When shipping goods from China via standard shipping, you are typically choosing a more affordable option, although it may take longer compared to express services. Standard shipping is suitable for non-urgent shipments, small to medium-sized parcels, or bulk goods. Here are some popular standard shipping methods available:

1. China Post (Standard Shipping)

China Post offers several services for international shipping that are more affordable and take longer to deliver.

China Post Registered Air Mail

• Delivery Time: 15–30 days (depending on the destination country).
• Ideal for: Small parcels or personal goods, often used for e-commerce shipments.
• How It Works: Goods are sent by airmail but processed slower than express services. This service includes tracking, which allows you to monitor the parcel’s progress.
• Cost: Lower than express couriers like DHL or FedEx, but more expensive than economy shipping options.
• Tracking: Available, though updates can be slower compared to express shipping.
• Advantages: Affordable, reliable for small packages.
• Disadvantages: Slower delivery and possible delays due to customs processing.

China Post Surface Mail (Sea Freight)

• Delivery Time: 30–60 days, depending on the destination and shipping conditions.
• Ideal for: Larger or heavier shipments that do not need to arrive quickly.
• How It Works: Goods are transported by sea or land, making it the most economical method for bulk shipments.
• Cost: Very affordable for large or heavy items, but the slowest method.
• Tracking: Limited tracking information; best for non-urgent deliveries.
• Advantages: Extremely cost-effective for large shipments.
• Disadvantages: Long delivery times and limited tracking.

2. EPacket (for Small Packages)

ePacket is a fast, affordable shipping option offered by China Post in cooperation with the postal services of the destination countries. This service is ideal for small e-commerce parcels.

• Delivery Time: 7–20 days.
• Ideal for: Small parcels weighing up to 2 kg (often used for e-commerce).
• How It Works: Goods are shipped via air and usually handled by the destination country’s postal service after reaching the destination country.
• Cost: More affordable than express services, but faster than regular China Post.
• Tracking: Full tracking is available, allowing you to follow the shipment’s progress.
• Advantages: Fast and cost-effective for small packages.
• Disadvantages: Limited weight and size restrictions.

3. Standard Shipping via Freight Forwarders (Sea or Rail)

For larger, bulk shipments, using freight forwarders or logistics providers can provide a more economical shipping option. These services typically involve sea freight or rail freight, depending on the destination.

• Delivery Time: 30–60 days, depending on the route.
• Ideal for: Large shipments, including bulk goods, and commercial shipments.
• How It Works: Goods are shipped via container or bulk shipping. Freight forwarders will manage logistics and coordinate with carriers, often combining sea, rail, and road transport.
• Cost: Based on volume and weight; often more affordable for large shipments compared to air freight.
• Tracking: Tracking is available, but updates can be slower than express options.
• Advantages: Cost-effective for large volumes, especially for business shipments.
• Disadvantages: Longer transit time and potential delays due to customs.

4. AliExpress Standard Shipping

For e-commerce purchases from AliExpress, the platform offers its own standard shipping option, which typically uses China Post or other carriers depending on the destination.

• Delivery Time: 20–60 days, depending on the destination country.
• Ideal for: Small e-commerce shipments like gadgets, clothing, or accessories.
• How It Works: Goods are shipped via standard mail services and may be transferred to local postal services once they reach the destination country.
• Cost: Affordable, usually free or low-cost for small items.
• Tracking: Tracking is available but may not be as detailed as express services.
• Advantages: Cost-effective and often free for small parcels.
• Disadvantages: Slower than express shipping, with possible delays in transit.

5. Sea Freight (Economy) via Freight Forwarders

If you need to ship large or bulky items, sea freight remains the most affordable standard shipping option.

• Delivery Time: 25–60 days, depending on the route and destination port.
• Ideal for: Large shipments, bulk goods, or commercial cargo.
• How It Works: Goods are shipped via ocean freight, and the entire process from China’s ports (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Guangzhou) to the destination port is coordinated by a freight forwarder.
• Cost: Very economical, especially for large or heavy shipments.
• Tracking: Tracking is usually available through the freight forwarder or the shipping line.
• Advantages: Very cost-effective for large shipments.
• Disadvantages: Long transit times and potential delays in customs.

Choosing the Right Standard Shipping Option

• Small Shipments: If you’re shipping small parcels, China Post Registered Air Mail or ePacket is a good choice for an affordable and relatively fast service.
• Large or Bulk Shipments: If you’re shipping large goods, sea freight via a freight forwarder or economy shipping services will be the most cost-effective, though with a longer transit time.
• E-commerce Packages: If you’re shopping on platforms like AliExpress, AliExpress Standard Shipping is a convenient and budget-friendly option.

Tracking and Delivery Times

• China Post Registered Air Mail and ePacket usually offer online tracking, though updates may not be as frequent as with express services.
• For sea freight and economy freight forwarding, tracking is available but may not be as detailed or as frequent as express air services.

Let me know if you’d like further details on specific services, pricing estimates, or assistance with booking a standard shipment from China!