Looking to ship from China to Japan? Whether you’re sourcing products, managing an eCommerce supply chain, or handling corporate logistics, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from shipping methods to customs clearance and freight costs.
Comparison of Main Shipping Methods
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost | Suitable For | Key Features |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 3–7 days | Low | Bulk cargo | Economical, frequent sailings |
| Air Freight | 1–3 days | Medium–High | Urgent or valuable | Fast and reliable |
| International Express | 1–4 days | High | Small parcels | Door-to-door, DDP available |
Sea Freight from China to Japan
Sea freight is the most widely used shipping method for China–Japan trade. With a short transit time and frequent departures, it is highly efficient and economical.
Departure Ports in China
Shanghai
Ningbo
Shenzhen
Qingdao
Xiamen
Destination Ports in Japan
Tokyo
Yokohama
Osaka
Kobe
Nagoya
FCL vs LCL
FCL (Full Container Load): Best for shipments over 15 CBM
LCL (Less than Container Load): Shared containers for smaller cargo
Advantages of Sea Freight
Low cost per unit
Stable schedules
Ideal for large and regular shipments
Air Freight from China to Japan
For time-sensitive or high-value shipments, air freight offers the fastest transit from China to Japan.
Major Airports
China: Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, Shenzhen Bao’an, Beijing Capital
Japan: Narita (Tokyo), Kansai (Osaka), Haneda (Tokyo)
When to Use Air Freight
Urgent product launches
Fragile or expensive items
Small batches with high value
International Express (Courier Services)
International express is ideal for small parcels and documents that need fast and secure delivery.
Popular Couriers
DHL
FedEx
UPS
SF Express
Benefits
Door-to-door service
Quick customs clearance
DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) options available
Customs Clearance in Japan
Japan has strict import control, but with proper documentation and planning, customs clearance is efficient.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Import License (if applicable)
Certificate of Origin (if needed)
Japan Import Taxes
Consumption Tax: 10%
Import Duty: Depends on HS code
Customs Brokerage: Usually handled by freight forwarder or courier
Freight Cost Reference (2025)
The following prices are estimates. Please contact us for a tailored quote.
| Shipping Method | Estimated Cost |
| LCL Sea Freight | $30 – $60 / CBM |
| FCL (20ft container) | $500 – $800 / container |
| Air Freight | $3 – $6 / kg |
| International Express | $1 – $4 / kg |
Our Freight Services
As a professional freight forwarder based in China, we provide:
FCL/LCL sea shipping
Air cargo solutions
Express courier booking
DDP/DAP services to Japan
Warehousing, labeling, and consolidation
Customs support and documentation
Contact Us
Need a shipping solution from China to Japan? We offer competitive rates, reliable schedules, and full-service support.
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.transifly.com
Free quote & consultation available