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Shipping from China to Maldives

L. Liu
07/08/2025
08:37

Introduction: Why Maldives Relies on Imports from China

Shipping from China to Maldives plays a vital role in supporting the nation’s growing demand for electronics, construction materials, garments, machinery, and consumer goods. As a small island country with limited manufacturing, Maldives relies heavily on international shipping to meet both commercial and personal needs. China, being one of the world’s largest exporters, offers cost-effective products and mature logistics systems that make it a top trade partner for Maldivian importers.

Whether you are a small business owner, resort supplier, or independent buyer, understanding the right shipping method, required customs documents, and estimated shipping costs will help you make informed decisions and avoid potential delays. This guide will walk you through everything from sea freight and air freight to door-to-door shipping and customs clearance procedures in Maldives.

Sea Freight from China to Maldives

Why Choose Sea Freight?

Sea freight is the most economical option for large shipments or goods that are not time-sensitive. If you’re importing items like construction equipment, building materials, or bulk commodities, Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping offers the best value for money. With regular sailings from China to Maldives, this option ensures cost-effective transport with stable schedules.

Major Ports in China and Maldives

China has multiple well-equipped ports that handle global exports:

Shanghai Port
Shenzhen (Yantian)
Guangzhou (Nansha)
Ningbo Port
Qingdao Port

In Maldives, the main arrival port is:

Malé Commercial Harbour (Port of Malé) – the central gateway for all international sea shipments.

Transit Times for Sea Freight

Route	Estimated Transit Time
Shanghai to Malé	18–25 days
Shenzhen to Malé	16–22 days
Guangzhou to Malé	14–20 days
Ningbo to Malé	20–26 days

Note: Transit time may vary depending on vessel availability, route changes, and weather conditions.

Sea Freight Costs from China to Maldives

Shipping costs depend on the container size, cargo volume, and shipping season. Here’s a rough estimate:

Container Type	Average Rate (USD)
20ft FCL Container	$1,150 – $1,400
40ft FCL Container	$1,750 – $2,250
LCL (per CBM)	$90 – $130

Working with an experienced freight forwarder in China ensures you get competitive rates, optimal shipping routes, and smooth handling of documentation.

Sea Freight Process from China to Maldives

Cargo pickup from supplier or factory in China
Consolidation at warehouse (for LCL shipments)
Export customs clearance in China
Container loading and ocean transport
Import customs clearance in Maldives
Delivery to consignee or warehouse

This process, although seemingly complex, can be streamlined with the help of a reliable freight forwarder that offers full-service ocean freight solutions from China to Maldives.

Air Freight from China to Maldives

When to Choose Air Freight?

Air freight is the fastest shipping method from China to Maldives, making it ideal for urgent deliveries, high-value goods, or lightweight shipments. If you’re importing electronics, pharmaceuticals, documents, or fashion accessories under tight deadlines, air shipping ensures fast and secure delivery within days rather than weeks.

Though air freight rates are generally higher than sea freight, the benefits of speed, safety, and reduced warehousing costs often justify the price—especially when working with an experienced freight forwarder that can optimize chargeable weight and delivery timelines.

Major Departure Airports in China

Most air shipments to Maldives depart from China’s busiest international cargo hubs:

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Arrival Airport in Maldives

Velana International Airport (MLE) – located in Malé, it handles all international cargo flights into Maldives.

Air Freight Transit Times from China to Maldives

Route	Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai (PVG) to Malé	4–6 days
Guangzhou (CAN) to Malé	3–5 days
Shenzhen (SZX) to Malé	4–7 days
Beijing (PEK) to Malé	5–8 days
Hong Kong (HKG) to Malé	3–5 days

Faster delivery is possible using express shipping or dedicated cargo flights.

Air Freight Costs from China to Maldives

Air freight rates vary based on chargeable weight, shipment type, and delivery urgency. Here’s a rough cost reference:

Weight Category	Average Cost (USD/kg)
100 kg	$6.50 – $7.20
300 kg	$5.80 – $6.50
500 kg+	Negotiable based on route and airline

For precise pricing, use a chargeable weight calculator to determine if volumetric weight exceeds actual weight (especially for bulky but light items). This ensures cost-effectiveness in air shipping.

Air Freight Process from China to Maldives

Pickup from supplier in China
Cargo preparation and packaging
Airline booking & documentation
Export customs clearance
International flight
Import clearance in Maldives
Final delivery to consignee

Whether you’re importing business inventory or personal items, working with a trusted freight forwarder China to Maldives simplifies the entire air freight shipping process.

Door to Door Shipping from China to Maldives

What Is Door to Door Shipping?

Door to door shipping is a fully managed logistics solution where the freight forwarder handles the entire shipping process—from pickup at the Chinese supplier’s location to final delivery in the Maldives. This includes freight booking, export procedures, customs clearance, taxes and duties, and last-mile delivery.

For importers who prefer a hassle-free shipping experience, this is the most convenient method—especially suitable for small businesses, online sellers, or buyers of Taobao, 1688, and Alibaba products.

Door to Door Shipping Methods Available

We offer two main options based on shipment size and urgency:

Door to Door by Air (DDP Air)

Fast delivery (5–8 days)
Ideal for parcels under 300kg
All-inclusive price (includes air freight, customs clearance, and local delivery)
Perfect for urgent goods, electronics, and personal items

Door to Door by Sea (DDP Sea)

Economical for large or bulky cargo
Transit time: 18–30 days depending on port
Includes consolidation, sea freight, clearance, and doorstep delivery
Suitable for furniture, machinery, construction materials

With Tonlexing Logistics, our DDP door-to-door service from China to Maldives ensures that your goods arrive safely, legally, and on time—with no surprise fees or delays.

Advantages of Door to Door Shipping

No need to deal with customs paperwork
No local import license required (when using DDP)
Predictable delivery schedule
Clear and upfront pricing
Ideal for first-time importers and non-logistics professionals

Estimated Costs for Door to Door Shipping (Reference Only)

Shipping Method	Weight / Volume	Estimated Cost (USD)
DDP Air	100 kg	$650 – $750
DDP Air	300 kg	$1,800 – $2,000
DDP Sea	1 CBM (~200 kg)	$280 – $350
DDP Sea	2–3 CBM (~500–600 kg)	$550 – $750

Note: Final price depends on cargo details, pickup location in China, and delivery address in Maldives.

Ideal for:

Maldives resort procurement teams
Local retailers importing from China
Buyers with no local logistics setup
Clients needing white-glove delivery service

Door-to-door shipping reduces the risks of logistical delays, missed paperwork, and surprise duties—making it the best choice for importers who value peace of mind.

Explore more shipping guides:

Customs Clearance in Maldives: What You Need to Know

Overview of the Customs Process

Every shipment arriving in the Maldives must go through customs clearance at the port or airport. The process is overseen by the Maldives Customs Service (MCS), which ensures that all imported goods meet national customs regulations, safety standards, and international trade laws.

Whether you’re importing goods via air freight, sea freight, or door-to-door services, proper documentation and compliance are crucial to avoid delays, penalties, or seizure of goods.

Required Documents for Importing into Maldives

To ensure a smooth customs clearance process, you must provide the following documentation:

Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Import License (if required for controlled goods)
Certificate of Origin (for duty exemption under certain trade agreements)
HS Code for product classification
Any special permits (for food, chemicals, hazardous materials, etc.)

Tonlexing’s team can assist you in preparing and submitting these documents correctly, ensuring your cargo passes inspection without unnecessary delay.

Import Duties and Taxes in Maldives

Maldives applies a General Import Duty on most goods, ranging from 0% to 25%, depending on the HS code. Some essential goods, such as certain medicines or food items, may be duty-exempt, while luxury goods face higher rates.

In addition to duty, shipments may incur:

GST (Goods and Services Tax): 6% or 12%, depending on the product
Customs Processing Fees
Handling and storage fees

You can consult your freight forwarder to help you calculate associated costs ahead of time.

With Tonlexing, our team ensures full compliance with Maldivian customs, handles documentation accurately, and resolves clearance issues swiftly—whether you’re importing standard goods or items requiring specialized handling.

Tips to Ensure Smooth Clearance

Always classify goods under the correct HS code
Double-check all documents for accuracy
Declare the true value of goods
Ensure packaging matches product description
Work with a freight forwarder experienced in Maldives regulations

Failing to comply with customs requirements can lead to potential delays, fines, or even rejection of cargo. That’s why partnering with a professional logistics provider like Tonlexing is critical to managing your international shipments effectively.

Shipping Costs from China to Maldives

What Determines Your Shipping Cost?

The total shipping cost from China to Maldives depends on several key factors:

Shipping method (sea freight, air freight, express, or door-to-door)
Cargo volume and weight
Container size (for FCL shipments)
Origin and destination cities
Required delivery time
Special handling (for hazardous materials or temperature-sensitive items)

Understanding these factors allows you to choose the right shipping method for your budget and timeline.

Shipping Cost Table: Sea, Air, and Door-to-Door

Shipping Method	Load Type / Weight	Transit Time	Estimated Cost (USD)
Sea Freight (FCL)	20ft container	18–25 days	$1,150 – $1,400
	40ft container	20–28 days	$1,750 – $2,250
Sea Freight (LCL)	Per CBM (~200kg)	20–30 days	$90 – $130
Air Freight	100 kg	3–6 days	$650 – $720 ($/kg: $6.5+)
	300 kg	3–6 days	$1,750 – $1,950
Door to Door (Air)	100 kg (DDP)	5–8 days	$650 – $750
Door to Door (Sea)	1–2 CBM (DDP)	20–30 days	$280 – $700
Express Courier	<20 kg	3–5 days	$12 – $18/kg

Need a custom quote?

How to Reduce Shipping Costs?

Here are tips to minimize shipping expenses when importing goods from China to Maldives:

Consolidate shipments to fill an FCL container
Avoid peak season surcharges (typically Q3–Q4)
Choose the optimal port or airport near your supplier
Use a freight forwarder with strong carrier partnerships
Plan shipments early to avoid expedited service fees

Tonlexing can help you optimize your logistics plan, ensuring a cost-effective, reliable, and transparent shipping process from China to Maldives.

How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder from China to Maldives

Why a Reliable Freight Forwarder Matters

When importing goods from China to Maldives, selecting the right freight forwarder can make the difference between a smooth, hassle-free shipping experience and a stressful, delayed process full of hidden costs.

A qualified freight forwarder helps you:

Choose the right shipping method (air, sea, or door to door)
Handle all necessary documentation and permits
Navigate customs clearance procedures in both countries
Coordinate cargo consolidation and specialized handling
Offer competitive rates through direct contracts with carriers

Key Qualities of a Good Freight Forwarder

Here’s what to look for in a freight forwarder from China to Maldives:

Criteria	Why It’s Important
Experience with Maldives trade	Ensures familiarity with customs and regulations
Multimodal shipping options	Gives flexibility for cargo size, urgency, and budget
Customs clearance expertise	Avoids delays and penalties
Transparent pricing	Helps you plan and control associated costs
Strong China warehouse network	Supports faster cargo consolidation and pickup
Responsive communication	Keeps you updated throughout the shipping process

At Tonlexing, we specialize in international logistics between China and island nations like Maldives. With warehouses in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Ningbo—and direct partnerships with shipping lines and air carriers—we provide end-to-end freight solutions tailored to your shipment size, delivery time, and budget.

Whether you’re transporting personal items, bulk construction materials, or high-value electronics, our team ensures your cargo arrives safely, legally, and on time.

Popular Products Imported from China to Maldives

What Goods Are Commonly Shipped?

Maldivian businesses, resorts, and individuals import a wide range of products from China due to competitive pricing, vast selection, and dependable manufacturing. Whether you’re a resort operator sourcing construction supplies or an online seller importing consumer goods, here are the most frequently shipped categories:

Construction Materials

Steel pipes and panels
Tiles, cement boards, and lighting fixtures
Bathroom and plumbing accessories
Prefabricated structures

Construction imports have increased due to hotel expansion, infrastructure development, and commercial projects across the Maldives.

Electronic Goods and Appliances

Solar systems and inverters
Air conditioners and washing machines
Mobile phones and accessories
Security systems and surveillance equipment

These high-value goods are typically shipped via air freight for faster delivery and lower risk of damage.

Furniture and Hotel Supplies

Beds, wardrobes, and sofas
Restaurant furniture and stainless steel kitchenware
Resort linens, towels, and guestroom items

Many Maldivian resorts purchase these items from 1688, Alibaba, and Taobao, using door-to-door shipping services.

Personal Items and Small Parcels

Fashion products and household goods
Personal electronics and gadgets
Custom orders from online platforms

For these, courier services, consolidation services, or DDP air shipping are the most efficient options.

No matter what you’re importing, Tonlexing provides flexible solutions for both commercial and personal shipments. From factory pickup to delivery at your island destination, we ensure your Chinese products arrive safely and cost-effectively.

Conclusion: Start Your Shipping from China to Maldives with Confidence

Whether you’re importing construction materials, electronics, or personal items, understanding the right shipping method, calculating the shipping costs, and preparing the correct customs documentation are key to successful international logistics.

Use sea freight for cost-effective large shipments
Choose air freight for urgent or high-value goods
Opt for door-to-door shipping for a stress-free experience
Always work with an experienced freight forwarder who understands Maldives’ logistics challenges

At Tonlexing, we specialize in shipping from China to Maldives, offering end-to-end solutions tailored to your cargo type, delivery time, and budget. Our team will guide you through:

Shipping method selection
Consolidation and pickup in China
Export and import customs clearance
Final delivery to your home, warehouse, or resort

Ready to ship?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Maldives?

The cheapest option is sea freight, especially for shipments above 2 CBM or 500 kg. You can choose LCL for small volumes or FCL for full container loads. Sea freight offers the lowest shipping costs but takes longer than air freight.

How long does it take to ship from China to Maldives?

Sea freight: 18–30 days depending on the port
Air freight: 3–7 days
Door-to-door air (DDP): 5–8 days
Door-to-door sea (DDP): 20–35 days

Transit time varies based on origin city, service type, and seasonal factors.

Do I need an import license to ship goods to Maldives?

For most general goods, no special import license is needed. However, for restricted items like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or electronics with radio modules, you may need additional permits. Tonlexing helps ensure customs compliance and avoids delays.

Can I ship small personal items from China to Maldives?

Yes. You can use express courier services like DHL or FedEx for small parcels, or choose door-to-door shipping for better pricing on consolidated items from platforms like 1688, Taobao, or Alibaba.

How much are customs duties in Maldives?

Import duties range from 0% to 25%, depending on the product type. In addition, a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 6% or 12% may apply. It’s essential to provide the correct HS code to calculate the accurate amount.

Which is better: Air freight or sea freight?

It depends on your priorities:

Criteria	Air Freight	Sea Freight
Speed	3–6 days	18–30 days
Cost	Higher	Lower
Best for	Urgent, high-value cargo	Bulk, non-urgent items
Delivery	Airport or door-to-door	Port or door-to-door

Does Tonlexing offer door-to-door shipping from China to Maldives?

Yes. We provide DDP door-to-door shipping via both air and sea freight. This includes pickup, international transport, customs clearance, and delivery to your address in Maldives—ideal for small businesses, hotels, and individuals.