Shipping from China to Finland

Finland has long been an important Nordic trading partner of China, and the two countries have close economic relations. From January to November 2023, the bilateral import and export volume of goods between China and Finland reached an impressive US$7,583.6066 million. During this period, China’s exports to Finland amounted to US$3,021.984 million, while China’s imports from Finland totaled US$4,561.6226 million.

If you are planning to import Chinese products to Finland, this article on shipping from China to Finland is perfect for you! This page outlines essential information about sea and air freight from China to Finland. You will find comprehensive details on the various shipping options available, associated costs, transit times, customs clearance procedures, and the major ports involved in import and export activities between China and Finland.

Whether you are in the Far East looking to export goods from China to Finland, or based in Northern Europe seeking to import from the Orient, this page provides crucial insights to facilitate your shipping needs.

Best Freight Shipping Services from China to Finland

Shipping freight from China to Finland involves various methods, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Here are the best options for different shipping needs:

Air Freight

Air freight is the fastest shipping method, ideal for urgent shipments or high-value, perishable goods. Typical transit times range from 5 to 8 days, with express services like DHL or FedEx taking about 5-6 days​ (TJ China Freight)​​ (China Top freight)​. It’s more expensive than sea freight but is suitable for smaller, urgent shipments or high-value items.

Sea Freight

Sea freight is more cost-effective for larger shipments. Transit times from major Chinese ports to Helsinki typically range from 38 to 46 days​ (ChinaFreight)​​ (Fluent Cargo)​. This method is suitable for bulk goods that are not time-sensitive. Key operators include CMA CGM and MSC, offering regular services from ports like Shanghai and Yantian to Helsinki​ (Fluent Cargo)​.

Rail Freight

Rail freight is a middle ground in terms of cost and speed, taking about 3 weeks. It’s a good option for shipments that are less urgent but need to be faster than sea freight. Costs range from $1 to $4 per kilogram​ (TJ China Freight)​.

Freight Forwarders

Working with a reliable freight forwarder can simplify the process. They handle everything from packaging and documentation to customs clearance and delivery. Some reputable companies for shipping from China to Finland include TS Freight, which offers both sea and air freight services and extensive support throughout the shipping process​ (ChinaFreight)​. Another option is TJ China Freight, which provides comprehensive air and sea freight services, including customs clearance and tracking​ (TJ China Freight)​.

Freight Shipping Cost from China to Finland

Topshipping is renowned as one of the leading freight shipping services from China to Finland. Offering a comprehensive range of international shipping solutions, Topshipping ensures that both businesses and individuals can have their goods delivered safely and on time. Their services encompass sea freight, air freight, and land transportation, leveraging an extensive network of global partners and agents to handle various types of shipments with ease.

Key Features of Topshipping

Comprehensive Shipping Solutions

Topshipping provides an array of shipping options tailored to meet diverse needs. Whether you require sea freight for large, bulk shipments, air freight for urgent deliveries, or land transportation for inland logistics, Topshipping has you covered. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of shipping requirements.

Cost-Effective and Efficient

Topshipping is dedicated to minimizing expenses while maximizing efficiency. By focusing on cost-effective shipping solutions, they ensure that your shipments arrive in Finland in optimal condition without breaking the bank. This commitment to affordability does not compromise the quality of service, making Topshipping a reliable partner for your logistics needs.

Reliable and Timely Delivery

Ensuring that your goods reach their destination safely and on time is a top priority for Topshipping. Their extensive network of global partners and agents, coupled with robust logistical planning, guarantees timely deliveries. This reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on prompt and consistent shipping services.

Expertise in Handling Various Shipments

Topshipping’s expertise extends to handling a wide variety of shipments, from smaller parcels to large, complex cargo. Their experience in managing different types of goods ensures that your shipments are handled with care and professionalism, meeting all specific requirements for safe transportation.

Exceptional Customer Service

Topshipping prides itself on providing excellent customer service. Their team of experts is always ready to assist with any inquiries, offer guidance on the best shipping solutions, and ensure a smooth shipping process from start to finish. This dedication to customer satisfaction sets them apart in the freight shipping industry.

By choosing Topshipping for your shipping needs from China to Finland, you can be confident in receiving reliable, cost-effective freight shipping tailored to meet your unique requirements. With their extensive services, competitive pricing, and commitment to excellence, Topshipping is the ideal partner for ensuring your goods are delivered efficiently and securely.

Air freight from China to Finland

Air freight from China to Finland

From Air Port

To Air Port

100kg Cost per Kilogram

500kg Cost per Kilogram

1000kg Cost per Kilogram

Shanghai 

Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL)

$9.2-$11.6

$8.8-$10.6

$6.3-$7.5

Shenzhen 

Turku  (TKU)

$9.2-$11.6

$8.8-$10.6

$6.3-$7.5

Hong Kong

Tampere-Pirkkala (TMP)

$9.2-$11.6

$8.8-$10.6

$6.3-$7.5

Guangzhou 

Oulu  (OUL)

$9.2-$11.6

$8.8-$10.6

$6.3-$7.5

Ningbo 

Vaasa  (VAA)

$9.2-$11.6

$8.8-$10.6

$6.3-$7.5

When time is of the essence for shipments from China to Finland, air freight emerges as the optimal solution. Renowned as the most efficient and rapid mode of transportation, air freight guarantees swift delivery, significantly reducing transit time.

In situations where deadlines are tight or the cargo is perishable, sea shipping becomes impractical. However, opting for air freight requires acknowledgment of its higher costs compared to sea shipping. Despite the expense, air freight remains the preferred choice for shipping high-value products, providing unparalleled speed and enhanced security measures.

At TopShipping, we have established strong partnerships with major air carriers, cultivating an extensive network of air cargo transportation routes. Our services encompass daily and weekly cargo flights from China’s major airports to destinations across Finland. When you entrust your cargo to our air freight services, our dedicated team ensures the provision of the most efficient shipping solutions and the swiftest routes tailored to your requirements, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising on speed.

Choosing TopShipping guarantees peace of mind, as we meticulously oversee every aspect of your air shipments, from pickup to delivery at the designated destination, managing every link of the logistics chain seamlessly.

Our comprehensive array of shipping options includes airport-to-airport, door-to-airport, and door-to-door services from China to Finland. While certain limitations and restrictions may apply due to airline and aircraft regulations, TopShipping remains your trusted partner for swift and reliable transit solutions from China to Finland. Contact us today to explore our air shipping solutions and receive a competitive quote.

Air freight transit times from China to Finland

From Air Port

To Air Port

Distance

Estimated Transit Time (Days)

Average Speed

Trade Volume

Main Types of Cargo

Notable Fact

Shanghai

Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL)

3977.21 mi- 7365.79 km

9 hours

800 km/h

Approximately 230,000 tons of cargo annually

Electronics, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and other high-value goods

Helsinki-Vantaa is the main international gateway and handles the majority of Finland's air cargo

Shenzhen 

Turku  (TKU)

4,850 mi- 7,800km

10 to 12 hours

800 km/h

Around 20,000 tons of cargo annually

Express cargo, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and general cargo

Turku Airport is a key hub for express freight services

Hong Kong

Tampere-Pirkkala (TMP)

4,610  mi -

7,420 km

10 to 11 hours

800 km/h

Approximately 10,000 tons of cargo annually

Industrial products, machinery parts, and general cargo

Tampere-Pirkkala is strategically important for industrial cargo, serving the central region of Finland

Guangzhou 

Oulu  (OUL)

4096.1 mi- 7585.98 km

9 hours

800 km/h

Around 5,000 tons of cargo annually

Electronics, machinery, and industrial goods

Oulu Airport supports the high-tech industry in Northern Finland and has a significant role in regional cargo traffic

Ningbo 

Vaasa  (VAA)

4075.53 mi-7547.87 km

9 hours

800 km/h

Approximately 2,000 tons of cargo annually

 Industrial products, machinery, and components

Vaasa Airport serves the energy technology industry, which is a major sector in the region

Air freight transit times from China to Finland can vary depending on several factors, including the specific departure and arrival locations, the airline or freight forwarder used, the type of service chosen (e.g., express or standard), and any potential delays such as customs inspections or weather conditions.

As a rough estimate, typical air freight transit times from major airports in China (such as Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Beijing Capital International Airport) to major airports in Finland (such as Helsinki-Vantaa Airport) can range from 2 to 7 days for standard services, and even shorter for express or expedited services.

For a more accurate estimation of transit times for your specific shipment, it’s best to consult with your chosen freight forwarder or airline, as they can provide you with the most up-to-date information based on current schedules and conditions. They can also advise on any potential factors that may affect transit times and suggest the most suitable shipping options for your needs.

Air freight transit route from China to Finland

The most common air freight transit route from China to Finland typically involves a direct flight or a combination of flights through major international airports. Here’s a typical route:

Departure from China:

The journey usually starts from one of China’s major international airports, such as Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), or Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).

Transit Hub:

Many freight flights from China to Europe make a stopover at major transit hubs in the Middle East or Central Asia. Common transit hubs include Dubai International Airport (DXB) in the United Arab Emirates, Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Qatar, or Almaty International Airport (ALA) in Kazakhstan.

European Entry Point:

After the stopover, the flight proceeds to Europe. In the case of Finland, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the primary entry point for international air freight. Some flights may also go through other major European hubs like Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) or Frankfurt Airport (FRA).

Customs Clearance and Delivery:

Upon arrival at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, the cargo goes through customs clearance. Once cleared, it can be transferred to its final destination in Finland, either by air, road, or rail depending on the logistics arrangements.

It’s important to note that while this is a common route, there can be variations based on factors such as airline preferences, weather conditions, and specific logistics requirements. Additionally, some shipments may opt for direct flights if available, which can reduce transit time and potential handling issues.

Why choose air freight from China to Finland?

Choosing air freight from China to Finland offers several advantages, making it a preferred option for certain types of shipments:

  • Speed: Air freight is the fastest mode of transportation, significantly reducing transit times compared to sea or land transport. This is particularly advantageous for time-sensitive shipments or perishable goods that need to reach their destination quickly.
  • Reliability: Airlines adhere to strict schedules, providing reliable departure and arrival times. This reliability reduces the risk of delays and ensures that goods arrive at their destination within the expected timeframe.
  • Global Reach: Air freight offers extensive global connectivity, with numerous direct and indirect flight routes linking major cities worldwide. This allows businesses in China to reach markets in Finland and beyond efficiently.
  • Security: Airports implement stringent security measures, ensuring the safety and security of cargo throughout the transportation process. Additionally, cargo is typically handled with care to minimize the risk of damage or loss.
  • Convenience: Air freight offers convenience in terms of minimal handling requirements and simplified logistics. Shipments can be tracked in real-time, allowing for better visibility and control over the transportation process.
  • Inventory Management: Air freight enables businesses to maintain lower inventory levels since goods can be transported quickly as needed. This can lead to cost savings by reducing warehousing and inventory holding costs.
  • Market Demand: Certain products, such as high-value electronics or perishable goods, may have a higher demand for air freight due to their time-sensitive nature or market preferences.

Despite these advantages, air freight typically comes at a higher cost compared to sea or land transport. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of speed and reliability against the associated transportation expenses when choosing air freight for shipments from China to Finland.

Main airports in Finland

Finland has several major airports that serve domestic and international flights, catering to both passenger and cargo traffic. Some of the main airports in Finland include:

  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL): Located in Vantaa, just north of Helsinki, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland’s largest and busiest airport. It serves as the primary international gateway, offering numerous flights to destinations across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. It also handles a significant portion of Finland’s air cargo traffic.
  • Oulu Airport (OUL): Situated in Oulu, in northern Finland, Oulu Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country outside the Helsinki metropolitan area. It serves domestic flights within Finland as well as international connections to various European destinations.
  • Turku Airport (TKU): Located in Turku, on the southwest coast of Finland, Turku Airport primarily serves domestic flights within Finland. It also offers seasonal and charter flights to select European destinations.
  • Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP): Situated in Pirkkala, near Tampere in southern Finland, Tampere-Pirkkala Airport serves domestic flights within Finland and occasional international flights to European destinations.
  • Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): Located in Rovaniemi, in the Lapland region of northern Finland, Rovaniemi Airport serves as a gateway to Finland’s popular tourist destinations, including Santa Claus Village. It offers domestic flights within Finland as well as seasonal international connections.
  • Kittilä Airport (KTT): Situated in Kittilä, in the Lapland region of northern Finland, Kittilä Airport serves as a major hub for winter tourism, particularly for visitors to the Levi ski resort. It offers domestic flights within Finland and seasonal international connections.

These airports, along with several smaller regional airports, play a vital role in connecting Finland to domestic and international destinations, facilitating both passenger travel and air cargo transportation.

Sea Freight From China To Finland

Choosing the right shipping method is crucial when transporting goods from China to Finland. Two primary options are available: Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL) shipping.

LCL Freight: When opting for LCL shipping, your goods are consolidated with shipments from other shippers and transported in a shared container. This option is ideal for smaller cargo quantities as you only pay for the space your goods occupy within the container. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to transport small amounts of cargo affordably.

FCL Shipping: Alternatively, you can choose FCL shipping, where you hire and transport a full container exclusively for your cargo. This option is preferred for larger, heavier freight or when you require your goods to be sealed off in a separate unit for the entire journey. FCL shipping offers greater control and security over your cargo and is the preferred choice for businesses with sizable shipments.

Both LCL and FCL shipping have their advantages depending on the size, volume, and nature of your cargo. By understanding the differences between these options, you can select the most suitable shipping method to meet your specific needs and budget when shipping from China to Finland.

Major ports in finland

Finland has several major ports that serve as crucial gateways for international trade and cargo transportation. Some of the prominent ports in Finland include:

Port of Helsinki (Helsingin Satama):

Located in the capital city, Helsinki, this is Finland’s largest general cargo and container port. It handles a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) traffic.

Port of Turku (Turun Satama):

Situated on the southwest coast of Finland, the Port of Turku is one of the country’s busiest ports. It specializes in Ro-Ro traffic, container shipping, and general cargo, serving as a vital link between Finland and the rest of Europe.

Port of Kotka (Kotkan Satama):

Located on the southeastern coast of Finland, the Port of Kotka is a major hub for container traffic, bulk cargo, and forestry products. It offers excellent connections to Russia and other Baltic Sea countries.

Port of HaminaKotka (HaminaKotkan Satama):

Formed by the merger of the ports of Hamina and Kotka, this port complex is one of the largest in Finland. It handles various types of cargo, including containers, bulk cargo, and liquid bulk.

Port of Naantali (Naantalin Satama):

Situated on the southwest coast of Finland, near Turku, the Port of Naantali is known for its oil refinery and petrochemical industry. It also handles container traffic, bulk cargo, and Ro-Ro shipments.

These ports play a significant role in Finland’s economy by facilitating trade and transportation of goods to and from international markets. They are well-equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure to handle a wide range of cargo efficiently.

Container Shipping Rates From China To Finland

Here are the average shipping rates for transporting containers from major ports in China to Finland, catering to various types of cargo, including commercial goods, vehicles, and personal effects, for both 20-foot (ft) and 40-foot (ft) containers (FCL):

  1. Commercial Cargo: For businesses shipping commercial goods from China to Finland, the average rates for 20ft and 40ft containers vary depending on factors such as the chosen shipping line, departure port in China, and destination port in Finland. However, competitive rates can often be found for FCL shipments, offering cost-effective solutions for transporting bulk cargo.
  2. Vehicles: Shipping vehicles from China to Finland typically involves special considerations due to the size, weight, and value of the cargo. Rates for transporting vehicles in 20ft and 40ft containers may vary based on factors such as vehicle type, destination port regulations, and additional handling requirements. It’s advisable to consult with shipping agents or freight forwarders to obtain accurate quotes tailored to specific vehicle shipping needs.
  3. Personal Effects: Individuals relocating or sending personal belongings from China to Finland can also benefit from FCL shipping options. Rates for transporting personal effects in 20ft and 40ft containers are influenced by factors such as container size, volume of goods, and any special handling requests. While shipping personal effects via FCL may incur higher costs compared to other modes of transport, it offers the advantage of dedicated container space and greater security for belongings during transit.

When considering shipping options from China to Finland, it’s essential to research and compare rates from multiple shipping providers, considering factors such as transit times, service quality, and additional fees. Additionally, consulting with experienced shipping professionals can help ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping process tailored to specific cargo requirements.

Container Shipping Rates From China To Finland

From Port

To  Port

FCL 20-foot

FCL 40-foot

LCL 500 kg

LCL 1000 kg

Shanghai 

Helsinki

 $2990- $3050

$3800-$4850

$580-$645

$1060-$1118

Shenzhen 

HaminaKotka

 $3150- $3550

$4800-$5050 

$570-$606

$1020-$1080

Hong Kong

Turku

 $2990- $3050

$3800-$4850

$560-$590

$1010-$1070

Guangzhou 

Rauma

 $3150- $3550

$4800-$5050 

$560-$610

$1010-$1060

Ningbo 

Kokkola

 $3150- $3550

$3800-$4850

$580-$645

$1060-$1118

How Long Does it Take to Ship Cargo From China to Finland?

The time it takes to move your things from China to Finland can range from two to thirty days, depending on a variety of factors.

The shipping method you choose has a considerable impact on transit time.

Air and express shipping are the quickest ways to transport your things to Finland, however they are often limited in capacity.

While sea freight is better suited for bulk cargo, it often takes longer.

Additionally, documentation and customs clearance procedures can have an impact on delivery dates.

Shipments requiring more sophisticated paperwork or clearance processes may face delays.

These criteria will help you better plan your cargo and manage delivery expectations.

Sea freight route from China to Finland

Sea freight route from China to Finland

From Port

To  Port

Distance

Estimated Transit Time (Days)

Average Speed

Cargo Throughput

Passenger Traffic

Main Cargo Types

Shanghai 

Helsinki

11395.97 mi-21105.32 km

47 days 11 hours

10 knots 

Approximately 14 million tons annually.

 Around 12 million passengers per year

 Containers, Ro-Ro traffic, general cargo.

Shenzhen 

HaminaKotka

10698.98 mi- 19814.5 km

44 days 13 hours

10 knots 

Around 16 million tons annually

Over 600,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) per year

Containers, liquid bulk, dry bulk, forest industry products

Hong Kong

Turku

10599.53 mi- 19630.33 km

44 days 3 hours

10 knots 

 Roughly 3 million tons annually.

About 3 million passengers per year

Ro-Ro traffic, containers, project cargo

Guangzhou 

Rauma

10675.21 mi- 19770.48 km

44 days 11 hours

10 knots 

Approximately 6 million tons annually.

-

: Forest industry products (like paper and timber), containers, bulk cargo.

Ningbo 

Kokkola

11491.87 mi, 21282.94 km

47 days 21 hours

10 knots 

Around 7 million tons annually.

-

Bulk cargo (minerals, chemicals, raw materials), general cargo

Sea freight from China to Finland typically involves departing from major Chinese ports, passing through the South China Sea, Strait of Malacca, Indian Ocean, Suez Canal, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea, and finally arriving at Finnish ports like Helsinki, Kotka, or Turku.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship Cargo From China to Finland?

A freight forwarder will provide you with a customized quote based on the specifics of your shipment.

Various factors influence the quoted price, including the nature of the goods being shipped, as certain items require more care and specialized handling.

Additionally, the type of service chosen—whether door-to-door, door-to-port, port-to-door, or port-to-port—will affect the cost due to the differing distances and logistics involved.

The weight, dimensions, and volume of your consignment are also key factors, along with your choice between air freight and ocean shipping, either as Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL).

If you’re deciding between air and sea freight, a general guideline is that air freight may be as economical as ocean freight for shipments weighing under 100kg.

For goods above this weight, air freight typically makes financial sense only if the shipment is urgently needed in Finland.

Otherwise, if time allows, ocean shipping is usually the most cost-effective option.

It’s worth noting that most freight forwarders, including Shipa Freight, do not handle shipments weighing less than 35kg.

By consulting with a freight forwarder, you can receive tailored advice and quotes to help you make the most cost-efficient and practical shipping decisions for your needs.

Why Ship From China to Finland With TopShipping?

Shipping your freight from China to Finland is simple with TopShipping .

We ensure timely, cost-efficient air and ocean freight with our advanced online platform.

Why Choose Shipa Freight?

  • Easy Quotes: Get quick online quotes.
  • Simple Booking & Payments: Book and pay online with ease.
  • Centralized Management: Manage all shipments in one place.
  • Customs Clearance: We handle it for you.
  • Transparent Documents: Clear shipping documentation.
  • 24/7 Support: Customer service available anytime.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to international shipping rules.

Conclusions

In conclusion, shipping from China to Finland has become more efficient and cost-effective due to advancements in transportation and logistics.

Businesses can take advantage of various shipping methods, including sea freight, air freight, and rail transport, to meet their specific needs.

With the growing trade relations between China and Finland, there are ample opportunities for businesses to explore new markets and expand their reach.

It is essential for companies to work with reliable shipping partners who can ensure timely delivery and smooth customs clearance processes.

By leveraging these transportation options effectively, businesses can streamline their supply chain operations and enhance their competitiveness in the global market.

Consider partnering with a trusted logistics provider today to optimize your shipping processes and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the China-Finland trade route.

Discover why we’re the top shipping company with our specialized Shipping From China to US solutions. Navigate to our services to ensure seamless delivery and unparalleled reliability.

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