In 2025, if you plan to ship items from China to Germany, several factors will influence the rates. Let me break them down for you.
Shipping by Sea
Shipping from China to Germany by sea remains a top choice, especially for large or heavy cargo. When transporting bulky items like furniture or machinery, sea freight often offers the best value. However, costs can vary widely. They depend on the container type (Full Container Load – FCL or Less than Container Load – LCL), the distance between ports, and any extra services such as customs clearance.
For LCL shipments, companies charge based on your goods’ volume or weight. In 2025, LCL rates start around $100 – $200 per cubic meter. But these can change with market conditions. FCL rates apply per container. A 20 – foot container might cost between $1500 – $3000 for a one – way trip from major Chinese ports like Shanghai or Shenzhen to German ports like Hamburg or Bremen. Sea shipping from China to Germany usually takes 20 – 40 days. Delays in ports can add extra time.
Air Shipping
When speed matters, air shipping from China to Germany is the way to go. It’s perfect for high – value electronics or perishable goods. But this convenience comes at a price. Airlines calculate air freight rates based on the shipment’s weight. For shipments under 45 kg, expect rates starting from $5 – $10 per kg. As weight increases, the per – kg rate drops. Shipments over 300 kg might cost around $3 – $5 per kg. Air shipping is much faster, with transit times typically between 1 – 3 days from major Chinese airports to German hubs like Frankfurt Airport.
Cheapest Shipping Options
If you want the cheapest shipping from China to Germany and time isn’t critical, sea freight—especially LCL for smaller loads—is your best bet. Sharing container space with other shippers cuts costs. Another tip: plan your shipments early and avoid peak seasons. During Chinese New Year or major European holidays, higher demand and limited space drive up rates.
Tracking Your Shipment
No matter which method you choose, tracking your shipment is crucial. Most shipping companies give you a tracking number when your goods depart. Use this number on their website or tracking app to monitor your items’ progress. This way, you’ll always know where your shipment is during its journey from China to Germany.
Recommendation
For all your China – Germany shipping needs, I recommend China Top Forwarder. Their experienced team handles all types of shipments, whether by sea or air. They’ll tailor the best shipping solution to your requirements.
Contact Information
Ready to ship from China to Germany? Contact China Top Forwarder. Their team will answer your questions and provide accurate quotes for your shipment.