Shipping from China to Philippines: A Complete Guide

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of international trade, shipping from China to the Philippines has become a vital economic link. Whether you're a businessperson looking to import goods or an individual with personal items to send, understanding the shipping process is crucial. WanHao, a leading China Freight forwarder, offers a comprehensive range of services to facilitate seamless shipping between these two countries. This guide will explore various aspects, including different shipping methods, their associated costs, transit times, and essential customs clearance details.

Shipping Methods

Ocean FCL (Full Container Load)

Ocean FCL is an ideal choice for large - volume shipments. When you opt for this method, you book an entire container, which can be either a 20 - foot or 40 - foot container. This ensures that your goods are transported independently, reducing the risk of damage or mix - up with other cargo. In China, major international seaports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Xiamen serve as departure points. In the Philippines, ports such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao are common destinations. WanHao Freight has extensive experience in handling Ocean FCL shipments, providing reliable services from these origin to destination ports.

Ocean LCL (Less than Container Load)

For smaller shipments that don't require a full container, Ocean LCL is a cost - effective option. Multiple shippers' goods are consolidated into a single container. The goods are first taken to a container freight station (CFS) in the origin port, where they are grouped with other cargo bound for the same destination in the Philippines. WanHao Freight offers competitive Ocean LCL services, with a network that covers major ports in both countries. This method is suitable for small - to - medium - sized businesses or individuals with limited cargo volume.

Ocean Freight

Ocean freight rates from China to the Philippines vary based on multiple factors. For Ocean FCL, the cost of shipping a 20 - foot container can range from approximately $750 - $2050, while a 40 - foot container may cost between $1550 - $3550. These rates are subject to change depending on the origin and destination ports, the shipping line, and market conditions. Ocean LCL rates are typically calculated per cubic meter, with prices ranging from around $10 - $30 per cubic meter, depending on the volume of the shipment and the destination port in the Philippines. Fuel surcharges, which can fluctuate with global oil prices, also contribute to the overall cost. Additionally, customs duties and taxes, calculated based on the classification of goods under the Harmonized System (HS) code, need to be factored in.

Airfreight

Airfreight provides a fast - track solution for shipping from China to the Philippines. It is highly recommended for time - sensitive shipments, perishable goods, or high - value items. Airlines such as China Southern Airlines, Philippine Airlines, and others operate regular flights between major cities in China and the Philippines. The airfreight rates are generally higher than ocean freight. Rates can range from approximately $1.50 - $4.50 per kilogram, depending on the weight of the shipment, the origin and destination airports, and any additional services required. However, the speed advantage of airfreight, with transit times of typically 3 - 5 days, often justifies the cost for businesses that need their goods to arrive quickly.

International Express

International express services, such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT, are popular for shipping small parcels or documents from China to the Philippines. These services offer quick delivery times, usually within 1 - 3 business days. They are known for their reliable tracking systems, allowing you to monitor the progress of your shipment in real - time. International express services also handle customs clearance efficiently. WanHao Freight, as an experienced freight forwarder, can assist you in choosing the most suitable international express service based on your specific requirements and budget.

Transit Times

Ocean Freight

For Ocean FCL, the transit time from major ports in China to the Philippines usually ranges from 10 - 15 days. However, this can be affected by factors like port congestion, the shipping route, and any trans - shipment points. Ocean LCL transit times are generally slightly longer, taking around 12 - 22 days. This is due to the additional time required for the consolidation and de - consolidation of goods at the CFS. It's important to note that these are approximate times, and actual transit times may vary.

Airfreight

Airfreight offers significantly faster transit times. Flights from major Chinese cities to the Philippines can take as little as a few hours for the actual flight. Considering the time for pick - up, airport handling, and customs clearance, the overall transit time is typically 3 - 5 days. This makes airfreight the preferred choice for urgent shipments.

International Express

International express services guarantee delivery within 1 - 3 business days. This speed is ideal for small, time - sensitive shipments where quick turnaround is essential.

Customs Clearance in the Philippines

Documentation Requirements

• Importer - Exporter Code (IEC): All importers in the Philippines are required to obtain an IEC, which is a 10 - digit code issued by the relevant trade authorities. Without this code, importing goods into the Philippines is not possible.

• Commercial Invoice: This document details the goods being sold, including quantity, price, and terms of payment. It is crucial for customs as it helps determine the value of the goods for calculating import duties.

• Bill of Lading (BL) or Airway Bill: Serves as a receipt for the shipped goods and a contract between you and the shipping company. It is necessary for the goods to reach the Philippines and is used by customs to verify shipment details.

• Packing List: Outlines the specific items in the shipment, their quantity, dimensions, and weight. It helps customs officials understand the contents of the package.

Customs Fees and Taxes

The Philippines imposes a Value - Added Tax (VAT) of 12% on imported goods. Customs duties vary depending on the product classification under the HS code, with rates potentially ranging from 0% to over 30%. These fees and taxes are calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the shipment. Additionally, there may be other charges such as customs handling fees.

Customs Clearance Process

When your goods arrive in the Philippines, they will be subject to customs inspection. This involves a review of all accompanying documents and a physical inspection of the goods. Customs clearance can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on factors like the complexity of the shipment, the accuracy of the documentation, and the workload at the customs office. Working with a freight forwarder like WanHao, which has expertise in Philippine customs regulations, can significantly streamline this process and help avoid potential delays.

Get A Quote

To obtain an accurate shipping quote from China to the Philippines, reach out to WanHao Freight. Provide details such as the type of goods, quantity, weight and volume, origin and destination addresses, and any special requirements. Their team of experts will then assess the information and calculate the most suitable shipping method, providing you with a detailed quote that includes all associated costs, from pick - up in China to delivery in the Philippines. Whether you choose Ocean FCL, Ocean LCL, airfreight, or international express, WanHao is committed to offering reliable, cost - effective, and efficient shipping services.

In conclusion, shipping from China to the Philippines involves multiple considerations. By understanding the different shipping methods, their costs, transit times, and customs clearance requirements, and by partnering with a reliable freight forwarder like WanHao, you can ensure a smooth and successful shipping experience.