The shipping cost from China to Israel depends on several factors, including the shipping method (air freight vs. sea freight), the size and weight of the shipment, the origin and destination cities, and the shipping service used. Below is an overview of the typical shipping methods and cost estimates for sending goods from China to Israel:
1. Air Freight from China to Israel
Air freight is the fastest shipping option and is suitable for smaller, time-sensitive shipments.
Estimated Cost for Air Freight:
- Small Shipments (1-10 kg): Air freight generally costs between $10 – $20 USD per kg, depending on the size of the package and the specific airline or courier service used.
- Medium Shipments (20-50 kg): The cost might range from $8 – $15 USD per kg.
- Larger Shipments (100 kg and above): For bulkier shipments, you can expect $6 – $12 USD per kg.
Transit Time:
- 3-7 business days, depending on the service type (standard or express).
Service Providers:
- Major logistics companies like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT offer international air freight services to Israel.
- Air freight can also be handled by freight forwarders, and it may involve more coordination with customs procedures.
2. Sea Freight from China to Israel
Sea freight is a more cost-effective option for larger and heavier shipments, but it takes longer than air freight.
Estimated Cost for Sea Freight:
- Full Container Load (FCL): Shipping a full 20-foot container from China to Israel typically costs between $2,000 – $4,000 USD, depending on the port of departure and the time of year.
- Less than Container Load (LCL): If you’re shipping smaller quantities (less than a full container), the cost for LCL can range between $50 – $100 USD per cubic meter (CBM), depending on the shipping company and other variables.
Transit Time:
- Sea freight generally takes longer: 20-30 days, depending on the specific ports used and the shipping route.
Ports:
- The main ports in China for shipping to Israel are Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Guangzhou.
- In Israel, the main port is Port of Haifa or Port of Ashdod.
3. Courier Services (e.g., DHL, FedEx, UPS)
For smaller shipments, using a courier service is often faster, though it may be more expensive than regular air freight or sea freight.
Estimated Cost for Courier Services:
- Small packages (1-5 kg): Prices range from $30 – $60 USD depending on the courier and shipping method.
- Medium-sized packages (10-20 kg): Prices can range from $60 – $150 USD.
Transit Time:
- 3-7 business days, depending on the courier and service level (express vs. standard).
4. Shipping by Rail (China to Israel via Eurasian Rail Network)
Although rail is not as common for shipments from China to Israel, it is possible to use the China-Europe Rail Express that runs through Central Asia, with final delivery in Israel by truck.
Estimated Cost for Rail Freight:
- Rail freight can cost around $1.50 – $3 USD per kg, but this is only an option for larger shipments and is less common for shipments to Israel compared to other routes.
Transit Time:
- 10-20 days depending on the route and logistics provider.
5. Customs and Import Duties
When shipping to Israel, you must also consider customs duties and taxes, which vary depending on the product category and value.
- Customs Duties: Israel typically charges customs duties based on the HS Code of the product.
- VAT (Value Added Tax): Israel has a standard 17% VAT that applies to most imports.
- Customs Clearance: For commercial shipments, you may need to work with a customs broker to ensure proper documentation is filed and duties are paid. Customs brokers can also help with paperwork like commercial invoices and bill of lading.
Freight Forwarders for Shipping to Israel
If you are dealing with a large shipment and want a comprehensive solution (including customs clearance and final delivery), you may want to use a freight forwarder. Popular international freight forwarders include:
- DHL Global Forwarding
- Kuehne + Nagel
- Expeditors
- DB Schenker
- C.H. Robinson
These companies can offer both air and sea freight solutions, help with customs clearance, and provide a door-to-door service.
How to Calculate Exact Shipping Costs
To get the most accurate estimate, you’ll need to:
- Weigh and measure your goods (for air or sea freight).
- Get quotes from different providers based on the weight, dimensions, and delivery timeframe.
- Use an online shipping calculator from providers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, or Alibaba Logistics.
Steps to Take When Shipping from China to Israel:
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork, including invoices, packing lists, and customs documents.
- Choose Your Shipping Method: Decide whether air, sea, or courier services best suit your needs.
- Book Your Shipment: Contact freight forwarders or courier companies to get quotes and book your shipment.
- Track Your Shipment: Use tracking tools to monitor your goods and ensure timely delivery to Israel.
Conclusion
- Air Freight: Best for smaller, urgent shipments with costs ranging from $10 – $20 USD per kg.
- Sea Freight: Best for larger, less urgent shipments, with costs for LCL around $50 – $100 USD per CBM.
- Courier Services: Quick, but more expensive for smaller packages, typically $30 – $60 USD for packages around 1-5 kg.
- Customs and Duties: Always factor in potential customs duties and VAT when calculating costs.
If you’d like more detailed information or help with quotes, feel free to let me know!