Canada
Website customs Canada
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: CA
Country Alpha-3 code: CAN
Country numeric code: 124
GDP: USD 2.140 trillion (2023)
Currency: Canadian Dollar
Inhabitants: 40769890
Language: English (Federal)French (Federal)
Freight forwarders in Canada
Canada has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Canada
Airports in Canada
Shipping between Canada and China
Explore the complexities of shipping between Canada and China with our comprehensive guide. From pre-import considerations to customs clearance, cost-saving strategies, and logistics, this article offers valuable insights for businesses seeking reliable information and competitive shipping quotes.
Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.
Pre-import considerations
First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.
If you are importing from Canada to China , check the Customs Tariff from China. If you are importing from China to Canada, check the Customs Tariff from Canada.
Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.
Customs Clearance Process:
From Canada to China:
- Documentation: Essential documents include the Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin.
- Customs Declaration: Submit a customs declaration to the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), detailing the shipment's contents and value.
- Duties and Taxes: Calculate and pay applicable duties and Value Added Tax (VAT). China's Customs Tariff provides detailed duty rates.
- Inspection: GACC may inspect the shipment to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Release: Once cleared, goods are released for delivery.
From China to Canada:
- Documentation: Required documents include the Commercial Invoice, Air Waybill/Bill of Lading, and Packing List.
- Customs Declaration: Submit a customs declaration via the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- Duties and GST/HST: Pay applicable duties and Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST). Refer to Canada's Customs guidelines for detailed tax information.
- Inspection: The CBSA may conduct inspections to verify compliance.
- Release: After clearance, goods are released for final delivery.
Costs to consider
Shipping between Canada and China involves various costs that need careful consideration:
- Freight Charges: The cost of transporting goods by sea or air. Sea freight is generally cheaper but slower, while air freight is faster but more expensive. Major carriers like DHL and FedEx offer rate calculators to estimate costs.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Both countries impose duties and taxes on imported goods. Canada applies Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) and customs duties as per its Customs Tariff. China imposes Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties. For details, visit Canada Border Services Agency and China Customs.
- Insurance: Shipping insurance covers potential losses or damages during transit. Costs depend on the value of the goods and the level of coverage. Providers like AIG offer quotes and coverage options.
- Handling and Processing Fees: Costs for handling, storage, and processing at ports and airports. Fees vary based on the carrier and port of entry.
- Documentation Fees: Costs for preparing and processing essential shipping documents, such as the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List.
- Logistics and Transportation: Additional costs for inland transportation from ports to final destinations, which can be arranged through freight forwarders.
By understanding these cost components, businesses can budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. For more information, refer to the official guidelines provided by the Canada Border Services Agency and China Customs.
Saving on Shipping Costs
Saving on shipping costs requires strategic planning and comparing quotes from multiple carriers. Here are key strategies:
- Compare Quotes: Use platforms like Zendeq to compare quotes from reliable shipping companies, ensuring you get the best rates.
- Optimize Packaging: Use efficient packaging to reduce weight and volume, lowering freight costs. UPS offers guidelines on optimal packaging.
- Consolidate Shipments: Combine smaller shipments into one larger shipment to benefit from bulk rates. DHL explains consolidation benefits.
- Flexible Timing: Use slower shipping methods like sea freight for non-urgent shipments to save costs.
- Negotiate Rates: Regularly shipping large volumes can provide leverage to negotiate better rates with carriers.
- Use Freight Forwarders: Partner with freight forwarders who can offer better rates and handle logistics efficiently.
By implementing these strategies and using Zendeq to find competitive quotes, businesses can significantly reduce shipping costs and improve their bottom line. For more detailed tips, refer to FedEx and UPS.
Sending Your Package: Canada to China and Vice Versa
For Businesses:
- Choosing a Carrier: Major carriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Canada Post offer reliable services for shipping packages between Canada and China. Each carrier provides various shipping options, from express delivery to standard shipping, catering to different business needs.
- Packaging and Documentation: Securely package your items to protect them during transit. Essential documents include a Commercial Invoice, Air Waybill, and Packing List. Ensure compliance with both countries' import/export regulations. Refer to DHL’s guidelines for detailed packaging and documentation instructions.
- Booking and Tracking: Utilize online tools provided by carriers to book shipments, track packages, and manage shipping preferences. FedEx and UPS offer robust tracking systems and online booking platforms.
For Individuals:
- Selecting a Service: Individuals can use services from Canada Post, China Post, FedEx, DHL, or UPS. These carriers offer various options, from express to standard delivery, based on urgency and budget.
- Packing and Documentation: Ensure your package is securely packed. Required documentation typically includes a Customs Declaration Form and an Air Waybill. Both Canada Post and China Post provide detailed packing and documentation guidelines on their websites.
- Sending and Tracking: Drop off your package at the nearest post office or schedule a pickup with carriers like DHL or FedEx. Utilize their tracking systems to monitor the package’s journey until delivery.
Carriers Overview:
- DHL: Known for international express delivery and comprehensive tracking. DHL
- FedEx: Offers various international shipping services with reliable delivery times and tracking. FedEx
- UPS: Provides a range of international shipping options and advanced tracking tools. UPS
- Canada Post: Cost-effective options for both business and individual shipments. Canada Post
- China Post: Reliable and affordable international shipping for individuals. China Post
By selecting the right carrier and service, both businesses and individuals can efficiently send packages between Canada and China.
Great Online Resources for China-Canada Shipping
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): Offers comprehensive guidelines on customs procedures, duties, and taxes for goods imported into Canada.
- General Administration of Customs of China: Provides detailed information on import regulations, tariffs, and required documentation for shipments entering China.
- DHL: A major international carrier with extensive resources on international shipping, documentation, and customs clearance.
- FedEx: Provides information on international shipping services, rates, and requirements.
- UPS: Offers tools and resources for international shipping, including rate calculators, documentation guides, and customs information.
- Canada Post: Provides information on cost-effective shipping options and guidelines for both business and individual shipments.
- China Post: Offers reliable and affordable international shipping services for individuals and businesses.
- World Trade Organization (WTO): Provides reports and data on international trade regulations and practices.
- International Chamber of Commerce (ICC): Offers resources on international trade, including Incoterms and best practices for global shipping.
- Export Development Canada (EDC): Provides information and resources for Canadian businesses looking to export goods, including market insights and trade regulations.
Knowledge base
China
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: CN
Country Alpha-3 code: CHN
Country numeric code: 156
GDP: USD 17.963 trillion (2023)
Currency: Yuan Renminbi
Inhabitants: 1409670000
Language: Standard Chinese
Freight forwarders in China
China has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Canada
Airports in China
China
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: CN
Country Alpha-3 code: CHN
Country numeric code: 156
GDP: USD 17.963 trillion (2023)
Currency: Yuan Renminbi
Inhabitants: 1409670000
Language: Standard Chinese
Freight forwarders in China
China has no freight forwarders
Seaports in Canada
Airports in China
Canada
Website customs Canada
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: CA
Country Alpha-3 code: CAN
Country numeric code: 124
GDP: USD 2.140 trillion (2023)
Currency: Canadian Dollar
Inhabitants: 40769890
Language: English (Federal)French (Federal)
Freight forwarders in Canada
Canada has no freight forwarders