Shipping from China to Canada with Luckystar Logistic

sea Freight

Luckystar Logistic offers comprehensive shipping solutions for transporting goods between China and Canada, providing multiple transportation options to meet diverse business needs.

As a trusted shipping company, we understand the complexities of international shipping and deliver reliable door-to-door services across major Canadian cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary.

Shipping Method From China to Canada

The primary shipping options from China to Canada include sea freight shipping and air freight shipping.

Sea Freight

Sea Freight is the most cost-effective option for large and bulky shipments. It is ideal for businesses looking to transport significant quantities of goods without the pressure of tight deadlines.

Containers are loaded onto cargo ships in major Chinese ports like Shanghai or Shenzhen and travel to Canadian ports such as Vancouver or Montreal.

While sea freight offers lower transportation costs, it typically has longer transit times, ranging from two to four weeks, depending on the specific route and any port delays.

For Sea Freight:

  • LCL Shipping: Share container space with others. Beneficial if you don’t have enough goods to fill a container.
  • FCL Shipping: Book an entire container for your shipment, which is ideal for larger quantities.

The decision between LCL and FCL will alter your cost and may influence the transit time of your shipment.

LCL can be more economical for smaller shipments but may add one to two weeks to your shipping time due to the additional steps involved in consolidation and deconsolidation.

FCL, on the other hand, can be more straightforward and sometimes faster, as a full container is typically not opened until it reaches its destination.

Air Freight

Air Freight provides a faster alternative, with transit times usually between three to seven days. This method is suitable for high-value, perishable, or time-sensitive items that require quick delivery.

Major airports in China, including Beijing Capital International Airport and Hong Kong International Airport, handle numerous daily flights to Canadian cities like Toronto and Calgary.

Although air freight is more expensive than sea freight, the reduced delivery time can be crucial for certain businesses and products.

Express Shipping Services

Express shipping provides you with rapid transit times and is a reliable choice when you need your items quickly. Freight forwarders like Luckystar offer express options, which guarantee the delivery of packages up to a certain weight within a business day or two. The rates for express shipping are higher owing to the speed and convenience they offer, and you may receive personalized quotes based on your specific needs.

Shipping Perishable, Fragile, and High-Value Items

For perishable goods like food and flowers, which are time-sensitive, express services by UPS, DHL, or FedEx can be reliable options. They offer speed and efficiency in delivery, usually within days. Fragile items need secure packing and careful handling, sometimes requiring custom packaging solutions to ensure they aren’t damaged in transit. High-value items, such as electronics or jewelry, not only need protective packaging but also additional security measures and insurance to safeguard against loss or theft.

Container Types and Their Uses

Different container types have distinct purposes. Standard containers are versatile for many types of goods, while specialized containers such as refrigerated ones are critical for perishable goods to maintain their freshness. Bulk shipping in dry containers can be the most cost-effective option for non-perishable, non-fragile goods in large quantities. Ensuring you select the right container type helps in safeguarding your cargo and optimizing shipping costs.

Luckystar Shipping Cost From China to Canada

Cost of Air Freight from China to Canada

Standard Air Freight Rates
Prices per kilogram vary by weight:

  • 10kg (Express): $150
  • 45kg: $130
  • 100kg: $20
  • 300-500kg: $8
Air Freight Costs per KG

Cost of Sea Shipment from China to Canada

40′ Container Shipping Rates

Montreal Rates

  • Ningbo to Montreal: ~$17,500
  • Shanghai to Montreal: ~$17,000
  • Yantian to Montreal: ~$16,500

Toronto Rates

  • Ningbo to Toronto: ~$18,000
  • Shanghai to Toronto: ~$19,000
  • Yantian to Toronto: ~$16,500

Vancouver Rates

  • All ports (Ningbo, Shanghai, Yantian) to Vancouver: approximately $11,500-12,000

LCL (Less than Container Load) Rates

British Columbia

  • Ningbo: ~$1,250
  • Shanghai: ~$1,300
  • Shenzhen: ~$1,300

Ontario

  • Ningbo: ~$1,350
  • Shanghai: ~$1,550
  • Shenzhen: ~$1,400

Quebec

  • Ningbo: ~$1,300
  • Shanghai: ~$1,450
  • Shenzhen: ~$1,350
Shipping rates from China to Canada: LCL
Container shipping rates from China to Canada: 40′ Container

Please note that the rates shown are only estimates to provide an indication of pricing. Actual quotes will vary depending on the specific details of the shipment, such as the goods, weight, dimensions, delivery timeline, and other requirements.

We work with each customer individually to develop customized shipping solutions tailored to your needs and budget. You can expect competitive pricing that aims to deliver great value. 

Fuel Surcharges and Additional Fees

Lastly, fuel surcharges and other fees can add to your bill. These additional fees often relate to fuel price changes and might not be the same when you get a quote as when you ship. Always check for the latest updates and keep a buffer in your budget for these potential changes.

Shipping Routes From China to Canada

If you want to ship goods from China to Canada in a reasonable time, you should think carefully about the shipping routes. Here is a detailed overview of the primary shipping routes and methods used for transporting goods between these two countries.

Main Sea Shipping Routes

  1. Trans-Pacific Route
    • This is the most common sea freight route, connecting Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Shenzhen to Canadian ports such as Vancouver and Prince Rupert on the West Coast. It involves crossing the Pacific Ocean and is ideal for goods destined for Western Canada due to relatively shorter transit times.
  2. Trans-Atlantic Route
    • Although less common than the Trans-Pacific route, this sea freight route connects Chinese ports to Eastern Canadian ports like Halifax and Montreal via the Atlantic Ocean. It can be advantageous for shipments intended for Eastern Canada or when specific logistical needs arise.

Popular Air Shipping Lanes

The top three routes of the ship to Canada are:

  • Shanghai to Vancouver
  • Shanghai to Toronto
  • Shenzhen to Toronto

Shipping Time From China to Canada

Air Freight

Here’s a clear comparison table of shipping times from China to Canada:

Shipping MethodTransit TimeDetails
Express Shipping2-5 days1-5 business days
Air Freight (Standard)3-10 daysStandard air freight service
Air Freight (Economic)Up to 10 daysEconomic air freight option
Sea Freight (Port to Port)14-27 daysShanghai to Vancouver/Montreal routes
Sea Freight (FCL)31-57 daysFull Container Load door-to-door service
Sea Freight (LCL)34-64 daysLess than Container Load door-to-door service

Preparing for Chinese Holidays and Delays

Chinese holidays, like the Chinese New Year, can significantly delay shipping times. During these times, factories and major shipping ports in China might close or operate at reduced capacity, leading to a backlog of shipments. Planning ahead is crucial. You should monitor your shipping schedule and allow for extra transit time during these periods. Working with a company experienced in Sino shipping can help navigate these delays more effectively.

Customs and Documentation

When shipping from China to Canada, understanding the essentials of customs clearance and the necessary documentation is vital. You also need to be aware of the duties and taxes that apply to your shipped goods.

Upon arrival, your goods will go through customs clearance, which is the process of passing your goods through customs so they can enter the country. 

Customs brokers are professionals who can help you through this process; hiring one is an option if you feel unsure about handling it yourself. They are familiar with all of the customs regulations and can ensure your shipments meet all the necessary requirements.

Essential Shipping Documents

For a smooth shipping experience, having all your paperwork in order is critical. Each document serves a specific purpose:

  1. Commercial Invoice: It’s your proof of sale and contains important details such as the description and value of the goods, the seller and buyer details, and the terms of the trade.
  2. Bill of Lading: This not only serves as a receipt for the shipped goods, but also as a document of title, crucial for the lawful control over the shipment.
  3. Packing List: This complements the commercial invoice by providing a detailed breakdown of the goods, including individual weights, packaging types, and quantities.

Understanding Customs Duties and Taxes

Your shipment’s entry into Canada will also involve paying customs duties and taxes. These vary depending on the type and value of the items you’re shipping.

Here’s how it works:

  • Customs Duties: Canada uses a tariff classification system to determine how much duty you’ll need to pay. This is a percentage of the item’s value.
  • Taxes: Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) may also apply to your imports.

Before filling an entire container, check out the Canada Border Services Agency’s website or consult with a customs broker to calculate the expected customs duties and taxes for your shipment.

Why Choose Luckystar Logistic

Founded in 2022, Luckystar Logistic is a member of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and operates as a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC). Our mission is to provide the best freight service at competitive prices, primarily serving China, the USA, Canada, and Europe. With a core team boasting over 20 years of experience in logistics, Luckystar brings unparalleled expertise to every shipment. Since our inception, we have been committed to delivering reliable, adaptable, and responsive global door to door transport and logistics solutions.

Why Partner with Us?

  • Expert Transportation Services:
    We are more than just a logistics company; we are transportation experts. Our industry-leading solutions ensure premium shipping services at a fraction of the cost compared to other freight forwarders both in China and worldwide.
  • Reliable Delivery:
    Say goodbye to delivery delays. Our dependable services ensure your goods arrive on time, which is essential for businesses that need to deliver swiftly to their customers.
  • Global Reach:
    With an extensive network covering destinations around the globe, we provide extraordinary opportunities for businesses looking to expand internationally. Rest assured, your packages will reach virtually any corner of the world, helping your business go global.
  • Easy Tracking:
    No more guesswork. Our robust tracking system allows you to monitor your shipment’s progress in real-time at every stage of its journey. Stay informed and enjoy peace of mind knowing exactly where your shipment is at all times.
  • Personalized Service:
    A dedicated team member personally oversees your shipment from start to finish. Our commitment to transparency and constant communication ensures you are always updated on the status of your cargo.
  • Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials:
    Shipping hazardous materials requires expertise and caution. Partnering with us means your shipments are handled safely and efficiently by experienced professionals, giving you peace of mind.

Affordable International Shipping:
Looking for an experienced freight forwarder to assist with your shipping needs? Contact Luckystar Logistic today! We offer unbeatable cost of shipping for international shipments, making our services more affordable than you’d expect. Don’t hesitate—reach out to us now and experience the Luckystar difference.