Shipping from China to Russia
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Shipping from China to Russia
In 2025, shipping from China to Russia continues to play a crucial role in connecting Asia’s largest manufacturing hub with one of the world’s most dynamic emerging markets. As trade between the two nations expands, thousands of containers, air cargo shipments, and rail freight services move across the border every week. From electronics, furniture, and auto parts to industrial machinery and e-commerce goods, businesses rely on efficient international shipping routes to keep supply chains stable and competitive.
For importers and exporters, choosing the most cost-effective and reliable transport services is essential. Whether you’re shipping large shipments by sea, sending urgent air freight, or consolidating small cargo through door-to-door delivery, understanding every shipping method helps reduce total cost and transit time. This complete guide explains all the available freight options from China to Russia, compares shipping costs, and provides expert insights on customs procedures, delivery services, and logistics solutions that ensure smooth transportation across borders.
Table of Contents
Overview of Shipping Options from China to Russia
When it comes to shipping goods from China to Russia, businesses can choose from several reliable transportation methods — sea freight, air freight, rail freight, and road transport. Each option fits different logistics needs depending on cargo type, delivery time, and budget.
Here’s a quick overview of the most common shipping methods used for China–Russia trade:
Sea Freight
Sea transport remains the most popular solution for large shipments and bulk cargo. It’s ideal for goods that are not time-sensitive and require cost efficiency. Major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen connect directly with Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, and other Russian ports through regular liner services. Despite longer transit times, sea freight provides favorable rates and high capacity for containerized goods.
Air Freight
For urgent or high-value shipments, air freight from China to Russia offers the fastest and safest transportation option. Cargo flights operate daily between Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), and Shenzhen (SZX) to Moscow (SVO, DME) and St. Petersburg (LED). Although the cost per kilogram is higher, air transport significantly reduces delivery time — typically between 3 to 7 days, depending on customs clearance and flight schedules.
Rail Freight
Rail freight from China to Russia has become a key alternative due to stable transit times and lower costs compared to air. The China–Europe Railway Express operates routes through Xi’an, Chongqing, Yiwu, and Manzhouli, reaching Moscow and other destinations within 15–22 days. This rail transport solution is perfect for medium-sized shipments that need faster delivery than sea but at lower prices than air freight.
Road Transport
For flexible door-to-door delivery services, road freight connects directly between China’s inland provinces and Russian border regions. It’s commonly used for short-haul deliveries, commercial goods, and express delivery services. Truck shipping is often combined with rail or sea transport for integrated logistics coverage across both countries.
Each shipping method has unique advantages — while sea freight offers lower costs, air freight provides speed, and rail freight ensures balance between the two. Understanding these differences allows importers to plan efficient logistics routes and make informed decisions when shipping between China and Russia.
Sea Freight from China to Russia
For most importers, sea freight from China to Russia is the most cost-effective and practical way to move goods in large quantities. This method is ideal for bulk shipments, heavy machinery, and containerized cargo that does not require urgent delivery. Despite longer transit times compared to air freight, ocean transport offers lower shipping costs and reliable schedules supported by major shipping lines.
Main Sea Routes and Ports
China has several world-class ports that handle international shipping to Russia, including Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. These ports connect directly to Russian entry points such as Vladivostok, St. Petersburg, and Novorossiysk. Among them, the Vladivostok route is the fastest, often used for Far East destinations, while St. Petersburg handles most European-side imports for central Russia and Moscow.
Route | Container Type | Average Cost (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai → Vladivostok | $200 – $350 | 12 – 18 days | |
Ningbo → St. Petersburg | $2,700 – $3,500 | 30 – 35 days | |
Shenzhen → Novorossiysk | 20ft container | $1,500 – $2,200 | 25 – 30 days |
Note: Rates vary depending on the shipping line, season, and cargo volume.
Advantages of Sea Freight
- Cost-Effective for Large Volumes – Sea transport remains the best option for reducing total logistics expenses. Importers shipping full containers (FCL) or partial loads (LCL) benefit from competitive freight rates and stable fuel surcharges.
- High Cargo Capacity – Vessels can accommodate large shipments and heavy goods that are unsuitable for air or rail transport.
- Flexible Container Options – Standard 20ft and 40ft shipping containers are available, along with high-cube or open-top containers for oversized cargo.
- Reliable Scheduling – Regular sailings from major ports ensure predictable transit times and simplified customs clearance at destination ports.
Choosing a Freight Forwarder for Sea Shipping
Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder in China ensures your cargo is handled professionally from loading to customs documentation. An experienced logistics company like Tonlexing can manage vessel booking, export declaration, and destination delivery — offering integrated services that save time and reduce the risk of delays. They also help secure favorable rates by consolidating shipments across multiple clients.
Tips to Reduce Sea Freight Costs
Book Early during peak seasons to secure space and lower prices.
Combine LCL shipments if you don’t have a full container load.
Use direct routes (e.g., Shanghai–Vladivostok) to shorten transit time.
Provide accurate cargo details for better quotation and smoother customs procedures.
By choosing the right shipping method and working with a trusted logistics company, importers can minimize total shipping expenses while maintaining on-time delivery to any Russian port.
Air Freight from China to Russia
When speed is a top priority, air freight from China to Russia offers the fastest and most secure transportation solution. It’s the preferred option for high-value goods, electronics, machinery parts, and e-commerce parcels that require quick delivery. Although air transport is more expensive than sea or rail, it provides unmatched reliability and shorter transit times, often within one week door to door.
Major Airports and Routes
China has some of the busiest air cargo hubs in the world — Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), and Beijing Capital (PEK). These airports operate daily cargo flights to Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO), Domodedovo (DME), and St. Petersburg Pulkovo (LED).
Most freight forwarders offer both airport-to-airport and door-to-door delivery services, depending on customs requirements and cargo nature.
Route | Chargeable Weight | Average Cost (USD/kg) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai (PVG) → Moscow (SVO) | 100 kg | $2.3 – $2.8 | 4 – 6 days |
Shenzhen (SZX) → St. Petersburg (LED) | 300 kg | $1.9 – $2.5 | 5 – 7 days |
Guangzhou (CAN) → Moscow (DME) | 500 kg | $1.8 – $2.3 | 6 – 8 days |
Chargeable weight is calculated based on volumetric weight (length × width × height ÷ 6000). Always check with your freight agent or use a chargeable weight calculator before booking.
Advantages of Air Freight
- Fastest Transit Time – Air freight shipping typically takes 4–8 days, including customs procedures. It’s perfect for urgent cargo or replenishing fast-moving stock.
- High Security and Reliability – Airports in both China and Russia have advanced cargo handling systems, ensuring safety for fragile or sensitive shipments.
- Real-Time Tracking – Airlines and logistics companies provide online visibility for every shipment stage, allowing importers to monitor delivery progress.
- Simplified Customs Clearance – Tonlexing’s professional freight forwarders handle documentation, export declaration, and import customs clearance, making the process seamless.
When to Choose Air Freight
For express delivery of urgent or perishable goods.
When shipping small to medium volumes that require fast delivery.
For high-value cargo where security is a top priority.
When total shipping cost is justified by faster turnover and lower inventory risk.
Tips to Optimize Air Freight Costs
Consolidate shipments to reach better freight rates per kilogram.
Avoid bulky packaging — reducing volume lowers chargeable weight.
Book flexible departure dates to access lower rates.
Compare multiple freight forwarders to find the most cost-effective option.
Whether you need airport-to-airport or full door-to-door service, air freight remains the fastest link between Chinese suppliers and Russian importers. With the right logistics partner, you can enjoy efficient delivery, transparent pricing, and guaranteed on-time arrival.
Rail Freight from China to Russia
In recent years, rail freight from China to Russia has become one of the fastest-growing logistics solutions for cross-border trade. Supported by the China–Europe Railway Express, this route connects dozens of Chinese cities directly to Moscow and other major Russian destinations. It offers a balanced option between sea and air — faster than ocean transport but significantly more cost effective than air cargo.
Main Railway Routes and Terminals
The main rail transport corridors start from key logistics hubs in China such as Xi’an, Chongqing, Chengdu, Yiwu, and Suzhou, reaching major Russian terminals like Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Novosibirsk.
Most trains pass through Manzhouli, Erenhot, or Suifenhe border crossings before entering the Russian railway network.
Route | Transit Time | Average Cost (USD/CBM) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Xi’an → Moscow | 18 – 22 days | $80 – $120 | Stable schedule, suitable for electronics & general goods |
Chongqing → Moscow | 20 – 25 days | $85– $120 | Popular route with frequent departures |
Yiwu → St. Petersburg | 22 – 26 days | $100 – $120 | Ideal for mixed commercial cargo |
Railway shipping costs vary depending on cargo weight, volume, and final delivery location.
Advantages of Rail Freight
- Balanced Cost and Speed – Rail freight provides a middle-ground solution between sea and air freight. It’s an excellent choice for large shipments needing faster delivery without the high price of air transport.
- Stable Schedules – Rail lines operate regular departures each week, ensuring predictable transit times and efficient delivery services.
- Environmentally Friendly – Rail transport emits less CO₂ compared to air or road shipping, supporting sustainable trade practices.
- Door-to-Door Possibility – Combined with road transport, shipments can be delivered straight from Chinese factories to Russian warehouses or retail outlets.
Rail Freight vs. Other Shipping Methods
Method | Transit Time | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Air Freight | 4–8 days | $$$ | Urgent, small, high-value cargo |
Rail Freight | 18–25 days | $$ | Medium-size shipments needing faster delivery |
Sea Freight | 30–40 days | $ | Large or heavy cargo with flexible deadlines |
Why Choose Rail Freight
Many importers prefer rail because it ensures international logistics stability, shorter lead times, and simplified customs clearance along established trade routes. With Tonlexing’s integrated services, you can combine rail freight with road delivery for a complete door-to-door shipping experience from China to Russia.
Tonlexing’s experienced freight forwarders handle booking, export documents, cargo tracking, and Russian import formalities — ensuring smooth coordination across borders at every step of the shipping process.
Door-to-Door Shipping and DDP Services from China to Russia
For importers who prefer a complete logistics solution without handling customs procedures or local delivery, door-to-door shipping from China to Russia is the most convenient and stress-free option. Under this service, the freight forwarder manages the entire shipping process — from factory pickup in China to final delivery at your warehouse or business address in Russia.
What Is Door-to-Door and DDP Shipping?
Door-to-door service covers every stage of transportation, including pickup, export declaration, international transport, customs clearance, payment of import duties, and final delivery. When offered under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms, all costs such as customs duties, taxes, and destination handling charges are included in the total quote.
This means importers can focus on sales and distribution while the logistics partner handles every shipment detail — making DDP shipping from China to Russia ideal for e-commerce sellers, SMEs, and first-time importers.
Shipping Mode | Weight/Volume | Average Cost (USD) | Transit Time | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Air DDP | 100 kg | $3.0 – $3.8/kg | 7 – 10 days | Fastest option for urgent goods |
Rail DDP | 1–3 CBM | $130 – $170/CBM | 18 – 25 days | Stable & cost-effective |
Sea DDP | 5–10 CBM | $100 – $150/CBM | 30 – 40 days | Lowest price for bulk cargo |
Prices include customs taxes, import fees, and local delivery services to Moscow or other major Russian cities.
Advantages of Door-to-Door DDP Shipping
- All-Inclusive Pricing – The total cost includes freight, customs clearance, import duties, and delivery. No hidden charges after arrival.
- No Customs Hassle – Tonlexing’s expert freight forwarders handle all customs documents, ensuring your goods pass inspection smoothly.
- Time-Saving Solution – You avoid complex customs procedures, cargo declarations, and insurance coordination.
- Suitable for All Cargo Types – From commercial goods to fragile items, DDP shipping can be tailored for air, rail, or sea transport.
- Insurance Coverage – Optional cargo insurance can be included to protect shipments against loss or damage in transit.
Why Choose DDP Service from Tonlexing
Tonlexing provides professional door-to-door service covering air freight, rail freight, and sea freight routes from China to Russia. With extensive experience in international logistics, the company ensures smooth delivery from pickup to final destination — including documentation, labeling, warehousing, and real-time tracking.
Every shipment handled under Tonlexing’s DDP shipping plan includes:
Pickup from supplier or factory in China
Export declaration and inspection
Freight transport (air, rail, or sea)
Russian customs clearance and tax payment
Final delivery to the consignee’s door
This comprehensive service minimizes risk, reduces communication gaps, and guarantees a predictable shipping cost — ideal for importers who value efficiency and transparency.
Customs Clearance Process and Import Duties in Russia
Every shipment entering Russia must go through customs clearance before final delivery. Understanding the customs procedures helps importers avoid unnecessary delays, penalties, or additional costs. For businesses engaged in regular international shipping, compliance with Russian import regulations is essential to ensure smooth logistics operations.
Customs Clearance in Russia: Step-by-Step
Arrival of Cargo – Once your goods arrive at a Russian port, airport, or rail terminal, the freight agent submits the customs documents and declares the shipment’s value.
Document Verification – Russian customs authorities check the paperwork to confirm product classification, quantity, and declared value.
Duties and Taxes Assessment – Import duties and customs duties are calculated based on the cargo’s HS code and CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
Inspection (if required) – Some shipments may undergo physical inspection or product certification checks.
Customs Release – After all payments and verifications, the cargo is cleared for delivery services to the consignee.
Required Documents for Customs Clearance
To complete the customs clearance process, importers typically need the following paperwork:
Commercial Invoice – Shows the value and currency of the goods.
Packing List – Lists item quantities, dimensions, and weights.
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill – Proof of shipment under sea freight or air freight.
Certificate of Origin – Confirms the product was manufactured in China.
Import License (if applicable) – Required for restricted goods such as chemicals or electronics.
Insurance Certificate – Provides proof of cargo coverage.
Tonlexing’s experienced freight forwarders assist with preparing all customs documents and liaising directly with Russian customs officers.
Import Duties and Taxes
The amount of import duties depends on product type, declared value, and trade regulations.
Customs Duty – Usually 5–20% of the CIF value.
Value Added Tax (VAT) – Typically 20%, applied to the total value including customs duty.
Excise Taxes – Applicable for goods like alcohol, tobacco, or luxury items.
For smaller shipments under simplified procedures (e.g., DDP shipping), these fees are pre-paid by the freight forwarder, meaning importers receive their goods already cleared without paying customs duties separately.
DDP vs. DDU: What’s the Difference?
Term | Meaning | Who Pays Duties & Taxes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Seller handles all shipping and import taxes | Seller/Freight Forwarder | Hassle-free import process |
DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) | Importer pays taxes upon arrival | Buyer | Experienced importers with customs accounts |
When using Tonlexing’s DDP service, all import duties and customs fees are included in the quotation, offering a completely transparent total cost for shipping from China to Russia.
Why Work with a Professional Freight Forwarder
Partnering with a reliable logistics company like Tonlexing ensures your customs clearance runs smoothly. The company provides:
Professional support for international shipping regulations
Preparation of customs documents and compliance reviews
Assistance with insurance and cargo inspection
Coordination between Chinese suppliers and Russian customs authorities
With professional guidance, importers can stay compliant with Russian import laws and focus on growing their business while leaving all logistics and customs procedures to experts.
Shipping Costs from China to Russia (2025 Update)
Shipping rates between China and Russia in 2025 remain competitive due to stable trade volumes and multiple transport services available. However, the total cost of your shipment depends on various factors, including transport mode, cargo weight and size, distance, customs duties, and seasonal demand. Understanding these elements helps you plan your logistics budget more accurately.
Average Shipping Costs by Mode
Shipping Method | Weight/Volume | Average Price (USD) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sea Freight (FCL) | 20ft container | $200 – $1,800 | 15 – 25 days | Large or heavy cargo |
Sea Freight (FCL) | 40ft container | $350 – $3,500 | 25 – 35 days | Bulk or long-term inventory |
Air Freight | 100 kg | $2.3 – $2.8/kg | 4 – 6 days | Urgent or high-value goods |
Air Freight | 300 kg | $1.9 – $2.5/kg | 5 – 7 days | Medium-volume express cargo |
Rail Freight | 1–3 CBM | $90 – $120/CBM | 18 – 25 days | Cost-efficient for mid-size loads |
Door-to-Door (DDP) | 5–10 CBM | $100 – $150/CBM | 30 – 40 days | All-inclusive shipping |
These shipping costs include transport, handling, and documentation but may vary depending on season, cargo category, and customs clearance complexity.
Factors That Affect Shipping Prices
- Shipping Method – Air freight offers speed but higher rates, while sea freight provides lower costs for large volumes.
- Distance and Route – Direct routes like Shanghai–Vladivostok are cheaper and faster than long-distance ones such as Shenzhen–St. Petersburg.
- Cargo Type and Size – Heavy or oversized goods require special containers and may increase the freight rates.
- Customs and Duties – Import taxes, customs duties, and clearance fees influence the total cost of delivery.
- Seasonal Demand – Rates can rise during the holiday and peak export seasons when space availability decreases.
Insurance and Value – High-value cargo often includes insurance premiums for full-risk coverage.
How to Reduce Shipping Costs
Compare Multiple Freight Forwarders – Obtain several quotations to identify the most cost effective rates.
Consolidate Shipments – Group smaller shipments into larger loads to reduce per-unit transport cost.
Plan Early – Booking in advance helps secure better freight rates during busy seasons.
Choose the Right Mode – Select between air, rail, or sea based on urgency, volume, and budget.
Use Door-to-Door DDP Services – This option eliminates hidden fees and simplifies the shipping process with one fixed quote.
By optimizing shipment planning and partnering with a reliable freight forwarder, you can achieve both timely delivery and lower overall expenses. Tonlexing provides comprehensive transport services tailored to your business — balancing speed, reliability, and competitive shipping prices for every route from China to Russia.
How to Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder from China to Russia
Finding reliable freight forwarders is one of the most critical decisions when managing international logistics between China and Russia. A professional logistics company not only secures competitive shipping costs but also ensures smooth coordination from pickup to final delivery — saving you time, money, and effort.
Key Qualities of a Reliable Freight Forwarder
When selecting a freight forwarder from China to Russia, consider these essential factors:
Experience and Network – Choose a forwarder with strong partnerships across shipping lines, airlines, and rail operators. This ensures flexible transport services and quick response to route changes.
Transparent Pricing – Reputable companies provide clear quotations that list all costs upfront — including freight, handling, customs clearance, and delivery services — so there are no hidden fees.
Comprehensive Services – Look for providers offering integrated services such as warehousing, labeling, packaging, and insurance to simplify your logistics chain.
Efficient Communication – Reliable partners offer consistent updates, real time tracking, and dedicated account managers who handle every shipment personally.
Compliance and Documentation – Knowledge of customs procedures and import regulations ensures goods pass inspection without delays or penalties.
Benefits of Working with a Professional Logistics Company
Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder like Tonlexing means having full control and visibility over your cargo. Our team manages all shipping methods — air freight, sea freight, rail freight, and door-to-door delivery — through one platform.
We tailor our logistics solutions based on your budget, shipment type, and schedule, ensuring the most cost effective transport plan every time.
Here’s what sets Tonlexing apart from others:
Global coverage with direct routes from major Chinese cities to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other Russian destinations
24/7 real-time tracking and proactive communication
Expert customs clearance assistance for both DDP and DDU shipments
Flexible payment and credit options for long-term partners
Value-added additional services like product labeling, palletizing, and insurance coverage
Why Freight Forwarders Matter for Russia Trade
The trade relationship between China and Russia involves complex logistics due to multi-modal routes and diverse customs systems. A trusted freight forwarder acts as your logistics partner — combining expertise, efficiency, and reliability to manage cross-border cargo safely and on time. Whether you’re an e-commerce seller, wholesaler, or manufacturer, working with a professional logistics company ensures your supply chain remains competitive in an increasingly dynamic market.
FAQs about Shipping from China to Russia
The shipping process varies by method:
Air freight: 4–8 days (fastest)
Rail freight: 18–25 days
Sea freight: 30–40 days
Door-to-door DDP service: 20–35 days depending on the route
Tonlexing’s freight forwarders always choose the most efficient combination to ensure on-time delivery.
The most cost-effective option is sea freight for large or heavy cargo. For smaller commercial goods, rail freight or DDP door-to-door service often provides the best balance between cost and speed.
No. If you use DDP or door-to-door service, Tonlexing will handle customs clearance, import duties, and documentation on your behalf. This allows you to receive your shipment without dealing with complex customs procedures.
You’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (or air waybill), certificate of origin, and sometimes a product-specific import license. Our professional freight forwarders assist with preparing and submitting all customs documents.
Yes. Tonlexing offers door-to-door delivery services for both commercial and personal shipments. Whether you’re importing bulk goods or small e-commerce orders, we can arrange air freight, rail freight, or sea freight depending on your budget and timeframe.
Shipping costs depend on cargo weight, volume, distance, and shipping mode. For air freight, rates are based on chargeable weight, while sea and rail depend on cubic meters (CBM) or container size. Tonlexing provides transparent quotes that include all handling, customs clearance, and delivery services.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means all customs duties, import taxes, and transport costs are included in the price. It’s popular among importers who prefer a full-service logistics solution where the freight forwarder handles everything from export declaration to final delivery.
Absolutely. Tonlexing provides real-time tracking updates for every shipment, including air, rail, and sea freight. Clients can monitor location, customs status, and estimated arrival through our integrated system.
We recommend purchasing cargo insurance to protect against damage, theft, or loss during international shipping. Tonlexing can arrange full-coverage insurance for your shipment upon request.
Tonlexing is a trusted logistics company specializing in international freight solutions. We offer:
Fast and reliable delivery services
All-inclusive DDP door-to-door shipping
Professional customs clearance support
Competitive shipping costs and flexible payment terms
Integrated services covering sea, air, rail, and road transport