Select your region ▾
Choose Region

How to Ship Goods from China to Europe and Avoid Costly Mistakes

19 November, 2025

Importing goods from China for the first time can be challenging — full of new terms, logistical decisions, and potential pitfalls. Here’s a concise expert guide on how to plan, organize, and optimize your first shipment from China to the EU efficiently and safely.

From choosing the right supplier and understanding Incoterms to navigating customs clearance and freight options, this guide covers the essentials. With proper preparation and strategic planning, even first-time importers can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth delivery process.

1. Start with the Right Transport Strategy

Every successful shipment begins with clear logistics planning. To choose the optimal transport method, define:

  • your cargo’s volume, weight, and packaging;
  • the pickup location (factory, warehouse, or port in China);
  • and your agreed Incoterms (e.g. EXW, FOB, CIF).
If your cargo fills an entire container, a Full Container Load (FCL) is usually the most cost-efficient. For smaller consignments, Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping offers flexibility without overpaying for unused space.

Choosing the right Incoterms helps you control logistics costs. For many importers, having the supplier deliver to a Chinese port (FOB terms) while handling the international leg independently provides a balance between control and simplicity.

2. Choosing the Best Route and Transport Mode

Today, importers have more route options than ever between China and the European Union:

  • Sea freight remains the most economical, but transit time can range from 30 to 60 days, depending on the ports of departure and arrival;
  • Rail and multimodal routes across Central Asia offer a faster alternative — slightly more expensive, but significantly quicker;
  • The Middle Corridor (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) is emerging as a powerful alternative: running China → Kazakhstan → the Caspian Sea → Azerbaijan/Georgia → Türkiye → Europe.
This route combines speed, security, and growing infrastructure capacity. Shipments via Kazakhstan and Türkiye can reach European destinations in 25–35 days, offering a competitive middle ground between sea and air freight.

3. Preparing Cargo for Shipment

Proper preparation reduces risks and unnecessary costs, so take care of packaging, pre-shipment inspection and insurance:
  • use durable, space-efficient materials to protect goods and optimize shipping volume.
  • especially for first-time buyers, third-party inspection services in China help confirm product quality and quantity before dispatch.
  • a small additional cost that provides crucial protection against loss or damage — highly recommended for first shipments.
The China–Europe logistics landscape is evolving fast. As supply chains diversify, alternative routes through Kazakhstan, the Caspian region, and Türkiye are proving to be efficient, secure, and strategically resilient.
Partnering with the right logistics expert allows you to leverage these routes, reduce transit times, and maintain cost efficiency — ensuring your goods reach Europe safely and on schedule.
Let’s Plan Your Route Together
Need expert guidance on the most efficient way to move your cargo from China to Europe?

Our logistics specialists will analyze your shipment, compare available routes, and prepare a clear cost and timing proposal.
Fill out the form to request a free consultation and discover how we can optimize your China–EU supply chain through alternative transport corridors.
Fill out the form
Our specialist will contact you!
Fill out the form below and our specialist will contact you!