Importing a car from China to Saudi Arabia requires a clear understanding of shipping methods, costs, customs regulations, and required documentation. As China continues to expand its automotive industry, including the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) from brands like BYD, NIO, and Geely, more buyers in Saudi Arabia are looking to import directly from Chinese manufacturers.
This guide will walk you through the entire shipping process, covering:
- Shipping Methods: Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off), container shipping, and air freight.
- Costs and Transit Times: Estimated expenses for sea and air transport.
- Required Documents: Essential paperwork for customs clearance.
- Saudi Arabia’s Import Regulations: Compliance requirements for vehicle imports.
- Customs Duties & Taxes: Cost breakdown for import fees and VAT.
By understanding these key aspects, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective car import process from China to Saudi Arabia.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
When shipping a car from China to Saudi Arabia, selecting the appropriate shipping method depends on cost, transit time, and vehicle protection needs. Below are the three primary shipping options:
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping
Best for: Single car shipments without additional cargo.
Process:
- Vehicles are driven onto a specialized car carrier vessel.
- They are securely fastened in designated car decks for transit.
- Upon arrival, vehicles are driven off at the destination port.
Cost: More affordable than container shipping due to shared vessel space.
Transit Time: 20–35 days (depending on departure and arrival ports).
Pros:
✔ Lower shipping costs.
✔ Efficient for bulk vehicle transport.
Cons:
✘ No additional cargo can be shipped inside the car.
✘ Exposure to external elements during transit.
Container Shipping
Best for: High-value, luxury, or multiple vehicles in one shipment.
Process:
- Cars are loaded into 20ft or 40ft containers and secured to prevent movement.
- Additional car accessories or personal cargo can be included inside the container.
Cost: Higher than RoRo due to exclusive container use.
Transit Time: 18–30 days.
Pros:
✔ Provides better security and protection.
✔ Allows shipping of spare parts and personal belongings inside the container.
Cons:
✘ More expensive than RoRo.
✘ Additional costs for loading and unloading.
Air Freight Shipping
Best for: Urgent shipments or luxury vehicles.
Process:
- Vehicles are securely packed and placed in airline cargo holds.
- Air transport is arranged via major airports in China and Saudi Arabia.
Cost: Significantly higher compared to sea freight (5–10 times more expensive).
Transit Time: 3–7 days.
Pros:
✔ Fastest shipping method.
✔ Maximum security for high-value vehicles.
Cons:
✘ Extremely high shipping costs.
✘ Limited availability for oversized vehicles.
Costs of Shipping a Car from China to Saudi Arabia
The cost of shipping a vehicle from China to Saudi Arabia depends on the shipping method, vehicle size, departure port, and market conditions. Below are the latest cost estimates for January 2025 with lower, competitive rates:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Cost (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| RoRo Shipping | $900 – $2,000 | 20–35 days |
| 20ft Container | $2,000 – $3,500 | 18–30 days |
| 40ft Container (2 cars) | $4,000 – $6,000 | 18–30 days |
| Air Freight | $8,000+ | 3–7 days |
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
- Departure Port: Costs vary depending on whether the car is shipped from Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tianjin, or Ningbo.
- Vehicle Type & Size: Larger vehicles such as SUVs or pickup trucks cost more due to additional space requirements.
- Customs & Duties: Saudi Arabia applies import duties based on the CIF value of the vehicle.
- Fuel Prices & Market Conditions: Rates fluctuate based on global shipping demand and fuel costs.
- Shipping Season: Costs may be higher during peak seasons, such as before Ramadan and Chinese New Year.
How to Reduce Shipping Costs
- Choose RoRo Shipping: It is the cheapest method, especially for single-car shipments.
- Book Early: Advance bookings help avoid price surges in peak seasons.
- Use Shared Container Shipping: If RoRo is unavailable, sharing a 40ft container with another vehicle reduces costs.
- Work with an Experienced Freight Forwarder: Tonlexing ensures competitive pricing, efficient handling, and smooth customs clearance.
Major Ports for Car Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia
Shipping a car from China to Saudi Arabia requires selecting the best departure and arrival ports for cost-effective and efficient transportation.
Departure Ports in China
China has multiple ports that handle vehicle exports, with the following being the most commonly used:
| Port | Location | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Port | East China | Largest vehicle export hub with frequent RoRo and container departures. |
| Tianjin Port | North China | Major car export gateway with efficient customs clearance. |
| Guangzhou (Nansha) Port | South China | Best for cars manufactured in Guangdong and nearby regions. |
| Xiamen Port | Southeast China | Growing vehicle export terminal, sometimes offering lower rates. |
| Qingdao Port | Northeast China | Ideal for shipments from inland regions via rail-sea transport. |
Best Choice:
- Shanghai and Tianjin are ideal for RoRo shipping due to frequent sailings and competitive rates.
- Guangzhou (Nansha) is suitable for southern China-based manufacturers.
Arrival Ports in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has two primary ports for vehicle imports, strategically located for distribution across the country:
| Port | Region | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Islamic Port | West Saudi Arabia | Largest and busiest port; best for shipments destined for Riyadh, Mecca, and Medina. |
| Dammam King Abdulaziz Port | East Saudi Arabia | Ideal for vehicles headed to Dammam, Al Khobar, and Eastern Province. |
Best Choice:
- Jeddah Islamic Port is preferred for cars going to central and western Saudi Arabia.
- Dammam Port is better for vehicles destined for eastern Saudi Arabia and neighboring GCC countries.
Choosing the Right Port for Cost Savings
- For Fastest Transit & Cost Savings: Tianjin to Jeddah offers shorter transit times for RoRo.
- For Bulk Shipments & Lower Rates: Shanghai to Dammam is cost-effective for full container loads.
- For Cars from South China: Guangzhou to Jeddah ensures minimal inland transport costs.
Documentation Required for Export & Import
Shipping a car from China to Saudi Arabia requires specific export and import documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance at both ends.
Export Documents (China)
When exporting a vehicle from China, the following documents are required:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Title & Registration | Confirms ownership and eligibility for export. |
| Export Declaration Form | Required by Chinese customs to approve vehicle export. |
| Commercial Invoice | Specifies vehicle details, value, and transaction information. |
| Bill of Lading (BOL) | Issued by the shipping carrier, confirming shipment details. |
| Packing List | Provides details of the contents (if shipping in a container). |
| SASO Certificate (if required) | Verifies that the vehicle meets Saudi safety and environmental regulations. |
Import Documents (Saudi Arabia)
To import a car into Saudi Arabia, the following documents must be presented to Saudi customs:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Original Commercial Invoice | Verifies the purchase price and vehicle specifications. |
| Bill of Lading (BOL) | Confirms shipment details, port of entry, and carrier information. |
| Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) Certificate | Ensures compliance with Saudi safety and technical regulations. |
| Import Permit (if applicable) | Required for commercial vehicle imports (issued by the Saudi Ministry of Commerce). |
| Copy of Buyer’s Passport or Iqama (Saudi Residence Permit) | Confirms the importer’s identity and eligibility to import vehicles. |
| Customs Clearance Certificate | Required to finalize customs procedures and release the vehicle. |
Important Considerations:
- Age Restrictions: Saudi Arabia does not allow the import of cars older than five years.
- Right-Hand Drive Vehicles: Not permitted for import.
- Modifications & Compliance: Vehicles must meet GCC specifications, including emission and safety standards.
Click the link to learn the step-by-step process of importing auto parts from China：
Guide to Shipping Used Cars from China
Step-by-Step Process for Shipping a Car from China to Saudi Arabia
Successfully shipping a car from China to Saudi Arabia requires following a structured process to ensure compliance with export and import regulations. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder
- Work with an experienced logistics provider like Tonlexing, which specializes in China-Saudi Arabia car shipping.
- Ensure the company offers comprehensive services, including customs clearance, shipping space booking, and documentation support.
2. Prepare the Vehicle for Export
- Remove personal items: Saudi customs regulations prohibit shipping personal belongings inside the vehicle.
- Fuel level requirement: RoRo shipments require the fuel tank to be below ¼ full for safety reasons.
- Disable alarms: Prevent accidental triggering of alarms during transit.
- Inspect the vehicle: Ensure no mechanical leaks or damages that could cause problems at customs.
3. Book Shipping Space
- Select the shipping method: RoRo, container, or air freight, based on budget and urgency.
- Choose the departure and arrival ports:
- Departure Ports (China): Shanghai, Tianjin, Guangzhou.
- Arrival Ports (Saudi Arabia): Jeddah Islamic Port, Dammam King Abdulaziz Port.
- Receive a shipment schedule and estimated delivery date.
4. Customs Clearance in China
- Submit export declaration documents to Chinese customs.
- Pay export duties and fees (if applicable).
- Obtain the Bill of Lading (BOL) after the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel.
5. Transit to Saudi Arabia
- Track your shipment using a freight tracking system.
- Prepare import documents in advance to speed up clearance upon arrival.
6. Customs Clearance in Saudi Arabia
- Provide all required import documents, including:
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading (BOL)
- Certificate of Origin
- SASO conformity certificate
- Saudi import permit (if applicable)
- Pay customs duties (5% of CIF value) and VAT (15%).
- Complete the SASO vehicle inspection if required.
7. Delivery to Final Destination
- Arrange for local transport from the port to your residence or dealership.
- Register the vehicle with the Saudi traffic authorities to obtain local license plates.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Car Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia
Shipping a vehicle from China to Saudi Arabia can present logistical and regulatory challenges. Below is a breakdown of common issues and how to overcome them:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| High Import Taxes | Check for duty exemptions on electric or hybrid vehicles, which may have reduced import fees. |
| Port Delays | Work with a reliable freight forwarder like Tonlexing to expedite customs clearance and avoid congestion issues. |
| Vehicle Damage in Transit | Choose container shipping for added protection or purchase cargo insurance to cover potential losses. |
| Incorrect Documentation | Ensure all documents are pre-approved before shipping to prevent delays at Saudi customs. |
| Customs Inspection Delays | Provide all required import documents, including the SASO conformity certificate, in advance. |
| Unforeseen Shipping Costs | Request a full price breakdown from your freight forwarder, including port fees and customs duties. |
Why Choose Tonlexing for Car Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia?
✅ Hassle-Free Logistics
- End-to-end vehicle shipping solutions covering RoRo, container, and air freight.
- Complete customs documentation assistance to ensure a smooth process.
✅ Expert Customs Clearance
- Fast processing to minimize delays at Jeddah and Dammam ports.
- SASO certification assistance to comply with Saudi import regulations.
✅ Affordable Pricing
- Competitive shipping rates for RoRo and container services.
- Transparent cost estimates with no hidden fees.
✅ Real-Time Tracking
- 24/7 shipment monitoring so you can track your car throughout the journey.
🚗 Ready to ship your car from China to Saudi Arabia?
Contact Tonlexing today for a fast, secure, and cost-effective vehicle shipping solution!
