Comprehensive Guide to Shipping Goods from China to Japan

1. Selecting Your Shipping Method

Sea Freight

• Best For: High-volume, non-urgent cargo

• Options:

• FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for large shipments (20ft: $850–$3,500; 40ft: $1,550–$3,500)

• LCL (Less than Container Load): Cost-effective for smaller loads

• Key Ports:

• China: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Ningbo

• Japan: Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kobe

• Transit Time: 5–14 days

Air Freight

• Best For: Urgent, high-value, or perishable goods (<200 kg)

• Cost: $3–8/kg

• Transit Time: 1–8 days (Express: 1–3 days; Standard: 4–8 days)

Rail Freight

• Emerging option for medium-volume goods via China-Europe routes

2. Partnering with a Freight Forwarder

• Streamline logistics, manage customs, and optimize costs

• Why Shunshunfa Logistics?

• 24/7 support with real-time tracking

• Custom DDP and door-to-door solutions

3. Customs & Documentation Essentials

• Key Documents:

• Commercial invoice (CNY/EUR)

• Packing list with HS codes

• Certificate of Origin

• CE certification (electronics/machinery)

• Taxes & Duties:

• Japan VAT: 10% (CIF value)

• Tariffs: 3% (electronics example)

4. Cost Breakdown

• Sea Freight:

• 20ft container: $800–$2,500

• 40ft container: $1,500–$3,500

• Air Freight:

• 500 kg shipment: $2,500–$6,500

• DDP Shipping: $1,200–$3,500 (500 kg)

5. Door-to-Door Solutions

• Modes:

• DDU: Buyer handles duties

• DDP: Full seller responsibility

• Custom Services:

• LCL/FCL container solutions

• Priority air freight delivery

6. Import Tax Considerations

• Tax calculation example:

• $10,000 goods + $1,000 freight = $11,000 taxable

• 3% tariff ($330) + 10% VAT ($1,100) = $1,430 total

7. Pro Tips for Cost Savings

• LCL sea + rail: 18% cost reduction

• Quarterly FCL booking: 5–8% discount

• Avoid Chinese New Year/Q4 peak seasons

8. Why Choose Shunshunfa Logistics?

• Transparent Pricing: 12% carrier discounts

• Compliance Assurance: Customs expertise

• Value Services: Free pickup & storage

• Insurance: 0.8% cargo value rate

9. Critical Timelines

• Air Freight: 1–8 days

• Sea Freight:

• Shanghai→Tokyo: 6–10 days

• Shenzhen→Kobe: 9–14 days

• Door-to-Door: +3–5 days for customs

Final Note: Shipping requires balancing speed, cost and compliance. Partner with Shunshunfa Logistics for tailored solutions and real-time tracking.

*Data provided is indicative; actual rates and timelines may vary.