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India and China share one of the most active trade routes in Asia, covering everything from machinery and electronics to textiles and raw materials. However, navigating customs regulations and choosing the right transport method can be complex. Partnering with a reliable logistics provider makes freight from China to India simple, transparent, and cost-efficient.
Why Freight Matters in China–India Trade
With increasing bilateral trade volumes, businesses need professional freight services to ensure timely deliveries and compliance with both countries’ regulations. A trusted forwarder helps:
- Manage customs documentation.
- Optimize shipping costs.
- Provide reliable delivery schedules.
Shipping Options for Freight from China to India
Sea freight is the most economical choice for bulk goods. Routes commonly connect Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen to Mumbai and Chennai. See our sea freight services.
For urgent or high-value shipments, air freight reduces transit time to just 5–8 days. Popular routes include Shanghai–Delhi and Guangzhou–Mumbai. Learn more about our air freight services.
Under the Belt and Road Initiative, multimodal rail–sea routes have become increasingly popular, balancing cost and time. Explore our rail freight services.
Freight Cost from China to India (Estimated 2025)
| Shipping Method | Average Cost (USD) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (20ft FCL) | $1,000 – $1,400 | 18–25 days | Heavy industrial goods |
| Sea Freight (40ft FCL) | $1,800 – $2,500 | 18–25 days | Large-scale shipments |
| LCL (per CBM) | $60 – $90 | 20–28 days | SMEs, small shipments |
| Rail Freight (per CBM) | $180 – $250 | 12–18 days | Medium-sized cargo |
| Air Freight (per kg) | $5.5 – $8.0 | 5–8 days | Urgent or high-value cargo |
| Door-to-Door (per kg) | $7 – $11 | 7–12 days | SMEs, e-commerce sellers |
(Note: Costs vary by cargo type, origin city, and seasonal demand. Request a customized quote for accuracy.)
Key Factors Affecting Freight Costs
- Shipping method chosen (sea, air, rail, door-to-door).
- Cargo dimensions, weight, and classification.
- Customs duties and tariffs in India.
- Seasonal peaks like Diwali and Chinese New Year.
- Oil price fluctuations and carrier capacity.
- Final delivery destination (Mumbai vs. inland cities).
How to Reduce Freight Costs
- Plan shipments in advance to avoid peak season surcharges.
- Consolidate smaller shipments into one container.
- Use packaging that minimizes volumetric weight.
- Choose multimodal options for a balance of speed and cost.
- Partner with a skilled customs brokerage to prevent clearance delays.
Case Studies
Why Choose TJ China Freight
At TJ China Freight, we provide:
- Competitive, transparent pricing.
- Full-service solutions: sea, air, rail, and door-to-door.
- Customs clearance expertise in both China and India.
- Amazon FBA and e-commerce logistics support.
- End-to-end supply chain management.
Conclusion
Selecting the right partner for freight from China to India ensures smooth, cost-effective, and timely deliveries. With TJ China Freight, you gain a trusted logistics partner dedicated to supporting your business growth.
Need a quote?
Get your free shipping quote for freight from China to India today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I check if a freight forwarder for China–India trade is reliable?
Ask for licenses, client references, and international partnerships.
What’s the safest way to handle payments?
Bank transfers or PayPal with formal contracts are the most secure.
Can forwarders manage multiple supplier pickups in China?
Yes, most provide consolidation services to reduce costs.
Do forwarders offer warehousing before export?
Many provide short-term storage, inspection, and packaging services.
What happens if my shipment is delayed at Indian customs?
The forwarder coordinates with local brokers to resolve issues quickly.