Sea cargo rates from China to Saudi Arabia depend on factors like the type of shipment (Full Container Load or Less-than-Container Load), the port of departure in China (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo), the port of arrival in Saudi Arabia (e.g., Jeddah, Dammam), and other variables like fuel surcharges and seasonality. Here’s a general breakdown:

1. Full Container Load (FCL)

• 20ft Container:
  • Rates typically range from $2,000 to $3,500 USD, depending on the carrier, route, and season.
• 40ft Container:
  • Rates generally range from $3,500 to $5,000 USD.
  These prices include the ocean freight charges but may exclude other fees like terminal handling charges, fuel surcharges, and customs fees.

2. Less-than-Container Load (LCL)

• For smaller shipments, LCL charges are typically calculated based on the volume of goods.
  • Rates: Around $80 to $150 USD per cubic meter (CBM).
  • LCL shipments are usually more expensive per unit of volume compared to FCL, as they share the container space with other shipments.

3. Estimated Transit Times

• Shanghai to Jeddah: Around 20-25 days.
• Shenzhen to Dammam: Around 18-22 days.
• Ningbo to Jeddah: Around 18-25 days.

4. Additional Fees

• Fuel Surcharges: Most shipping lines apply a fuel surcharge based on fluctuating fuel prices.
• Terminal Handling Charges (THC): These are fees for loading and unloading cargo at the port, and they can vary by port and container type.
• Documentation Fees: These can include bill of lading fees, customs clearance fees, etc.

5. Shipping Lines

Major shipping companies operating on the China-Saudi Arabia route include:

• COSCO Shipping
• Maersk
• MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)
• CMA CGM
• Hapag-Lloyd
• ONE (Ocean Network Express)

6. Other Considerations

• Customs Fees: Saudi Arabia has its own import regulations, including potential tariffs or VAT (usually 5%) on imported goods.
• Port Fees: Port fees can vary depending on the port (e.g., Jeddah, Dammam), so it’s important to check with your freight forwarder for specific charges.

7. Freight Forwarders

Working with a reliable freight forwarder is key to navigating shipping logistics, handling documentation, and managing the customs clearance process. Some major players include:

• DB Schenker
• Kuehne + Nagel
• Sinotrans
• DHL Global Forwarding
• C.H. Robinson

Would you like a more detailed quote or assistance with choosing a shipping provider? Let me know!