Shipping goods from China to the Philippines has become more convenient and budget-friendly for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are an ecommerce store owner, a wholesaler, or a company looking for regular shipments, understanding the available shipping options can save you money and ensure faster processing.
Why Import From China?
China is a top choice because of:
Cheap manufacturing rates
Massive product selection
Reliable suppliers
Strong logistics networks
Active trade connections between both countries
For both small and large businesses, importing from China can boost margins.
Main Shipping Methods From China to the Philippines
You can choose from three major options:
1. Air Freight
Air cargo is the quickest method, ideal for:
Gadgets
Light shipments
Expensive products
Urgent orders
Transit time:
within a week
Pros:
Extremely quick
Protected
Good tracking
Cons:
More expensive
2. Cargo by Sea
Sea freight is the cheapest method for large shipments.
Choose between:
FCL (Full Container Load)
Best for those who can fill a 20ft or 40ft.
LCL (Less Than Container Load)
Perfect when you want to reduce costs without booking a full load.
Transit time:
8–20 days
Pros:
Very cost-effective
Best for big shipments
Cons:
Longer transit time
Customs-heavy process
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:
Not ideal for bulk items
Common Ports Used
China’s exporting ports:
Guangzhou
Shenzhen
Ningbo
Shanghai
Xiamen
Qingdao
Philippines receiving ports:
Port of Manila
Cebu Port
Davao Port
Subic Port
Air cargo usually arrives at:
Manila International Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport
Import Duties
Your shipment may be charged:
Customs duties
Philippine VAT
Clearance fees
Costs depend on:
Product type
Declared value
Courier or freight
Items valued under ₱10,000 may qualify for the tax-free threshold.
Documentation Needed
Ensure your supplier provides:
Commercial Invoice
Package details
BL/AWB
Origin certificate (if required)
Import Permit for restricted items
Complete documents ensure no delays.
How to Pick a Logistics Partner
A good freight forwarder helps with:
Shipment booking
Customs clearance
Final-mile services
Consolidation
Monitoring
Choose a company with strong China-Philippines experience for lower rates.
Money-Saving Tips
Combine shipments
Don’t ship during Chinese New Year
Work with trusted companies
Pick sea freight for bulk
Request better rates
Summary
Shipping From China to the Philippines is a strategic 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 affordable importing in 2025 and beyond.
Importing from Alibaba to the Philippines
