Spain is a major economic power in the European Union. Its strategic location in Europe makes it an attractive destination for goods from China’s vast manufacturing sector. The shipping route from China to Spain is a huge market that many businesses and importers are looking to tap into. If you’re one of such importers, then you’re in the right place.

This guide will comprehensively explain the process of shipping goods from China to Spain, including the shipping options, costs, expected timelines, and customs clearance steps. With this knowledge, you can ship from China to Spain with great confidence.

You have several shipping options from China to Spain. Each different method has its own advantages. Your choice will depend on factors like the urgency of delivery, cost budget, type of goods you’re shipping, and the size. Consider these factors carefully before choosing a shipping method. Now, let’s check out the main options available:

Sea freight is the most affordable way to ship large volumes of goods from China to Spain. While it is budget-friendly, it is also the slowest shipping method, and your goods may take weeks to arrive. You have two sea freight options: LCL (Less than Container Load) or FCL (Full Container Load).

In LCL, your goods share container space with other shipper’s cargo. It is ideal for smaller shipments. FCL, on the other hand, is suitable for larger shipments that require a whole container. As a general rule, choose LCL for shipments under 15 cubic meters and FCL for shipments over 15 cubic meters. Remember that LCL might lead to extra port delays due to the consolidation and deconsolidation of cargo from multiple importers.

When shipping from China to Spain, the choice of port can affect the speed of delivery and shipping costs. Consider the following before making a decision:

• The location of your Chinese supplier: Inland transportation costs can significantly increase if your supplier is located far from the port. Always choose a port closest to your supplier to save costs.
• Your final destination in Spain
• The fastest shipping route
• Type and size of goods
• The shipping costs associated with each port

The major shipping ports in China include:

• Shanghai: The world’s busiest container port, ideal for shipments from eastern China.
• Ningbo: Close to Shanghai, often used as an alternative for cheaper pricing.
• Shenzhen: Located in southern China, ideal for exports from the Pearl River Delta manufacturing hub.
• Xiamen: A key port for the southeastern provinces.
• Qingdao: It serves northern China, including Beijing and its surrounding industrial areas.

In Spain, the essential ports are:

• Port of Valencia: Spain’s largest port and the fifth-largest in Europe.
• Port of Algeciras: Its strategic location by the Bay of Gibraltar offers access to global shipping lanes.
• Port of Barcelona: Spain’s third-biggest port and key to the major city of Barcelona.
• Port of Madrid: Although this is a dry port, it is an important logistics hub for distributing goods around Spain, thanks to its central location.

Air freight is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to send goods from China to Spain. This method is much faster than sea freight, and your goods are delivered within 3 to 10 days. Air freight is an excellent choice for goods weighing 200kg to 500kg, making it suitable for urgent or high-value shipments like perishables and electronics.

The cost of air freight is determined by the ‘chargeable weight‘ of your cargo. This could be either the gross weight (actual weight) or the volumetric weight (space occupied), depending on which is higher. This pricing structure means lightweight items that take up lots of space might incur costs based on volumetric weight.

The shipping time can be very different depending on the choice of airport and shipping route. With a direct shipping route, your goods can arrive as early as the second day. Indirect routes may take longer due to stopovers, but it is much more economical.

Remember that air freight is strictly a port-to-port service. Major airports in China are Beijing Capital for the northern regions, Shanghai Pudong for the east, and Guangzhou Baiyun for the south. Major cargo airports in Spain are Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Madrid Airport, Palma de Mallorca Airport, Lanzarote Airport, and Gran Canaria Airport.

Discuss with us before shipping your goods so we can brief you about specific requirements and regulations affecting your shipment.

Express freight is the fastest and most convenient shipping option from China to Spain. It is your best option for urgent shipments as your goods will arrive in 2-5 working days. However, one downside is that express freight is the most expensive shipping method. As a result, it is not advisable for shipping heavy goods because of the high shipping costs. It is more suitable for shipping samples or small urgent shipments from your suppliers.

Express freight is a door-to-door service. Your freight forwarder picks up your goods at the Chinese factory, prepares export documents, and drops them off for the express courier. The courier then handles import clearance and delivers your goods right to your doorstep.

Global carriers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and TNT usually offer express services. They are reliable and provide detailed tracking during transit.

Rail freight is the shipping option that balances speed and cost. It is faster than sea freight but cheaper than air freight. Rail freight from China to Spain is best suited for importers shipping large cargoes that require faster delivery than sea freight allows.

Rail freight also operates using containers. You can choose between the LCL or FCL option, like sea freight. This allows you to ship different types of goods, whether bulky or smaller.

The Yiwu-Madrid railway line is a part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative that started in 2014. It is the world’s longest rail line, covering over 13,000km. It connects the Chinese city of Yiwu with the Spanish capital of Madrid, crossing Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Poland, Germany, and France. You can also ship your goods to train stations in Germany or Hungary and then use trucks to reach the final destination in Spain.

The Yiwu-Madrid railway line has reduced the shipping time from China to Spain from about 30 days by sea to about 16 days by rail. It also lowers the shipping cost by about 50% compared to air freight. It is an eco-friendly shipping option, as it emits less greenhouse gases than sea or air freight.

Express couriers deliver within 2-5 working days from any part of China to any destination in Spain. Since this is a door-to-door service, you should be aware of the delivery schedule so you can be available to receive your package. Also, keep in mind that delivery times might be extended during holiday seasons.

Air shipping from China to Spain takes 5-10 days from airport to airport. The speed of delivery depends on whether you choose a direct or indirect route. Your goods may also be delayed due to poor weather conditions. The chart below shows average air shipping times from China to Spain:

Sea shipping from China to Spain takes about 25-35 days from port to port. The shipping time depends on the port-to-port distance and the duration of customs procedures.

Transporting your goods by rail from China to Spain takes only about 16 days from station to station (Yiwu-Madrid). Door-to-door delivery, on the other hand, takes longer, usually around 28-35 days. This time may be longer if there is port congestion or customs examinations.

The shipping cost from China to Spain depended on many factors, such as Shipping Methods, China factory port, delivery port, cargo type, shipment packing size and weight, shipping terms with your China factory, below is the latest reference freight quote dated on 8-March-2024 for you reference, if you get any shipment ready to ship from China, pls submit a quote request, one of our expert will work out the cost to you within 8 hours.

Express couriers charge you based on the weight and dimensions of your goods. This is why packing your goods compactly to contain little space is important. Below is an average price rate:

Air freight rates vary frequently because they depend on current fuel prices. When planning your budget, consider the airline, route, and season of the year. As you know already, shipping during peak seasons is more expensive. You will also be charged for customs duties, security fees, and taxes by your freight forwarder. The table below gives the average prices for shipping from China to Spain as of March 2024. When you’re ready to ship, kindly contact us for a shipping quote.

Sea freight prices between China and Spain depend on:

• The type and size of your goods
• The type of Container options chosen, whether FCL or LCL
• Your chosen shipping carrier
• Port-to-port distance
• Type of route taken
• Season of the year

Below, find an average cost estimate for shipping containers from the major Chinese ports to those in Spain.

We have explained that rail freight is cheaper than air freight but more expensive than sea freight. Freight rates vary based on container type and time of the year. We can also provide you with door-to-door delivery, but it comes at a higher cost.

When importing goods from China to Spain, understanding the customs clearance process can be the difference between a fast import process and a delayed one. Spain is a part of the European Union (EU) and follows specific import regulations. The customs clearance process can be done by you, the supplier, your freight forwarder, or the customs broker, depending on the terms of the trade agreement.

Your first step is to get your shipping documents ready. The major documents required include:

• Single Administrative Document
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
• Certificate of Origin
• Import License (if applicable). Certain restricted goods, like guns, hazardous materials, plants and animals, etc, may require an import license.
• Safety and Compliance Documents
• Documents of conformity (CE standard)
• Your EORI number (Economic Operator Registration Identification)

Missing any of these documents can lead to delays or fines. If you lack one of them, you can reach out to Winsky. We’ll import on your behalf and help you handle customs formalities.

The customs clearance process for importing goods from China to Spain depends on on the mode of transport, the value of the goods, and the type of goods. However, the general steps are:

1. Obtain an HS code for the product you’re shipping, and calculate your goods’ CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
2. Complete and submit the Single Administrative Document (goods declaration form) and other documents to the customs authorities electronically or through a customs broker.
3. Pay any applicable customs duties and VAT.
4. Spanish Customs may inspect your shipment to verify the contents match the documentation and comply with EU regulations.
5. Your goods are released once compliance is verified and all duties are paid. The process usually takes 1-3 days after your goods arrive at the port. You can then move on to inland transportation within Spain or the EU.

Since customs regulations and required documents can change over time, it’s advisable to consult with a customs broker or freight forwarder specializing in China-Spain shipments. Do you need help with your Spanish import customs clearance? we’re happy to help you with it. We’ll provide guidance, ensure compliance with all requirements, and help avoid delays in the customs clearance process. Contact us today.

The European Union has a Common Customs Tariff (CCT) that applies to all member states, including Spain. However, specific rates can vary depending on the type of import and its source. Certain goods may also be eligible for reduced tariffs or exemptions under various trade agreements.

Your import duties are calculated based on the category of the goods, their CIF value, and the country of origin. You should confirm the correct code and CIF value with your freight forwarder to budget ahead correctly.

Generally, you should expect to pay between 0-17% of the CIF value, depending on the type of good. You will also pay a VAT of between 0-25%. The standard VAT rate in Spain is 21%, but there are reduced rates of 10% and 4% for goods like food and drugs. The VAT is calculated on the total CIF value, import duties, and applicable excise duties. You can check the TARIC database or consult a customs broker or freight forwarder for updated duty rates from China to Spain.

To avoid these complexities, let Winsky navigate the customs process to ensure you pay the correct duties. Finally, remember that some products are prohibited from import into Spain, while others may need an import license. Always check with your freight forwarder to ensure the goods you plan to ship are allowed.

There are two types of door-to-door shipping from China to Spain- DDU and DDP shipping.

DDU Shipping- DDU shipping means a door-to-door service without handling import customs clearance and duties. It’s a common choice for express freight services like DHL, UPS, and FedEx. Your goods will be delivered right at your door, but you’ll be responsible for clearing the goods through customs and paying applicable duties.

DDP Shipping- This is a more comprehensive service than DDU. Everything is done for you in DDP shipping. The goods are picked up from your supplier’s factory in China, and we handle export and import customs clearance, VAT duties, local operations, and last-mile delivery. DDP means the seller or freight forwarder bears all risks and costs until the goods are delivered, making it a stress-free option.

Winsky Freight’s door-to-door service is all-inclusive. We can provide both DDU and DDP shipping from China to Spain.

Our DDP shipping options to Spain include:

DDP sea freight- Takes around 38-45 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

DDP air freight- Takes around 14 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

DDP Train freight- Takes around 35 days door-to-door from pick up to delivery.

• Pick up from China factory
• Consolidation of client’s goods into an FCL container
• Preparation and Submission of export customs declaration documents
• Shipping from the Chinese origin port to EU destination port
• Our local partners in Spain clear import custom clearance and duties for the whole container when goods arrive
• Unloading of the container at the seaport and transporting it to our overseas warehouse, where it is deconsolidated.
• Goods are sorted out to couriers like UPS or DPD for final delivery to your destination.

Door-to-door service saves you time, effort, and money. Using this service also helps you avoid shipping scams. It’s perfect for importers who don’t have the necessary documents to ship goods from China to Spain. We’ll provide real-time tracking of your goods so you know where they are every moment. If you need help, contact Winsky for a shipping quote. We’re reputable freight forwarders that can make your shipping extremely easy. Our door-to-door shipping rates are very competitive, and we offer timely delivery.

You should buy insurance when shipping from China to Spain, especially for high-value goods. In the case of damages without insurance, the maximum compensation you can get from shipping carriers is $100. This is quite small compared to the value of what you’re shipping. So, we recommend purchasing cargo insurance to guide you against potential losses or damages during transit. If you’re unsure about the insurance process, feel free to discuss it with us for guidance.

Many importers like to keep an eye on their shipments in transit, so they can manage their stock better. Tracking your shipment from China to Spain is easy, depending on the shipping mode.

• Express Freight: For courier services like DHL, UPS, or FedEx, just go to their websites and input your tracking number.
• Door-to-door shipping: If you’re using DDP air or sea freight, your freight forwarder will provide a tracking number and guide you to the right tracking website.
• Air freight: Air freight shipments have a tracking number on the air waybill (AWB). Use that number on the carrier’s website or Track Trace to see where your goods are in real-time.
• Sea freight: Enter your container tracking number on the carrier’s website to get updates on its location.

Platforms like 17Track is a simple way to track your goods from China to Spain. This platform works with over 1500 carriers and 120+ airlines worldwide and can track all types of shipments.

Winky Freight is a trusted Chinese freight forwarder with over 15 years of experience. We have successfully handled thousands of shipments for our clients from China to different parts of Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. We offer the most affordable shipping thanks to our extensive network across many countries. Choosing Winsky comes with many advantages:

Competitive Shipping Costs and fast delivery times: We have exclusive deals with shipping carriers and logistics companies that enable us to offer competitive shipping rates at the shortest delivery time possible.

Reliability and Safety: Winsky prioritizes the safe handling and packaging of goods to prevent loss and damage.

Exceptional Customer Service: Our team guides you at every stage of the shipping process to ensure stress-free shipping.

Proven Experience: With over 15 years of expertise in shipping goods and clearing customs between China and Spain, we understand how to navigate the various challenges of international logistics and provide effective solutions that favour our clients.

Effective customs compliance: Winsky Freight’s thorough understanding of the customs process in Spain ensures you meet all legal requirements to avoid delays and fines.

Extra Services: We also offer our clients additional services like warehousing, packaging, low insurance premiums, and distribution support.

Are you ready to ship goods from China to Spain? Winsky should be your first choice. Our reliable and excellent shipping service guarantees a safe and hassle-free shipping experience, even in peak shipping seasons.

Shipping with Winsky Freight is very simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to our shipping procedures from China to Spain.

1. Inform us once your goods are ready. We, or your supplier, will arrange pickup from the factory to our warehouse.
2. We’ll request that the supplier prepare all necessary shipping documents.
3. We inspect the goods when they arrive at our warehouse to verify the content, weight, and dimensions. Then, we provide you with feedback for confirmation.
4. We send a shipping invoice to you for payment confirmation. Our pricing is transparent, and all costs are agreed upon before shipping.
5. We manage the export customs clearance process for sea freight shipments.
6. We give you the sea freight tracking number so you can monitor your shipment in transit.
7. Once the goods arrive at the destination seaport, our local partner in Spain completes the import customs clearance and duty payments.
8. After clearing customs, our local partner will organize the delivery of your goods to your final destination in Spain using truck or courier services.

When you’re ready to ship, Winsky provides multiple payment options to suit your needs.

• T/T Bank Transfer- Our primary option for bulk payments. It is secure and widely used for international transactions.
• PayPal- It is a quick option but is only suitable for smaller transactions due to PayPal’s higher handling fees of around 4.7% per transaction.
• com (formerly TransferWise)- A popular third-party payment platform known for its fast international transfers and lower bank handling fees. It is a fast and cheap payment method.
• MoneyGram- A reliable service for sending money quickly across borders.
• Western Union- One of the most popular means of transferring money internationally. It is fast and convenient for shipping transactions.

As you can see, shipping goods from China to Spain is not difficult if you know the right steps to take. In this article, we have covered the modes of shipping, their costs, and necessary clearance procedures. We hope this guide makes your shipping experience much easier. Reach out to Winsky for any further questions about shipping to Spain. We’ll respond to you promptly.