In 2025, shipping from China to Singapore continues to play a crucial role in regional trade. Singapore remains one of the most important logistics hubs in Southeast Asia, receiving a large volume of goods imported from China every day. Whether you are an e-commerce seller, manufacturer, or distributor, understanding the shipping cost from China to Singapore is essential to control overall shipping costs and delivery efficiency.
With the increasing demand for international shipping services, businesses have more shipping options to choose from—such as sea freight, air freight, or door to door service. Each shipping mode has its own advantages in terms of delivery time, pricing structure, and customs handling. Choosing the right option depends on your cargo type, weight, package dimensions, and urgency of delivery.
This complete guide will help you calculate your total shipping cost, learn about customs clearance in Singapore, understand how volumetric weight affects your air rates, and find the most cost-effective way to start shipping your goods safely and on time.
Main Shipping Options and Methods
When planning international shipping from China to Singapore, you have several shipping options depending on your cargo type, budget, and required delivery speed. Understanding each method helps you select the most efficient and reliable way to move your goods imported from China.
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective way to transport large or heavy shipments. For full container load (FCL) or less than container load (LCL), sea shipping offers the best balance between shipping costs and cargo volume.
Typical shipping rates range from USD 20 to 50 per cubic meter, depending on the port of origin, container type, and seasonal demand.
If you are shipping large quantities or bulky items, sea freight is the preferred choice due to its lower cost per unit and stability during transit. However, the shipping process usually takes longer—around 7 to 14 days, depending on departure port and customs procedures.
Air Freight
Air freight provides the fastest delivery time, suitable for urgent shipments, high-value goods, or lightweight packages. Air shipping services are widely available from major Chinese airports such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to Changi Airport in Singapore.
Rates generally range from USD 1.8 to 3.2 per kilogram, calculated based on either actual weight or volumetric weight—whichever is greater. This method ensures your package reaches its destination within 1–3 days, offering reliable shipping control and real-time tracking.
Door to Door / DDP Service
For importers seeking convenience, door to door service (also known as DDP shipping) is an all-inclusive option that covers pickup in China, customs clearance, freight transport, and final delivery in Singapore.
This service eliminates the need for you to handle customs duties, taxes, or import paperwork. It’s ideal for e-commerce shipments and business owners who prefer a hassle-free shipping process. Though slightly more expensive than standard sea freight or air freight, it provides peace of mind and faster delivery to your client’s address.
Shipping Cost Breakdown (Air vs Sea)
The shipping cost from China to Singapore depends on several important factors such as weight, volume, shipping mode, and delivery urgency. Importers can estimate their total shipping costs by using an online shipping cost calculator or requesting a professional shipping quote from a reliable freight forwarder.
Typical Shipping Costs (2025 Estimates)
| Shipping Method | Cost Range (Approx.) | Calculation Basis | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (LCL) | USD 20 – 50 per CBM | Volume (Cubic Meter) | 7–14 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL 20ft) | USD 200 – 400 per container | Container Load | 7–10 days |
| Air Freight | USD 1.8 – 3.2 per kg | Calculated based on actual weight or volumetric weight | 1–3 days |
| Door-to-Door (DDP) | USD 2 – 6 per kg | All-inclusive (Air or Sea) | 5–10 days |
These are average shipping rates and can vary depending on seasonal demand, route congestion, and fuel surcharge adjustments. To get an accurate estimate, importers should check both actual weight and volumetric weight, because air freight pricing is always calculated based on whichever is higher.
Understanding Volumetric vs Actual Weight
- Actual weight refers to the physical weight of the package measured in kilograms.
- Volumetric weight (or dimensional weight) reflects how much space the cargo occupies in the aircraft or container.
The standard air freight formula is:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (cm) / 6,000
For example, if your shipment weighs 20 kg but occupies a large carton, the volumetric weight may reach 35 kg, meaning the chargeable shipping cost will be based on 35 kg, not 20.
Other Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
- Proper packaging: Ensures safe transport and may reduce wasted space.
- Fuel surcharge: Adjusted monthly depending on global oil prices.
- Shipment type: Fragile or dangerous goods require special handling.
- Customs clearance: Additional costs for documentation, packing list, and import permits.
- Delivery location: Residential delivery or remote areas may increase total shipping costs.
Using a cost calculator helps you determine how these factors influence your overall shipping rates, ensuring accurate budgeting before you start shipping.
Air Freight from China to Singapore
When it comes to air freight from China to Singapore, importers benefit from the fastest delivery time and the highest level of reliability. For businesses dealing with electronics, fashion, or small high-value items, air shipping provides a cost-effective and efficient solution compared with sea transport.
Average Air Freight Rates
The shipping costs for air freight depend on both chargeable weight and transit time. On average, prices range between USD 1.80 to 3.20 per kilogram, depending on the shipping mode, delivery speed, and airline used.
Smaller shipments under 100 kg are usually charged at standard per-kilo rates, while bulk cargo (over 500 kg) often enjoys discounted shipping rates through negotiated contracts with airlines or freight forwarders.
Chargeable Weight and How It’s Calculated
In air freight, the charge is always based on the higher value between actual weight and volumetric weight.
Use this simple shipping calculator formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
For instance, a 40×50×60 cm box weighs 20 kg physically, but its volumetric weight equals 40×50×60 ÷ 6000 = 20 kg — meaning your chargeable weight is the same. If it were larger, the cost would rise accordingly. Using a shipping cost calculator ensures that you can predict total expenses before confirming the booking.
Transit Time and Delivery Speed
Air freight is the fastest shipping service between China and Singapore, with an average transit time of 1–3 days from airport to airport. Express shipments or urgent shipments can even arrive within 24 hours, depending on airline schedules and customs clearance efficiency.
Key departure airports include Shanghai (PVG), Shenzhen (SZX), Guangzhou (CAN), and Hong Kong (HKG), all providing daily flights to Changi Airport (SIN).
Advantages of Air Freight Shipping
- Reliable and time-sensitive delivery
- Ideal for lightweight or high-value packages
- Simplified shipping process with fewer customs delays
- Easy tracking and better control during international shipping
- Cost-effective for small-volume cargo requiring quick arrival
For businesses focused on speed, consistency, and reliability, air freight remains the best option to ship goods safely and efficiently from China to Singapore.
Sea Freight from China to Singapore
Sea freight is the most widely used shipping mode for importers moving bulk cargo from China to Singapore. It offers a cost-effective and reliable way to transport large volumes of goods, especially when the shipment is too heavy or oversized for air transport.
Types of Sea Freight: FCL and LCL
- FCL (Full Container Load) – Ideal for companies shipping full 20ft or 40ft containers. You get exclusive use of the container, which ensures security, faster shipping process, and fewer handling steps.
- LCL (Less than Container Load) – Suitable for smaller volumes where your shipment shares space with other cargo. This option reduces shipping costs but may slightly increase the delivery time due to consolidation and deconsolidation.
Typical Sea Freight Rates (2025 Estimates)
| Container Type | Average Shipping Costs | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LCL | USD 20 – 50 per CBM | 7–14 days | Small or mixed cargo |
| 20ft FCL | USD 200 – 400 per container | 7–10 days | Medium shipments |
| 40ft FCL | USD 450 – 600 per container | 7–10 days | Large or bulk goods |
These shipping rates vary slightly depending on the origin port, cargo type, and seasonal surcharges. Sea freight remains far cheaper than air freight when measured per kilogram or per cubic meter.
Major Ports in China and Singapore
Most shipments depart from Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Ningbo, or Qingdao, which are China’s major ports for international exports. In Singapore, all shipments arrive at the world-class Port of Singapore, known for its extensive cargo handling facilities and fast turnaround time.
The typical transit time by sea is 7–14 days, depending on the departure city and route. Singapore’s advanced customs clearance system and 24/7 terminal operations ensure minimal customs delays, allowing your shipping goods to reach warehouses or retailers quickly.
Benefits of Sea Freight
- Best choice for large-volume or heavy shipments
- Significantly lower shipping costs compared with air transport
- Flexible shipping options for LCL or FCL
- Smooth shipping process managed by a freight forwarder
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
For importers who prioritize affordability and steady delivery time, sea freight remains the most practical and cost-effective solution for container shipping between China and Singapore.
Customs Clearance and Import Duties in Singapore
When shipping goods from China to Singapore, a smooth customs clearance process is essential to avoid customs delays and unexpected charges. Fortunately, Singapore customs is known for its efficient system, transparent regulations, and digitalized import procedures.
Understanding Singapore Customs Requirements
All goods imported into Singapore must be declared to Singapore Customs using an Import Permit. Whether shipped by air freight or sea freight, importers must ensure all documents are prepared correctly before the cargo arrives. Missing paperwork can lead to customs delays, storage charges, or additional costs.
The essential documents include:
- Commercial invoice – stating product description, value, and currency.
- Packing list – specifying quantity, dimensions, and weight of the packages.
- Bill of lading / Airway bill – proof of shipment issued by your freight forwarder.
- Import permit – required for customs entry.
- Certificates (if applicable) – for regulated items such as electronics, food, or medical equipment.
Customs Duties and Taxes
Singapore is one of the most business-friendly countries in the world, and most imports enter duty-free. However, certain categories—such as alcohol, tobacco, and vehicles—are subject to customs duties and taxes.
All goods imported are also subject to GST (Goods and Services Tax), currently at 9% (as of 2025), which is applied to the CIF value (cost, insurance, and freight).
Importers should factor in these duties when using a shipping cost calculator to estimate their total landed cost.
How to Ensure Smooth Customs Clearance
- Work with a reliable freight forwarder familiar with Singapore customs procedures.
- Prepare all documents and the packing list before shipment.
- Clearly label your packages and declare the correct HS code.
- Avoid undervaluing goods imported, as this can lead to penalties.
- Track your shipment to anticipate customs clearance timing and avoid customs delays.
By ensuring compliance and accuracy during the customs clearance process, importers can reduce overall shipping costs, shorten delivery time, and maintain a predictable shipping process from China to Singapore.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping Cost from China to Malaysia
- Shipping cost from China to the Philippines
- Shipping Cost from China to Vietnam
- Shipping cost from China to Sri Lanka
- Shipping cost from China to South Korea
How to Calculate Your Shipping Cost
Before you start shipping from China to Singapore, it’s important to understand how shipping costs are determined. The total price you pay depends on the shipping mode, weight, dimensions of the package, and the service type you select. Using a shipping cost calculator or requesting a shipping quote can help you estimate the exact amount before booking.
Weight and Volume
The most significant pricing factor in international shipping is the chargeable weight — the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight.
- Actual weight is the physical weight of your shipment, measured on a scale.
- Volumetric weight is calculated based on how much space the package occupies in the aircraft or container.
For air shipments, the standard formula is:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
For example, if a package measures 60 × 50 × 40 cm and weighs 25 kg, the volumetric weight equals 20 kg. Since the actual weight (25 kg) is higher, that will be the chargeable weight.
A cost calculator helps importers compare these values quickly.
Shipping Mode and Destination
The selected shipping mode — whether air freight, sea freight, or door to door service — directly impacts shipping rates. Air shipments are faster but more expensive, while sea freight is slower but cheaper per kilogram. The final destination in Singapore (e.g., Jurong, Tuas, or central warehouse) may also slightly influence the total shipping costs.
Packaging and Cargo Type
Proper packaging helps minimize wasted space, reducing the volumetric weight and keeping shipping costs lower. Over-sized or irregular-shaped cargo might incur higher fees due to additional handling.
Using professional-grade materials for boxes and pallets also protects your shipment and helps maintain compliance with international packaging standards.
Additional Surcharges
Some shipping services may include a fuel surcharge, insurance, or handling fees. Others might charge extra for residential deliveries or urgent shipments. Always request a detailed shipping quote that breaks down all cost components, so you know exactly what is included in your total.
By understanding these cost factors and using a shipping cost calculator, you can predict accurate pricing, make informed decisions, and enjoy a smooth shipping process when sending goods from China to Singapore.
Transit Time and Delivery Process
The transit time between China and Singapore varies based on the shipping mode, origin city, and the type of shipping services selected. Importers should consider both delivery time and customs clearance stages to estimate total lead time accurately.
Air Freight Transit Time
For air freight, the delivery speed is unmatched. Direct flights from major Chinese airports—Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Shenzhen (SZX), and Hong Kong (HKG)—reach Singapore’s Changi Airport within 1–3 days.
After arrival, customs clearance typically takes less than one day if documents and declarations are correct. Urgent shipments using express air services can even arrive within 24 hours, making air transport ideal for time-sensitive shipping goods.
Sea Freight Transit Time
For sea freight, the transit time generally ranges from 7 to 14 days, depending on the port of loading and weather conditions. For example:
- Shenzhen / Guangzhou → Singapore: 7–10 days
- Shanghai / Ningbo → Singapore: 10–14 days
While sea freight takes longer, it is still a reliable option for bulk cargo transportation due to its cost-effective nature and steady schedules. Efficient coordination by your freight forwarder ensures minimal port delays.
Door-to-Door Delivery Process
When using door to door service, the total delivery time includes pickup, shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery to your Singapore address.
Average timelines are:
- Air DDP (Door-to-Door): 5–8 days
- Sea DDP (Door-to-Door): 8–14 days
These services simplify the entire shipping process by managing all paperwork, taxes, and customs duties, helping businesses avoid customs delays and reduce administrative work.
How to Ensure On-Time Delivery
To achieve fast and predictable delivery, importers should:
- Choose the right shipping mode based on urgency and volume.
- Prepare all documents for customs clearance early.
- Communicate with your freight forwarder for updates during shipment.
- Avoid peak seasons when cargo transportation is congested.
A smooth shipping process and efficient handling ensure your shipment arrives on schedule, keeping your supply chain stable and reliable.
Tips to Reduce Shipping Costs from China to Singapore
Reducing shipping costs while maintaining fast and secure delivery is one of the biggest challenges for importers. With careful planning and the right logistics partners, you can make your shipments more cost effective without compromising reliability or delivery speed.
Compare Different Shipping Options
Every shipping mode—whether air freight, sea freight, or door to door service—has unique advantages. Comparing multiple shipping options helps you find the right balance between cost and delivery time. For example, air freight is ideal for lightweight, urgent goods, while sea freight suits heavy cargo that doesn’t need fast delivery.
Using a shipping cost calculator can help you visualize the cost difference before you start shipping. Many freight forwarders also provide instant shipping quotes online for both LCL and FCL services.
Work with a Reliable Freight Forwarder
Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder ensures your shipping goods are handled professionally throughout the shipping process. They can advise on optimal shipping routes, consolidate multiple shipments, and help avoid customs delays.
Freight forwarders often have access to discount agreements with airlines or carriers, meaning they can offer better shipping rates and smoother delivery.
Optimize Packaging and Cargo Planning
Proper packaging can significantly reduce your shipping costs. Oversized cartons increase volumetric weight, resulting in higher charges. Measure and pack efficiently—use smaller boxes or adjust package sizes to reduce empty space.
If you regularly ship multiple packages, consider consolidating them into one shipment to save on overall shipping costs.
Ship During Off-Peak Seasons
Shipping rates fluctuate throughout the year, especially during Chinese holidays and Q4 e-commerce peaks. Scheduling your shipments during quieter months helps you secure discounts and faster delivery speed.
Use Technology to Manage Your Shipments
Digital tools like cost calculators, online tracking, and AI-based quoting systems give better cost control. Monitoring each shipment allows you to forecast expenses accurately and ensure timely delivery.
By combining these strategies, you can build a cost-effective and reliable logistics plan that minimizes shipping costs and strengthens your supply chain between China and Singapore.
FAQs About Shipping from China to Singapore (2025)
What is the average shipping cost from China to Singapore?
The shipping cost varies depending on shipping mode, weight, and delivery time.
- Sea freight (LCL): USD 20–50 per CBM
- 20ft container (FCL): USD 200–400
- Air freight: USD 1.8–3.2 per kg
- Door-to-door DDP: USD 2–6 per kg
Use a shipping cost calculator to estimate your total charge before you start shipping.
How long does it take to ship from China to Singapore?
The shipping time depends on the chosen shipping options:
- Air freight: 1–3 days
- Sea freight: 7–14 days
- Door-to-door shipping: 5–10 days
Working with an experienced freight forwarder ensures the fastest possible delivery time and smooth customs clearance.
What is the cheapest way to ship goods from China to Singapore?
The most cost effective option is sea freight, especially for heavy shipments or full containers.
If your cargo is small or lightweight, air freight consolidation may still be affordable. Comparing shipping services through a trusted freight forwarder helps identify the lowest-cost route for your shipping goods.
How are air freight charges calculated?
Air freight rates are calculated based on the higher value between actual weight and volumetric weight.
Formula: Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
The result is your chargeable weight, which determines the final shipping cost.
What documents are required for customs clearance in Singapore?
To complete customs clearance, importers need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Import Permit
- Certificates (if applicable)
Providing accurate documents prevents customs delays and unnecessary duties.
Do I need to pay import duties or taxes in Singapore?
Most goods imported to Singapore are duty-free, except for alcohol, tobacco, and vehicles. However, all imports are subject to GST (Goods and Services Tax), currently at 9%, applied to the CIF value (cost + insurance + freight).
How can I get a shipping quote from China to Singapore?
You can request a shipping quote directly from a reliable freight forwarder like Tonlexing. Provide details such as cargo weight, dimensions, shipping mode, and destination to receive an accurate cost breakdown.
Tonlexing offers full shipping services—including air freight, sea freight, customs clearance, and door to door delivery—making it easier to start shipping confidently from China to Singapore.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, shipping between China and Singapore is faster, smarter, and more transparent than ever. By choosing the right shipping options, using a cost calculator, and working with a professional freight forwarder, importers can enjoy smooth logistics, predictable delivery time, and truly cost-effective supply chains.