Amazon logistics China to Australia has become one of the most efficient shipping channels for eCommerce sellers aiming to expand into the Australian market. With increasing cross-border trade and fast-growing demand on Amazon AU, having a smooth shipping strategy can make a big difference in delivery speed, costs, and customer satisfaction.
This guide explains everything you need to know — from shipping options, delivery times, customs clearance, and duty handling, to practical steps for Amazon FBA and FBM fulfillment in Australia.
Why Use Amazon Logistics from China to Australia?
Shipping directly to Australia through Amazon logistics offers many advantages over traditional shipping methods.
Key benefits include:
- Fast delivery times compared to sea freight
- Integrated customs clearance
- Optimized for FBA and FBM models
- Cost-effective for mid- to high-volume shipments
- Real-time shipment tracking
| Feature | Amazon Logistics | Standard Freight Forwarder |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Speed | Fast (3–10 days) | Variable |
| Customs Clearance | Integrated | Manual |
| Tracking | Real-time | Limited |
| Ideal for | FBA / E-Commerce | Bulk Cargo |
| Cost Efficiency | High for sellers | Medium |
How Does Amazon Logistics China to Australia Work?
The process of shipping from China to Australia via Amazon logistics typically involves:
- Supplier preparation in China (labeling, packaging, palletizing)
- Booking shipment through Amazon or a certified partner
- Transportation by air or sea to Australia
- Customs clearance and import handling
- Delivery to Amazon Fulfillment Center or final customer (for FBM)
| Step | Responsible Party | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Labeling & Packaging | Seller / Supplier | Must meet Amazon requirements |
| Booking & Transportation | Seller or Freight Forwarder | Mode choice: air or sea freight |
| Customs & Duties | Forwarder / Broker | Required compliance |
| Delivery to FC | Amazon or logistics partner | On-time delivery is critical |
What Are the Main Shipping Options?
Depending on your timeline, cargo volume, and budget, there are several shipping options available for Amazon sellers:
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 3–7 days | High | Fast-moving or high-value inventory |
| Express Courier | 3–5 days | Higher | Small parcels and urgent shipments |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 18–30 days | Low | Bulk inventory with flexible lead time |
| Air-Sea Combined | 10–15 days | Moderate | Cost-saving without sacrificing too much time |
Major Amazon Fulfillment Centers in Australia
Amazon has several strategic fulfillment centers in Australia to ensure quick nationwide coverage.
| Location | City / State | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Dandenong South | Victoria | Main FC for southern region |
| Moorebank | New South Wales | Major FC near Sydney |
| Brisbane | Queensland | Quick delivery to eastern region |
| Perth | Western Australia | Ideal for west coast coverage |
How Long Does Amazon Logistics Take from China to Australia?
| Mode | Transit Time (Avg.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Express Courier | 3–5 days | Fastest, best for urgent small parcels |
| Air Freight | 5–7 days | Good balance of speed and cost |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 18–30 days | Cheapest option for bulk stock |
| Air-Sea Combined | 10–15 days | Reliable hybrid method |
Additional time should be allocated for customs clearance and final delivery to Amazon FC (1–3 days typically).
Amazon FBA vs FBM: Which Model Works Better?
| Feature | FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) | FBM (Fulfillment by Merchant) |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Amazon warehouses | Seller-managed |
| Delivery Speed | Faster, Prime eligible | Depends on seller setup |
| Cost | Higher fees but automated | Lower fees but manual work |
| Inventory Control | Limited | Full |
| Best For | High volume sellers | Flexible or niche sellers |
👉 Many successful sellers use a hybrid model: FBA for main products and FBM for special or seasonal SKUs.
Cost Estimation for Amazon Logistics China to Australia
| Cargo Weight / Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Shipping Mode | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50–100 kg | $7–$10 / kg | Express Courier | Small parcels |
| 100–300 kg | $4–$6 / kg | Air Freight | Cost-efficient for medium loads |
| 1 CBM (LCL) | $450–$600 | Sea Freight | Good for bulk stock |
| 1x20ft Container | $3,500–$5,000 | Sea Freight | Competitive rates |
| 1x40ft Container | $5,500–$8,000 | Sea Freight | Lower unit cost |
Rates fluctuate seasonally. Booking early helps secure better pricing.
Cost Estimation for Amazon Logistics China to Australia
| Cargo Weight / Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Shipping Mode | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50–100 kg | $7–$10 / kg | Express Courier | Small parcels |
| 100–300 kg | $4–$6 / kg | Air Freight | Cost-efficient for medium loads |
| 1 CBM (LCL) | $450–$600 | Sea Freight | Good for bulk stock |
| 1x20ft Container | $3,500–$5,000 | Sea Freight | Competitive rates |
| 1x40ft Container | $5,500–$8,000 | Sea Freight | Lower unit cost |
Rates fluctuate seasonally. Booking early helps secure better pricing.
Best Practices to Speed Up Delivery
- Use air freight for first stock and sea for replenishment.
- Prepare customs documents early to avoid clearance delays.
- Book warehouse appointments in advance to skip queues.
- Label all cartons correctly according to Amazon’s FBA standards.
- Use DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to simplify the entire process.
Conclusion
Amazon logistics China to Australia gives sellers a competitive edge with faster shipping, integrated customs clearance, and a streamlined FBA process. Whether you choose air or sea freight, planning the right shipping strategy will help you reduce costs and increase delivery speed.
For Amazon sellers expanding to the Australian market, leveraging professional logistics support is the smartest way to ensure smooth and profitable operations.
Request a Quote
Looking for a reliable partner to handle your Amazon shipping from China to Australia? We offer door-to-door freight solutions, FBA labeling, customs clearance, and competitive rates. Contact us today for a customized shipping quote.
Q1: How long does Amazon logistics shipping from China to Australia take
Transit time is typically 3–7 days by air and 18–30 days by sea, depending on the mode and season.
Q2: Can I ship directly to Amazon fulfillment centers in Australia?
Yes, you can ship directly to FCs like Dandenong or Moorebank with proper labeling and booking.
Q3: What are the import duties in Australia?
GST (10%) applies to most imports, and additional customs duties may apply based on HS codes.
Q4: Which is better, air freight or sea freight?
Air is best for urgent or small shipments, while sea is more cost-efficient for bulk inventory.
Q5: What documents are required for customs clearance?
You’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, waybill, import declaration, and certificate of origin.