Shipping from China to Canada

Shipping from China to Canada

Make Logistics Your Competitive Advantage

Are you looking for a shipping forwarder company who can arrange the ship from China to Canada? It is recommended that you choose CUC as your designated shipping agent China to Canada! CUC have rich experience in Canadian market and are good at providing various customized services according to your needs. Whether air freight or sea freight, our team will work hard to provide you with the best solution of shipping from China to the Canada.




Understanding The Process Of Shipping From China To Canada

When shipping goods from China to Canada, there are several steps involved in the process. Here's an overview of the logistics:


1. Determine the shipping method: 

Choosing the right shipping method can depend on several factors, including the type of product being shipped, the destination and the budgets. Some common methods include air freight, sea freight, rail freight, and courier services.


2. Book the shipment:

Once the shipping method has been chosen, the shipment needs to be booked with a carrier or shipping company. This involves providing information such as the shipping address, weight, dimensions, and value of the goods.


3. Prepare the goods for shipment:

The goods need to be properly packed and labeled for safe transportation. This can include using appropriate materials to protect the goods, labeling the package with the correct destination information, and ensuring any necessary customs declarations are included.


4. Arrange for customs clearance:

When importing goods into Canada from China, customs clearance is required. This involves paying any applicable duties, taxes, and fees, as well as submitting all required documents such as a commercial invoice and a bill of lading.


5. Transport the goods:

The goods are transported from the origin point in China to the destination in Canada. The transit time can vary depending on the shipping method chosen.


6. Receive and inspect the goods:

 Upon arrival in Canada, the goods need to be inspected to ensure they are in good condition and meet any requirements or regulations in Canada.


Overall, shipping from China to Canada requires careful planning and coordination to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Working with a reputable freight forwarding or shipping company can be helpful in navigating the logistics and customs requirements.


Understanding The Process Of Shipping From China To Canada

What Is The Cheapest Way From Shipping China To Canada?

The cheapest way to ship from China to Canada depends on several factors such as the shipping speed, type of goods being shipped, weight and volume of goods, and the shipping distance. Here are some of the cheapest shipping methods:


1. Sea Freight

This is one of the cheapest options for shipping large and heavy goods. The transit time is slower but it offers cost-saving benefits.


2. Air Freight 

Air freight is a faster shipping option than sea freight, but it's generally more expensive. However, some airlines offer discounted rates for bulk shipments, so it's worth getting quotes from different carriers.


3. Express Services

Express services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS are convenient options for small packages and offer relatively quick delivery times. They might be a bit more expensive than sea and air freight but in some cases, they can be economical for small and light goods.


It's important to do a comparison of multiple shipping companies and options to find the best and cheapest shipping method for your specific needs and budget.


What Is The Fastest Way Shipping From China To Canada?

The fastest way to ship from China to Canada is by air freight. Air freight is an efficient shipping option that provides expedited delivery for time-sensitive goods. The transit time for air freight is typically between 2 to 8 business days, depending on the airline and the destination in Canada. Airfreight can be more expensive than other shipping methods but it is the best option if you need your shipment to arrive quickly. 


Some factors that could affect the transit time include the origin and destination airports, the carrier's flight schedule, customs clearance, and other factors that could impact shipping time.


It's important to keep in mind that expedited shipping methods like air freight may come with additional costs such as handling fees, fuel surcharges, and dimensional weight charges. It's advisable to compare quotes from different shipping companies and choose the best option that fits your specific needs, timing, and budget.


CUC has rich experience in air freight and express delivery, and we will choose the most reasonable airline or express carrier for your shipment, according to your  requirements.


What Is The Fastest Way Shipping From China To Canada?

How Long Does It Take To Ship From China To Canada?

The time it takes to ship from China to Canada depends on the chosen mode of transportation. Sea freight and air freight are the most common modes of transportation. Sea freight has a longer transit time of around 15 to 45 days, while air freight is faster, with a transit time ranging from 1 day to 15 days.


However, it's important to note that these transit times are estimates and can vary depending on various factors such as customs clearance, weather conditions, and other transportation delays. It's always advisable to prepare for unexpected delays and choose a reliable shipping company that offers good communication and tracking services to ensure that the shipment arrives on time.


Sea Freight Transit Times from China to Canada

Origin Port (China)Destination Port (Canada)Estimated Transit Time (FCL)
Estimated Transit Time (LCL)
Shanghai (CNSHA)Vancouver (CA Vancouver)15-21 days
18-25 days or more
Shanghai (CNSHA)Toronto (CA Toronto)(Rail Ramp) 25-30 days
(Rail Ramp) 28-33 days or more
Shenzhen (CNSZE)Montreal (CA Montreal)21-30 days
24-31 days or more
Qingdao (CNTAO)Halifax (CA Halifax)20-28 days
23-30 days or more
Tianjin (CNTSN)Prince Rupert (CA Prince Rupert)18-26 days
21-28 days or more


Air Freight Transit Times from China to Canada

Origin Airport (China)Destination Airport (Canada)
Estimated Transit Time
Shanghai Pudong (PVG)Vancouver International Airport (YVR)1-3 days
Shenzhen Baoan (SZX)Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)1-4 days
Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN)Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)1-4 days
Chengdu Shuangliu (CTU)Calgary International Airport (YYC)2-4 days
Xiamen Gaoqi (XMN)Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)2-4 days


What Items Cannot Be Shipped To Canada?

Certain items cannot be shipped to Canada due to legal and safety regulations, including illegal drugs, hazardous materials, weapons, obscene materials, endangered species, counterfeit goods, infringing products, fireworks, and improperly labeled foods. It is important to check the Canada government's customs website or consult with experts for guidance on import restrictions.

Sea Freight & Container Shipping From China To the Canada

Sea freight is the most cost-effective way to ship large quantities of goods from China to Canada.


Considerations for FCL Freight Shipping

Benefits of FCL Shipping:

  • Cost-Effective for Large Shipments: Ideal for situations where you have enough cargo to fill a container, offering economies of scale compared to LCL (Less Than Container Load).

  • Security: Containers provide a high degree of protection for your goods during transport.

  • Faster Than LCL: FCL shipments generally experience less handling delays compared to LCL, potentially leading to slightly faster transit times.

  • Control Over Container Space: You have exclusive use of the entire container, allowing for better organization and packing optimization.

Cost Factors:

  • Origin and Destination Ports: Major ports like Shanghai (China) and Vancouver (Canada) generally have more competitive rates due to higher volumes.

  • Container Size: 20ft containers are more affordable than 40ft containers, but the cost per unit of cargo may be higher if you don't fill a 20ft container to capacity.

  • Cargo Weight and Volume: Heavier and bulkier cargo will naturally cost more to ship due to weight-based or dimensional weight calculations.

  • Inland Transportation: Costs associated with moving your cargo from your origin warehouse in China to the port and from the arrival port in Canada to your final destination.

  • Terminal Handling Charges: Fees levied by the terminals at both origin and destination ports for loading and unloading your container.

  • Ocean Freight: The base cost per container for the sea voyage from China to Canada.

  • Customs Clearance: Costs associated with processing your shipment through customs in both China and Canada. This may include customs duties and taxes depending on the nature of your goods.


Considerations for LCL Freight Shipping

Benefits of LCL Shipping:

  • Cost-Effective for Smaller Shipments: Ideal for situations where you don't have enough cargo to fill a full container.

  • Flexibility: Suitable for a wider range of cargo quantities compared to FCL.

  • Consolidation: Allows you to share container space with other shippers, potentially reducing costs compared to FCL if you don't have a full container load.

Cost Factors:

  • Origin and Destination Ports: Major ports like Shanghai (China) and Vancouver (Canada) generally have more competitive rates due to higher volumes.

  • Cargo Weight and Volume: You'll be charged per cubic meter (cbm) for the space your cargo occupies within a shared container. Lighter or more compact goods will be more cost-effective to ship via LCL.

  • Inland Transportation: Costs associated with moving your cargo from your origin warehouse in China to the port and from the arrival port in Canada to your final destination.

  • Terminal Handling Charges: Fees levied by the terminals at both origin and destination ports for loading and unloading your cargo.

  • Ocean Freight: The base cost per cubic meter for your cargo's space on the sea voyage from China to Canada.

  • Consolidation Fees: Charges associated with consolidating your cargo with other shipments into a container for transport.

  • Customs Clearance: Costs associated with processing your shipment through customs in both China and Canada. This may include customs duties and taxes depending on the nature of your goods.


Air Freight From China To Canada

Benefits:

  • Speed: The fastest option for international shipping, with transit times typically ranging from 1 to 4 days.

  • Security: Air cargo generally experiences less handling compared to sea freight, potentially reducing the risk of damage.

  • Direct Flights (Optional): Minimize layovers and expedite delivery for urgent shipments (more expensive than indirect flights).

Cost Factors:

  • Origin and Destination Airports: Costs can vary depending on the specific airports in China and Canada you're using. Major airports with frequent flights may have slightly lower costs.

  • Cargo Weight and Volume: Air freight is typically charged by weight or dimensional weight (whichever is higher). Lighter or more compact goods will be more cost-effective to ship by air.

  • Type of Service:

    • Direct Flights: Fastest but most expensive option.

    • Indirect Flights: More affordable but have longer transit times due to layovers.

  • Fuel Surcharge: An additional fee based on current fuel prices.

  • Customs Clearance: Costs associated with processing your shipment through customs in both China and Canada. This may include customs duties and taxes depending on the nature of your goods.

  • Security Fees: May apply depending on the nature of your goods.


Door to Door shipping – Importation from China to the Canada

DDP Air Freight

  • Pick-up at Origin: CUC freight arranges for pick-up of your goods from your supplier's location in China.

  • Air Freight: This covers the cost of air transportation for your goods from China to Canada.

  • Customs Clearance and Duties: CUC freight handles all customs clearance procedures in both China and Canada, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted, and pays any applicable duties and taxes.

  • Inland Transportation: CUC freight arranges for the movement of your goods from the origin airport in China to the departure airport, and from the arrival airport in Canada to your final delivery address.


DDP Sea Shipping

  • Pick-up at Origin: CUC freight arranges for pick-up of your goods from your supplier's location in China.

  • Ocean Freight: This covers the cost of sea transportation for your goods from China to Canada.

  • Customs Clearance and Duties: CUC freight handles all customs clearance procedures in both China and Canada, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted, and pays any applicable duties and taxes.

  • Inland Transportation: CUC freight arranges for the movement of your goods from the origin port in China to the departure port, and from the arrival port in Canada to your final delivery address.


DDP Shipping Cost And Transit Time From China To Canada

Shipping MethodEstimated CostTransit Time
Air Freight$4.00 - $7.00 per kg
4-7 business days
Sea Freight (FCL - Full Container Load)$2,000 - $4,000 per 20ft container
25-40 business days
Sea Freight (LCL - Less Than Container Load)$300 - $600 per cubic meter (cbm)
30-45 business days
  • Prices are estimates and can vary depending on the specific cargo, weight, dimensions, origin and destination city, and current market rates.

  • DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) includes the cost of transportation, customs clearance, duties, taxes, and delivery to your final address in Canada.

  • For a more accurate quote, it's recommended to contact a freight forwarder directly and provide them with details about your shipment.

  • FCL shipments are typically more cost-effective per unit weight for larger quantities compared to LCL shipments.


What are the Shipping Costs from China to Canada?

Air Freight Shipping Costs from China to Canada


FactorDescriptionImpact on Cost
Origin Port (China)(e.g., Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN))
Major airports with frequent flights may have slightly lower costs due to higher volumes.
Destination Port (Canada)(e.g., Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver International (YVR))
Similar to origin ports, major airports with frequent flights might offer more competitive rates.
Cargo Weight & Volume
Directly affects cost. Air freight is charged by weight or dimensional weight (whichever is higher).

Type of Service* Direct Flights: Fastest but most expensive. * Indirect Flights: More affordable but longer transit times due to layovers.
Directly affects cost. Direct flights are more expensive.
Estimated Cost Range(These are approximations and can vary significantly based on current market conditions, urgency, and specific route)
US$4.00 - US$8.00 per kilogram


Sea Freight Shipping Costs from China to Canada


FactorDescriptionImpact on Cost
Origin Port (China)(e.g., Shanghai (SHA), Ningbo (NGB), Qingdao (QDO))
Major ports generally have lower costs due to higher volumes.
Destination Port (Canada)(e.g., Vancouver (VCT), Montreal (MGT), Toronto (TOR))
Similar to origin ports, major ports might offer more competitive rates.
Container Type (FCL or LCL)* FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for large shipments filling a 20ft or 40ft container. You pay a base rate per container. * LCL (Less Than Container Load): Suitable for smaller shipments sharing space with other cargo. You pay per cubic meter (cbm).
Directly affects cost. FCL has a base rate, while LCL is charged per cubic meter.
Cargo Weight & VolumeHeavier and bulkier cargo will cost more to ship.
Directly affects cost.
Estimated Cost Range(These are approximations and can vary significantly based on route, current market conditions, and container type)
* FCL (20ft container): US$1,150 - US$4,850


Ship Products/Items From China To Canada

Consumer Electronics: China is a leading producer of consumer electronics, offering a wide range of products such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, smartwatches, cameras, headphones, and gaming consoles. These items come in various brands, models, and specifications to cater to different consumer preferences.

Apparel and Fashion: Chinese manufacturers produce a diverse array of clothing and fashion items, including shirts, pants, dresses, skirts, jackets, coats, suits, activewear, swimwear, shoes, handbags, hats, scarves, and fashion accessories. These products range from affordable basics to high-fashion designs.

Home Goods and Decor: China manufactures a variety of home goods and decor items, including furniture, kitchenware, bedding sets, curtains, rugs, decorative pillows, wall art, vases, candles, and other decorative accessories. These items offer consumers in Canada the opportunity to decorate their homes with stylish and affordable options.

Toys and Games: Chinese factories produce a vast selection of toys and games for children of all ages, including dolls, action figures, stuffed animals, building blocks, puzzles, educational toys, board games, outdoor toys, and remote-controlled vehicles. These items provide entertainment and learning opportunities for kids across Canada.

Health and Beauty Products: China is a major supplier of health and beauty products, offering a wide range of cosmetics, skincare products, haircare products, and personal care items. This includes makeup, facial cleansers, moisturizers, serums, shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, soaps, and grooming tools.

Automotive Parts and Accessories: Chinese manufacturers supply a variety of automotive parts and accessories for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles. This includes replacement parts, performance upgrades, accessories, and car care products such as brake pads, filters, headlights, mirrors, seat covers, and steering wheel covers.

Machinery and Equipment: China produces various types of machinery and equipment for industrial, commercial, and personal use, including construction machinery, agricultural machinery, manufacturing equipment, power tools, welding machines, and packaging machinery. These items support various industries and businesses across Canada.

Textiles and Fabrics: Chinese textile manufacturers supply a wide range of fabrics and materials used in clothing manufacturing, upholstery, and home textiles. This includes cotton, polyester, silk, wool, denim, lace, and synthetic fabrics in different colors, patterns, and textures.

Food and Beverages: While the import of food and beverages is subject to regulations and restrictions, some packaged food products and beverages can be shipped from China to Canada. This may include snacks, tea, sauces, noodles, and canned goods, among others.

Art and Craft Supplies: China produces a variety of art and craft supplies, including paints, brushes, canvases, sketchbooks, craft paper, beads, yarn, sewing supplies, and other crafting materials. These items cater to artists, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts across Canada.


CUC Freight – Freight Forwarder China to the Canada

CUC always committed to providing the most economical, most suitable and safest cargo logistics solutions for you under the premise of complying with laws and regulations, and providing you with worry-free services through professional process management. When you choose CUC to start your shipment, you can follow the flow chart below, and the rest of the work will be handed over to our expert team, you just need to wait in the office/home to receive the goods!


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Import Tax and Duties in Canada

Import tax and duties in Canada are levied by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on goods being imported into the country. The main components of import charges in Canada include the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and customs duties.

Goods and Services Tax (GST): The GST is a federal tax applied to most goods and services consumed or sold in Canada, including imports. The current GST rate is 5%.

Customs Duties: Customs duties are tariffs imposed on imported goods and are calculated based on the value of the goods (in Canadian dollars) and the country of origin. The duty rates vary depending on the classification of the goods according to the Harmonized System (HS) code.

It's important to note that Canada has several trade agreements with other countries that may affect the duty rates applicable to imports. For example, goods imported from countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement (such as the United States or Mexico under the USMCA) may be eligible for preferential duty rates or duty-free treatment.

In addition to the GST and customs duties, other charges such as excise taxes, anti-dumping duties, and additional fees for customs clearance and processing may apply in certain cases.


Prohibited and Restricted Items

CategoryProhibited ItemsRestricted Items
Food, Animal and Plant ProductsMost meat and dairy products, some fruits and vegetables, used animal products (feathers, hides etc.)
Honey, some processed foods (may require inspection), seeds (may require permits)
Firearms and Weapons
Firearms, ammunition, explosives, replica firearms, some knives (switchblades, butterfly knives)

Dangerous GoodsFlammable liquids, compressed gases, toxic substances, hazardous waste
May require special packaging, labeling, and permits
Cannabis Products
All cannabis products, including CBD oil (strictly regulated)

Copyrighted Material
Counterfeit goods, pirated movies, music, or software

Healthcare ProductsPrescription drugs, some medical devices
May require approval from Health Canada
Wireless Devices
Some radio transmitters, cell phones (may require certification)

Other Restricted ItemsUsed mattresses, endangered species products, obscene materials
May require permits or inspections


FAQs About Shipping From China To Canada

What are the essential documents that need to be completed when shipping from China to Canada?

Correctly packaged and labeled cargo is essential for its smooth journey from China through the customs clearance process in Canada. Having the necessary documents such as an importation permit for certain goods, a commercial invoice, and a packing list is also key. Documents you need when shipping to Canada include:


1. Commercial Invoice;

2. Packing List;

3. Bill of lading;

4. Certificate of origin;

5. Letter of Credit or other payment terms.


You may also need a special permit if you’re shipping certain goods like hazardous materials.


Do I need an import license when shipping from China to Canada?

An import license is not generally required for most products when shipping from China to Canada. However, depending on the nature of the goods being imported, specific permits, certifications or licenses may be necessary.


How do I handle customs clearance when shipping from China to Canada?

Customs clearance is necessary when shipping goods from China to Canada. It is best to work with a freight forwarding company that specialized in international shipping to handle customs clearance, documentation to ensure smooth and legal shipment of goods. Work with a professional customs broker to navigate import and customs clearance regulations, which can vary by country and product type.


What are Incoterms, and how do they affect shipping from China to Canada?

Incoterms are international commercial terms that define the responsibilities and obligations between buyers and sellers during international trade. Understanding and selecting the appropriate Incoterm is essential when shipping from China to Canada, as it outlines the responsibilities, transportation costs, and risks throughout the shipment process.


What Our Clients Are Saying?

Your satisfaction are our utmost priority and we strive to provide professional, hassle-free, safe, secure, dependable and timely deliveries each and every time.  After had tried our service, most of them become our regular customers and they praise for our service.

Ken Penrose

CUC has always sent us the best option to us. In the past we have tried other large companies and were disappointed by the service. CUC has never let us down on any of our shipments and if we needed a lift gate or extra blankets, they would always have these provided for us.

William Brewster

CUC is always professional and does a great job with communication. I can always count on CUC to handle whatever I need - in even the most limited timeframe or customs clearance in Canada. The CUC team is also quite dependable to resolve any issues we may come across with complete satisfaction.

Christopher Stidd

The commitment from the top down allows us to move on the next project. Our clients have given us positive feedback and we appreciate the hands on approach from CUC leader.


Vineet Mahajan

Excellent company who we have now used for our trade show shipments for many years. Consistent, trustworthy, and prompt. We will most likely continue to discuss with CUC for all our trade show needs.

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