Shipping from China to Poland

Shipping from China to Poland | One-stop shipping solution

Shipping goods from China to Poland can be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with its intricacies. With numerous factors to consider and potential pitfalls to avoid, it’s essential to approach it with proper knowledge and preparation. To ensure a better shipping experience, we have created a comprehensive guide tailored explicitly to shipping from China to Poland, which will help you confidently arrange to ship your cargo from China to Poland.

Shipping methods from China to Poland

The historical commercial route between China and Poland dates back to the nineteenth century. In recent decades, the construction of the Sino-Polish expressway and Poland’s favorable geographical location as the heart of Europe have further strengthened trade connections. Poland shares borders with Germany, Czechia, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Ukraine, making it a key transit hub for transportation networks linking Europe and Asia.

So there are three shipping options to Poland: Air, Sea, and rail freight.

Air freight from China to Poland

Air shipping from China to Poland has become a preferred method for transporting goods from China to Europe. It offers several advantages, including speed and reliability, with delivery times typically 7 to 10 days. However, it’s worth noting that air freight can be relatively expensive, especially for larger shipments exceeding 500 kg.
If you opt for air freight, consider the chargeable weight concept. This factor considers both the actual weight and the volume of the shipment, with the higher value determining the cost. It is a crucial consideration, particularly for newcomers to the industry, as it helps ensure accurate pricing and cost-effectiveness.

Air carrier companies use a formula known as 1:167 to calculate the chargeable weight for shipments. This formula involves multiplying the volume of your package (in cubic meters) by 167 to obtain the volumetric weight. The carrier will then charge you based on the higher value between the volumetric weight and the gross weight (conventional weight) of the shipment.

• Please note: Air freight from China to Poland is strictly a port-to-port shipping method.

Sea shipping from China to Poland

Sea freight, or ocean freight, is a cost-effective and commonly used mode of transportation for bulky and perishable goods. It is favored for large-scale international trade, making it the primary choice for countries like China and Poland, which are significant players in global import and export activities.

While sea freight may have a longer transit time than other shipping methods, such as air or train freight, its affordability and efficiency make it highly advantageous. It is the least expensive shipping option and remains preferred for many businesses transporting goods between countries.

• Please note: Sea freight from China to Poland is strictly a port-to-port shipping method.

FCL (Full Container Load) Shipping

FCL shipping is the most cost-effective choice for larger shipments. It involves booking a full container (20ft or 40ft) exclusively for your goods and suits businesses shipping large goods, allowing for better economies of scale.

LCL (Less than a Container Load) Shipping

LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping is a cost-effective option for small businesses and individuals shipping more miniature goods. With LCL, you only pay for the space your goods occupy within a container. A freight forwarder consolidates multiple shipments into one container for shipping to Italy. It’s an efficient solution for smaller shipment volumes.

Rail shipping from China to Poland

Rail shipping is a middle ground between sea and air freight, balancing speed and cost-effectiveness. While not as fast as air shipping, rail shipping is significantly quicker than sea shipping. Rail shipping simplifies inland transportation, providing greater convenience than airports or seaports. Moving packages from a rail station is often more accessible and more efficient for importers, further enhancing the appeal of rail shipping for shipping goods between China and Poland.

In December 2012, the Chengdu-Łódź railway line was established, establishing the city as a crucial connection point between China’s capital and various European countries. This route quickly gained prominence, accounting for more than 25% of all freight transported between China and European countries by 2018.

Another significant rail shipping infrastructure, the SU-MENG-EU, was constructed in 2013. It enables trains to travel from China to Warsaw. The inaugural journey took 14 days, marking an important milestone in China-Poland rail shipping.

In 2019, an additional service was introduced, covering a distance of nearly 9,500 kilometers. This expansion further enhanced the rail shipping options between China and Poland, providing increased connectivity and efficiency in transportation.

Rail freight transit time from China to Poland

• Rail freight from China to Poland, specifically Warsaw and Malaszewice, typically has a transit time of 14 to 16 days.

Express shipping from China to Poland

Express shipping from China to Poland offers rapid and dependable transportation, with deliveries typically completed within 1 to 3 days. It provides enhanced reliability through robust tracking systems, making real-time monitoring of shipments possible. Express shipping is ideal for urgent and time-sensitive shipments and ensures prompt and secure transportation.

Leading international Express companies like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and TNT typically offer fast express delivery services. These carriers are known for their reliability and provide comprehensive tracking throughout the transit process.

Shipping cost from China to Poland

Shipping Mode	Suitability	Shipping Cost
LCL	Suitable for larger shipments less than 15CBM	$650 – $820 per CBM
FCL	It is ideal for larger shipments that can fill an entire container	$1,500 to $2,500 for 20GP container
Express Shipping	Best for urgent deliveries	$5-$6 per kg
Air Freight	The fastest option is used for high-value or perishable goods	$4,200 to $5,100 per ton
Rail Freight	A cost-effective alternative for heavy and bulky items.	$1,000 to $2,000 for a standard 40-foot container

Note: The prices provided are approximate and subject to variation depending on factors such as the chosen logistics provider, specific departure and destination locations, seasonal fluctuations, and prevailing market conditions.

How long does it take to ship from China to Poland?

International shipping from China to Poland is a complex process with various factors influencing the time frame. The shipping mode, shipping time, off days in China, and product type all play a role in determining the delivery timeframe. Express shipping is the fastest option, followed by air, rail, and ocean freight. Shipping during peak seasons may increase both time and costs. You can consult with logistics providers for accurate information regarding shipping timeframes.

Please refer to the following table for estimated regular shipping times:

Import customs clearance in Poland

Poland has specific rules and regulations regarding the import of goods, which can be complex. However, our customs broker is available to guide you through the process and ensure successful navigation.
Upon arrival at the seaport, rail terminal, or airport in Poland, your cargo must undergo import customs clearance before it can be released from the port. This clearance process typically takes 1-2 days from the cargo’s arrival date and is usually completed on the same day.

Import tax in Poland

When importing goods into Poland, import duties and taxes apply to all items from other countries. The amount of duty to be paid depends on the country of origin and the nature of the goods. Polish Customs has distinct regulations for incoming imports from different countries, categorized as follows:

• Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO)
• Imports from developing countries
• Countries with special trade agreements with Poland

Poland implements different VAT rates for other goods, ranging from 0% to over 400%, including 23% for standard VAT on most taxable goods and services and 8% for reduced VAT on specific items such as mustard and sweet pepper (spice). There is also a luxury excise tax and a value-added tax (VAT) ranging from 0% to 22%. All products are subject to a 5% import tax, depending on the specific commodity.

Visit the Polish Customs Department’s official website for more detailed and specific information.

What documents are required for shipping from China to Poland?

NewSmartShip has over a decade of experience assisting customers with international cargo shipping and understanding the complexities involved.
We have compiled a list of 10 essential international shipping documents to ensure you’re well-prepared when shipping from China to Poland.

1. Commercial invoice and PI
2. Bills of Lading or Airway Bill
3. Packing List
4. Certificate of Origin (CO)
5. Shipping Under a Letter of Credit
6. Send Electronic Report via SEND: This is a digital report similar to a packing list that provides complete details about the nature of each item, including dimensions, weight, and any specific markings.
7. Import License:  Specific commodities, susceptible items like arms, ammunition, hazardous materials, and live animals, may require an import license in Poland.

Door-to-door shipping from China to Poland

There are two methods for door-to-door services: DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping from China to Spain.

• DDU Shipping means the goods are delivered directly to your door, but customs clearance and import duties are not handled. This option is commonly used for express freight services like DHL, UPS, and FedEx. As the consignee, you will be responsible for clearing the goods through customs and paying any applicable duties.
• DDP Shipping offers more services, including picking up the goods from your supplier’s factory in China, handling export and import customs clearance, managing VAT duties, and providing last-mile delivery. In DDP shipping, the seller or freight forwarder assumes all risks and costs during the shipping process.

NewSmartShip offers both DDU and DDP shipping options from China to Spain, including sea freight, air freight, and train freight:

• Sea freight: The shipping time is approximately 38-45 days from pick up to delivery, providing a door-to-door service for your goods.
• Air freight: The air shipping door-to-door service takes approximately 14 days from pick up to delivery.
• Rail freight: Our rail freight door-to-door service takes 30-35 days from pick up to delivery.

DDP shipping time from China to Poland

Shipping from China to Amazon FBA in Poland

Shipping cargo from China to Amazon FBA can be a complex process. However, at NewSmartShip, we have a dedicated team specializing in Amazon freight shipping services. Our team is experienced in transporting your cargo from China to any Amazon FBA fulfillment center worldwide, including Poland.

With our comprehensive Amazon FBA service, we provide end-to-end support throughout the entire shipping process. We handle all the logistics, from collecting your cargo in China to coordinating safe and efficient delivery to the Amazon FBA center in Poland. Our goal is to offer the best shipping solutions to meet the needs of your e-commerce business.

FAQ

What is the cheapest way of shipping from China to Poland?

• Sea freight is the most cost-effective shipping method from China to Poland.

Sea shipping is cheaper than air or rail freight due to longer routes and multiple port options. Choosing a port closer to your destination can further reduce shipping expenses.