Shipping from China to Spain

Introduction

Are you seeking reliable shipping solutions from China to Spain? Look no further! At TopShipping, we specialize in facilitating the growing demand for imports from China to Spain. This route has become increasingly profitable, and we are here to offer you the best shipping methods available.

Our services include:

  • Air Freight
  • Sea Freight
  • Door-to-Door Shipping
  • Express Shipping

Each shipping method comes with important considerations regarding transit time and cost. We provide detailed information on these aspects to help you make the best decision for your needs. Additionally, we offer comprehensive customs clearance services in Spain, covering customs duties, taxes, and the necessary documentation.

Our dedicated team at TopShipping  is always ready to assist you. Contact us for the best prices and expert guidance on shipping from China to Spain.

Freight Shipping Cost from China to Spain

Shipping costs from China to Spain can vary significantly depending on the mode of transportation, cargo size and weight, and the urgency of the delivery. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the typical costs for the most common shipping methods:

  1. Air Freight: Ideal for urgent and smaller shipments, air freight is the fastest but also the most expensive option. Costs can range from $5 to $10 per kilogram, depending on the carrier and current demand.
  2. Sea Freight: Suitable for larger, less time-sensitive shipments, sea freight is more economical but slower. Costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 per container, depending on the size (20ft or 40ft), shipping route, and current market conditions.
  3. Door-to-Door Shipping: This all-inclusive service covers pickup from the supplier, transportation, customs clearance, and delivery to the final destination. Prices can range from $6 to $12 per kilogram, offering convenience for businesses wanting a hassle-free shipping solution.
  4. Express Shipping: For the fastest delivery, express shipping via couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS is the best choice. Costs are higher, ranging from $10 to $20 per kilogram, but offer unparalleled speed and reliability.

These prices are indicative and can fluctuate based on factors such as fuel costs, seasonal demand, and geopolitical events. By understanding these costs, businesses can make informed decisions on the most suitable shipping method based on their specific needs and budget constraint

Understanding Import Tax and Duties

Import taxes and duties can significantly increase the total cost of shipping goods from China to Spain. When goods arrive in Spain, they are subject to various charges, including Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties. These additional costs are calculated based on the value of the goods, their classification under the Harmonized System (HS), and the agreed Incoterms.

  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Spain imposes a standard VAT rate of 21% on most imported goods. This tax is calculated on the total value of the goods, including shipping costs and insurance. The high VAT rate can substantially raise the final price that consumers or businesses pay for imported products.
  • Customs Duties: The duty rates vary depending on the type of product and its classification under the HS code system. Depending on the product category, customs duties can add up to 20% or more to the cost of goods.

For example, electronic goods might have a lower duty rate compared to textiles or food products. The specific rate depends on trade agreements and the specific regulations for each product type.

These import taxes and duties must be factored into the overall shipping cost to provide an accurate estimate of the total expense. Understanding these charges helps businesses budget accurately and avoid unexpected costs, ensuring smooth and cost-effective international trade operations.

Why Businesses Should Consider Door-to-Door Shipping Services from China to Spain

Door-to-door shipping services offer a seamless logistics solution that simplifies the entire transportation process. This comprehensive service encompasses everything from pickup at the supplier’s location in China to delivery at the recipient’s doorstep in Spain. Here are the key advantages:

  1. Simplified Logistics: Door-to-door shipping eliminates the need for multiple intermediaries. One provider coordinates the entire journey, reducing the complexity of managing different logistics partners and ensuring a smoother shipping process.
  2. Reduced Handling of Goods: With fewer transfers between different modes of transport, the risk of damage to goods is minimized. This is particularly beneficial for fragile or high-value items, ensuring they arrive in excellent condition.
  3. Potential Cost Savings: Streamlining the shipping process can lead to lower overall costs. By reducing the number of parties involved and consolidating services, businesses can achieve significant savings in both time and money.
  4. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Reliable and timely delivery enhances customer satisfaction. For example, businesses shipping electronics can ensure that their products arrive in pristine condition, reducing the likelihood of returns and increasing customer loyalty.

By opting for door-to-door shipping, businesses can focus on their core operations while enjoying the benefits of a streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective logistics solution.

Shipping Methods from China to Spain

Shipping goods from China to Spain involves several methods, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here are the main shipping methods:

1. Air Freight

  • Speed: Fastest option, typically 3-7 days.
  • Cost: Higher compared to other methods, suitable for high-value or urgent goods.
  • Reliability: Highly reliable with frequent flights.
  • Best For: Small or medium-sized shipments, electronics, fashion goods, and other time-sensitive products.

2. Sea Freight

  • Speed: Slower, typically 25-40 days depending on the port and route.
  • Cost: More economical, especially for large volumes.
  • Container Options:
    • FCL (Full Container Load): Exclusive use of a container, ideal for large shipments.
    • LCL (Less than Container Load): Share container space with other shippers, suitable for smaller loads.
  • Best For: Bulk goods, furniture, textiles, and non-urgent shipments.

3. Rail Freight

  • Speed: Medium, usually 18-25 days.
  • Cost: Cheaper than air but more expensive than sea freight.
  • Eco-Friendly: More sustainable compared to air and sea.
  • Best For: Intermediate volumes, electronics, automotive parts, and goods needing quicker transit than sea freight.

4. Express/Courier Services

  • Speed: Very fast, usually 2-5 days.
  • Cost: Most expensive option.
  • Best For: Small parcels, urgent documents, or high-value items.

5. Door-to-Door Shipping

  • Combination: Often a combination of methods, such as air or sea freight with local delivery.
  • Convenience: Complete handling from origin to destination, including customs clearance.
  • Best For: Businesses seeking full-service logistics with minimal hassle.

6. E-Packet

  • Speed: Typically 7-15 days.
  • Cost: Lower than express but higher than sea freight.
  • Best For: E-commerce sellers, small parcels, and lower-value items.

Factors to Consider:

  • Cost: Varies based on the method, volume, and urgency.
  • Time Sensitivity: Air and express are best for urgent shipments.
  • Volume and Weight: Larger volumes are more cost-effective by sea or rail.
  • Customs and Duties: Different methods may have varying customs processes.
  • Environmental Impact: Rail and sea freight are more eco-friendly options.

Choosing the right shipping method depends on your specific needs, including budget, delivery time, and the nature of the goods being shipped.

Air freight from China to Spain

Many businesses prefer air freight for shipping goods from China to Spain despite its higher cost. This preference is driven by several compelling advantages:

  1. High Speed: Air freight is the fastest shipping method, ensuring quick delivery times.
  2. Easy Tracking: Advanced tracking systems provide real-time updates on the status and location of shipments.
  3. High Security: Rigorous security measures at airports minimize the risk of theft and damage.
  4. Lightweight Packaging: Less restrictive packaging requirements can reduce weight and costs.

Air freight is particularly efficient for shipments smaller than 3 CBM or under 500 kg, especially when speed is a priority. It is the ideal solution for time-sensitive and high-value goods, offering reliable and safe transportation.

Our Air Freight Services

At TopShipping , we have established a robust network of carriers specializing in air shipping from China to Spain. With daily and weekly departures from China’s major airports to the main cargo airports in Spain, we ensure consistent and dependable service. Our partnerships with renowned airlines such as China Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, and China Southern Airlines enable us to offer competitive rates and flexible scheduling options.

Why Choose TopShipping?

  • Expert Guidance: Our experienced team provides online advice and support, helping you navigate the complexities of air freight.
  • Reliable Network: We collaborate with top airlines to ensure your goods are handled with the utmost care and delivered on time.
  • Customized Solutions: We tailor our services to meet your specific requirements, whether for small parcels or larger shipments.

Air Freight Costs and Transit Time

Understanding the costs and transit times is crucial for planning. Air freight costs typically range from $5 to $10 per kilogram, with transit times from major Chinese airports to Spain averaging between 3 to 7 days. Prices can vary based on factors such as fuel costs, seasonal demand, and specific airline tariffs.

Air freight cost from China to SpainAir freight cost from China to Spain

Air freight costs from China to Spain depend on several factors, including cargo volume and type, the cities of origin and destination, and the required delivery timeframe (e.g., holiday periods may affect prices). Generally, air freight is more expensive than sea freight, but shipping heavier cargo by air can reduce the per-kilogram rate.

Here is a sample cost table for shipping from Shanghai to Barcelona:

  • Up to 100 kg: $8 per kilogram
  • Up to 500 kg: $7 per kilogram
  • Up to 1000 kg: $3.5 per kilogram

From Air Port

To AIR Port

100kg Cost per Kilogram

500kg Cost per Kilogram

1000kg Cost per Kilogram

Shanghai Pudong   (PVG)

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez (MAD)

$7

$6

$2.50

Beijing Capital (PEK) 

Barcelona El Prat (BCN)

$7.50

$6.20

$2.70

Guangzhou Baiyun

(CAN) 

Zaragoza

(ZAZ) 

$6.50

$5.80

$2.30

Shenzhen Bao'an (SZX)

Vitoria

(VIT) 

$6.50

$5.80

$2.30

Hong Kong

(HKG)

Valencia

(VLC)

$6.50

$5.80

$2.30

Chengdu Shuangliu

(CTU)

Seville 

(SVQ)

$6.50

$5.80

$2.30

Zhengzhou Xinzheng 

 (CGO) 

Gran Canaria

(LPA)​

$6.50

$5.80

$2.30

For more details and personalized advice, please contact us.

Air freight transit time from China to Spain

Air freight from China to Spain is very fast, typically taking between 2 to 4 days, including loading, flight, and customs clearance. However, transit times can vary based on the date, city of origin, and destination in Spain. During holidays, transit times may be longer due to increased cargo volume and flight demand.

Air freight is ideal for urgent shipments and small cargo volumes.

Here is a sample transit time:

  • Shanghai to Barcelona: 3 days

For detailed transit times and personalized advice, please contact us.

Major cargo Airports in Spain

Some of the major cargo airports in Spain include:

  1. Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD): Located in Madrid, this is the busiest airport in Spain and serves as a major hub for both passenger and cargo flights.
  2. Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN): Situated in Barcelona, this airport is the second busiest in Spain and serves as a key gateway for international cargo shipments.
  3. Valencia Airport (VLC): Located in Valencia, this airport plays a significant role in handling cargo traffic, particularly for goods coming in and out of the eastern region of Spain.
  4. Málaga Airport (AGP): Situated in Málaga, this airport serves as a vital cargo hub, particularly for goods destined for the southern region of Spain and the Mediterranean coast.
  5. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI): Located in Palma de Mallorca, this airport serves as an important cargo hub for the Balearic Islands and handles a significant volume of air freight traffic.

From Air Port

To Air Port

Distance

Estimated Transit Time (Days)

Average Speed

Shanghai Pudong   (PVG)

Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez (MAD)

5537.38 mi- 10255.23 km

 12 hours

800 km/h

Beijing Capital (PEK) 

Barcelona El Prat (BCN)

4753.05 mi-8802.64 km

11 hours

800 km/h

Guangzhou Baiyun

(CAN) 

Zaragoza

(ZAZ) 

5471.62 mi- 10133.43 km

 12 hours

800 km/h

Shenzhen Bao'an (SZX)

Vitoria

(VIT) 

5530.48 mi- 10242.44 km

 12 hours

800 km/h

Hong Kong

(HKG)

Valencia

(VLC)

5595.82 mi- 10363.46 km

 12 hours

800 km/h

Chengdu Shuangliu

(CTU)

Seville 

(SVQ)

5143.82 mi-9526.35 km

 11hours

800 km/h

Zhengzhou Xinzheng 

 (CGO) 

Gran Canaria

(LPA)

5143.82 mi-9526.35 km

 11hours

800 km/h

These airports have modern facilities and infrastructure to handle various types of cargo, making them key hubs for air freight transportation in Spain.

Sea freight from China to Spain (FCL/LCL)

Sea freight from China to Spain (FCL/LCL)

Sea freight from China to Spain, whether through Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) services, offers cost-effective options for shipping goods. Here’s an overview:

Full Container Load (FCL)

Advantages:

  1. Exclusive Use: The entire container is reserved for your goods, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
  2. Cost-Effective for Large Shipments: Ideal for businesses with enough cargo to fill a container.
  3. Faster Transit Times: Direct routes are often available, leading to shorter transit times compared to LCL.

Process:

  1. Container Booking: Reserve a full container for your shipment.
  2. Loading: Goods are loaded into the container at the supplier’s location in China.
  3. Transportation: The container is transported via sea freight to the destination port in Spain.
  4. Customs Clearance: Goods are cleared through customs in both China and Spain.
  5. Delivery: Upon arrival, the container is unloaded and delivered to the recipient’s location.

Less than Container Load (LCL)

Advantages:

  1. Cost-Effective for Small Shipments: Suitable for businesses with smaller cargo volumes that don’t require a full container.
  2. Consolidation: Your goods are consolidated with shipments from other businesses, reducing costs.
  3. Flexibility: Allows for smaller, more frequent shipments as needed.

Process:

  1. Cargo Consolidation: Your goods are combined with shipments from other businesses at a consolidation warehouse in China.
  2. Container Loading: The consolidated cargo is loaded into a container for transport.
  3. Transportation: The container is shipped via sea freight to the destination port in Spain.
  4. Deconsolidation: At the destination port, the container is unloaded, and your goods are separated from others.
  5. Customs Clearance and Delivery: Goods are cleared through customs and delivered to the recipient’s location in Spain.

Considerations:

  • Transit Time: Sea freight generally takes longer than air freight, with transit times ranging from a few weeks to a month depending on the route.
  • Cost: Sea freight is typically more economical than air freight, especially for large shipments or non-urgent deliveries.
  • Packaging: Proper packaging is crucial to protect goods during transit, especially for sea freight where goods may be exposed to more handling and varied environmental conditions.

By understanding the differences between FCL and LCL sea freight services, businesses can choose the option that best suits their shipping needs from China to Spain.

Sea freight cost from China to Spain

Sea freight cost from China to Spain

Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for shipping large quantities of goods from China to Spain.

Here’s why:

  • Cost Efficiency: Sea freight is cheaper than air freight, especially for large shipments. The larger your cargo volume, the lower the cost per unit compared to air freight.
  • Flexibility: Sea freight offers both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options. FCL is suitable for large shipments, while LCL is cost-effective for smaller volumes as you only pay for the space you use in a container.
  • Port Options: There are numerous ports to choose from in both China and Spain. Popular ports in China include Shanghai, while ports in Spain include Barcelona and Valencia. Choosing the right ports can help save on shipping and handling costs by selecting a port closer to your destination.

From Port

To Port

FCL 20-foot

FCL 40-foot

LCL 500 kg

LCL 1000 kg

Shanghai

Algeciras

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Ningbo

Valencia

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Shenzhen 

Barcelona 

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Guangzhou

Bilbao

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Qingdao 

Las Palmas

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Tianjin

Tarragona

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

Xiamen

Castellón 

$1400-$2700

$2700-$3700

$90- $140

$140 - $240

For detailed sea freight costs from specific ports in China to ports in Spain, please refer to our compiled table or contact us for personalized advice.

Sea freight transit time from China to Spain (FCL/LCL)

Sea freight from China to Spain typically involves a longer transit time due to the route taken, which passes through various bodies of water before reaching its destination. Here’s what you should consider:

  • Route: The typical container shipping route from China to Europe travels through the South China Sea, Indian Ocean, Malacca Strait, and Suez Canal before reaching Spain.
  • Transit Time: Sea freight can take between 20 to 50 days on average, depending on factors such as the chosen shipping method (FCL or LCL) and the ports of origin and destination.
  • FCL vs. LCL: Choosing Full Container Load (FCL) may result in faster transit times as you’re selecting a full container and don’t need to wait for it to be filled with other loads. Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments may take longer due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes.

Our team at TopShipping has compiled the following table showing sea freight transit times from Chinese ports to Spanish ports. For example, from Shanghai to Barcelona, FCL sea freight takes between 27 to 45 days on average, while LCL sea freight takes between 32 to 49 days.

For more information on sea freight transit times and personalized advice, please refer to our table or contact us directly

The Major Sea ports in Spain

Some of the major sea ports in Spain include:

  • Port of Algeciras: Located in the Bay of Gibraltar, the Port of Algeciras is one of the largest ports in Europe and serves as a key gateway for international trade.
  • Port of Barcelona: Situated on the northeast coast of Spain, the Port of Barcelona is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean and handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, automobiles, and bulk goods.
  • Port of Valencia: Located on the eastern coast of Spain, the Port of Valencia is the largest port in Spain in terms of container traffic and is a major hub for imports and exports.
  • Port of Bilbao: Situated in the Bay of Biscay, the Port of Bilbao is one of the principal maritime ports in northern Spain and handles various types of cargo, including containers, liquid bulk, and general cargo.
  • Port of Tarragona: Located on the Mediterranean coast of Catalonia, the Port of Tarragona is an important port for the region’s chemical industry and also handles containerized cargo, bulk goods, and general cargo.

From Port

To Port

Distance

Estimated Transit Time (Days)

Average Speed

Shanghai

Algeciras

9012.54 mi- 16691.22 km

37 days 13 hours

10 knots

Ningbo

Valencia

8681.88 mi- 16078.83 km

 36 days 4 hours

10 knots

Shenzhen 

Barcelona 

8681.88 mi- 16078.83 km

36 days 4 hours

10 knots

Guangzhou

Bilbao

9261.2 mi- 17151.74 km

38 days 14 hours

10 knots

Qingdao 

Las Palmas

9160.46 mi- 16965.17 km

38 days 4 hours

10 knots

Tianjin

Tarragona

9421.29 mi- 17448.22 km

39 days 6 hours

10 knots

Xiamen

Castellón 

8331.27 mi-15429.5 km

34 days 17 hours

10 knots

These ports play a significant role in Spain’s economy by facilitating trade and commerce with countries around the world.

Express shipping from China to Spain

Express shipping from China to Spain is the fastest option available, with delivery typically taking 2-3 business days or 3-6 calendar days. The cost for express shipping ranges from $50 to $60 for a parcel shipment with dimensions up to 120x80x80 cubic centimeters.

Well-known carriers such as UPS, TNT, FedEx, and EMS offer reliable express shipping services, utilizing various methods including airfreight, sea freight, and train railway freight. These carriers provide door-to-door service, ensuring your items are delivered quickly and securely to their destination in Spain.

TopShipping works with these express companies, including DHL, and can provide discounted rates for your shipments. Contact us to take advantage of these discounts and ensure a seamless shipping experience from China to Spain.

What items cannot be shipped to Spain?

Understanding customs regulations is crucial to avoid legal issues and potential fees when shipping from China to Spain. Spanish customs approval is necessary for goods to be cleared and received in Spain. To assist you, we have compiled a list of prohibited items for import into Spain:

– Any items containing asbestos fibers
– Products containing the chemical biocide dimethyl fumarate (DMF)
– Animal skins
– Chemicals, hazardous and non-hazardous
– Non-prescription drugs
– Food products
– Illegal drugs and narcotics
– Plants
– Medical thermometers intended for human use that contain mercury
– Narcotics-containing preparations, medical preparations

For more detailed information and guidance on customs regulations and prohibited items, please contact our experts.

We are here to ensure a smooth and compliant shipping process from China to Spain.

Conclusions

In conclusion, shipping from China to Spain offers businesses a cost-effective and efficient transportation solution. With established trade routes and reliable carriers, companies can benefit from timely deliveries and reduced transit times. To streamline the shipping process further, it is recommended to work closely with logistics partners who have expertise in international freight forwarding. By leveraging these partnerships, businesses can ensure smooth customs clearance and minimize potential delays. Take proactive steps today to optimize your supply chain and enhance your global shipping operations.

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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