DHL shipping to China is a fast and reliable option for sending goods to China, especially for international shipments that require quick delivery and door-to-door service. Below is a breakdown of the shipping process, costs, delivery times, and customs considerations when using DHL to ship to China.
1. DHL Shipping Services to China
DHL offers several services for shipping to China, depending on the urgency and size of the shipment:
a. DHL Express
- Overview: DHL Express is ideal for urgent shipments and offers door-to-door delivery, including customs clearance.
- Transit Time: 3-7 days (depending on origin and destination in China).
- Best For: Small packages, high-value goods, and urgent deliveries.
- Tracking: DHL provides real-time tracking of your shipments from pickup to delivery.
b. DHL eCommerce
- Overview: A more economical option for larger or non-urgent shipments. It is ideal for e-commerce businesses sending goods to China.
- Transit Time: 7-14 days (varies by location).
- Best For: E-commerce sellers, larger shipments, and non-urgent deliveries.
- Tracking: Standard tracking is available.
2. Shipping Process with DHL to China
Step 1: Preparing the Shipment
- Create an Account: You can create an account on the DHL website to manage your shipments and access discounted rates.
- Package the Goods: Ensure that your goods are securely packaged and comply with DHL’s packaging guidelines. Use DHL-provided boxes or ensure your package is well-packed to avoid damage.
- Labeling: Label your package with the recipient’s full address, including the postal code in China, as well as your return address.
Step 2: Documentation
You will need to submit the following documents for customs clearance:
- Commercial Invoice: A detailed invoice including the value and description of the goods.
- Packing List: A list of the contents of the shipment.
- Waybill: This is the shipping label and contract between you and DHL.
- HS Code: The harmonized system code for the product being shipped, required for determining customs duties.
- Certificate of Origin: For some goods, a certificate of origin may be required.
- Import Permits: Some products (such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, etc.) may require special import permits or certifications.
Step 3: Pickup or Drop-off
- DHL Pickup: You can schedule a pickup with DHL, where a driver will collect your package from your location.
- Drop-off: Alternatively, you can drop off the package at a nearby DHL service center or authorized DHL agent.
Step 4: Transit & Tracking
Once the shipment is with DHL, you will receive a tracking number that allows you to track the package in real-time via the DHL website or mobile app. DHL’s express services will typically be faster and provide more frequent updates.
Step 5: Customs Clearance
- Customs in China: DHL will assist with customs clearance, but you may need to provide additional documentation or information to meet Chinese customs requirements.
- Duties and Taxes: Goods shipped to China may be subject to import duties and value-added tax (VAT), which vary by product type.
- Customs Duties: Varies by product category, from 0% to 50%.
- VAT: The standard VAT rate in China is 13%, but certain goods may have different VAT rates.
Step 6: Delivery
Once customs clearance is completed, DHL will deliver the package directly to the recipient’s address in China. DHL will handle any additional local procedures, such as last-mile delivery, to ensure your package reaches the correct destination.
3. Shipping Costs to China
The cost of shipping to China with DHL depends on several factors:
- Weight and Dimensions: The heavier and larger the package, the higher the shipping cost.
- Service Type: DHL Express will cost more than DHL eCommerce, but it offers faster delivery.
- Origin Country: The distance between the origin and China affects the cost.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Import duties and VAT are separate from DHL’s shipping fees and will be determined by Chinese customs.
You can calculate your shipping cost using the DHL online shipping calculator. Here’s the general price range:
- Small Packages (0-2 kg): $30 – $100 USD for express services.
- Larger Packages (10-20 kg): $200 – $500 USD for express services, depending on the origin country.
4. Delivery Time to China
- DHL Express: Typically 3-7 days (varies depending on the departure and arrival locations).
- DHL eCommerce: 7-14 days, depending on the shipping method and origin country.
5. Customs Considerations for Shipping to China
- Customs Duties: The import duties in China depend on the HS code and the value of the goods being shipped. Products can be subject to import duties ranging from 0% to 50%.
- Value-Added Tax (VAT): China imposes a 13% VAT on most imported goods. Some goods may be exempt from VAT or have a reduced rate.
- Restricted Items: Some items require special permits or may be restricted entirely, including certain electronics, chemicals, and agricultural products.
- HS Code: Proper classification of your products according to the HS code is critical for calculating duties and ensuring smooth customs clearance.
6. Tips for Shipping with DHL to China
- Ensure Proper Documentation: Incomplete or incorrect documents can lead to delays or fines. Make sure you have all required forms, including invoices and HS codes.
- Understand Chinese Import Regulations: Familiarize yourself with China’s import regulations, as they vary based on the type of goods.
- Track Shipments: Use DHL’s online tracking system to monitor the progress of your shipment in real-time.
- Shipping Insurance: Consider purchasing insurance for valuable shipments to protect against potential loss or damage.
7. DHL Contact Information for Shipping to China
For more information or assistance with your shipment:
- DHL Express Website: DHL Express
- Customer Service: Contact DHL’s customer service for specific queries regarding shipping to China.
Summary
DHL shipping to China offers fast, reliable, and door-to-door delivery services, ideal for both personal and business shipments. You can choose between DHL Express for fast delivery or DHL eCommerce for more cost-effective options. Be sure to prepare your shipment with the right documentation, understand customs duties and import taxes, and track your package through DHL’s tracking system to ensure timely and secure delivery.