shipments: Dantful International Logistics can quote an all-inclusive price covering freight, customs clearance, import duties, and delivery to any address in France.
• For large or specialized shipments, contact Dantful Logistics for a tailored quotation.

What is the import duty from China to France?

When shipping goods from China to France, understanding import duties and taxes is crucial for accurate budgeting and compliance. Import duty, also known as customs duty or tariff, is a tax imposed by the French government on goods entering the country from outside the European Union (EU).

How Are Import Duties Calculated?

Import duties on goods shipped from China to France are primarily determined by:

• HS Code (Harmonized System Code): Each product type has a unique code that dictates its duty rate.
• Customs Value (CIF): The duty is usually calculated based on the CIF value, which includes the cost of goods, insurance, and freight to the French port.
• Country of Origin: Goods originating from countries outside the EU, such as China, are subject to standard tariffs.

Common Types of Import Taxes

1. Import Duty: Rates generally range from 0% to 12% depending on the product category. For instance, most electronics are 0-5%, while textiles and apparel can be higher.
2. Value Added Tax (VAT): France applies a standard VAT of 20% on most imported goods (calculated on CIF value + duty).
3. Additional Taxes: Specific products (like alcohol, tobacco, or luxury goods) may incur excise duties.

Example Table: Estimated Import Duty Rates for Common Products

Product Category	HS Code Example	Typical Import Duty Rate	VAT Rate
Electronics	8471	0% – 4%	20%
Apparel & Textiles	6203	12%	20%
Footwear	6403	8% – 17%	20%
Furniture	9403	0% – 2.7%	20%
Toys	9503	0%	20%

Note: These are indicative rates; always confirm the latest rates with the French Customs website or your freight forwarder.

For French import procedures, you may also find this article helpful: Import Procedure from China to France.

Customs Clearance Process

• Documentation: Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and relevant certificates are required.
• Customs Declaration: A declaration must be submitted to French Customs upon arrival.
• Duty Payment: Duties and VAT must be paid before goods are released.

How to Estimate Your Import Duty

You can use the EU’s TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Communities) database to check the exact rates based on your product’s HS code. Alternatively, professional freight forwarders such as Dantful International Logistics offer customs clearance services to ensure compliance and provide accurate cost estimates.

Professional Advice

Import duties are subject to periodic changes. For tailored advice and to avoid costly compliance errors, consult with a specialized freight forwarder. Dantful International Logistics provides end-to-end customs solutions, including HS code classification, duty estimation, and documentation guidance for shipments from China to France.

Additional Cost of shipping from China to France

When calculating the shipping cost from China to France, importers and exporters should consider several additional charges beyond the basic freight rate. These extra costs can significantly influence your total logistics expense and should be factored into your budget.

1. Customs Clearance Fees

• French Customs Agent Fees: Charged by customs brokers for processing and submitting your import declaration.
• Inspection Fees: If your shipment is selected for inspection, additional fees may apply.

2. Port and Terminal Charges

• Terminal Handling Charges (THC): Fees for loading/unloading containers at the port of entry (e.g., Le Havre or Marseille).
• Port Security Fees: Mandatory fees for port safety and security services.

3. Documentation Fees

• Bill of Lading Fee: Issued by the shipping line for ocean freight shipments.
• AWB Fee: Applicable for air freight, covering the airway bill issuance.

4. Delivery Charges

• Inland Transportation: Trucking or rail fees from the arrival port/airport to your final delivery address in France.
• Last Mile Delivery: Extra charges for remote or residential deliveries.

5. Storage and Demurrage

• Warehouse Storage: Temporary holding charges if your cargo is stored at the port or in a warehouse.
• Demurrage/Detention: Fees for exceeding the free time allowed at the port or with containers.

6. Insurance

• Cargo Insurance: While optional, it is highly recommended to cover potential loss or damage during transit. The cost typically ranges between 0.2% to 0.5% of the cargo value.

7. Other Potential Costs

• Handling Dangerous Goods: Surcharges for hazardous cargo.
• Palletizing and Packaging: Optional but sometimes required for fragile or special goods.
• Remote Area Surcharges: For deliveries to less accessible regions in France.

Sample Table: Main Additional Costs Breakdown

Cost Item	Typical Cost Range (USD)	Applies to
Customs Clearance Fee	$60 – $150	All shipments
Terminal Handling Charge (THC)	$100 – $300	Seafreight (per container)
Delivery (Inland Transport)	$100 – $500+	Depending on distance
Warehousing/Storage	$20 – $50 per day	As needed
Demurrage/Detention	$50 – $150 per day	Beyond free days
Insurance	0.2% – 0.5% of cargo value	Optional (recommended)
Documentation Fee	$30 – $60	Per shipment

The above figures are average estimates. Actual costs may vary based on shipment size, mode (sea or air), and logistics provider.

For other popular European routes and cost guidance, you may want to check How much is shipping from China to Germany.

Practical Tips

• Always request a detailed quote that breaks down all potential charges.
• Plan for possible delays to minimize demurrage and storage costs.
• Work with an experienced freight forwarder like Dantful for hassle-free logistics and customs processes.

In summary, by understanding import duties and all potential additional costs, you can better budget your shipments from China to France and avoid costly surprises. For up-to-date advice and personalized shipping solutions, feel free to contact us at Dantful International Logistics.

Factors Influencing the Shipping Cost

When analyzing the shipping cost from China to France, it is crucial to understand that several variables come into play. As a logistics specialist with years of experience, I recommend considering the following key factors before making any decision:

1. Shipping Method
   The choice between sea freight, air freight, rail freight, or door-to-door services significantly impacts the total cost. Generally, sea freight is most cost-effective for large volumes, while air freight is faster but more expensive.
2. Cargo Volume and Weight
   Costs are calculated either by volume (cubic meters, CBM) for ocean freight or by actual/chargeable weight for air freight. For instance, shipping a full 20ft or 40ft container versus a few pallets (LCL) results in different pricing structures.
3. Type of Goods and Packaging
   Special cargo such as hazardous materials, perishables, or oversized goods may require customized handling, additional documentation, or special containers, leading to higher costs.
4. Origin and Destination Ports
   The specific port in China (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo) and the arrival port in France (e.g., Le Havre, Marseille, Fos-sur-Mer) affect pricing due to differences in port charges, accessibility, and route popularity.
5. Seasonality and Market Demand
   Peak shipping seasons—such as pre-Christmas, Chinese New Year, or Black Friday—can drive up rates due to increased demand and limited vessel or aircraft space.
6. Incoterms
   The terms of sale (like FOB, CIF, DDP) define which party bears which costs. For instance, DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services cover all fees up to the buyer’s doorstep, offering transparency but typically at a higher rate.
7. Customs Duties, Taxes, and Compliance
   Import duties and VAT in France, as well as customs clearance service charges, add to the overall expense. Non-compliance or misclassification can result in delays or penalties.
8. Additional Services
   Services such as insurance, warehousing, consolidation, last-mile delivery, and cargo inspection incur additional fees but can be vital for risk mitigation and supply chain efficiency.
9. Fuel and Security Surcharges
   Fluctuations in bunker fuel prices (BAF), currency adjustment factors (CAF), or security surcharges can impact both sea and air freight quotations.

Factor	Impact on Cost	Notes
Shipping Method	High	Air most expensive, sea most cost-effective for large volumes
Cargo Volume/Weight	High	Heavier/larger = higher cost
Type of Goods	Moderate to High	Special handling may apply
Ports (Origin/Destination)	Moderate	Port fees and route popularity vary
Seasonality	Moderate to High	Peak season surcharges
Incoterms	High	Defines responsibility and cost allocation
Customs Duties/Taxes	Moderate to High	Mandatory for import, varies by product
Additional Services	Moderate	Insurance, consolidation, warehousing, etc.
Fuel/Security Surcharges	Variable	Subject to market fluctuations

For an accurate and up-to-date shipping cost from China to France, it is best to consult a reputable freight forwarder such as Dantful International Logistics. We offer transparent quotations tailored to your specific cargo requirements and shipping preferences.

How long is shipping from China to France?

Transit time is a vital consideration for businesses seeking to optimize supply chain efficiency between China and France. The duration depends mainly on the shipping method, route, and the ports involved.

How Long Is Sea Freight from China to France?

Sea freight is the preferred option for cost-sensitive, non-urgent cargo. The typical routes connect major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo to primary French ports such as Le Havre, Marseille, and Fos-sur-Mer.

Below is a reference table with estimated transit times for Full Container Load (FCL) shipments:

Origin Port (China)	Destination Port (France)	Estimated Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Le Havre	28 – 32
Ningbo	Marseille	30 – 34
Shenzhen	Fos-sur-Mer	27 – 31
Qingdao	Le Havre	33 – 36
Xiamen	Marseille	31 – 35

Key factors affecting sea transit times:

• Whether the route is direct or involves transshipment at intermediate ports.
• Port congestion or customs processing delays.
• Weather conditions and global shipping disruptions.

For Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, add 3–7 days for consolidation and deconsolidation processes.

Air Freight Transit Time from China to France

Air freight offers the fastest transit for urgent or high-value shipments:

Origin Airport (China)	Destination Airport (France)	Estimated Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai PVG	Paris CDG	2 – 4
Guangzhou CAN	Paris CDG	2 – 5
Beijing PEK	Paris CDG	2 – 4
Shenzhen SZX	Paris CDG	3 – 6

Note:

• Transit times refer to airport-to-airport.
• Door-to-door delivery may take an extra 1–3 days for local pickup and customs clearance.

Air freight is ideal for e-commerce sellers, urgent samples, or components required for production lines. However, it comes at a higher cost compared to sea or rail freight.

Pro Tip:
Choosing the right shipping method involves balancing cost, speed, and reliability. Dantful International Logistics provides one-stop solutions—including sea, air, rail, and door-to-door services—to match your business needs and delivery timelines.

For more information about shipping times from China to nearby regions, see How long is freight from China to Germany.

Self-Evaluation of Usefulness and Reliability

This content is crafted based on the latest industry data, direct operational experience, and regularly updated sources. It delivers actionable insights and comparative data, empowering importers, exporters, and supply chain professionals to make informed decisions about their shipping cost from China to France and the expected timelines. As always, for the most current rates and tailored advice, please contact Dantful International Logistics—your reliable partner in global trade.

DDP shipping from China to France

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping from China to France is the preferred logistics solution for importers seeking a hassle-free, all-inclusive, and transparent shipping process. Under the DDP term, the seller is responsible for all costs and risks involved in delivering goods to the buyer’s door, including freight charges, import duties, taxes (such as VAT), and customs clearance in France.

For an explanation of DDP shipping, you may also find our article on What is Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)? useful.

What Does DDP Shipping Cover?

A typical DDP shipping service includes:

• Pickup at supplier’s address in China
• Export customs clearance in China
• International shipping (via sea, air, rail, or road)
• Import customs clearance in France
• Payment of import duty and VAT
• Last-mile delivery to the buyer’s specified address in France

Benefits of DDP Shipping

DDP shipping offers several key advantages for businesses and individuals:

• All-inclusive pricing: One quote, covering all fees—no hidden costs.
• Simplified import process: No need to manage customs or tax payments in France.
• Reduced risk: The freight forwarder handles all legal and compliance matters.
• Time savings: Faster customs release and quicker delivery.

Typical DDP Shipping Options from China to France

Mode	Transit Time	Suitable for	Typical Use Cases
Air DDP	5-10 days	Urgent, small-volume cargo	Electronics, samples, e-commerce parcels
Sea DDP	25-40 days	Large-volume, non-urgent	Furniture, machinery, bulk shipments
Rail DDP	18-25 days	Mid-volume, balanced option	Apparel, consumer goods, mid-size cargo

Transit times are indicative and can vary based on origin city, final delivery address, and customs procedures.

DDP Shipping Cost from China to France

The shipping cost from China to France under DDP terms depends on several factors:

• Total cargo weight and volume
• Shipping mode (air, sea, rail)
• Pickup and delivery addresses
• Nature of goods (general vs. sensitive/regulated)
• Value of goods (affecting applicable duties and VAT)

For an accurate DDP quote, it’s best to contact a reliable freight forwarder such as Dantful International Logistics, providing shipment details and required services.

Freight forwarder from China to France

Choosing the right freight forwarder is essential for a successful and cost-efficient shipping process from China to France. A professional freight forwarder not only arranges transportation but also manages documentation, customs clearance, warehousing, cargo insurance, and end-to-end logistics coordination.

What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?

A reliable freight forwarder will:

• Advise on the best shipping method: ocean, air, rail, or multimodal, based on your cargo, deadlines, and budget.
• Provide competitive shipping rates and cost breakdowns.
• Handle all documentation: bills of lading, packing lists, commercial invoices, certificates of origin, etc.
• Facilitate customs clearance in both China and France.
• Offer value-added services: cargo consolidation, warehousing, Amazon FBA prep, insurance, and door-to-door delivery.
• Track and monitor shipment progress, and proactively resolve issues.

Key Criteria for Selecting a Freight Forwarder

Criterion	What to Look For
Experience	Proven track record in China-France trade lanes
Comprehensive services	Ability to handle sea, air, rail, door-to-door, DDP
Transparent pricing	Clear quotes with no hidden fees
Customs expertise	In-depth knowledge of French import regulations
Customer support	Responsive, multi-lingual team
Technology	Real-time tracking, digital documentation

Why Partner with Dantful International Logistics?

Dantful International Logistics stands out as a leading freight forwarder for shipments from China to France. Here’s why:

• Extensive Industry Experience: Over 15 years of serving global traders with optimized, reliable logistics solutions.
• Full-service Offering: We provide a complete suite of services including sea freight, air freight, rail freight, road freight, Amazon FBA, warehousing, customs clearance, insurance, door-to-door, OOG, consolidated, and breakbulk freight.
• Competitive Pricing: Our strong carrier partnerships ensure you get the best rates for your shipping needs.
• Expert Compliance Handling: Our teams are well-versed in French customs regulations, helping you avoid compliance pitfalls and costly delays.
• Dedicated Support: From initial inquiry to final delivery, our logistics specialists offer personalized guidance and 24/7 tracking.

Get Your Shipping Cost from China to France Today

For businesses looking to optimize the shipping cost from China to France, working with a trusted freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics means peace of mind, operational efficiency, and real savings. Contact us for a free quote, expert advice, and to discover how we can help your supply chain thrive.