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If you’re purchasing from China and want a hassle-free and smooth shipping experience, finding a reliable freight forwarder to manage your shipments with door-to-door delivery is the ideal choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about door-to-door shipping from China.
What is door-to-door shipping from China?
Door-to-door shipping from China is a comprehensive service where your shipping agent handles everything from pickup at your Chinese supplier’s factory to delivery at your destination address, whether it’s a warehouse, home, company, or factory in any country. With this method, your freight forwarder manages all aspects of your shipment, including pickup, repacking, relabeling, customs clearance, transportation, prepayment of import taxes, and dispatch. In short, by opting for door-to-door shipping, you entrust your freight forwarder with full control over the logistics of your shipment.
What are the advantages of door-to-door delivery?
If you frequently purchase from China and have shipments to other countries, hiring a China freight forwarder to manage all your shipments can offer you at least four key advantages over handling it yourself.
1. Save Time
An experienced freight forwarder like KFH can save you valuable time by efficiently handling every step of the process. This includes quickly picking up your shipments from suppliers and transporting them to the port, so you don’t have to deal with suppliers directly or negotiate costs. Export customs declarations are streamlined, reducing processing time from 3-4 days to just 1 day. A good freight forwarder can also recommend reliable and stable shipping routes.
By outsourcing the shipping process to your freight forwarder, you free up time to focus on growing your business and other important tasks. If you need updates, your freight forwarder will keep you informed at each stage of the process.
2. Save on Costs.
By partnering with a professional China freight forwarder, you can reduce shipping costs through optimized shipping routes. These well-recommended methods ensure your shipments arrive on time and safely, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Additionally, working with a freight forwarder offering door-to-door shipping eliminates the need for you to travel to China to oversee the shipping process.
These cost savings can then be reinvested into shipping more goods from China to your destination, enhancing your overall business efficiency.
3. Reduced Inconvenience.
The most qualified freight forwarders are well-versed in shipping requirements, including customs declarations, international packing standards, and labeling requirements for specific destinations like Amazon shipments. This expertise ensures the timely delivery of your goods while minimizing any inconveniences on your part.
4. You only need to communicate with your freight forwarder
With door-to-door shipping from China, you only need to work with your freight forwarder throughout the entire process. Simply provide your shipment requirements, and we’ll take care of everything for you—no need to worry about any details. You won’t have to deal with multiple shippers at once. This streamlined approach saves you the cost of hiring several forwarders in your destination country, as we manage everything from start to finish with just one freight forwarder.
Want to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of door-to-door delivery? Share your questions with us, and let our expert services provide you with a one-stop shipping solution tailored to your needs.
What are the different types of door-to-door shipping methods available?
The main international shipping methods from China to other countries include Express freight, Air freight, Ocean freight, Rail freight (to some European countries), and Truck road freight, along with specialized door-to-door shipping for FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon).
These methods can be combined to create various door-to-door shipping options. In total, there are at least 7 different door-to-door shipping methods available for you to choose from.
1. Express Freight Door-to-Door from China
They are:
- DHL Door-to-Door Shipping
- UPS Door-to-Door Shipping
- TNT Door-to-Door Shipping
- FedEx Door-to-Door Shipping
- SF Express Door-to-Door Shipping
These services provide express freight shipping, handling the entire process from your supplier’s factory in China to the destination address you specify.
2. Air Freight and Express Freight from China: A Combined Solution for Speed and Efficiency
This shipping method utilizes standard airlines to transport goods from China to the destination country. After arrival at the destination airport and completion of customs clearance, the goods are then delivered to the final address via an express company like DHL, UPS, or FedEx.
This option is typically ideal for standard-sized package goods. However, for oversized packages, there are other optimized shipping solutions that I’ll introduce below.
3. Air Freight and Truck Freight Combined from China
This door-to-door shipping method utilizes common airlines to transport goods from China to the destination country. After arrival and completion of customs clearance at the airport, the shipment is delivered to the final address by truck.
While truck dispatch is slightly slower than express delivery, it offers a more cost-effective option. For palletized shipments, wooden crates, and flight cases, local truck delivery is an excellent choice for those aiming to reduce shipping expenses while ensuring faster delivery than ocean freight.
4. Ocean Freight and Express Freight Combined
This door-to-door shipping method combines ocean freight—both LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load)—from China to the destination country. Once the shipment arrives at the local port and completes customs clearance, it is dispatched to the final address via express freight.
For example, many clients shipping from China to U.S. Amazon centers prefer this method. An important tip is to use LCL shipping for this type of delivery, as it can help reduce import taxes compared to using a full container for the shipment.
5. Ocean Freight and Truck Freight Combined
This door-to-door shipping method begins with ocean freight from China to the destination country. Once the goods arrive at the local port and complete customs clearance, they are delivered to your door by local truck.
This method is ideal for large, securely packed shipments, such as pallets, wooden crates, and flight cases. It’s a highly economical and cost-effective shipping option from China, perfect for businesses seeking affordable transport for bulk goods.
6. Rail Freight and Express Freight Combined
This door-to-door shipping method begins with rail freight from China to the destination country, followed by express freight to deliver the shipment directly to your door.
It’s a popular choice for shipments from China to European countries, catering to both Amazon warehouses and standard commercial addresses. This method combines the cost-effectiveness of rail transport with the speed and convenience of express delivery, making it an ideal solution for a variety of business needs.
7. Rail Freight and Truck Freight Combined
This door-to-door shipping method starts with rail freight from China to the destination country, followed by truck delivery to the final address.
Widely used for large packages like pallet shipments, wooden crates, and flight cases, this option is especially popular for shipments from China to Europe. Both ocean and rail freight are the most economical choices for transporting goods, and either can be effective for door-to-door service. The key factor to ensure a smooth process is selecting a reliable freight forwarder, as they play a crucial role in coordinating door-to-door shipments from China.
What documents are required for the door-to-door shipping method?
Door-to-door shipping from China builds on standard shipping procedures, so if you choose to work with us, you’ll only need to provide the following:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin (required for some countries, not all)
- Product Certifications, such as CE, FCC, or FDA (typically provided by suppliers)
With these documents in hand, we’ll manage the rest of the process, making it a straightforward and seamless experience for you.
Delivery Duration for Door-to-Door Shipping from China
Door-to-door shipping times from China to international destinations vary based on the country and the transportation method chosen. Here’s an approximate guide for reference:
- Express Freight Door-to-Door: Approximately 3-7 days.
- Air Freight Combined with Express Delivery: Around 5-7 days.
- Air Freight Combined with Truck Delivery: About 7-12 days.
- Ocean Freight Combined with Express Delivery: Roughly 20-30 days.
- Ocean Freight Combined with Truck Delivery: Estimated 25-45 days.
- Rail Freight Combined with Express Delivery: Approximately 30-40 days.
- Rail Freight Combined with Truck Delivery: Around 35-45 days.
Please note, these are estimated times for general guidance. For an exact delivery timeframe, a detailed inquiry is needed, as transit times vary significantly by destination. For example, the fastest ocean freight to the USA may take 12 days, while the fastest air freight can reach in 2 days. When asking about delivery duration, please provide all necessary details, including the pickup address in China and the destination address, for an accurate estimate.
What types of goods are suitable for shipping by express freight?
Express Freight and Air Freight from China cover a wide range of goods, similar to standard shipping options. Most items available on B2B platforms like Alibaba can be shipped using door-to-door delivery from China, provided they meet the necessary shipping requirements.
What types of goods cannot be shipped using door-to-door delivery methods from China?
While most products can be shipped by air from China, there are certain items that cannot be transported via air freight due to regulations. Here’s a list of commonly prohibited items:
- Aerosol Sprays
- Canned Goods
- Weapons, Firearms, and Ammunition
- Explosive Devices
- Gearboxes and Generators
- Engines
- Life Jackets
- Fire Extinguishers
- Ivory and Products Made from Ivory
- Bronze and Marble Statuary
- Antiques
- Valuable Rugs
- Works of Art
These items are restricted or prohibited due to safety regulations and international shipping policies. It’s essential to check specific guidelines to ensure compliance before shipping.
Who provides door-to-door delivery services from China?
The international logistics industry has become highly advanced. While resource integration was less developed before 2014, by 2022, most qualified freight forwarders can provide comprehensive door-to-door shipping services.
At KFH, our door-to-door services to the United States and European countries are thriving, with several dedicated routes handling 30-50 tons of cargo from China daily.
Reach out today for a quick, competitive quote.
Before partnering with a freight forwarder in China, ensure they meet these essential criteria:
- Legitimate Business License – Verify that the forwarder operates legally in China.
- Pickup Capability Across China – They should be able to collect shipments from any city within China Mainland.
- Customs Clearance Expertise – Ensure they can efficiently handle customs clearance for all your shipments.
- Adequate Warehousing – Look for a forwarder with sufficient warehouse space to store your goods.
- Competitive Pricing – Aim for competitive rates, not necessarily the cheapest, but those that offer strong value.
- Experience – A forwarder with at least 5 years in the industry can provide valuable expertise and cost savings.
- Flexible Shipping Options – They should offer multiple shipping methods to accommodate various needs.
- Comprehensive Resources – The more services and resources they can provide, the more seamless your shipping experience will be.
Following these guidelines will help you choose a reliable and capable door-to-door shipping partner from China.
Frequently Asked Questions About Door-to-Door Shipping from China
Why do deliveries from China take so long?
Shipping times from China have been heavily impacted by COVID-19 in recent years. During outbreaks, certain export ports and regions in China have faced temporary shutdowns to control the spread of the virus. This has led to significant delays, with major ports like Shanghai experiencing shutdowns for up to 2-3 months in 2022. These disruptions have created bottlenecks in logistics, extending delivery times for shipments worldwide.
How do You Handle Undeliverable Shipments Due to Unreachable Consignee?
We will reattempt delivery, or the consignee may use the guidance on the 'Delivery Absence Notice' to schedule a free re-delivery. Should this second attempt be unsuccessful or if we are unable to reach the consignee, we will promptly inform the shipper and seek further instructions.
How can I track my shipment from China and ensure it arrives safely?
Once your shipment is dispatched, we’ll provide you with a tracking number, allowing you to monitor the entire shipping process online. If you prefer not to track it yourself, we can also send regular updates to keep you informed about the progress of your shipment.
What's the Current Shipping Times from China?
Typically, door-to-door delivery from China to the USA takes between 1 and 35 days, depending on the shipping method selected and the specific destination within the USA. For instance, express shipping generally takes 3-5 days, fast ocean freight can reach your door in 18-20 days, and air freight usually requires around 5 days.
Will customs inspect or open my package?
Customs does not open every package to verify contents. Instead, all shipments go through an x-ray or scanning process to ensure the items match the declarations on customs forms. Customs officers will only open a package if they have a specific reason or suspicion. As long as the items you’re shipping align with your customs declarations, there should be no issues.
Are taxes required for door-to-door delivery shipping from China?
Door-to-door delivery from China refers to the convenience of shipping directly to your address but doesn’t automatically include taxes and duties. There are two options: DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid). If you prefer not to handle taxes yourself, DDP is the right choice as it includes taxes and duties in the shipping process. Alternatively, if you prefer to manage taxes separately, you can opt for DDU, which provides door-to-door delivery without taxes included.
How does door-to-door shipping from China operate?
For example, if you need us to ship Product A from China to the USA by ocean freight, simply send us an inquiry with the pickup address in China and the delivery address in the USA. Based on the packing list you provide, we’ll prepare a quote. Once the price is confirmed, we’ll arrange to pick up your goods from the supplier’s factory, repack or relabel as needed, and handle export customs clearance. Afterward, your shipment will be transported to the port, loaded onto the ocean freight container, and shipped to the destination port in the USA. Upon arrival, we manage entry customs declaration and arrange payment of import taxes. Finally, we deliver your shipment directly to your specified address in the USA.
How do I create a shipment? Is it necessary to open an account?
There's no need to open an account with us. Simply have your supplier ship the goods to our warehouse. Once received, we’ll verify the weight and size, take pictures, and provide you with a quote. After confirmation, we’ll proceed with shipping the goods to you.
How can I proceed if I don’t know the destination postcode?
In case you don’t know the destination postcode, kindly check with the receiver or contact us for assistance. Providing an incorrect postcode can result in delays and additional fees.
How Can I Verify if My Consignee’s Address is Serviceable for Shipping?
Before you place an order with us, our dedicated team will verify your consignee’s address to ensure seamless service. Rely on our support to confirm all details before we arrange your shipment, guaranteeing a smooth and efficient delivery process.
How long can customs hold a package?
Typically, customs clearance for standard goods shipments is completed within 3 business days or even sooner. However, if your goods are held due to issues like illegal products, product infringement, incomplete documentation, or prohibited items, customs may hold them for an extended period or, in some cases, destroy the shipment.
Is a shipping agent necessary for importing from China?
Having a shipping agent like KFH in China can make your import process significantly easier. We handle every aspect of shipping for you—you only need to provide us with your requirements, and we’ll coordinate directly with your suppliers. This allows you to focus on growing your business and saves you both time and costs, making it easier to scale your operations effectively.
Why am I being charged for 5kg when my shipment only weighs 2kg?
Each shipment has both an actual (gross) weight and a volumetric weight. Freight charges are based on whichever weight is higher. For air shipments, as per International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines, the volumetric weight is calculated using the formula: length × width × height (in cm) ÷ 5,000 (cm³/kg). If the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight, you'll be charged based on the higher volumetric weight.
Are UPS shipments from China currently experiencing delays?
At the beginning of 2020, shipments from China faced significant delays due to the severe COVID-19 outbreak. However, as of 2022, operations have returned to normal across all shipping methods. Shipping times from China are now stable, so there’s no need to worry about delays.
What are the maximum weight and size restrictions for a parcel?
There are no strict limits on the maximum weight and size for a parcel. However, if the parcel exceeds standard size or weight, additional oversize or overweight charges may apply. In such cases, we can offer alternative shipping methods like air freight or ocean freight instead of express freight. Feel free to contact us with detailed information about your shipment, and we’ll provide an accurate quote tailored to your needs.
Do You Add Charge Weight When Products Are Received?
At KFH, we uphold logistics standards by honestly weighing and measuring each shipment with precision. We are dedicated to fostering long-term collaborations rather than one-time transactions, ensuring dependable and consistent service for our clients. Additionally, you have the option to verify the weight and dimensions of your products upon receipt, allowing you to confirm the chargeable weight and maintain transparency throughout the shipping process.
How much can I import without paying duty?
Our door-to-door delivery options include both DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) methods. With our DDP service, you can import any quantity without additional concerns, as our quote includes all import taxes. Once you've paid the shipping charges, there are no extra fees; we handle tax prepayment on your behalf for a seamless experience.
Can I Obtain Compensation If My Package Is Lost or Damaged During Shipping?
At KFH, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and reliability of your shipments. If your shipment is lost or damaged, we will reimburse you in accordance with our international shipping and return policies. Additionally, you have the option to purchase insurance for your goods, which provides an extra layer of protection. With insurance, you can receive full compensation in the unlikely event of any issues during transit. Rest assured, such occurrences are rare, and we strive to deliver your goods safely and efficiently every time.
Let’s collaborate and work together
With KFH, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits for all your shipment needs. Our experienced sales team is ready to assist you and provide unmatched service. Contact us now to get the ideal shipping solution for your shipments from China!
