Shipping Amazon goods efficiently is critical for sellers expanding into Gulf and Middle Eastern markets. The FBA freight China to Middle East service connects Chinese manufacturers with Amazon fulfillment centers in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.
However, FBA rules, customs procedures, and delivery times can vary by region. This guide explains how to ship your FBA inventory smoothly — comparing air, sea, and express freight options, with cost-saving strategies and customs tips tailored for Middle Eastern destinations.
What Is FBA Freight from China to the Middle East?
FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) freight is the logistics service that moves your goods from China to Amazon fulfillment centers in the Middle East.
When you use Amazon FBA, you ship your products in bulk to Amazon’s warehouses, and they handle storage, packaging, and delivery to customers.
Popular Amazon marketplaces in the Middle East include:
- Amazon UAE (Amazon.ae)
- Amazon Saudi Arabia (Amazon.sa)
- Amazon Egypt (Amazon.eg)
Choosing the right FBA freight solution ensures fast customs clearance and low shipping costs while meeting Amazon’s inbound delivery requirements.
How Long Does FBA Freight from China to the Middle East Take?
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–35 days | Low | Large FBA shipments |
| Air Freight | 6–10 days | Medium–High | Light or urgent cargo |
| Express Freight (DHL/FedEx/UPS) | 3–6 days | High | Samples or small batches |
Which Routes Are Common for FBA Freight?
The most popular shipping routes link major Chinese ports and airports with Amazon fulfillment centers in Dubai, Riyadh, and Jeddah.
Key Routes Overview
- Shanghai / Shenzhen → Jebel Ali Port (UAE)
- Guangzhou / Ningbo → Dammam Port (Saudi Arabia)
- Hong Kong → Riyadh Air Cargo Terminal
These ports and terminals offer Amazon-preferred customs clearance services, reducing delivery delays.
What Are the Costs of FBA Freight from China to the Middle East?
| Freight Type | Weight/Volume | Estimated Cost (USD) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (LCL per CBM) | 1–5 CBM | $150–$250 | 25–35 days |
| FCL 20ft Container | Up to 28 CBM | $1,200–$1,800 | 25–30 days |
| Air Freight | 100–300 kg | $5.5–$7.5/kg | 6–9 days |
| Express Freight | 0–50 kg | $8–$12/kg | 3–5 days |
What Documents Are Needed for FBA Freight?
| Document | Purpose | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares product details and value | Supplier / Exporter |
| Packing List | Specifies quantity, weight, dimensions | Exporter |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Proof of carriage | Freight Forwarder |
| Certificate of Origin | Verifies manufacturing country | Chamber of Commerce |
| Import Declaration | Filed for customs clearance | Importer or Broker |
How Does Sea Freight Work for FBA Shipments?
Sea freight remains the most cost-effective choice for large-volume FBA orders.
There are two main types:
- FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for bulk inventory going to one Amazon fulfillment center.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Perfect for smaller shipments that share container space.
Top ports for FBA freight include Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen — connected to Jebel Ali Port (UAE), the largest logistics hub in the Middle East.
When Should You Use Air Freight for FBA?
Air freight is best for sellers who need faster delivery to restock Amazon warehouses.
Advantages:
- 6–10 days transit time
- Lower risk of damage
- Real-time tracking
Disadvantages:
- Costlier for heavy cargo
- Volume limitations (usually under 500 kg per shipment)
Popular destination airports: Dubai International (DXB), Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED).
How to Manage Customs for FBA Freight
Middle Eastern countries require importers to follow strict customs compliance, especially for FBA shipments that include electronics, cosmetics, or health-related goods.
Common Requirements
- Products must have clear labeling in English and Arabic.
- Certain goods need SFDA or SASO certification (Saudi Arabia).
- Importers must provide VAT or EORI numbers for clearance.
Working with an experienced freight forwarder familiar with Amazon FBA logistics ensures smooth delivery to the correct fulfillment center.
How Long Does It Take by Country?
| Destination Country | Shipping Method | Average Transit Time | Amazon Warehouse Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | Sea / Air Freight | 25–35 days / 6–8 days | Dubai (DXB) |
| Saudi Arabia | Sea / Air Freight | 28–38 days / 7–10 days | Riyadh, Jeddah |
| Kuwait | Air Freight | 6–9 days | Shuwaikh (Amazon Partner) |
| Bahrain / Oman | Sea Freight | 30–35 days | Regional Amazon FBA Centers |
Conclusion
The FBA freight China to Middle East process plays a vital role in Amazon sellers’ success across markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Choosing the right freight mode — sea for cost savings, air for speed, or express for small batches — ensures you maintain stock, meet delivery deadlines, and reduce logistics costs.
A reliable forwarder familiar with Amazon FBA procedures, customs, and Middle East routes can help simplify the process from China’s factories to Amazon’s shelves.
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Q1: What is the fastest way to ship FBA freight from China to the Middle East?
Air freight is the fastest option, taking only 6–10 days depending on destination.
Q2: What’s the cheapest way to send FBA goods?
Sea freight (FCL/LCL) offers the lowest rates for large or heavy inventory.
Q3: Do Amazon UAE and Saudi Arabia have dedicated FBA centers?
Yes, Amazon operates fulfillment centers in Dubai, Riyadh, and Jeddah.
Q4: Can I send mixed cartons to Amazon FBA warehouses?
No, each box must contain identical SKUs with matching labels per Amazon’s requirements.
Q5: How early should I book shipments before major sales?
Book 3–4 weeks ahead of sales events like Ramadan or Prime Day to avoid delays.