In 2025, China–Iran trade continues to expand steadily, creating strong demand for 20ft and 40ft container shipping. Thousands of containers move every month along major shipping routes, transporting machinery, textiles, electronics, and other commercial cargo.
Understanding the full structure of 20ft & 40ft Container Shipping Costs from China to Iran is essential for importers to plan effectively, avoid delays, and optimize expenses.
Whether you choose sea freight, air freight, or land transportation, the right shipping method can drastically improve cost efficiency and delivery reliability.
Tonlexing Logistics — your reliable freight forwarder in international transportation — offers complete logistics services, from loading and shipping containers to customs clearance and final delivery. Our professional team ensures every shipment is cost-effective, fully compliant, and delivered on time.
China–Iran Trade and Logistics Overview
The Iran–China trade corridor has become a critical link in modern international trade, connecting Asia’s largest manufacturing base with one of the Middle East’s most promising markets.
Iran imports a wide variety of consumer goods, building materials, and industrial equipment from China, supported by efficient container transportation and freight forwarding infrastructure.
Major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao, and Guangzhou handle millions of TEUs annually for export to key Iranian ports like Bandar Abbas and Chabahar.
These direct routes provide stable connections for Iran sea freight and air cargo shipments alike.
Shipping Methods from China to Iran
Sea Freight: The Most Cost-Effective Option
For most importers, sea freight is the preferred shipping method for large or heavy container loads from China to Iran. It offers the most cost-effective option, especially for bulk shipments or full 20ft and 40ft containers.
Main shipping lines operate direct routes from major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen to key Iranian ports including Bandar Abbas and Chabahar. Transit time averages 20–30 days, depending on shipping routes, port congestion, and customs clearance process.
Sea freight suits both FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments. It’s ideal for high-volume or heavy cargo such as building materials, machinery, and consumer goods.
Tonlexing’s freight forwarder team handles container booking, documentation, customs clearance, and delivery coordination for each shipment.
Air Freight: Fast Delivery for High-Value Goods
For high-value goods and time-sensitive cargo, air freight provides unmatched speed and reliability.Major Iran air freight routes connect Chinese airports—Shanghai (PVG), Shenzhen (SZX), and Guangzhou (CAN)—to Tehran (IKA).
Typical air freight costs range between USD 3.5–6.5 per kg, depending on cargo volume and fuel prices.While costlier than sea transport, air cargo guarantees short transit time (3–6 days) and minimal risk of damage.
These multimodal solutions combine rail, trucking, and sea freight for faster delivery at moderate prices.
Land and Rail Transportation
For clients seeking faster delivery than sea freight but lower cost than air, land transportation and rail freight offer excellent alternatives. These shipping routes pass through Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, linking the Iran–China trade corridor.
Average transit time ranges from 12 to 18 days, making this route ideal for containerized cargo and bulk shipments.
Tonlexing’s multimodal network integrates rail, truck, and ocean freight rates for seamless container shipping, maintaining cost efficiency and reliability across the supply chain.
20ft & 40ft Container Options and Specifications
Standard Containers
20ft containers and 40ft containers remain the most commonly used shipping containers for international shipments.
| Container Type | Dimensions (m) | Capacity | Best For | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft | 5.9 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 33 CBM | Dense or heavy cargo | 550–1,150 |
| 40ft | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 | 67 CBM | Lightweight or bulky cargo | 1,250–2,200 |
Both containers comply with ISO standards and are accepted across all major ports.
Specialized Containers
Certain cargo types require unique equipment to maintain quality and safety:
- Flat rack containers – for oversized or heavy machinery.
- Refrigerated containers (reefers) – for perishable or temperature-controlled goods.
- Open-top containers – for irregularly shaped bulk cargo.
By selecting the correct container type, businesses achieve optimal cost effectiveness and compliance with Iranian customs regulations.
FCL vs LCL Comparison
| Criteria | FCL (Full Container Load) | LCL (Less Than Container Load) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | High-volume shipments | Smaller loads or samples |
| Cost per CBM | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Customs | Simplified customs clearance | Shared clearance |
| Risk | Minimal (single owner) | Shared cargo space |
| Speed | Faster | Slight delay due to consolidation |
Tonlexing’s freight forwarder team provides both FCL and LCL services with comprehensive customs clearance support and optimized shipping schedules to guarantee efficient final delivery.
2025 Container Shipping Costs Breakdown
Average Container Shipping Costs
The 2025 container shipping costs from China to Iran remain competitive despite global rate fluctuations.
On average:
- 20ft container: USD 550 – 1,250
- 40ft container: USD 1,250 – 2,200
These rates apply to standard sea freight routes between major Chinese ports and key Iranian ports.
Total expenses may vary depending on the shipping method, container load, customs clearance process, and cost factors such as fuel prices or port congestion.
Breakdown of Sea Freight Charges
A standard sea freight quote typically includes multiple components:
| Cost Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Freight Rate | Base cost for transporting a container along the chosen shipping route. |
| Fuel Adjustment Factor (FAF) | Adjustment based on global fuel prices. |
| Terminal Handling Charges (THC) | Covers loading and shipping containers at both ports. |
| Documentation Fees | For preparing the packing list, bill of lading, and certificates. |
| Customs Clearance Fees | Managed by the customs broker during import/export. |
| Delivery Charges | Inland land transportation to warehouse or buyer. |
Understanding these elements helps importers manage total logistics expenses effectively.
Air Freight Costs and Considerations
For urgent or high-value goods, air freight remains the fastest option. Average air freight costs range from USD 3.5–6.5 per kilogram, depending on cargo volume and destination. While sea freight focuses on affordability, air cargo provides unmatched delivery speed and reliability for time-sensitive imports.
Tonlexing’s international freight forwarding experts compare both air freight and sea freight options to determine the most cost-effective solution, balancing price, transit time, and customs clearance requirements.
Major Ports and Shipping Routes
Major Chinese Ports for Export
China’s main export gateways play a vital role in container shipping to Iran.
Key ports include:
- Shanghai Port: World’s largest container hub, offering multiple direct routes to the Persian Gulf.
- Ningbo-Zhoushan Port: Central hub for industrial cargo and bulk shipments.
- Shenzhen Port: Ideal for southern exporters using sea freight or air freight combinations.
- Qingdao Port: Serves northern provinces with steady shipping schedules.
- Guangzhou Port: Suitable for less than container load (LCL) and consumer goods.
Each port provides modern terminals for loading and shipping containers, ensuring efficiency and reduced handling time.
Key Iranian Ports for Import
Iran’s main ports handle nearly all containerized cargo arriving from China:
- Bandar Abbas Port: Handles 85% of all Iranian imports; major gateway for 20ft and 40ft containers.
- Chabahar Port: Strategic for Iran sea freight; ideal for direct routes from southern China.
- Imam Khomeini Port: Focused on bulk cargo and petrochemical materials.
- Bushehr Port: Suitable for land transportation connections to central Iran.
These key Iranian ports provide advanced infrastructure for quick customs clearance, reducing delays and storage fees for import cargo.
Typical Shipping Routes
Tonlexing operates multiple shipping routes to optimize transit time and cost effectiveness.
| Route | Type | Transit Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai → Bandar Abbas | Direct Sea Freight | 22–26 days | Most popular and cost-effective route |
| Ningbo → Chabahar | Sea Freight | 25–30 days | Ideal for machinery and heavy cargo |
| Shenzhen → Bandar Abbas | Sea Freight | 26–31 days | Reliable shipping schedules |
| Shanghai → Tehran (Air) | Air Freight | 3–5 days | Fastest option for high-value goods |
Tonlexing also supports rail freight and land transportation corridors through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan—reducing total shipping time to 12–18 days for selected container loads.
Factors Influencing Port Performance
Port congestion, weather, and local regulations can affect delivery efficiency. During peak export periods, shipping lines may adjust shipping schedules or impose surcharges.
Tonlexing’s comprehensive services include real-time monitoring of supply chain conditions, route optimization, and early booking to prevent shipment delays.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping Cost from China to Iran
- An Overview of Key Ports in Dubai, Iran, and Qatar
- Air Freight Shipping: Lithium Metal Batteries from Zhengzhou to Iran
- LCL Sea Freight of Stainless Steel Products from Changsha to Tehran, Iran
- Breakbulk Shipping of 500 Tons of Rebars and Wire Rod Coils from China to Iran
Customs Clearance and Import Procedures in Iran
The Importance of Proper Customs Clearance
Every shipping container arriving from China to Iran must undergo a full customs clearance process to meet Iranian customs regulations. This step ensures that all goods comply with local laws, safety standards, and documentation requirements before final delivery. Efficient customs clearance not only prevents fines or delays but also ensures uninterrupted supply chain movement.
Key Documents Required
Successful customs procedures rely on complete and accurate paperwork.
Importers should prepare the following documents before their cargo arrives in Iran:
- Commercial Invoice – Detailing product descriptions, HS codes, and total value.
- Packing List – Listing the full container load, weight, and package count.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – Proof of shipment issued by the carrier.
- Certificate of Origin – Confirms products were manufactured in China.
- Warehouse Receipt – Issued upon arrival at Iranian storage facilities.
- Insurance Certificate – Especially for high-value goods or fragile commercial cargo.
Tonlexing reviews all shipment details in advance to ensure the documents align with Iranian customs authorities standards.
Customs Duties, Tariffs, and Taxes
Iran applies varying customs duties and customs tariffs depending on the product type, declared value, and trade category. Most imported goods incur import taxes ranging from 5% to 40%, along with a 9% VAT. Additional service fees may apply for inspection, handling, or storage of import cargo.
Tonlexing provides accurate cost calculations before shipping, helping clients anticipate total logistics expenses and avoid unexpected costs.
Our comprehensive services include paying customs duties and coordinating with customs authorities to expedite clearance.
Inspection and Compliance Procedures
Iranian customs authorities often conduct inspections to verify goods match their packing list and commercial invoice. Discrepancies can delay the customs clearance process or result in penalties. To avoid issues, Tonlexing ensures all containerized cargo is labeled, packaged, and declared accurately.
For specialized shipments—such as refrigerated containers, flat rack containers, or high-value goods—our experts handle every compliance step, ensuring smooth clearance under the latest customs regulations.
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Service
Tonlexing offers Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) solutions for importers who want a completely hands-off logistics process.
Under this cost-effective option, we manage:
- Export and import customs clearance
- All customs duties and customs tariffs
- Door to door service to the consignee’s warehouse
This approach eliminates administrative complexity, offering predictable shipping costs and faster final delivery. Many businesses choose DDP because it simplifies the shipping process and allows them to focus entirely on sales and distribution.
Transit Time and Delivery from China to Iran
Average Transit Times
Average transit time varies by shipping method:
- Sea Freight: 20–30 days (depending on shipping route and port congestion)
- Air Freight: 3–6 days (for urgent shipments and high-value goods)
- Land & Rail Freight: 12–18 days (via Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, or Turkmenistan)
Tonlexing’s international freight forwarding network ensures accurate scheduling, efficient container transportation, and reliable delivery for all cargo types.
Door to Door and Final Delivery
Tonlexing’s door to door service covers every phase—from pickup in China to final delivery in Iran. This includes export handling, sea freight or air freight, customs clearance, and inland land transportation.
We manage the entire shipping process, eliminating the need for multiple providers. This integrated model ensures lower logistics expenses, stable shipping schedules, and full visibility throughout the supply chain.
Our real-time tracking system keeps clients updated on cargo status from loading and shipping containers to delivery confirmation—ensuring complete peace of mind.
Factors Influencing Delivery Speed
While Tonlexing always strives for on-time final delivery, transit duration can vary due to:
- Seasonal port congestion
- Documentation errors during customs clearance
- Weather and fuel prices fluctuations
- Increased cargo volume during holidays or Ramadan
Through proactive route planning and expert coordination, Tonlexing minimizes delays and maintains consistent customer satisfaction across all international shipments.
Tips to Reduce Shipping Costs from China to Iran
Plan Ahead and Book Early
One of the simplest ways to lower shipping costs is early booking. By reserving space in advance, importers can avoid peak season surcharges, port congestion, and sudden rate spikes caused by fuel or supply chain fluctuations.
Tonlexing’s experts monitor shipping schedules to help clients secure cost-effective options at the right time.
Consolidate Your Shipments
If your cargo does not fill a 20ft container, Tonlexing can combine multiple smaller orders into one optimized container load.
This less than container load (LCL) approach minimizes logistics expenses and helps importers share transport and customs clearance fees.
Our professional team ensures each loading and shipping container process follows all safety and customs regulations, maintaining fast and secure final delivery.
Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder makes a major difference in cost control and shipment efficiency.
Tonlexing negotiates container shipping rates directly with shipping companies, optimizes shipping routes, and manages all documentation for international shipments.
Our role as both freight forwarder and customs broker ensures seamless handling—from export paperwork to door to door service in Iran.
Optimize Packaging and Dimensions
Proper packaging can significantly improve cost effectiveness. By reducing wasted space and balancing cargo weight, importers can maximize the entire container capacity.
Tonlexing provides packaging consultation to ensure every commercial cargo shipment—whether bulk cargo, flat rack containers, or refrigerated containers—meets detailed specifications and international safety standards.
Use Tonlexing’s Cost Calculator
Before booking, importers can estimate shipping costs using Tonlexing’s online cost calculator. By entering cargo volume, weight, and shipping method, clients receive instant shipping quotes for both air freight and sea freight. This transparent system allows importers to budget accurately and select the most cost-effective shipping option for their Iran–China trade.
Why Choose Tonlexing Logistics
Full-Service International Freight Forwarding
Tonlexing offers complete international freight forwarding solutions, covering:
- Sea freight, air freight, and land transportation
- Export and import customs clearance
- Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and door to door service
- Transparent container shipping rates and shipment tracking
We are recognized as a reliable freight forwarder for businesses importing and exporting between China and Iran, ensuring smooth logistics from start to finish.
Professional Customs Support
Our customs broker team handles all customs duties, tariffs, and inspection procedures, guaranteeing compliance with Iranian customs authorities. Whether you’re shipping bulk shipments, machinery, or high-value goods, Tonlexing ensures fast clearance and worry-free final delivery.
Cost-Effective and Transparent Pricing
Tonlexing provides competitive and clearly itemized pricing for every shipment. Each quote includes all freight charges, port handling, and customs tariffs, so there are no hidden fees. Our customers trust us for honesty, accuracy, and predictable logistics services in every shipping process.
Customer Satisfaction and Reliability
Many businesses rely on Tonlexing to handle their Iran–China logistics operations. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our consistent communication, on-time delivery, and proactive problem-solving.
With Tonlexing, your cargo transportation is always secure, compliant, and fully traceable.
Conclusion: Simplify Your Iran–China Shipping
Shipping a 20ft or 40ft container from China to Iran doesn’t have to be complicated. With Tonlexing’s professional support, businesses can enjoy cost-effective, reliable, and fully managed logistics services. From loading and shipping containers to customs clearance and door to door delivery, every step is handled by experts who understand both Chinese and Iranian markets.
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Contact Tonlexing Logistics for tailored sea freight, air freight, and land transportation solutions that guarantee fast, safe, and efficient delivery.