Shipping goods from China to Belgium plays a crucial role in international trade between Asia and Europe. As China remains the world’s largest exporter and Belgium acts as a major logistics hub—especially with the Port of Antwerp and Brussels Airport—the trade lane between the two countries supports countless businesses, from small importers to multinational supply chains.
Whether you’re shipping containers of electronics, fashion products, furniture, or industrial equipment, understanding the shipping cost from China to Belgium is essential for budgeting and operational planning. With multiple transportation methods available—such as sea freight, air freight, and door-to-door shipping—it’s important to choose the right mode based on your cargo’s size, weight, urgency, and destination.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll explore the various shipping options, estimate freight rates, calculate delivery times, and explain customs clearance requirements for Belgium. Whether you’re a first-time importer or a seasoned business owner, this guide will help you make informed decisions and reduce logistics costs.
Shipping Methods from China to Belgium
When shipping goods from China to Belgium, choosing the right transportation mode is critical. The decision depends on various factors such as cargo volume, transit time, shipping cost, and delivery urgency. The four most commonly used shipping options are sea freight, air freight, express courier services, and door to door shipping. Below is a breakdown of each method:
Sea Freight (FCL and LCL)
Sea freight is the most economical way to ship large volumes from China to Belgium. This method is ideal for heavy or bulky goods that are not time-sensitive. There are two main types of sea shipments:
- FCL (Full Container Load): You rent an entire 20ft or 40ft container exclusively for your cargo. This option offers better freight rates per CBM and reduces the risk of damage from cargo mixing.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Your goods are consolidated with other shipments in the same container. This is suitable for small-volume imports.
Major ports in China include Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, and Qingdao, while Antwerp Port (BEANR) is the primary arrival port in Belgium.
Transit Time: Approximately 25–40 days depending on origin port and route.
Sea freight is the most cost-effective method when shipping more than 2 CBM or heavy items over 300 kg.
Air Freight
Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive or high-value shipments. Although more expensive than sea freight, it significantly reduces delivery time and provides enhanced cargo security.
Departure airports in China: Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Shenzhen (SZX), Beijing (PEK)
Arrival airports in Belgium: Brussels Airport (BRU), Liège Airport (LGG)
Transit Time: 3–7 days depending on flight availability and customs procedures.
Use air freight if you need fast delivery and your shipment weighs under 500 kg.
Express Shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Express courier services like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT offer the fastest way to ship small packages and urgent documents. These services provide door to door delivery, customs clearance, and online tracking.
- Ideal for: Parcels under 30 kg, eCommerce products, and samples
- Transit Time: 2–5 business days
- Includes customs clearance and import VAT pre-payment
Express shipping is convenient but has the highest shipping rates per kilogram.
Door to Door Shipping (DDP Air & Sea)
For businesses that want a hassle-free experience, door to door shipping is the best option. This service includes pickup from the supplier in China, export clearance, international transportation, customs clearance in Belgium, and delivery to the consignee’s address.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services are available by both air and sea. Freight forwarders manage everything—making it ideal for eCommerce businesses and first-time importers.
Transit Time:
- DDP Air Freight: 7–12 days
- DDP Sea Freight: 35–45 days
DDP shipping includes customs duties, VAT, and delivery charges—giving you a predictable all-in cost.
Shipping Cost from China to Belgium
Understanding the shipping cost is essential when planning international logistics. The final cost depends on several factors, including shipping method, cargo size and weight, origin port or airport, and whether you choose a door to door service or just port-to-port. Below is a detailed breakdown of estimated freight rates for different transportation modes.
Sea Freight Cost (FCL)
If you’re shipping full containers, FCL (Full Container Load) is the most economical option. Below are the average ocean freight rates from major ports in China to the Port of Antwerp in Belgium.
| Origin Port | 20ft Container (USD) | 40ft HQ Container (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | $950 | $1,350 |
| Ningbo | $980 | $1,400 |
| Shenzhen | $950 | $1,450 |
| Qingdao | $1,000 | $1,380 |
These rates include basic ocean freight only. Destination charges, customs duties, and inland trucking are billed separately.
LCL Sea Freight Cost (Per CBM)
For shipments less than a full container, LCL (Less than Container Load) is a flexible and cost-effective option. Rates are based on volume (CBM – cubic meters).
| Volume (CBM) | Estimated Cost (USD/CBM) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 CBM | $40–$60 | Excludes destination charges |
| 6–15 CBM | $35–$55 | Consolidated shipment |
| 15+ CBM | $30–$55 | Bulk pricing possible |
Use a CBM calculator to estimate shipping volume and plan accordingly.
Air Freight Cost from China to Belgium
Air freight rates are calculated based on chargeable weight (whichever is greater: gross weight or dimensional weight). Below are average air shipping costs:
| Route | 100 kg+ (USD/kg) | 300 kg+ (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai – Brussels (PVG–BRU) | $3.60 | $3.30 |
| Guangzhou – Liège (CAN–LGG) | $3.50 | $3.20 |
| Shenzhen – Brussels (SZX–BRU) | $3.70 | $3.40 |
Chargeable weight = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000 for air freight.
DDP Door to Door Shipping Cost
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services include shipping, import taxes, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery in Belgium. It’s a worry-free solution ideal for small businesses and eCommerce sellers.
| Mode | Weight/Volume | Cost Estimate | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| DDP Air | 21–100 kg | $4.50–$5.50 per kg | 7–12 days |
| DDP Sea | 0.5–3 CBM | $350–$550 per CBM | 35–45 days |
DDP services are all-inclusive and eliminate surprise charges.
How Long Does Shipping from China to Belgium Take?
The shipping time from China to Belgium varies depending on the chosen transportation method, origin and destination locations, and customs processing speed. For time-sensitive goods, air freight is the fastest option, while sea freight is slower but more cost-effective for large-volume cargo. Here’s a comparison of the typical transit times:
Estimated Shipping Time by Method
| Shipping Method | Estimated Transit Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 3–7 days | Fast delivery for urgent cargo |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx) | 2–5 days | Fastest option, ideal for parcels |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–40 days | Budget-friendly, slower delivery |
| DDP Air Freight | 7–12 days | Includes customs and final delivery |
| DDP Sea Freight | 35–45 days | Complete solution for large shipments |
| Rail Freight (optional via Central Europe) | 18–25 days | For select routes via China-Europe rail |
Transit time refers to port-to-port or airport-to-airport movement. It does not include documentation or customs delays.
Factors Affecting Shipping Time
Several factors may influence your total delivery time:
- Peak seasons: Chinese New Year, Golden Week, Black Friday, etc.
- Customs clearance delays: Incorrect documentation or inspections
- Route and carrier availability: Especially for LCL or rail freight
- Port congestion: At busy ports like Shanghai or Antwerp
- Weather conditions: Typhoons or storms may delay sea freight
To avoid delays, plan early and work with an experienced freight forwarder.
Customs Clearance in Belgium: What You Need to Know
When shipping goods from China to Belgium, clearing customs is a critical step in the import process. As a member of the European Union, Belgium follows standard EU customs regulations, which require proper documentation, taxes, and product classification. Delays or penalties can occur if paperwork is incorrect or incomplete—so it’s vital to understand the procedure.
Required Documents for Importing into Belgium
To ensure a smooth customs clearance, the following documents are typically required:
- Commercial Invoice – Must include product description, quantity, unit price, HS code, and incoterm (e.g., FOB or DDP)
- Packing List – Lists dimensions and weight per package
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB) – Issued by the carrier
- Certificate of Origin – Sometimes needed for preferential duty treatment
- Import License – Required for restricted goods (e.g., food, chemicals, electronics)
- EORI Number – Mandatory for all EU-based importers (Economic Operator Registration and Identification)
Your freight forwarder can assist in preparing these documents and verifying HS codes.
Customs Duties and VAT in Belgium
- Import Duty: Varies depending on product classification (using HS Codes). Many items fall between 0%–12%.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard Belgian VAT rate is 21% of CIF value + duty.
- CIF = Cost + Insurance + Freight
| Item Type | Duty Rate Range | VAT (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0% – 14% | 21% |
| Apparel/Textiles | 8% – 12% | 21% |
| Machinery | 2% – 4% | 21% |
| Furniture/Housewares | 4% – 6% | 21% |
VAT can be reclaimed by EU-registered businesses if properly documented.
Customs Inspection and Clearance Time
- Average clearance time: 1–3 business days
- Possible delays: Inaccurate HS codes, missing documents, random inspection
- Tip: Label all packages clearly and ensure commercial invoices are consistent with physical contents.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipments typically include all customs duties, VAT, and brokerage fees—making them a stress-free solution.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping Cost from China to Germany
- Shipping Cost from China to France
- Shipping Cost from China to UK
- Shipping Cost from China to Austria
- Shipping Cost from China to Denmark
Tips to Reduce Shipping Costs from China to Belgium
Importing goods internationally can become costly if not managed carefully. However, with strategic planning and the right partners, businesses can significantly reduce their shipping costs while maintaining reliability and delivery speed. Here are some proven ways to make your China to Belgium shipping more cost-effective:
Choose the Right Shipping Method
Selecting the most suitable shipping method based on your cargo’s size, weight, and urgency is crucial. For example:
- Use sea freight (FCL or LCL) for heavy and bulk items
- Opt for air freight only when delivery speed is essential
- Consider express courier for small parcels under 30 kg
- Go with door to door DDP shipping if you prefer an all-inclusive service
The cheapest way to ship large cargo is typically FCL sea freight with flexible delivery windows.
Work with an Experienced Freight Forwarder
A reliable freight forwarder can help you:
- Get better freight rates through carrier relationships
- Combine shipments (consolidation) to lower per-unit cost
- Handle customs clearance and avoid unnecessary penalties
- Choose optimized routes and shipping schedules
Freight forwarders manage complex logistics so you can focus on your core business.
Consolidate Your Shipments
If you have multiple suppliers in China, ask your logistics provider to consolidate cargo into a single shipment. This reduces:
- Local trucking costs
- Handling charges
- Port and documentation fees
Consolidation is especially useful when shipping LCL or small-volume cargo.
Plan Around Peak Seasons
Avoid shipping during Chinese holidays or global retail peaks, such as:
- Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb)
- Golden Week (Oct)
- Black Friday / Christmas (Nov–Dec)
Rates and delays often increase significantly during these periods.
Optimize Packaging and Volume
- Use proper packaging to minimize dimensional weight in air freight
- Ship in bulk to get volume discounts
- Choose standard container sizes (20ft or 40ft) to avoid custom handling charges
Use a CBM calculator to maximize the space in your container and reduce cost per unit.
Why Choose Tonlexing as Your Freight Forwarder from China to Belgium
Choosing the right freight forwarder is the key to successful international shipping. At Tonlexing, we specialize in end-to-end logistics solutions for global importers, with a strong focus on the China to Belgium trade lane. Whether you’re a first-time importer or a long-term partner, our team ensures a smooth, cost-effective, and reliable shipping experience.
Full-Scale International Logistics Services
Tonlexing offers a comprehensive range of services to meet your exact needs:
- FCL and LCL Sea Freight from major Chinese ports to Antwerp and Zeebrugge
- Air Freight Services from Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Beijing to Brussels or Liège
- Door to Door Shipping via DDP air and DDP sea, covering customs, taxes, and delivery
- Express Courier Shipping (DHL/FedEx/UPS) for small parcels and urgent samples
- Customs Clearance Assistance in both China and Belgium
We handle every step—from supplier pickup in China to doorstep delivery in Belgium.
Transparent Pricing & Reliable Delivery
Our clients benefit from:
- Competitive shipping rates with no hidden fees
- Accurate CBM and chargeable weight calculations
- Predictable delivery timeframes
- Insurance support and optional tracking
- Local Belgium partners for final-mile service
“One quote, one invoice, no surprises”—that’s the Tonlexing way.
Dedicated Support & Communication
We understand that international trade can be complex. That’s why Tonlexing provides:
- Multilingual support via WhatsApp, WeChat, and Email
- Real-time shipment updates
- Professional documentation support for EU compliance
- Fast response from our logistics consultants
You’re not just shipping cargo—you’re building a business. Let us be your logistics partner.
Why Clients Trust Tonlexing
- 10+ years in international freight forwarding
- Specialized in shipping from China to Europe
- DDP specialists for eCommerce and B2B trade
- Thousands of successful deliveries across the EU
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping from China to Belgium
Here are some of the most common questions importers ask when planning to ship goods from China to Belgium. Whether you’re new to international logistics or optimizing your current supply chain, these answers can help you make better decisions.
What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Belgium?
The most cost-effective method is FCL sea freight, especially if your cargo volume exceeds 15–20 CBM. For smaller shipments, LCL is more economical. Air freight and express shipping are faster but more expensive.
How long does it take to ship goods from China to Belgium?
- Air freight: 3–7 days
- Express courier: 2–5 days
- Sea freight (FCL/LCL): 25–40 days
- DDP air: 7–12 days
- DDP sea: 35–45 days
Transit times may vary depending on origin, destination, and customs clearance procedures.
What is included in DDP shipping from China to Belgium?
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping includes pickup, international transport, customs clearance, import duties, VAT, and final delivery to your address in Belgium. It’s a fully managed door to door service.
How are air freight costs calculated?
Air freight costs are based on chargeable weight, which is either:
- Actual weight (kg), or
- Dimensional weight = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000
Whichever is greater is used for pricing.
Use a chargeable weight calculator to avoid miscalculations.
Do I need an EORI number to import to Belgium?
Yes. All EU-based importers must have a valid EORI number to complete customs clearance. If you’re a new importer, you can apply online via the Belgian customs portal.
Can I ship personal items from China to Belgium?
Yes, you can use express courier or DDP shipping for personal parcels. Note that customs may still apply import taxes or require documentation depending on the item type and value.
Which port in Belgium is best for sea freight?
The Port of Antwerp is Belgium’s main container port and one of the busiest in Europe. It handles the majority of FCL and LCL shipments arriving from China.
How do I reduce the shipping cost per unit?
- Consolidate shipments to reduce handling and documentation fees
- Use standard container sizes (20GP, 40HQ) for better pricing
- Avoid peak season shipping
- Work with a professional freight forwarder for optimized shipping routes