Shipping Cost from China to Ireland is a crucial consideration for Irish businesses and e-commerce sellers looking to source quality products at competitive prices. Whether you’re importing electronics, clothing, furniture, or industrial components, understanding the logistics behind international shipping can help you reduce delays, avoid hidden charges, and plan more effectively.
With multiple shipping options available—such as sea freight, air freight, and door to door delivery services—the method you choose can significantly affect both delivery time and overall freight costs. At the same time, navigating customs clearance, import duties, and VAT requirements in Ireland is essential for smooth and compliant importation.
This 2025 guide will help you:
-
Compare different shipping methods from China to Ireland
-
Understand typical transit times and delivery options
-
Estimate shipping costs based on cargo weight and volume
-
Learn about customs requirements, VAT, and import taxes
-
Work with reliable freight forwarders to streamline your logistics
Whether you’re a first-time importer or a seasoned buyer, this guide gives you everything you need to plan your China to Ireland shipping efficiently and cost-effectively.
Main Shipping Methods from China to Ireland
When shipping goods from China to Ireland, selecting the right transportation mode depends on your shipment size, budget, urgency, and delivery preferences. Below are the most commonly used shipping methods:
Sea Freight (FCL & LCL)
Sea freight from China to Ireland is the most economical option for large and heavy shipments. It’s ideal for businesses importing full container loads or sharing space in a consolidated shipment.
- FCL (Full Container Load): Best for businesses that can fill a 20ft or 40ft container. It provides better security and faster handling at ports.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for smaller shipments that don’t require a full container. Your goods will be consolidated with other cargo heading to the same destination.
Advantages:
- Lowest shipping costs per unit
- Ideal for bulky or non-urgent cargo
Disadvantages:
- Longer transit times (usually 30–40 days)
- More complex handling for LCL shipments
Common routes:
Shanghai / Ningbo / Shenzhen → Rotterdam or Antwerp → Transshipment to Dublin or Cork
Air Freight
Air freight from China to Ireland is a faster option, often used for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.
Advantages:
- Fast delivery (5–10 days)
- Better cargo security
- Efficient customs clearance
Disadvantages:
- Higher shipping costs
- Charged by volumetric weight
Common routes:
Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou → Dublin International Airport
Air freight is ideal for products like electronics, medical equipment, luxury goods, or samples that need fast delivery.
Rail Freight (via Europe)
Although Ireland doesn’t have direct rail connectivity with China, you can still benefit from rail freight from China to Europe by routing cargo via countries like Poland, Germany, or the Netherlands—then forwarding it to Ireland by road or sea.
Transit time: Approx. 20–25 days
Use case: A good balance between air and sea freight in terms of speed and cost.
Popular route:
Chengdu → Duisburg (Germany) → Dublin by truck or feeder vessel
Express Courier Services
For small parcels, samples, or urgent deliveries, express shipping from China to Ireland using companies like DHL, FedEx, UPS, or TNT is a practical option.
Transit time: 3–5 business days
Best for: E-commerce orders, low-weight goods, documents
Express services include customs clearance and door-to-door delivery, making them perfect for urgent business needs.
Door to Door Shipping (Including DDP)
Door to door shipping from China to Ireland offers a complete logistics solution—handling pickup from the supplier, international shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) options are available, where the freight forwarder covers all taxes and duties upfront.
Benefits:
- Simplifies the shipping process
- Ideal for Amazon sellers, e-commerce businesses, or first-time importers
Whether by air or sea, DDP shipping is growing in popularity due to its convenience and predictability.
How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Ireland?
Understanding the shipping time from China to Ireland is essential for planning your inventory, production cycles, and customer deliveries. Depending on the mode of transport, your cargo can take anywhere from 3 days to over 40 days to arrive.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated transit times for each method:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Delivery Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL/FedEx) | 3–5 business days | Urgent parcels, samples, small eCommerce |
| Air Freight | 5–10 business days | Time-sensitive shipments, electronics |
| Rail + Truck/Feeder Vessel | 20–25 days | Mid-sized shipments, moderate urgency |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 30–40 days | Large volume shipments, low urgency |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 35–45 days | Small to medium shipments, lower cost |
| Door-to-Door (DDP Air) | 8–12 days | Hassle-free urgent cargo with customs |
| Door-to-Door (DDP Sea) | 35–50 days | Simple handling, small business shipments |
Key Factors That Influence Transit Time:
- Port congestion in Europe or China
- Customs clearance delays at Irish ports
- Peak seasons, such as Chinese New Year or holiday periods
- Transshipment ports used for LCL and rail freight
For urgent deliveries, air freight or express shipping is the most efficient solution. However, if cost is your top concern, sea freight or rail options offer better value despite the longer delivery time.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship from China to Ireland?
Calculating the exact shipping cost from China to Ireland depends on several key factors:
- Shipping method (air, sea, express, door-to-door)
- Weight and volume (CBM or chargeable kg)
- Shipping route and distance
- Type of goods (general cargo, dangerous goods, high-value items)
- Delivery terms (EXW, FOB, DDP, etc.)
Below is a general estimate of freight rates from China to Ireland as of 2025:
Air Freight Cost (Standard Airport to Airport)
| Weight | Estimated Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| 100–300 kg | $3.80 – $6.50 | 5–10 days |
| 300–500 kg | $3.50 – $6.00 | 5–10 days |
| 500+ kg | $3.20 – $5.50 | 5–10 days |
Note: Air freight is based on chargeable weight. Use a Chargeable Weight Calculator to find actual billed weight.
Sea Freight Cost (FCL – Full Container Load)
| Route | 20GP Container | 40HQ Container | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai → Dublin (via EU port) | $1,450 – $1,750 | $2,100 – $2,450 | 30–40 days |
| Ningbo → Cork | $1,400 – $1,700 | $2,050 – $2,400 | 32–42 days |
| Shenzhen → Dublin (via Rotterdam) | $1,480 – $1,800 | $2,180 – $2,500 | 35–45 days |
FCL pricing includes port-to-port ocean freight. Customs clearance and local delivery fees are extra.
Sea Freight Cost (LCL – Less than Container Load)
| Volume (CBM) | Estimated Cost (USD/CBM) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1–5 CBM | $80 – $120 per CBM | 35–45 days |
| 6–10 CBM | $70 – $110 per CBM | 35–45 days |
Use a CBM Calculator to calculate the volume of your cargo based on dimensions.
Door to Door Shipping Cost (DDP)
| Method | 100 kg | 300 kg | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| DDP Air | $620 – $750 | $1,600 – $1,850 | 8–12 days |
| DDP Sea (LCL) | $250 – $350 | $550 – $700 | 35–50 days |
DDP includes pickup in China, international freight, customs clearance, taxes, and final delivery to the address in Ireland.
Additional Cost Considerations
- Customs duties and VAT in Ireland
- Origin charges in China (export handling fees, documentation)
- Destination handling and unloading fees
- Insurance for high-value or fragile cargo
Best Shipping Routes to Ireland
Choosing the most efficient shipping route from China to Ireland is crucial for both transit time and cost-effectiveness. While there are no direct ocean freight routes from China to Ireland, most shipments are transshipped via major European hubs such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, or Hamburg, then forwarded to Irish ports or airports.
Major Ports in China for Export to Ireland
China has a vast network of well-developed seaports and air cargo hubs. The following are the most commonly used departure ports for shipping to Ireland:
| Port | Location | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | East China | High-volume FCL & LCL, mixed cargo |
| Ningbo | Zhejiang Province | Efficient for electronics, furniture |
| Shenzhen | South China (near HK) | Fast handling for consumer goods |
| Qingdao | North China | Machinery, steel, industrial equipment |
| Guangzhou | Guangdong Province | LCL, small cargo, air freight hubs |
These ports are selected based on supplier location, freight forwarder availability, and shipment type.
Destination Ports in Ireland
Ireland has fewer ports than other European countries, but Dublin Port handles the majority of international cargo, especially imports from Asia and Europe.
| Port | Function |
|---|---|
| Dublin Port | Ireland’s main container terminal; handles LCL and FCL cargo |
| Cork Port | Smaller shipments, regional coverage |
| Belfast Port | Serves Northern Ireland and transits to ROI |
Most sea freight to Ireland is routed via a European port first, then moved by feeder vessels to Dublin or Cork.
Airports in Ireland for Air Cargo
If you choose air freight from China to Ireland, cargo usually lands at:
| Airport | City | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin Airport (DUB) | Dublin | Main hub for international air cargo |
| Shannon Airport (SNN) | Limerick area | Sometimes used for western deliveries |
Dublin Airport is the central hub for air cargo shipments, handling the majority of air freight from Asia, Europe, and North America.
Common Shipping Route Examples
Here are a few typical China to Ireland logistics routes used in international trade:
- Shanghai → Rotterdam → Dublin (Sea + feeder)
- Shenzhen → Antwerp → Cork (Sea + road)
- Guangzhou → Frankfurt → Dublin (Air freight + connecting flight)
- Chengdu → Warsaw → Dublin (Rail freight + trucking)
These multimodal routes combine ocean, rail, and air freight to balance cost and delivery speed depending on your needs.
Customs Clearance and Import Duties in Ireland
When importing goods from China, handling customs clearance in Ireland is a critical step. Irish Revenue requires all importers to follow proper procedures to ensure duties and taxes are paid, and that shipments comply with EU regulations.
Do I Need an EORI Number?
Yes. To import goods into Ireland from outside the EU, businesses and individuals must register for an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number.
- If you are VAT-registered in Ireland, you can apply for an EORI number via the Revenue website.
- This number is required for all customs declarations and communication with Irish Customs.
What Are the Import Duties and Taxes?
When goods enter Ireland, you may be responsible for:
- Import Duty: Varies by product type and HS code. Most general goods fall between 0%–12%.
- VAT (Value-Added Tax): Standard Irish VAT rate is 23% and applies to the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight + Duty).
- Excise Duty: Applies to certain goods such as alcohol, tobacco, and fuels.
Example: If you import $1,000 worth of goods with 5% duty and $200 shipping cost, your VAT is calculated as 23% of the total landed cost.
Required Customs Documents
To complete customs clearance for goods shipped from China, ensure you have the following documents:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares goods’ value, origin, and buyer info |
| Packing List | Describes items, weight, and packaging |
| Bill of Lading / AWB | Confirms shipment by sea or air |
| Importer EORI Number | Used for customs declarations |
| Product Certifications | CE mark, MSDS, etc. if applicable |
Tips for Smooth Clearance
- Work with a customs broker or freight forwarder familiar with Irish regulations.
- Classify your goods correctly using the correct HS code to avoid overpaying duties.
- Ensure product labeling and CE compliance for electronics or regulated goods.
- Retain records for at least 6 years for audit purposes.
Using DDP to Simplify the Process
If you want to avoid handling customs procedures yourself, choose DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping. This service includes:
- Export customs clearance in China
- Import clearance in Ireland
- Prepaid duties, VAT, and delivery to your door
DDP is especially popular with Amazon FBA sellers and e-commerce businesses shipping from China to Ireland.
Freight Forwarders and Logistics Services
Working with a reliable freight forwarder for shipping from China to Ireland can make your logistics process smoother, faster, and more cost-effective. Whether you’re importing full containers or small packages, a forwarder handles the end-to-end coordination of your cargo.
What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?
A freight forwarder is your logistics partner who manages:
- Booking sea or air freight from China
- Arranging pickup from supplier’s factory or warehouse
- Export documentation and China customs clearance
- Coordinating transshipment and inland transport
- Import customs clearance in Ireland
- Final delivery to your destination (door, port, warehouse)
Using professional logistics services saves time and reduces costly errors during cross-border shipments.
Choosing the Right Forwarder
Here are tips to select a reliable shipping agent from China to Ireland:
| Criteria | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Experience | Specializes in EU and Irish import regulations |
| Transparency | Provides upfront freight costs and no hidden fees |
| Multi-modal Capability | Offers sea, air, rail, and door-to-door shipping |
| Tracking & Support | Allows real-time cargo tracking and responsive support |
| Customs Knowledge | Expert in handling VAT and duty procedures |
Tonlexing, for example, offers end-to-end logistics services tailored for Irish importers—from FCL/LCL ocean shipping to DDP air cargo, including customs clearance.
Value-Added Services
Many freight forwarders provide additional services such as:
- Warehousing and consolidation in China
- Inspection services before shipping
- Cargo insurance for high-value goods
- Amazon FBA prep for Irish sellers
- Door to door delivery with taxes prepaid (DDP)
These services help simplify international trade for small businesses and e-commerce sellers.
Freight Tracking and Customer Service
Real-time tracking is an essential part of modern freight management. Good forwarders will:
- Provide tracking links for containers or air waybills
- Offer proactive updates in case of delays
- Support you in resolving customs or port issues
Choosing a forwarder who values communication is key to stress-free international shipping.
Tips to Save on Shipping Costs from China to Ireland
If you’re importing regularly or managing large product volumes, finding ways to achieve cheap shipping from China to Ireland without compromising reliability is key. Here are some expert strategies to help reduce your overall freight expenses:
Choose the Right Shipping Method
Selecting the correct shipping method based on cargo size and urgency can lead to significant savings:
- Use LCL if you’re shipping small volumes (<10 CBM)
- Go with FCL if you’re close to full container load—it avoids per CBM surcharges
- Consider rail freight as a balance between air speed and sea cost
- For e-commerce, use DDP door to door for better predictability and no surprise taxes
Compare LCL vs FCL rates before booking—consolidation can sometimes make LCL more expensive per unit.
Optimize Packaging and Volume
Freight cost is often based on volumetric weight (for air) or CBM (for sea). Poor packaging design can inflate your shipping cost unnecessarily.
- Use sturdy but compact packaging
- Eliminate unnecessary space between items
- Stack and palletize goods efficiently for container use
You can use tools like the CBM Calculator to determine the most efficient loading strategy.
Consolidate Shipments
If you’re ordering from multiple Chinese suppliers, ask your freight forwarder to consolidate the goods at a warehouse in China.
Benefits of freight consolidation:
- Reduced LCL cost per CBM
- Single customs clearance and destination handling fee
- Fewer delays from batch shipping
This is especially useful for Amazon sellers or retailers with multiple product lines.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Peak Season Costs
Freight rates can surge during peak shipping seasons, such as:
- Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb)
- Back-to-school season (July–August)
- Black Friday and holiday sales (Oct–Dec)
Book shipments 2–3 weeks in advance and avoid last-minute air freight unless necessary.
Use a Reliable Freight Forwarder
A good logistics partner not only helps with customs and coordination but can also recommend cost-effective routes, carrier promotions, and consolidated services. This alone can save 10–20% of your shipping budget annually.
Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them
While shipping from China to Ireland is generally reliable, several challenges can disrupt your logistics if not managed properly. Being aware of these common problems—and how to prevent them—can save you from unexpected delays and costs.
Shipping Delays
Delays in international shipping can result from:
- Port congestion in Europe or China
- Vessel rollovers or missed sailings
- Weather disruptions (typhoons, storms)
- Holiday seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year)
How to avoid:
Book early, especially during peak seasons. Work with a forwarder that has access to multiple carriers for flexibility.
Customs Clearance Issues
Incorrect documentation or misclassified goods can lead to:
- Delays at Irish customs
- Unexpected VAT or duty charges
- Goods being held or inspected
How to avoid:
Ensure accurate invoices and HS codes. Use an experienced customs broker or opt for DDP shipping to simplify clearance.
Damaged or Lost Cargo
Improper packaging or rough handling during transshipment can cause:
- Product damage
- Missing items or pilferage
- Insurance disputes
How to avoid:
Invest in strong export packaging. Add cargo insurance for valuable goods. Request supplier photos and inspection before loading.
Unexpected Costs
Importers may face additional fees such as:
- Destination handling surcharges
- Detention or demurrage for late pickup
- Incorrect freight class penalties (air)
How to avoid:
Ask for a detailed quote that includes all potential surcharges. Clarify the delivery terms (EXW, FOB, DDP, etc.) upfront.
Communication Gaps
Lack of updates from freight agents or suppliers can lead to confusion, missed paperwork, or delivery errors.
How to avoid:
Work with a responsive freight forwarder who offers tracking, proactive updates, and English-speaking support.
FAQs About Shipping from China to Ireland
How much does it cost to ship from China to Ireland?
It depends on the shipping method, cargo weight/volume, and delivery terms. On average:
- Air freight: $3.5–$6.5 per kg
- Sea freight (LCL): $80–$120 per CBM
- FCL 20ft container: $1,450–$1,750
- DDP door-to-door (100kg): $620–$750
Use a freight calculator or request a quote for accurate pricing.
How long does shipping from China to Ireland take?
Estimated transit times:
- Express courier: 3–5 business days
- Air freight: 5–10 business days
- Sea freight (FCL): 30–40 days
- Sea freight (LCL): 35–45 days
- DDP sea: Up to 50 days
Do I need a customs broker to import into Ireland?
If you’re handling customs clearance yourself, yes—a customs broker can help ensure correct classification, VAT, and duty payments. Alternatively, choose DDP shipping to avoid dealing with customs.
Can I ship goods from China to Ireland with taxes prepaid?
Yes. Choose a DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service to have duties, VAT, and clearance handled by your freight forwarder. This is ideal for first-time importers and eCommerce sellers.
What is the cheapest shipping method from China to Ireland?
Sea freight (LCL) is typically the cheapest for volumes under 10 CBM. If speed isn’t critical, it’s the most economical option. For parcels under 20 kg, postal or express economy services may be cheaper.
Do I have to pay VAT on Chinese imports to Ireland?
Yes. Ireland’s standard VAT rate is 23%, applied to the total landed cost (CIF + duty). Your VAT-registered business may reclaim this through your tax return.
Can I ship directly to Amazon FBA Ireland from China?
Yes. Many freight forwarders offer FBA prep services in China and ship directly to Amazon fulfillment centers in Ireland or other EU countries. DDP shipping is commonly used for this.
What’s the best port of entry in Ireland?
Dublin Port is the main entry point for sea freight. Dublin Airport handles most air cargo. Smaller volumes may be routed through Cork or Shannon depending on carrier.
What documents are needed for customs clearance in Ireland?
Required documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- EORI number (for business importers)
- Product certificates (if applicable)
Can I track my shipment from China to Ireland?
Yes. Most forwarders and express couriers provide real-time tracking, including sea container status or air freight milestones. Always request tracking details upon shipment.
