Shipping with China Post is a popular option for sending packages from or to China, especially for affordable and reliable services. China Post offers a variety of options for both domestic and international shipping, depending on the type of goods you’re sending and the level of service you require.
China Post International Shipping Services
China Post provides several international shipping options for sending goods from China to other countries, and vice versa. Here are the main types of services available:
1. China Post Registered Air Mail
- Delivery Time: 7–30 business days (depending on destination).
- Cost: Typically affordable for smaller, lighter packages.
- Tracking: Yes, with tracking available.
- Max Weight: 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
- Features:
- Economical for smaller packages or documents.
- Registered means it offers extra security compared to regular mail.
- Tracking number available to monitor the progress of your shipment.
2. China Post EMS (Express Mail Service)
- Delivery Time: 3–7 business days (depends on destination).
- Cost: More expensive than regular air mail but much faster.
- Tracking: Yes, with full tracking.
- Max Weight: 30 kg (66 lbs).
- Features:
- Fast and reliable service for urgent shipments.
- EMS is often used for larger or higher-value shipments that need to reach the destination quickly.
- Provides door-to-door delivery.
3. China Post Air Parcel
- Delivery Time: 10–30 business days (depending on the destination country).
- Cost: More affordable than EMS for heavier parcels.
- Tracking: Yes, with tracking available.
- Max Weight: 20 kg (44 lbs).
- Features:
- Suitable for larger packages that do not require express delivery.
- Economical option for larger shipments compared to EMS.
- Tracking is available, but delivery may take longer.
4. China Post Surface Mail (Sea or Land Mail)
- Delivery Time: 1–3 months (depending on the destination).
- Cost: The most affordable option for shipping heavy or bulky items.
- Tracking: Limited tracking, depending on destination.
- Max Weight: 20–30 kg (44–66 lbs).
- Features:
- Very cost-effective but very slow.
- Often used for large or bulk shipments that do not require fast delivery.
- May be used for destinations in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
5. China Post Small Packet Air Mail
- Delivery Time: 7–20 business days (depending on destination).
- Cost: Very cheap for small, lightweight packages.
- Tracking: Limited or no tracking, depending on the destination.
- Max Weight: 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
- Features:
- Ideal for small items like documents, gifts, or light products.
- No tracking in some cases or very limited tracking, so it’s not recommended for valuable goods.
How to Ship with China Post
1. Preparing Your Package
- Package Your Goods: Properly pack your items to ensure they’re safe during transport. This includes using bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and ensuring the dimensions and weight are correct.
- Labeling: Complete any required Customs Declaration Forms (e.g., CN22 or CN23) for international shipments. This includes listing the contents, value, and purpose of the shipment.
2. Visiting a Post Office or Using a Pickup Service
- You can drop off your package at a China Post office, or, for larger shipments, you can arrange a pickup if available.
- For international shipments, ensure that all necessary documents are completed, including Customs Declarations.
3. Tracking Your Shipment
- China Post provides tracking numbers for most services (except for Small Packet Air Mail in some cases).
- You can track your package on the official China Post website or other third-party tracking tools (e.g., 17track.net, TrackChinaPost).
4. Delivery
- International shipments are typically handled by China Post to the destination country and then passed to the local postal service for final delivery.
- Delivery can take longer for remote areas or depending on the specific country’s customs and clearance procedures.
Shipping Rates with China Post
Shipping rates depend on the weight, size, and destination of the package. For example:
- Small Packet: A small item (under 1 kg) to countries like the USA or Europe via China Post Registered Air Mail could cost anywhere from $10 to $30.
- EMS (Express Mail Service): For heavier or urgent packages (up to 30 kg), prices typically range from $30 to $200 or more, depending on the destination.
- Air Parcel: Shipping a 5 kg package from China to the USA via China Post Air Parcel could cost around $40–$80.
For the exact rate, it’s best to use China Post’s online rate calculator or visit a local post office to get a quote based on the size, weight, and destination of your shipment.
Advantages of Shipping with China Post
- Affordable: China Post is often one of the most cost-effective options for international shipping, especially for small and medium-sized parcels.
- Reliable for Smaller Packages: For low-value goods or personal items, China Post is a reliable choice.
- Wide Availability: China Post services are available to almost every country in the world.
- No Account Needed: You don’t need a commercial account or shipping contract to use their services; just visit the nearest post office.
Disadvantages of Shipping with China Post
- Slower Delivery: Depending on the service, shipping times can be longer compared to private carriers like FedEx, UPS, or DHL.
- Limited Tracking: For some services like Small Packet Air Mail, tracking may be either limited or unavailable.
- Customs Delays: International shipments can face delays at customs, especially with certain goods, leading to longer delivery times.
How to Ship Internationally with China Post
For international shipments, you can ship via any of the above-mentioned services (e.g., EMS, Registered Air Mail). The process is similar to domestic shipping:
- Pack the Item: Ensure the package is well-protected.
- Fill Out Customs Forms: Complete any necessary customs paperwork, including the Customs Declaration (CN22 or CN23).
- Drop Off or Arrange Pickup: Take the package to a China Post office, or arrange a pickup (if available).
- Track Your Shipment: Use the provided tracking number to monitor your package.
If you have a specific destination or package details, I can help you estimate the shipping cost more accurately or help you navigate the process! Let me know if you need further assistance with shipping via China Post.