Importing items from China to the Philippines has become easier and budget-friendly for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are an ecommerce store owner, a retail business, or a company looking for steady supply, understanding the best shipping methods can increase your profits and ensure efficient operations.
Reasons to Buy From China
China is a top choice because of:
Low production costs
Massive product selection
Established factories
Quick transport routes
Active trade connections between both countries
For both small and large businesses, importing from China can support business growth.
Best Ways to Ship From China to the Philippines
You can choose from three major options:
1. Air Cargo
Air cargo is the fastest method, ideal for:
Gadgets
Compact packages
Expensive products
Urgent orders
Transit time:
2–7 days
Pros:
Extremely
Shipping From China to the Philippines
Secure
Reliable monitoring
Cons:
More expensive
2. Cargo by Sea
Sea freight is the budget-friendly 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:
Lowest cost
Perfect for volume importing
Cons:
Not suitable for urgent shipments
More paperwork
3. Courier Shipping
Best for small parcels under 50kg. Popular courier companies include:
DHL
FedEx
UPS
China EMS
LBC (via partners)
Transit time:
fast delivery times
Pros:
Delivered to your address
Easy process
Cons:
Higher cost per kg
Best Shipping Routes
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
Import Duties
Your shipment may be charged:
Duty fees
VAT
Clearance fees
Costs depend on:
Product type
Declared value
Courier or freight
Items valued under ₱10,000 may qualify for the zero-duty rule.
Required Documents
Ensure your supplier provides:
Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Origin certificate (if required)
Import Permit for restricted items
Complete documents ensure faster processing.
Choosing a Freight Forwarder
A good freight forwarder helps with:
Shipment booking
Handling paperwork
Home/warehouse delivery
LCL cargo grouping
Tracking
Choose a company with strong China-Philippines experience for better reliability.
Money-Saving Tips
Group packages
Don’t ship during Chinese New Year
Choose experienced partners
Ship by sea for large loads
Ask for discounts
Summary
Shipping from China to the Philippines is a profitable move for anyone looking to grow their business. With the right shipping method, proper documents, and a reliable freight forwarder, you can enjoy hassle-free and efficient importing in 2025 and beyond.
How to Get the Best Freight Rates From China
