Shipping goods from China to the Philippines has become more convenient and cost-effective for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are an online seller, a wholesaler, or a company looking for steady supply, understanding the best shipping methods can increase your profits and ensure efficient operations.
Why Import From China?
China is a top choice because of:
Low production costs
Wide variety of items
Reliable suppliers
Active trade connections between both countries
For both small and large businesses, importing from China can increase profits.
Top Logistics Options From China to the Philippines
You can choose from three major options:
1. Air Freight
Air cargo is the fastest method, ideal for:
Tech products
Light shipments
High-value items
Time-sensitive shipments
Transit time:
2 to 7 business days
Pros:
Extremely quick
Secure
Good tracking
Cons:
More expensive
2. Sea Freight
Sea freight is the cheapest method for large shipments.
Choose between:
FCL (Full Container Load)
Best for those who can fill a full shipment.
LCL (Less Than Container Load)
Perfect when you want to ship small volume without booking a full load.
Transit time:
8–20 days
Pros:
Affordable for bulk
Ideal for large cargo
Cons:
Slower than air
Additional documentation
3. Door-to-Door Courier
Best for small parcels under 50kg. Popular courier companies include:
DHL
FedEx
UPS
China EMS
LBC (via partners)
Transit time:
within a week
Pros:
Door-to-door service
Simple shipping
Cons:
Expensive for heavy parcels
Common Ports Used
China’s exporting ports:
Canton
Shenzhen
Ningbo-Zhoushan
Shanghai
Xiamen
Qingdao
Philippines receiving ports:
Port of Manila
Port of Cebu
Davao Port
Subic Port
Air cargo usually arrives at:
Manila International Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport
Customs and Taxes
Your shipment may be charged:
Import tax
VAT
Processing fees
Costs depend on:
Category of goods
Invoice amount
Courier or freight
Items valued under ₱10,000 may qualify for the tax-free threshold.
Required Documents
Ensure your supplier provides:
Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin (if required)
Import Permit for restricted items
Complete documents ensure smooth customs clearance.
Selecting the Right Forwarder
A good freight forwarder helps with:
Booking cargo
Handling paperwork
Door-to-door delivery
LCL cargo grouping
Monitoring
Choose a company with strong China-Philippines experience for smooth operations.
How to Reduce Costs
Combine shipments
Skip holiday rush
Work with trusted companies
Pick sea freight for bulk
Negotiate with suppliers
Final Thoughts
Shipping from China to the Philippines is a smart move for anyone looking to grow their business. With the right shipping method, proper documents, and a reliable freight forwarder, you can enjoy smooth and efficient importing in 2025 and beyond.
