The Philippines is one of the key trading partners of China, with a thriving exchange of goods ranging from electronics and textiles to machinery and consumer products. Understanding the shipping costs and logistics involved is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their supply chains.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of shipping costs from China to the Philippines, including sea freight, air freight, and express delivery. It also covers essential factors affecting these costs, transit times, and tips for choosing the most efficient transportation method. Whether you’re shipping large containers or small parcels, this comprehensive overview will help you navigate the process effectively.
Table of Contents
Understanding Shipping Costs and Methods
How Much Does It Cost to Ship From China to the Philippines?
Shipping costs vary depending on the method of transportation, the weight and volume of goods, and the urgency of delivery. Below is an overview of the average costs for the most common shipping methods:
- Sea Freight: Best for bulk shipments, with lower costs but longer transit times.
- Air Freight: Suitable for time-sensitive or high-value goods, offering faster delivery at higher rates.
- Express Delivery: Ideal for small parcels or urgent shipments, providing quick delivery at premium rates.
Cost of Sea Freight From China to the Philippines
Sea freight is the most cost-effective method for transporting bulk goods. It is commonly used for products like electronics, machinery, and consumer goods. Typical costs include:
- Freight charges based on container size or cubic meter (CBM) for LCL shipments.
- Additional fees such as port charges and customs duties.
20ft & 40ft Container Shipping Costs From China to the Philippines (Updated January 2025)
Below are the most affordable rates for shipping 20ft and 40ft containers from key ports in China to major ports in the Philippines, updated for January 2025:
| Port of Origin (China) | Port of Destination (Philippines) | 20ft Container (USD) | 40ft Container (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Manila | $780 | $1,050 |
| Ningbo | Cebu | $820 | $1,080 |
| Shenzhen | Manila | $760 | $1,020 |
| Guangzhou | Cebu | $800 | $1,070 |
| Xiamen | Davao | $790 | $1,060 |
| Qingdao | Manila | $810 | $1,090 |
| Tianjin | Cebu | $830 | $1,110 |
| Dalian | Davao | $840 | $1,120 |
| Chongqing (via Shanghai) | Manila | $870 | $1,140 |
| Wuhan (via Ningbo) | Cebu | $890 | $1,160 |
Additional Information:
Inclusions: Rates include ocean freight charges but exclude customs duties, local port fees, and inland transportation.
Validity: These rates are valid for January 2025 but may vary based on market conditions and availability.
Booking Tip: Book early to secure these low rates, as prices may increase closer to departure dates.
Container Shipping Costs From China to the Philippines
In addition to the base container costs, the following fees may apply:
- Port Charges: Fees for handling and storage at the port.
- Demurrage: Charges for exceeding the free storage time allowed for containers.
- Documentation Fees: Costs for paperwork such as the bill of lading and customs declarations.
Cost Per Cubic Meter of LCL From China to the Philippines
Below are the updated LCL shipping rates per cubic meter (CBM) from key Chinese ports to major Philippine ports:
| From / To | Port of Manila | Port of Cebu | Batangas Port | Port of Subic | Port of Cagayan de Oro |
| Shanghai | $70 | $60 | $60 | $50 | $50 |
| Shenzhen | $65 | $55 | $55 | $65 | $75 |
| Ningbo | $55 | $50 | $50 | $55 | $65 |
| Guangzhou | $50 | $60 | $60 | $50 | $55 |
| Hong Kong | $60 | $60 | $60 | $60 | $50 |
| Qingdao | $60 | $65 | $65 | $65 | $60 |
| Tianjin | $75 | $55 | $55 | $55 | $60 |
| Xiamen | $75 | $50 | $50 | $55 | $65 |
| Dalian | $75 | $60 | $65 | $50 | $60 |
| Dongguan | $65 | $60 | $55 | $60 | $75 |
| Nanjing | $60 | $65 | $50 | $55 | $65 |
Additional Fees to Consider
In addition to the base container costs, the following fees may apply:
Port Charges: Fees for handling and storage at the port.
Demurrage: Charges for exceeding the free storage time allowed for containers.
Documentation Fees: Costs for paperwork such as the bill of lading and customs declarations.
Additional Information:
Inclusions: LCL rates include ocean freight charges but exclude customs duties, local port fees, and inland transportation.
Validity: These rates are valid for January 2025 but may vary based on market conditions and space availability.
Booking Tip: For LCL shipments, consolidate cargo to maximize cost efficiency.
Air Freight and Express Delivery Costs
Air Freight Cost Per KG From China to the Philippines
Below is the updated air freight cost per kilogram from major airports in China to the Philippines (January 2025):
| Origin Airport (China) | Destination Airport (Philippines) | Cost Per KG |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $5–$6 |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $4–$5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | $5–$6 |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $5–$6 |
| Chengdu Shuangliu (CTU) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $5–$6 |
| Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $4–$5 |
| Tianjin Binhai (TSN) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | $5–$6 |
Cost of Express Delivery From China to the Philippines
Below are the express delivery costs using DHL, FedEx, and UPS from major Chinese airports to the Philippines:
| Origin Airport (China) | Destination Airport (Philippines) | Express Cost Per KG |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $10–$15 |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $10–$15 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | $10–$15 |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $10–$18 |
| Chengdu Shuangliu (CTU) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $15–$20 |
| Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | $10–$15 |
| Tianjin Binhai (TSN) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | $15–$20 |
Transit Times and Delivery Speeds
How Long Does It Take to Ship From China to the Philippines?
Shipping goods from China to the Philippines is a vital part of international trade, connecting two key markets in Asia. Whether you’re shipping by sea, air, or express services, understanding the transit times can help you plan effectively and optimize your supply chain.
The duration of shipping depends on several factors, such as the shipping method, departure and destination points, and the efficiency of customs clearance. Here’s a detailed breakdown of transit times to help you choose the best shipping option for your needs.
Sea Freight Transit Times
| Departure Port | Destination Port | Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Manila | 10–12 |
| Shenzhen | Cebu | 11–14 |
| Guangzhou | Davao | 12–15 |
| Tianjin | Subic Bay | 14–16 |
| Xiamen | Batangas | 11–13 |
Air Freight Transit Times
| Departure Airport | Destination Airport | Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | 3–4 |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | 3–5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Davao International (DVO) | 4–6 |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Clark International (CRK) | 4–5 |
| Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN) | Laoag International (LAO) | 3–4 |
Express Shipping Transit Times
| Departure Airport | Destination Airport | Transit Time (Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing Capital (PEK) | Ninoy Aquino (MNL) | 1–2 |
| Shanghai Pudong (PVG) | Mactan-Cebu (CEB) | 1–3 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) | Davao International (DVO) | 2–3 |
| Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX) | Clark International (CRK) | 1–2 |
| Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN) | Laoag International (LAO) | 1–2 |
Specialized Shipping Services
1. Door-to-Door Shipping From China to the Philippines
Door-to-door shipping simplifies the logistics process by handling every step, from picking up goods in China to delivering them to the consignee in the Philippines. This service covers:
- Pickup: Goods are collected from suppliers or warehouses in China.
- Customs Clearance: Managed both in China and the Philippines to avoid delays.
- Final Delivery: Ensures the shipment reaches the consignee’s specified address.
Benefits of Door-to-Door Shipping:
- Reduced complexity for businesses.
- A single point of contact for the entire shipment process.
- Saves time, particularly for e-commerce businesses and SMEs.
2. DDP Shipping From China to the Philippines
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping is an all-inclusive service where the shipper takes full responsibility for shipping, duties, taxes, and customs clearance.
Features of DDP Shipping:
- The shipper handles all costs, including import duties and taxes.
- Ensures a hassle-free experience for the buyer, as goods are delivered ready for use or sale.
Benefits of DDP Shipping:
- Eliminates unexpected customs charges for the consignee.
- Simplifies the financial and administrative aspects of shipping.
3. Differences Between Door-to-Door and DDP Shipping
| Aspect | Door-to-Door Shipping | DDP Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | Shipper handles logistics, buyer covers duties. | Shipper manages logistics, duties, and taxes. |
| Costs | Lower upfront costs but duties paid by buyer. | All-inclusive costs covered by the shipper. |
| Best For | Businesses with customs knowledge. | Buyers preferring convenience and predictability. |
Choosing the Right Service:
- Opt for door-to-door shipping if you’re experienced with customs or prefer lower initial costs.
- Choose DDP shipping for a seamless experience, especially when dealing with complex customs regulations in the Philippines.
Ports and Airports for Efficient Shipping
1. Best Seaports for Shipping From China to the Philippines
Efficient sea freight shipping relies on well-equipped ports in both China and the Philippines. Here are the key ports:
| Country | Seaports | Specializations |
|---|---|---|
| China | Shanghai | Largest port globally, handles electronics, machinery, and textiles. |
| Shenzhen | Major hub for consumer goods and high-tech products. | |
| Guangzhou | Ideal for industrial goods and furniture exports. | |
| Ningbo | Renowned for bulk goods and containerized shipments. | |
| Philippines | Manila | Main port for imports, handling a wide variety of consumer and industrial goods. |
| Cebu | Serves the central Philippines, focusing on regional trade. | |
| Davao | Key port in Mindanao, specializing in agricultural exports and imports. |
2. Major Airports for Air Freight
Air freight is the fastest option for shipping time-sensitive or high-value goods. Below are the top airports:
| Country | Airports | Specializations |
|---|---|---|
| China | Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) | Handles large volumes of electronics and industrial goods. |
| Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) | Focuses on international air freight, including pharmaceuticals and machinery. | |
| Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) | Major hub for e-commerce and fashion exports. | |
| Philippines | Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) | Handles most international cargo shipments into the Philippines. |
| Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) | Serves as a regional gateway for central and southern Philippine islands. |
Why These Ports and Airports Matter:
- China: Strategically located hubs ensure cost-effective and streamlined shipping processes.
- Philippines: Regional distribution hubs make these ports and airports ideal for timely delivery across the archipelago.
Choosing the Best Mode of Transportation
1. Sea Freight vs. Air Freight
| Mode of Transport | Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | – Cost-effective for large or heavy shipments. | – Bulk goods like furniture, machinery, and raw materials. |
| – Handles high volumes, ideal for non-urgent shipments. | – Businesses with flexible delivery timelines. | |
| Air Freight | – Fastest shipping option for time-sensitive goods. | – Lightweight, high-value products like electronics and fashion. |
| – Ideal for smaller shipments requiring quicker transit. | – Emergency or seasonal stock replenishment. |
2. Factors to Consider
Weight and Volume of Cargo
- Sea Freight is more economical for large-volume shipments, particularly over 2 CBM or more than 500kg.
- Air Freight is ideal for shipments with lower weight and higher value per kg.
Delivery Timeline Requirements
- Sea Freight has longer transit times (10–15 days from China to the Philippines), making it suitable for non-urgent goods.
- Air Freight delivers within 3–5 days, perfect for products with tight deadlines.
Shipping Budget
- Sea freight offers lower costs per kg but includes additional fees like port charges and documentation.
- Air freight costs are higher per kg but provide savings on inventory holding costs due to faster delivery.
Example Scenarios
- Sea Freight: A furniture retailer imports 40ft containers from Guangzhou to Manila to restock non-urgent inventory.
- Air Freight: An e-commerce business ships lightweight electronic gadgets from Shenzhen to Cebu during peak sales periods.
Tips to Optimize Shipping Costs
1. Consolidate Shipments
- Why It Works: Combining multiple orders into one shipment reduces overall shipping costs by lowering per-unit expenses.
- LCL Savings: For smaller shipments, consolidating into an LCL (Less-than-Container Load) allows you to share container space with others, minimizing costs.
- Best for: Businesses with multiple suppliers or regular shipments.
2. Plan Ahead
- Avoid Peak Seasons: Peak shipping seasons like Chinese New Year, Black Friday, and other holidays often see higher freight rates due to increased demand.
- Early Booking Benefits: Securing bookings in advance ensures better pricing and prevents last-minute surcharges.
- Cost Control: Planning shipments during off-peak times provides significant cost savings.
3. Partner With Reliable Freight Forwarders
- Why Tonlexing:
- Expertise in China-to-Philippines logistics ensures efficient and cost-effective solutions.
- Volume discounts with major carriers help reduce shipping costs.
- Tailored Services: Customized logistics plans fit your business needs.
- Additional Benefits:
- Real-time tracking for shipments.
- Support with customs clearance and compliance.
- End-to-end management for a hassle-free experience.
Understanding Customs and Documentation
1. Customs Clearance in the Philippines
Navigating customs clearance is a critical step in the shipping process. Here’s what you need to know:
Required Documents:
- Commercial Invoice: Specifies the value, quantity, and description of the goods.
- Packing List: Details the weight, dimensions, and packing details for the shipment.
- Bill of Lading (BOL): Proof of shipment provided by the carrier.
- Certificate of Origin: Verifies the country where the goods were manufactured.
- Import Permits (if applicable): For regulated items such as electronics, food, or pharmaceuticals.
Key Tips:
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
- Partner with customs brokers or freight forwarders like Tonlexing for seamless handling.
2. Import Duties and Taxes
Understanding the cost implications of importing into the Philippines is essential for accurate budgeting.
Duties:
- HS Code Classification: Import duties are determined by the product’s Harmonized System (HS) code.
- Example: Electronics often have lower duty rates compared to luxury goods.
Value-Added Tax (VAT):
- Standard 12% VAT applies to most imported goods.
- VAT is calculated on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of the shipment.
Common Challenges:
- Misclassification of goods leading to incorrect duties.
- Delays due to incomplete or missing documentation.
Tonlexing Support:
- Expertise in Philippine customs regulations.
- Assistance in preparing and submitting all required documentation.
- Guidance on HS code classification to ensure compliance and cost optimization.
Additional Services and Support
1. Cargo Insurance
Why It’s Important:
- Protects your shipment against risks like damage, theft, or loss during transit.
- Especially vital for high-value goods such as electronics, machinery, or luxury items.
Types of Coverage:
- All-Risk Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for most scenarios.
- Named Peril Insurance: Covers specific risks like fire or collision.
Key Benefits:
- Peace of mind knowing your goods are financially protected.
- Ensures smoother claims processes in case of unforeseen events.
Tonlexing’s Offer:
- Tailored cargo insurance solutions for sea freight, air freight, and multimodal shipments.
- Transparent policy terms with quick claims assistance.
2. Storage and Warehousing
Why Storage Solutions Matter:
- Delays in customs clearance or transit may require temporary storage for your goods.
- Proper storage ensures the safety and quality of sensitive items like perishable goods or electronics.
Services Available:
- Short-Term Storage: Ideal for temporary holds during transit delays.
- Long-Term Warehousing: Suitable for inventory management and distribution needs.
Key Features:
- Temperature-controlled facilities for sensitive products.
- 24/7 security and monitoring for high-value cargo.
- Flexible contracts tailored to your shipping schedule.
Tonlexing’s Support:
- Access to secure storage facilities near major Philippine ports and airports.
- Integration with logistics solutions for smooth pick-up and delivery.
- Real-time tracking of stored goods for enhanced visibility.
Why Choose Tonlexing for Shipping From China to the Philippines?
1. Comprehensive Services
- Diverse Shipping Options:
- Sea freight for cost-effective bulk shipping.
- Air freight for fast delivery of urgent or high-value goods.
- Express delivery for small parcels and e-commerce shipments.
- Door-to-door services, including DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), for hassle-free logistics.
- Tailored Solutions:
- Customized logistics plans to fit your specific shipping requirements.
2. Transparent Pricing
- No Hidden Costs:
- Clear breakdown of charges, including freight, customs duties, and additional fees.
- Affordable Rates:
- Competitive pricing for all shipping modes, ensuring value for money.
- Flexible Payment Terms:
- Options to suit businesses of all sizes.
3. Expert Customs Support
- Seamless Customs Clearance:
- Assistance with preparing and submitting required documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
- Regulatory Expertise:
- Comprehensive knowledge of Philippine import regulations, ensuring compliance and reducing delays.
- Problem Resolution:
- Swift handling of customs-related challenges to keep your shipments on track.
4. Reliable Logistics Solutions
- Real-Time Tracking:
- Full visibility of your shipments from China to the Philippines, ensuring transparency at every stage.
- End-to-End Support:
- Assistance from the point of pickup in China to final delivery in the Philippines.
- Reliable Network:
- Strong partnerships with carriers, warehouses, and freight forwarders for efficient logistics.
Contact Tonlexing today for efficient, affordable, and reliable shipping solutions from China to the Philippines. Explore more on our website!
