Trade between China and Colombia has expanded rapidly over the past decade. As Colombia strengthens its economy through manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce, more businesses are sourcing products from China to reduce production costs and increase profitability.
China has become Colombia’s second-largest trading partner, supplying everything from electronics and consumer goods to industrial equipment and raw materials. With such strong bilateral trade, logistics efficiency has become a key factor in maintaining steady supply chains.
One of the most common questions importers ask is:“How long does it take to ship from China to Colombia?”The answer depends on your shipping method, cargo size, and destination city. Generally, sea freight takes between 25–35 days, air freight 5–10 days, express shipping 2–5 days, and door-to-door DDP around 10–18 days.
This guide provides a detailed explanation of shipping routes, average transit time, customs clearance, and cost-saving tips—helping you choose the best freight forwarding solution for your business.
Overview of Shipping Methods from China to Colombia
When importing goods from China, you can choose from several shipping options depending on your timeline and budget. Each method offers different transit times, shipping costs, and handling procedures.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Best For | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–35 days | Non-urgent cargo | Cheapest option for bulk loads |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Urgent, high-value goods | Fast and secure transportation |
| Express Shipping (DHL/FedEx/UPS) | 2–5 days | Small parcels | Fastest option with tracking |
| Door-to-Door DDP | 10–18 days (Air) / 30–40 days (Sea) | Hassle-free imports | Includes customs duties and taxes |
Working with an experienced freight forwarder in China ensures that you select the right method, minimize delays, and maintain on-time delivery to major Colombian cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali.
Sea Freight from China to Colombia
Why Choose Sea Freight
Sea freight remains the most cost-effective and widely used international shipping method. It is perfect for bulk shipments, full container load (FCL), or less than container load (LCL) cargo.
Major shipping companies such as COSCO, Evergreen, MSC, and CMA CGM operate frequent sailings from China’s major ports to Colombian container terminals.
Transit Time for Sea Freight
Average sea freight transit time between China and Colombia ranges from 25 to 35 days, depending on the route and whether the cargo goes through the Panama Canal.
| Origin Port (China) | Destination Port (Colombia) | Average Transit Time | Route Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Port | Cartagena Port | 28–32 days | via Panama Canal |
| Shenzhen (Yantian) | Buenaventura Port | 25–30 days | direct Pacific route |
| Ningbo Port | Barranquilla Port | 30–35 days | Caribbean connection |
| Qingdao Port | Cartagena Port | 32–36 days | Northern China route |
Major Ports Overview
- Shanghai – China’s busiest port with frequent sailings to Latin America.
- Shenzhen (Yantian) – Ideal for factories in southern China.
- Cartagena – Major Caribbean port, best for cargo entering northern Colombia.
- Buenaventura – Colombia’s main Pacific port, good for west coast distribution.
- Barranquilla – Serves regional imports and bulk shipments.
Sea Freight Cost Breakdown
| Container Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft FCL | $500–1,000 | Cheapest for compact cargo |
| 40ft FCL / 40HQ | $700–2,000 | Better for heavy or bulky goods |
| LCL (Per CBM) | $25–65/CBM | Ideal for small mixed loads |
Sea freight costs depend on cargo volume, route distance, shipping company, and port charges.
Tip: Booking early helps secure container space and avoid port congestion, especially during peak seasons like Chinese New Year or Christmas.
FCL vs LCL Shipping
What Is FCL Shipping?
Full Container Load (FCL) means you rent an entire container (20ft or 40ft) exclusively for your cargo. It ensures secure transportation and avoids delays caused by consolidation.
What Is LCL Shipping?
Less than Container Load (LCL) combines multiple shippers’ goods into one container, making it more cost-efficient for small shipments. However, customs clearance and deconsolidation can add 3–5 days to the average transit time.
Which Is Better?
| Criteria | FCL | LCL |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Efficiency | Higher upfront | Lower for small loads |
| Delivery Time | Faster | Slightly longer |
| Handling | Less risk | More touchpoints |
| Ideal For | High volume cargo | Startups & small importers |
Air Freight from China to Colombia
Why Importers Choose Air Freight
Air freight is the preferred option for importers who need fast and secure transportation between China and Colombia.It’s ideal for time-sensitive shipments, electronics, medical equipment, and other high-value goods that require quick delivery and minimal handling.
Compared with sea freight, which can take 25–35 days, air cargo delivery from China to Colombia usually takes only 5–10 days door-to-door.Partnering with an experienced China freight forwarder ensures smooth pickup, customs clearance, and on-time delivery to major cities like Bogotá and Medellín.
Major Airports for Air Freight
| China Departure Airport | Colombia Arrival Airport | Average Transit Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Bogotá El Dorado (BOG) | 5–7 days | Fast route via Europe or USA |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Bogotá El Dorado (BOG) | 5–8 days | Frequent flights via Miami |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Medellín José María Córdova (MDE) | 6–9 days | Great for electronics |
| Hong Kong International (HKG) | Bogotá El Dorado (BOG) | 6–10 days | Premium global air hub |
Tip: For urgent or perishable goods, choose direct flights or priority cargo services—they minimize transit time and guarantee better handling.
Air Freight Costs and Rate Calculation
Air freight costs are based on chargeable weight, which is determined by comparing actual weight and volumetric weight (calculated by dividing CBM × 167).
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (USD/kg) | Transit Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Air Freight | $3.5–6.5/kg | 6–10 days | Most common option |
| Express Air Freight | $6–8/kg | 3–5 days | DHL / FedEx / UPS |
| DDP Air Freight | $5–8/kg | 10–18 days | Includes taxes and door delivery |
Factors affecting air freight rates:
- Cargo type (battery, chemical, or general)
- Weight and dimensions
- Space availability
- Customs inspection delays
- Season (higher rates during Q4 and pre–Chinese New Year)
Use a CBM or chargeable weight calculator to estimate your total freight cost and avoid overpaying.
Advantages of Air Freight
- Fast Delivery: Cargo arrives in under 10 days.
- Low Risk: Minimal handling during transport.
- Tracking Tools: Real-time visibility of your cargo’s status.
- Reliable Service: Predictable schedules and fewer delays.
- Flexible Options: Choose between door shipping, airport-to-airport, or DDP.
For high-value shipments, air transport is a safe and efficient solution that ensures customer satisfaction and business continuity.
Door-to-Door and DDP Shipping
What Is DDP Shipping?
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) means the freight forwarder manages the entire shipping process, including:
- Cargo pickup from your Chinese supplier
- Export customs declaration
- Air or sea transportation
- Customs clearance in Colombia
- Payment of import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Final door-to-door delivery
This all-inclusive door to door service eliminates the hassle of dealing with Colombian customs, making it perfect for small importers or e-commerce sellers.
Transit Time for DDP Shipping
| Shipping Mode | Average Delivery Time | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| DDP by Air | 10–18 days | Time-sensitive shipments |
| DDP by Sea | 30–40 days | Large or heavy cargo |
| Express Courier | 2–5 days | Small parcels and samples |
With DDP shipping, importers can focus on sales while their freight forwarder handles all logistics and documentation. It’s a highly efficient way to ensure on-time delivery and reduce shipping costs.
Benefits of DDP Service
- No hidden costs—includes customs duties, taxes, and delivery fees.
- Full visibility—track every stage using advanced tracking tools.
- Customs assistance—experienced brokers handle Colombian customs clearance.
- Time-saving—no need for import permits or local handling agents.
Many freight forwarders offer both air DDP and sea DDP routes, giving flexibility depending on the cargo’s weight, urgency, and required service route.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping from China to Colombia
- Shipping Cost from China to Colombia
- How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Mexico?
- How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to USA?
Customs Clearance in Colombia
Import Documentation Requirements
When importing goods from China to Colombia, you must prepare:
- Commercial Invoice – must show product description, quantity, unit price, and CIF value.
- Packing List – lists package count, dimensions, and total weight.
- Bill of Lading (BL) or Air Waybill (AWB).
- Certificate of Origin (for tariff benefits under trade agreements).
- Import License (for controlled goods such as electronics or chemicals).
Proper documentation ensures smooth customs clearance and prevents costly delays.
Customs Duties and Import Taxes
Understanding import taxes is essential when shipping from China to Colombia. Colombian customs calculates duties and VAT based on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) of your goods.
| Tax Type | Typical Rate | Applied On |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 5–20% | CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) |
| VAT (IVA) | 19% | CIF + duty amount |
| Handling Fees | Variable | Inspection or port service fees |
Customs Duties Overview:
Typically 5–10% for electronics, 10–15% for textiles, and 0–20% for other general products.
If you choose DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping, your freight forwarder will pre-pay customs duties and taxes on your behalf—making the import process faster and hassle-free.
Role of a Customs Broker
A customs broker ensures compliance with Colombian customs regulations, manages documentation, and prevents customs clearance delays.They help importers understand import tax, confirm HS codes, and avoid penalties or re-inspection.
For shipments with hazardous materials, bulk commodities, or lithium batteries, advance documentation is mandatory to avoid rejections at entry ports.
Common Causes of Customs Delays
- Incorrect or missing information on the commercial invoice.
- Misclassification of HS codes.
- Unpaid import taxes or Value Added Tax discrepancies.
- Port congestion at Cartagena or Buenaventura.
- Random customs inspections for high-risk goods.
To minimize delays, always coordinate closely with your freight forwarder and verify all paperwork before shipment.
Shipping Routes and Transit Time Factors
Major Shipping Routes from China to Colombia
The route you choose directly impacts the average transit time and shipping costs. Most shipments follow one of these two main routes:
- Caribbean Route (via Panama Canal)
- From: Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao
- To: Cartagena or Barranquilla
- Duration: 28–35 days
- Best for: General goods, textiles, machinery
- Pacific Route
- From: Shenzhen, Guangzhou
- To: Buenaventura
- Duration: 25–30 days
- Best for: Factories in southern China shipping to western Colombia
These shipping routes are supported by major shipping companies with fixed schedules, ensuring reliable service and consistent container space availability.
Factors That Affect Shipping Time
Understanding the main causes of delay can help you plan your supply chain more effectively.
Port Congestion
Heavy traffic at major ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, or Cartagena can delay container loading and unloading.
Customs Clearance
Incomplete documentation or unpaid duties can hold goods in Colombian customs for several days. Always provide a detailed commercial invoice and accurate CIF value.
Weather Conditions
Storms across the Pacific Ocean or Caribbean Sea may slow vessel movement or cause flight cancellations.
Cargo Type
Hazardous materials or bulk commodities require special permits and handling, often extending clearance time.
Seasonal Demand
Peak shipping seasons—such as before Chinese New Year and Black Friday—increase rates and reduce space availability on both air and sea carriers.
Inland Transport
If your cargo must travel inland to Bogotá or Medellín, add 1–3 days for domestic delivery.
Pro Tip: Plan your shipment in advance and collaborate with a reliable freight forwarder in China to manage routing, booking, and customs documentation—helping you prevent unnecessary delays and ensure on-time delivery.
How to Reduce Shipping Costs from China to Colombia
Shipping can represent a significant portion of your total import expenses. Here are practical ways to reduce shipping costs without compromising delivery speed or safety.
Choose the Right Shipping Method
- Sea Freight → Lowest cost for large shipments.
- Air Freight → Higher cost, faster delivery.
- DDP Shipping → Simplifies taxes and avoids hidden fees.
- Express Shipping → Best for small parcels or samples.
Selecting the correct mode based on your cargo type can cut logistics costs by 15–30%.
Consolidate Shipments (LCL Shipping)
If you have small orders from multiple suppliers, ask your freight forwarder to consolidate them into a single LCL shipment. This approach reduces per-unit shipping expenses and optimizes container use.
Book in Advance
During peak seasons, rates increase quickly. Early bookings secure container space and competitive pricing with top shipping companies.
Optimize Packaging and Weight
Light, compact packaging lowers air freight costs. Avoid unnecessary pallets or excess dimensions that raise chargeable weight.
Compare Multiple Freight Forwarders
Different forwarders have different contracts and sea freight rates. Compare options to find the best cost-performance ratio. Ensure they provide comprehensive logistics services and handle door-to-door service efficiently.
Use the Right Incoterms
Choosing Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) can simplify your import process by including import taxes, customs duties, and local delivery fees.For experienced importers, FOB or CIF may offer more flexibility in managing costs.
Avoid Customs Delays
Make sure all paperwork—commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading—is accurate and complete. Errors can result in additional storage and inspection fees.
Utilize Tracking Tools
Use digital tracking tools provided by your freight company to monitor shipments. Real-time visibility helps you respond quickly to any delay and improves customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does sea freight take from China to Colombia?
Typically 25–35 days, depending on the route, transshipment points, and port congestion.
How long does air freight take from China to Colombia?
Air cargo generally takes 5–10 days, with express options (DHL/FedEx/UPS) delivering in 2–5 days.
What is the cost of shipping from China to Colombia?
- Sea freight cost: $25–65/CBM (LCL) or $500–2,000 (FCL).
- Air freight cost: $3.5–6.5/kg on average.
Prices depend on cargo type, season, and route.
What are the customs duties and import taxes in Colombia?
Colombian imports are subject to 5–20% duty plus 19% VAT (IVA), calculated on the CIF value of goods.
Which ports are best for shipments to Colombia?
- Cartagena – Major Caribbean port with efficient customs handling.
- Buenaventura – Main Pacific port for shipments from southern China.
- Barranquilla – Secondary port for regional and bulk shipments.
What documents are required for customs clearance?
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or air waybill
- Certificate of origin (if applicable)
- Import license for regulated goods
What is DDP shipping, and is it available from China to Colombia?
Yes. DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) includes customs clearance, import taxes, and final delivery to your address—ideal for new importers.
What causes delays in shipping?
Common reasons include port congestion, bad weather, space shortages, and incomplete documents.
How can I reduce my shipping costs?
Book early, consolidate shipments, choose cost-effective routes, and partner with a reliable freight forwarder.
Which method is best for small e-commerce sellers?
DDP air freight or express shipping is recommended for faster customs release and doorstep delivery.
Conclusion – Plan Ahead for Efficient Shipping
The average shipping time from China to Colombia varies depending on your chosen method:
- Sea Freight: 25–35 days
- Air Freight: 5–10 days
- Door-to-Door DDP: 10–18 days
- Express Shipping: 2–5 days
For non-urgent bulk shipments, sea freight offers the most cost-effective solution.
For time-sensitive or high-value goods, air freight or DDP air service ensures fast and reliable delivery.
Tonlexing International Logistics offers comprehensive logistics services, including FCL/LCL sea freight, air freight, DDP shipping, and door-to-door delivery from China to Colombia.
Contact our team today for a free quotation and learn how we can help you reduce shipping costs and achieve reliable, on-time global logistics solutions.