Shipping from China to Riyadh is now one of the most strategic moves for Saudi importers. With strong trade ties, efficient logistics networks, and trusted freight forwarders, businesses can now enjoy faster, more cost-effective shipping solutions than ever before.
Whether you’re dealing with full container load (FCL) shipments or smaller LCL shipping, choosing the most suitable shipping method is critical. This guide walks you through everything—from sea freight and air freight to customs clearance, documents, shipping costs, and delivery timelines.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
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Available shipping options from China to Riyadh
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Estimated air and sea freight costs
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How to handle customs clearance effectively
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What documents are required for smooth delivery
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How to choose a reliable freight forwarder
Let’s get started.
Shipping Options from China to Riyadh
When shipping goods from China to Riyadh, importers can choose from several international shipping methods based on cargo volume, delivery deadlines, and budget. The three main options are sea freight, air freight, and express courier services.
Sea Freight (Ocean Freight Services)
Sea freight is the most economical shipping mode for transporting large quantities of goods to Saudi Arabia. It’s commonly used for bulk shipments, machinery, furniture, and industrial supplies.
Goods are shipped to major Saudi Arabian ports—typically Jeddah Islamic Port or King Abdulaziz Port (Dammam)—then transported inland to Riyadh via truck or train.
Shipping Container Options:
- FCL (Full Container Load) – Dedicated container for your goods
- LCL (Less than Container Load) – Shared container space for smaller shipments
Estimated Transit Times (Port to Port):
| Route | Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Shanghai to Dammam (FCL/LCL) | 22 – 28 days |
| Shenzhen to Jeddah (FCL/LCL) | 25 – 32 days |
| Ningbo to Dammam (FCL) | 24 – 30 days |
Ocean freight is ideal for shipments over 2 CBM or weighing above 500 kg.
Air Freight from China to Riyadh
Air freight is the fastest way to ship cargo from China to Saudi Arabia. It’s best suited for time-sensitive, high-value, or lightweight goods such as electronics, garments, medical devices, and small machinery.
Cargo is shipped from major Chinese airports—like Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), or Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX)—to King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh.
Air Freight Transit Times:
- Direct flights: 3 – 5 days
- Indirect routes (with transshipment): 5 – 7 days
Benefits:
- Faster customs clearance
- Secure handling for fragile items
- Reliable schedule for express business deliveries
Estimated Air Freight Costs (per kg):
| Weight | Price Range (USD/kg) |
|---|---|
| 100 kg | $4.30 – $5.60 |
| 300 kg | $4.00 – $5.20 |
| 500+ kg | $3.70 – $4.80 |
Air cargo charges are calculated based on actual or volumetric weight (whichever is higher).
Express Shipping (International Courier)
International courier companies like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Aramex provide door-to-door express air freight services for small packages and urgent shipments.
Express Shipping Features:
- Delivery Time: 3 – 5 working days
- Tracking: Full tracking and insurance available
- Ideal for: E-commerce parcels, samples, urgent documents
Cost Estimate:
From $7 to $12 per kg, depending on service level and weight.
Sea Freight to Riyadh: Process, Costs & Documents
Sea freight is the most commonly used method for shipping goods internationally from China to Saudi Arabia. It’s a cost-effective solution for businesses dealing with high-volume cargo, long lead times, or low-margin products.
Sea Freight Process: From China to Riyadh
The entire shipment process via sea freight typically includes the following stages:
- Pickup from Supplier – Cargo is collected from the supplier’s warehouse or factory in China.
- Consolidation (for LCL) – If it’s a Less than Container Load (LCL), goods are consolidated with others at a warehouse.
- Loading and Customs Export Clearance – Goods are loaded into a shipping container and cleared by Chinese customs.
- Ocean Transit – Container is transported via ocean freight to a Saudi port (usually Jeddah or Dammam).
- Saudi Port Import Clearance – Goods are declared to Saudi Customs, import duties are paid, and the shipment is cleared.
- Inland Delivery – The cargo is transported by truck or train from the port to the final destination in Riyadh.
You can ship via FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL depending on your volume.
Sea Freight Costs (FCL & LCL)
Freight rates vary based on origin port, container type, cargo size, and carrier. Here are estimated FCL ocean freight shipment rates:
FCL Shipping Cost Estimate:
| Route | 20ft Container | 40ft HQ Container |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai to Dammam | $550 | $950 |
| Shenzhen to Jeddah | $580 | $980 |
| Ningbo to Jeddah | $600 | $1,000 |
LCL Shipping Cost Estimate:
- $90 – $120 per CBM, depending on volume and service level
The most economical shipping mode for cargo over 2 CBM.
Required Documents for Sea Freight
When you ship ocean freight to Riyadh, the following documents are essential for customs clearance and cargo release:
- Commercial Invoice – Must match the HS code and declared value
- Packing List – Item details and dimensions per shipping unit
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – Confirms shipment ownership and route
- Certificate of Origin – Required under trade agreements
- Import Registration Certificates – If you are using your own license
- Conformity Certificate (SABER) – For regulated goods (electronics, toys, appliances, etc.)
Work with a reliable freight forwarder to handle customs processes smoothly and avoid shipment delays.
Air Freight to Riyadh: Speed, Pricing, and Documents
If your shipment is time-sensitive, air freight is the most reliable way to get your goods from China to Riyadh. Whether you are shipping high-value electronics, urgent samples, or fragile items, air cargo offers unmatched speed and security.
Why Choose Air Freight?
Air shipping is ideal when:
- Delivery is needed within 3–7 days
- The cargo is lightweight but valuable
- The shipment is less than 2 CBM or under 500 kg
- The shipping timeline cannot be compromised
Major Chinese Airports for Air Cargo:
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Main Destination Airport in Riyadh:
- King Khalid International Airport (RUH)
(not to be confused with King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which serves western Saudi Arabia)
Air Freight Transit Time from China to Riyadh
| Origin Airport | Transit Time (Direct Flight) | Transit Time (Via Hub) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai (PVG) | 3 – 5 days | 5 – 7 days |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | 3 – 6 days | 5 – 8 days |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | 4 – 6 days | 6 – 9 days |
Transit time includes export clearance, flight duration, import customs, and local handling.
Air Freight Cost Estimate to Riyadh
Air freight rates are calculated based on the chargeable weight:
- Chargeable Weight = Max (Actual Weight, Volumetric Weight)
Use this formula for volumetric weight (in kg):
- (Length × Width × Height in cm) / 6000
Estimated Air Freight Rates (USD/kg):
| Weight | Rate Range |
|---|---|
| 100 kg | $4.20 – $5.50 |
| 300 kg | $3.90 – $5.00 |
| 500+ kg | $3.60 – $4.80 |
Need help? Try our Chargeable Weight Calculator to get accurate cost predictions.
Documents Required for Air Cargo
To ensure smooth customs clearance and delivery of air and ocean shipments, these documents are necessary:
- Air Waybill (AWB) – Issued by the airline
- Commercial Invoice – Matches declared value
- Packing List – Includes net/gross weight and box dimensions
- Certificate of Origin – If applicable
- Import Registration Certificate or Valid Commercial Import Registration – Required for customs compliance
- SABER Certificate – For products regulated by Saudi authorities
Without the correct paperwork, Saudi customs authorities may delay or reject your shipment.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia
- Shipping from China to UAE
- Shipping from China to Kuwait
- Shipping from China to Qatar
- Shipping from China to Bahrain
- Shipping from China to Oman
Customs Clearance for Shipping to Riyadh
No matter which shipping method you choose—air freight, sea freight, or express courier—your goods must pass through Saudi Arabia customs clearance before reaching Riyadh. Proper documentation, compliance with regulations, and working with a knowledgeable partner are critical for a smooth import experience.
How Customs Clearance Works in Saudi Arabia
When your goods arrive at the port or airport, they are inspected by the Saudi Customs Authority. To handle customs clearance effectively, importers must ensure all shipment documents are correct and submitted promptly.
Key Steps in the Customs Process:
- Declaration submission to customs
- Document verification and inspection (physical or X-ray)
- Assessment of duties and taxes
- Clearance approval
- Release for final delivery
Required Shipment Documents
Here are the most commonly required customs documents for shipments to Riyadh:
- Commercial Invoice – Clearly states product description, HS code, and declared value
- Packing List – Box count, weight, and dimensions
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill – Proof of shipping route and ownership
- Certificate of Origin – Confirms product origin, often required for preferential tariffs
- SABER Conformity Certificate – Mandatory for regulated goods
- Import License or Registration – A valid commercial import registration under the Saudi Business Registry is required unless using a DDP agent
Additional documents may apply depending on product type, especially electronics, cosmetics, food, or pharmaceuticals.
Customs Duties and Taxes
Saudi Arabia applies a standard 15% VAT on all imported goods, plus customs duties that typically range from 5% to 15% based on HS codes.
Examples of Common Duties:
| Product Type | HS Code (Example) | Duty Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Equipment | 8471.30.0000 | 5% |
| Machinery & Tools | 8467.21.0000 | 5%–10% |
| Clothing & Apparel | 6204.43.0000 | 12% |
Consult your freight forwarder or a licensed customs broker to get accurate classifications and avoid under-declaration penalties.
Using a Customs Broker or Freight Forwarder
To simplify the process and reduce risks, many importers rely on a reliable freight forwarder or local customs broker in Riyadh. Their services include:
- Reviewing all shipment documents
- Classifying HS codes accurately
- Calculating and paying customs duty and VAT
- Coordinating inspections and follow-ups
A good freight forwarder helps avoid delays, penalties, or shipment returns due to non-compliance.
Door to Door Shipping from China to Riyadh
If you’re looking for the most hassle-free way to ship goods internationally, door to door shipping is your best option. This service is especially helpful for small businesses or individuals who lack an import license or experience with Saudi customs procedures.
What Is Door to Door Shipping?
Door to door (DTD) shipping means that your freight forwarder handles the entire shipping process—from picking up the goods at your supplier’s warehouse in China to final delivery at your address in Riyadh.
It typically includes:
- Domestic transport within China
- Export customs clearance
- International air or sea freight
- Import clearance in Saudi Arabia
- Final-mile delivery to Riyadh
Everything is managed by your logistics provider, saving you time and administrative effort.
DDP vs DDU: What’s the Difference?
Door to door services are offered under two common terms:
| Term | Meaning | Who Pays Duty/VAT? |
|---|---|---|
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | All duties and taxes are prepaid | Seller / Forwarder |
| DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) | Buyer pays duties upon arrival | Buyer |
DDP shipping is the preferred option when importers want to avoid direct interaction with Saudi customs or lack a valid import registration.
When Should You Use Door to Door?
Door to door is the most suitable shipping method when:
- You want a single point of contact throughout the shipment
- You’re shipping to a residential or office address in Riyadh
- You need a fixed all-in-one shipping cost
- You don’t have a Saudi import license or want to avoid complex documentation
Door to Door Shipping Costs (Estimated)
| Mode | Weight/Volume | Estimated Cost (USD) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air DDP | 100 kg | $3.50 – $5.50/kg | 7 – 10 days |
| Sea DDP (LCL) | 2–5 CBM | $60 – $120/CBM | 25 – 35 days |
| FCL DDP | 20ft Container | $500 – $1,500 | 30 – 40 days |
Costs include freight, customs duties, taxes, and last-mile delivery. Prices vary by product type and destination address.
How to Book Door to Door Shipping?
To ensure a smooth experience, work with reliable freight forwarders who specialize in China to Saudi Arabia logistics. A professional forwarder will:
- Provide you with accurate cost breakdowns
- Advise on the best shipping method for your goods
- Handle SABER registration and customs compliance
- Track and manage your shipment every step of the way
Need help? Tonlexing offers professional door to door services tailored for importers shipping to Riyadh..
Final Tips for Shipping from China to Riyadh
Successfully shipping goods internationally to Riyadh requires more than just booking space on a vessel or aircraft. It’s about planning your shipment with precision, complying with Saudi customs regulations, and working with professionals who understand both markets.
Here are our final tips:
- Compare shipping options (air vs sea vs courier) based on cost, urgency, and product type
- Always check the latest import regulations on SABER, VAT, HS codes, and restricted items
- Use a reliable freight forwarder with experience in China–Saudi trade routes
- Understand the total shipping costs (freight, clearance, duties, last-mile delivery) before confirming the order
- Choose DDP shipping if you lack a Saudi import license or prefer stress-free logistics
Whether you’re shipping electronics, textiles, equipment, or e-commerce parcels, the right logistics partner makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Riyadh?
The most economical method is sea freight (LCL or FCL). For small shipments under 2 CBM, LCL shipping starts at $90–$120/CBM. For bulk cargo, FCL offers better value per unit.
How long does it take to ship from China to Riyadh?
- Air freight: 3–7 days
- Sea freight (FCL/LCL): 22–35 days
- Door to door (DDP): 7–40 days depending on mode
Do I need an import license to ship to Saudi Arabia?
Yes, if you’re clearing goods under your own name, a valid commercial import registration is required. However, if you choose DDP door to door shipping, your freight forwarder can handle clearance under their license.
What documents are required for customs clearance?
You will need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin
- SABER Certificate (if applicable)
- Import registration (for non-DDP shipments)
How do I find a reliable freight forwarder for Riyadh?
Look for forwarders who:
- Have strong operations in both China and Saudi Arabia
- Offer DDP, air, and sea freight services
- Understand customs processes and SABER system
- Provide transparent shipping costs and timelines
- Can guide you through the entire shipping process
Is express air freight available from China to Riyadh?
Yes. Couriers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Aramex offer express air freight to Riyadh, typically delivering in 3–5 business days. It’s more expensive, but ideal for urgent or small shipments.
Need Help Shipping to Riyadh?
At Tonlexing, we specialize in helping businesses ship smoothly from China to Riyadh with:
- Flexible air and ocean freight options
- Door to door (DDP) delivery solutions
- SABER and customs support
- Competitive shipping rates
Contact us today to get your free shipping quote or logistics consultation.