Shipping cost from China to Syria is a key consideration for businesses looking to import goods into the Middle East. Whether you’re shipping construction materials, electronics, or consumer products, understanding your freight options is crucial for balancing cost, speed, and delivery reliability.
In recent years, trade between China and Syria has grown steadily, supported by increased demand and developing logistics routes. Despite geopolitical challenges, Syria remains an active destination through regional hubs like Turkey, Lebanon, and the UAE.
This 2025 guide covers everything importers need to know—from shipping methods and transit times to air freight rates, ocean freight charges, customs clearance procedures, and door-to-door solutions for successful international logistics from China to Syria.
Shipping Methods from China to Syria
Choosing the right shipping method from China to Syria depends on several factors—cargo type, urgency, budget, and destination accessibility. Below are the most common and reliable international shipping options to consider:
Sea Freight (Ocean Shipping)
Sea freight is the most cost-effective method for transporting large or bulky cargo. While Syria has limited port access, goods can be shipped via transshipment through nearby ports in Turkey (Mersin), Lebanon (Beirut), or Egypt (Port Said) and then trucked across the border to Damascus, Aleppo, or other inland destinations.
- FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for bulk shipments or heavy items.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Suitable for smaller volumes; cost is shared among multiple shippers.
- Typical Transit Time: 30–45 days depending on the route and port congestion.
- Best for: Construction materials, heavy equipment, machinery, household goods.
This sea shipping process is usually handled by an experienced freight forwarder, who arranges inland trucking, documentation, and customs clearance upon arrival.
Air Freight
For time-sensitive shipments, air freight is the fastest mode of transport from China to Syria. While there are few direct flights to Syrian airports, most cargo is routed through Dubai (DXB), Istanbul (IST), or Doha (DOH) before final delivery via Damascus International Airport or other regional hubs.
- Transit Time: 5–10 days including customs clearance.
- Best for: Electronics, medical equipment, spare parts, high-value goods.
- Air Freight Rates: Calculated based on chargeable weight (gross vs. volumetric).
- Air Shipping Services: May include temperature-controlled cargo and advanced tracking systems.
If speed is your priority, working with a reliable air freight forwarder ensures optimized routing and lower air freight costs through consolidated cargo options.
Door to Door Shipping (Including DDP)
Door to door service provides a fully managed shipping solution that includes pickup from the supplier in China, international transport, customs clearance, and final delivery to the destination address in Syria.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) option means the seller or freight forwarder covers all taxes, customs duties, and clearance fees.
- Smooth shipping process with minimal effort from the buyer.
- Shipping Time: 10–20 days depending on mode and routing.
- Best for: E-commerce packages, consumer electronics, consolidated B2B orders.
This method offers a cost effective and convenient way to ship without worrying about the clearance process or inland delivery logistics.
Multimodal Shipping (Sea + Land or Air + Land)
Due to Syria’s landlocked constraints and limited maritime accessibility, many logistics providers utilize multimodal transport:
- Sea to Mersin + Truck to Damascus
- Air to Beirut + Cross-border Delivery
- Combined container load + local transportation services
An experienced freight forwarder ensures smooth coordination across each leg of the journey, helping reduce delays and optimize cost.
Shipping Time from China to Syria
The shipping time from China to Syria varies significantly depending on the shipping method, the origin and destination points, transshipment ports, and the chosen freight forwarder’s routing strategy. Due to limited direct access to Syrian ports and airports, most cargo undergoes transit through third countries before reaching its final destination.
Here’s a breakdown of the average transit times in 2025:
| Shipping Method | Route | Estimated Shipping Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | China → Mersin Port (Turkey) → Syria (by truck) | 30–45 days | May be delayed due to port congestion or customs backlog |
| Air Freight | China → Dubai/Istanbul → Damascus/Aleppo | 5–10 days | Fastest option for time-sensitive shipments |
| Door to Door (DDP service) | Factory pickup → Mersin/Beirut → Syria delivery | 12–20 days | Includes final delivery and customs clearance |
| Express Air Shipping (DHL/UPS/FedEx) | China → Syria (via regional hubs) | 6–9 days | For documents or small parcels with advanced tracking systems |
| Multimodal (Sea + Truck) | China → Beirut → Syria inland delivery | 20–30 days | Lower cost alternative to full DDP; ideal for commercial shipments |
Key Factors Influencing Shipping Time
- Transshipment Delays: Routing via third countries like Turkey or Lebanon may add time due to cross-border handling.
- Port Congestion: Mersin and Beirut ports sometimes experience delays due to high volume or regional disruption.
- Customs Clearance Efficiency: Delays can occur during document verification or inspection stages in Syria.
- Seasonal Demand Peaks: Transit time may increase during Q4 and pre-Ramadan periods due to market demand.
Working with an experienced freight forwarder helps streamline the shipping process, anticipate delays, and ensure timely delivery.
Shipping Cost from China to Syria
Understanding the shipping cost from China to Syria is essential for managing your overall logistics budget and making informed decisions about the best shipping method for your business. Prices vary based on several key factors, including cargo weight and size, service type (FCL, LCL, air freight, or DDP), final destination, and seasonal market demand.
Below is an estimated breakdown of 2025 shipping rates to Syria using different transportation services:
Sea Freight Rates (FCL)
| Route | 20ft Container | 40ft Container | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai → Mersin (Turkey) | $1,650 | $2,500 | Requires inland trucking to Syria |
| Ningbo → Beirut (Lebanon) | $1,750 | $2,650 | Used for LCL or FCL with border delivery |
| Shenzhen → Port Said (Egypt) | $1,780 | $2,680 | Often transshipped via regional land carriers |
Air Freight Costs (Per Kilogram)
| Route | 100kg+ Rate (USD/kg) | 300kg+ Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou → Damascus (via DXB) | $5.1 | $4.2 | 7–9 days | Includes transshipment in UAE |
| Shanghai → Aleppo (via IST) | $5.1 | $4.6 | 6–10 days | Slightly higher due to routing changes |
| Beijing → Beirut + truck delivery | $5.0 | $3.5 | 9–12 days | Often bundled with door service |
- Air freight costs are calculated using chargeable weight, based on the higher of gross or volumetric weight. Use our Chargeable Weight Calculator to estimate precisely.
Door to Door Shipping (DDP Service)
| Cargo Type | Shipping Cost (USD/kg) | Delivery Time | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small parcels (e.g. eCommerce) | $6.5 – $7.5 | 10–15 days | Customs, VAT, last-mile delivery |
| Commercial goods (100kg+) | $3.8 – $5.2 | 12–20 days | Delivered duty paid, full tracking, insurance |
| Bulk shipments (1 CBM+) | $400 – $500 per CBM | 15–25 days | Consolidated container + inland transportation |
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the overall shipping costs, be sure to account for:
- Customs clearance fees (Syria)
- Import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Shipping insurance (recommended for high-value goods)
- Port handling fees or storage charges during customs inspections
- Destination address delivery surcharge for remote or restricted zones
Choosing a logistics partner that offers competitive pricing and transparent fees helps you optimize costs and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Customs Clearance in Syria
A smooth customs clearance process is essential for avoiding delays and additional charges when shipping goods from China to Syria. Importers must comply with Syrian customs regulations, accurately declare shipment details, and ensure all required documentation is in order to facilitate the clearance process.
Key Customs Procedures and Requirements
- Declared Value and HS Codes
All goods must be declared using the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) codes. The declared value of the shipment forms the basis for calculating customs duties and value added tax (VAT). Undervaluation can lead to penalties or seizure. - Required Documents
The following documents are typically needed to complete customs clearance in Syria:- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Import License (for restricted items)
- Customs Duties and Fees
- Import duties range from 5% to 30% depending on the product type.
- Customs clearance fees vary but usually include inspection, administrative, and document verification charges.
- Additional VAT may apply, typically around 10%–15%, based on the CIF value.
- Managing Customs Clearance Efficiently
Partnering with a local freight forwarder or customs broker in Syria can significantly simplify the process. They help manage document submission, fee payments, inspections, and final delivery. - Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) Option
If you choose DDP shipping, your logistics provider handles the entire clearance process, including all applicable import duties, taxes, and delivery to your destination address. This is ideal for businesses that prefer a hassle-free, end-to-end solution. - Customs Risks and Compliance Checks
Syrian authorities may conduct random inspections. Non-compliance with customs regulations can result in shipment delays, fines, or cargo confiscation. Ensure invoices match packing lists and that product descriptions are detailed and accurate.
Common Clearance Challenges
- Misdeclared Goods: Inaccurate documentation is a leading cause of customs delays.
- Restricted Items: Some categories require prior approval from Syrian authorities (e.g., electronics, chemicals).
- Additional Costs: Late document submission or incorrect paperwork can incur storage fees, demurrage, or transportation costs.
Factors That Affect Shipping Costs from China to Syria
Understanding the variables that influence shipping costs helps importers select the most cost effective shipping method and avoid unnecessary additional costs. Whether you’re using air freight, sea freight, or a full door to door service, the final price depends on multiple logistical and commercial factors.
Cargo Volume and Weight
Shipping rates—especially for air freight—are based on chargeable weight, which is determined by comparing actual gross weight and volumetric weight. For sea shipping, the container load or CBM (cubic meter) matters most.
- Small parcels: Higher cost per kg due to minimum charges.
- Bulk shipments: Lower per-unit rate, but higher overall logistics costs.
- Use a CBM Calculator to estimate volume precisely.
Shipping Method Selected
Different shipping methods offer different pricing structures:
- Air freight rates are higher but include faster shipping time and lower warehousing costs.
- Sea freight is more economical for large volumes but slower and subject to port congestion.
- DDP services include all customs and delivery charges, ideal for importers preferring upfront total transportation costs.
Route and Destination Complexity
Due to limited direct access, goods to Syria are often transshipped via:
- Turkey (Mersin Port)
- Lebanon (Beirut Port)
- UAE (Dubai Airport)
Each additional stop adds handling fees, longer transit, and shipping operations costs.
Port and Border Conditions
Delays or political disruptions at key transit points such as Turkish-Syrian borders or Lebanese corridors can increase costs through:
- Demurrage charges
- Warehousing
- Inland trucking surcharges
Monitoring international logistics conditions is essential, especially during high-tension periods.
Seasonality and Market Demand
Peak seasons like Chinese New Year, Ramadan, or Black Friday can inflate:
- Shipping rates
- Container availability
- Booking lead times
Booking in advance or using consolidated shipments helps reduce the burden.
Insurance and Risk Management
High-value or fragile goods should be covered by shipping insurance, which adds 1–2% to the invoice value. It’s a small price for protecting against:
- In-transit loss or damage
- Political disruptions
- Natural disasters
Freight Forwarder Experience
An experienced freight forwarder can negotiate competitive pricing, avoid routing pitfalls, and provide advanced tracking systems to ensure a smooth shipping process.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping Cost from China to Turkey
- Shipping Cost from China to Iraq
- Shipping Cost from China to Romania
- Shipping Cost from China to Egypt
- Shipping Cost from China to Qatar
Tips to Reduce Shipping Costs to Syria
Controlling shipping costs is critical for importers looking to maintain healthy profit margins when sourcing from China. By applying a few strategic practices, businesses can lower their overall transportation costs while maintaining reliable and timely delivery.
Choose the Most Suitable Shipping Method
Don’t default to the fastest or cheapest option without comparing:
- Use sea freight for bulky or non-urgent cargo.
- Use air shipping only for time-sensitive or high-value goods.
- Door to door service (especially DDP) might be more cost effective than handling multiple legs independently, especially when factoring in customs and inland transport.
Choosing the right shipping method ensures you avoid overpaying for speed or underestimating complexity.
Consolidate Shipments When Possible
Consolidation reduces costs in both air freight and LCL sea freight:
- Combine smaller orders into one container load.
- Share space with other importers to split base charges.
- Avoid frequent small shipments that rack up air freight costs.
A trusted freight forwarder can coordinate consolidation across multiple suppliers in China.
Book in Advance During Off-Peak Periods
Shipping during low-demand seasons (e.g., post-Chinese New Year or mid-summer) can yield:
- Lower shipping rates
- Faster booking and departure
- Fewer port congestion issues
Early planning gives you leverage in negotiating competitive pricing and routing flexibility.
Work with an Experienced Freight Forwarder
A reliable freight forwarder provides:
- Personalized service based on cargo type and urgency
- Optimized shipping routes for quicker customs clearance and smoother final delivery
- Real-time updates with advanced tracking systems
They also help manage customs clearance, ensuring full compliance and reducing costly delays.
Use Accurate Cargo Dimensions and Documentation
Overestimating size increases chargeable weight, while errors in the commercial invoice or HS codes may trigger:
- Inspection delays
- Penalties
- Reassessment of customs duties
Using a CBM calculator and verifying all documents reduces surprise fees and ensures smooth transit.
Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons
- Skip premium express services unless needed.
- Only insure high-value cargo.
- Reuse packaging to reduce dimensional weight.
Carefully evaluate shipping insurance options—don’t overpay for redundant coverage.
Why Choose Tonlexing as Your Freight Forwarder to Syria
Finding the right freight forwarder is key to ensuring a smooth and reliable international logistics experience—especially when shipping to sensitive regions like Syria. At Tonlexing, we specialize in complex supply chains and cross-border shipments throughout the Middle East, offering tailored shipping solutions designed for your cargo type, budget, and timeline.
End-to-End Shipping Expertise
We handle the full shipping process from factory pickup in China to final delivery in Syria, including:
- FCL/LCL sea freight to Mersin, Beirut, or Port Said
- Air freight services via Dubai, Istanbul, or Doha
- Door to door service including DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
- Multimodal transport combining sea, air, and inland trucking
- Cross-border coordination for Lebanon, Turkey, and UAE entry points
Whether it’s bulk shipments or small parcels, we optimize every step of the journey.
Experienced in Syria-Focused Operations
We understand the specific challenges involved in air shipping to Syria or inland delivery from third-country ports. Our team manages:
- Route planning to avoid bottlenecks
- Border customs updates and regulatory shifts
- Safe passage through sensitive zones
- Personalized service adapted to your sector (retail, industrial, humanitarian, etc.)
You can count on us to ensure smooth shipping operations, even in complex scenarios.
Transparent Pricing & Flexible Solutions
We believe in competitive pricing without hidden fees. Tonlexing offers:
- Transparent shipping cost breakdowns
- Volume discounts for large container loads
- Clear estimates for air freight costs, clearance charges, and value-added tax
- Freight quotes that reflect your declared value and delivery needs
Every quote includes full visibility over transportation costs, documents, and timelines.
Technology-Driven Logistics
Our advanced tracking systems let you monitor your shipment at every stage. We also provide:
- Real-time updates
- Dedicated account support
- Proactive alerts for delays or rerouting
This ensures faster decisions, fewer disruptions, and higher customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Customs Support
From commercial invoices to customs clearance fees, we handle the paperwork and coordination for:
- Syrian border clearance
- DDP tax handling and duties
- Special cargo certifications (electronics, industrial equipment, etc.)
- Local regulation compliance
Our goal is to minimize friction and deliver goods safely and on time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Shipping from China to Syria
What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Syria?
The most cost-effective method is sea freight (LCL or FCL), especially for bulk cargo. While slower than air freight, it offers significantly lower shipping costs and is ideal for non-urgent or heavy goods.
How long does shipping from China to Syria take?
It depends on the shipping method:
- Sea freight: 30–45 days (transshipment via Mersin or Beirut)
- Air freight: 5–10 days (via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul)
- Door to door service: 10–20 days including customs clearance and inland transport
What are the main air freight routes to Syria?
Most air shipping options route cargo through:
- Guangzhou → Dubai → Damascus
- Shanghai → Istanbul → Aleppo
- Beijing → Beirut → Syria by truck
These routes offer efficient transit with regular weekly flights and good air freight rates.
Can I ship door to door from China to Syria?
Yes. Tonlexing offers door to door service, including DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), where we manage pickup, freight, customs clearance, and final delivery. This is perfect for importers who prefer a hassle-free logistics solution.
What documents are needed for customs clearance in Syria?
You’ll need:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or air waybill
- Certificate of origin
- Import license (for restricted items)
Working with a trusted freight forwarder ensures compliance with all customs regulations.
Are there import duties and VAT when shipping to Syria?
Yes. Import duties range from 5%–30%, and value added tax (VAT) may apply (typically 10%–15%) based on declared value and product category. These are calculated during the clearance process.
Is shipping insurance recommended?
Absolutely. We recommend adding shipping insurance—especially for high-value or fragile goods—to cover potential damage or loss during transit, including cross-border or politically sensitive areas.
Can I track my shipment in real time?
Yes. Tonlexing offers advanced tracking systems for both air and sea freight, with real-time updates throughout your cargo’s journey—ensuring visibility and customer satisfaction.
Do you offer DDP shipping to Syria?
Yes. Our Delivered Duty Paid service covers:
- Freight (air or sea)
- Customs duties and taxes
- Final delivery to your destination address
This is the most reliable option for importers who want full-cost transparency and no surprises.
How can I get a shipping quote to Syria?
Simply contact us through our website or WhatsApp. Provide:
- Product details (weight, dimensions)
- Pickup location in China
- Destination city in Syria
- Preferred shipping method
Our team will provide a personalized service plan with the best available shipping rates.