Find answers to common questions about shipping from China to Australia. Learn about freight costs, transit times, customs clearance, documentation requirements, and more. Our FAQ section covers the most frequently asked questions from Australian importers.
Our FAQ covers topics including sea freight vs air freight, FCL vs LCL shipping, customs duties and GST, prohibited items, insurance options, and tracking shipments. If you cannot find the answer to your question, contact our team for personalised assistance.
Sea freight is the most economical option for shipping large quantities of goods from China to Australia. Transit times typically range from 12 to 25 days. Full Container Load (FCL) is best for larger shipments, while Less than Container Load (LCL) is suitable for smaller volumes.
Air freight is faster but more expensive than sea freight. Door-to-door delivery times typically range from 5 to 10 business days for standard air freight, or 3 to 7 business days for express courier services. Air freight is recommended for time-sensitive products, high-value items, perishable goods, and urgent restocking needs.
Customs duties and GST apply to most goods imported into Australia. Duty rates vary by product category and range from 0% to 10% for most consumer goods. A 10% GST applies to the total value including freight and insurance costs.
Certain products are prohibited or restricted for import into Australia. These include live animals, plants, food products requiring quarantine inspection, weapons, and goods that infringe intellectual property rights. Check Australian Border Force guidelines before shipping.
Cargo insurance protects your shipment against loss or damage during transit. We offer comprehensive insurance options with coverage based on the declared value of your goods. Insurance is highly recommended for high-value shipments.
Real-time shipment tracking is available through our online platform. Track your cargo from origin to destination with regular updates on status, location, and estimated delivery date. We provide proactive notifications for any delays or issues.
Documentation requirements for importing goods include commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (sea freight) or airway bill (air freight), certificate of origin, and any product-specific certificates or permits.
Payment terms vary by service and customer relationship. We accept bank transfers, credit cards, and offer credit terms for established customers. Customs duties and GST are typically paid at the time of customs clearance.
Delivery to regional areas is available throughout Australia. Transit times to regional destinations may be slightly longer than capital cities. Contact us for specific delivery timeframes to your location.