You can count on China to New Zealand shipping by air or by sea, both of which are economical and dependable. Pay less, get your goods shipped completely and waste no time as our team handles all the customs.
How to Ship goods From China to New Zealand ?
Are you planning to send goods from China to New Zealand? Gaining insight into the logistics process allows businesses and people to dodge possible holdups and unwanted costs. This guide explains everything clearly so your shipment gets to its destination safely and in good time.
Your Step-by-Step Shipping Guide when Importing From China to New Zealand
Step 1: Select Your Shipping Method
Decide on the program that matches your timeframe and how much you can spend.
- moved by sea is less expensive than other options but it is slower.
- Air Freight – Quick delivery, but it is expensive
Step 2: Find a Reliable Chinese Freight Forwarder
Reach out to a reliable freight forwarder like Guanwutong so you don’t have problems with your products en route.
Step 3: Secure Packing & Documentation
Make certain all your items are packaged safely and all the needed paperwork is done before you ship them.
Step 4: Clear Customs with Ease
Make sure you provide all necessary papers when you are processing customs in China and New Zealand.
Step 5: Track Your Delivery
Track your shipment in real time so you can see its progress all along the way.
Step 6: Shipping Costs
Check your incoterms and learn about every cost related to shipping.
Step 7: Final Reception
Get ready to check and receive your cargo as soon as it lands in New Zealand.
Air Freight from China to New Zealand
Air freight is perfect for deliveries that need to be done quickly. Although air freight is costlier than sea shipping, it provides quicker delivery and trustworthy service. Having the right forwarder helps guard against your shipments being harmed or facing delays.
Cost Component | Description |
Air Freight Charge | Main shipping cost based on weight (per kg) |
Fuel Surcharge | Fixed rate per kg; varies with oil prices |
Security Fee | Covers cargo screening and airline security handling |
Terminal Fee | Charges for cargo handling at airport terminals |
Seasonal Surcharges | Vary depending on peak or off-peak season and international oil price changes |
Note: Air freight charges are updated frequently, depending on airline policies and market conditions.
How long does air freight take from China to New Zealand ?
Shipping Method | Estimated Time |
Sea Freight | 25–40 days |
Air Freight | 5–8 days |
Express Courier | 5–7 days |
Air Freight Cost From China To New Zealand
Few things to pay attention when air freight from China to New Zealand
- Describe the cargo by adding weight, dimensions and the contents.
- Ask your freight forwarder to confirm the date and time of the flight.
- Make sure to use the proper packaging for your items as each type of product requires something specific
- Be sure to show that there are fragile items on the outer packaging.
- Make sure all information on your shipping label is useful to avoid issues.
To meet China’s airline rules and prevent repacking problems, Guanwutong provides secure packaging for your goods.
What goods are usually sent by air from China to New Zealand?
For tiny, light items that need a quick delivery, air freight is the right option. Common things flown by air are:
Type of Goods | Description |
Mobile Devices & Accessories | Phones, parts, chargers, and covers. |
Laptops & Computer Components | Internal parts, peripherals, and accessories. |
Digital Storage | Flash drives, power banks, hard drives. |
Medicines & Medical Supplies | Time-sensitive pharmaceuticals and health equipment. |
Industrial Equipment | Petrochemical tools and instruments used in projects. |
Perishable Items | Goods with a short shelf-life like certain foods. |
Luxury Auto Parts | High-end car components ordered by customers. |
Electronic Components | Circuit boards, sensors, and connectors. |
What Does Volumetric Weight Mean for Air Freight Shipments?
Volumetric weight is required for products that are not very heavy but take up a lot of room. The purpose of this formula is to give fair pricing for large cargo.
Formula:
Specify the length, width and height (all in cm) and divide by 6000.
The greater measurement between actual weight and volumetric weight is determined for the billing process.
What is dangerous goods?
Dangerous goods are things that may be dangerous because of their chemicals or shape. During transport such products may catch fire, lead to poisoning, explode or corrode. It is important to treat them correctly and label them properly.
What is the difference between dangerous vs. Hazardous?
It is common for toxic or irritant chemicals in our environment to hurt human health.
- There is a chance that hazardous cargo can start a fire, explode or harm the environment.
What Are Fragile Items?
Many times, fragile items such as glass, ceramics and antiques are breakable goods. They need to be handled carefully and packaged differently. Assignment by description is important and you must mention it to your freight forwarder at the beginning.
Some airlines do not permit travelers to send fragile or special goods. Let them know your plans early so you do not face any problems. This situation can raise the shipping rate.
Top Chinese airports for exports to New Zealand:
City | Airport Name |
Beijing | Beijing Capital International Airport |
Chengdu | Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport |
Shanghai | Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport |
Shanghai | Shanghai Pudong International Airport |
Xi’an | Xi’an Xianyang International Airport |
Guangzhou | Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport |
Hong Kong | Hong Kong International Airport |
Kunming | Kunming Changshui International Airport |
Shenzhen | Shenzhen Baoan International Airport |
Hangzhou | Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport |
New Zealand’s international airports for imports:
City | Airport Name |
Auckland | Auckland Airport |
Blenheim | Woodbourne Airport |
Christchurch | Christchurch International Airport |
Dunedin | Dunedin International Airport |
Gisborne | Gisborne Airport |
Kaitaia | Kaitaia Airport |
Kerikeri | Kerikeri Airport |
Napier | Napier Airport |
Nelson | Nelson Airport |
Hamilton | Hamilton Airport |
Sea Shipping From China to New Zealand
There are just two main ways to ship cargo from China to New Zealand by sea freight: FCL and LCL. Which one you pick will depend on the size of your load and how much money you want to use.
- If you want to move only small shipments, LCL is the right option. It requires more time to both combine goods and separate them, however, it is still cheaper because you pay only for how much space is occupied.
- Handling large quantities is most effectively done with FCL. A rental of a 20ft or 40ft container gives you better unit price and faster loading and unloading.
Ocean Freight FCL and LCL From China to New Zealand
Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping
FCL ships products more affordably than any other method when the amount to be sent is large. Every cargo container gives you a full 20ft or 40ft space for your items. This method is best for big companies looking for speed and security in transport.
Less than a Container Load (LCL) Shipping
LCL is the best choice for those importing small amounts. Your goods are placed in containers together and you only have to pay for the space they take up. Freight forwarders leverage the use of multiple shipments to decrease the costs.
Sea freight cost from China to New Zealand
The shipping cost depends on the method you choose, how heavy your shipment is and its volume. The typical rates are covered below.
Shipping Method | Estimated Cost |
Sea (20ft Container) | Approx. USD 750 |
Sea (40ft Container) | Approx. USD 1,400 |
LCL Sea Freight | Approx. USD 5 – 10 per m³ |
Door-to-Door DDP | Approx. USD 7.5 – 8.5/kg or USD 450/m³ |
Air Freight | Approx. USD 420 for 100kg (USD 4.2/kg) |
Express Shipping | Approx. USD 4.5 – 6.5/kg |
Key Insights:
- FCL proves to be most efficient when the load is full.
- When the amount of goods isn’t too much, LCL is helpful.
- It covers the charges made for shipment, import duties and taxation.
- It is quick to use air freight for items that require a fast delivery.
- If you want the fastest delivery, you have to pay the highest rate for express shipping.
How Long Sea Shipping From China To New Zealand
Transit times depend on origin and shipping type. Here’s a breakdown:
From Port (China) | To New Zealand | Estimated Time (Days) |
General Sea Freight | Port to Port | 25 – 30 |
Sea Freight DDP | Door to Door | 35 – 40 |
Hong Kong | Port to Port | 21 – 30 |
Chongqing | Port to Port | 27 – 30 |
Fuzhou | Port to Port | 24 – 30 |
Huangpu | Port to Port | 24 – 30 |
Nansha | Port to Port | 24 – 30 |
Shanghai | Port to Port | 26 – 30 |
Guangzhou | Port to Port | 21 – 30 |
Shenzhen | Port to Port | 22 – 30 |
Xiamen | Port to Port | 25 – 30 |
What is the cheapest way to ship from China to New Zealand ?
Moving cargo from China to New Zealand is most affordable by opting for sea freight.
If you plan to ship large or heavy items, the cost for sea freight starts at $195 when the item’s value is $1000.
Documents and small packages are usually sent by air freight because it is faster and more convenient, but it usually costs more.
Import Tax and Duties in New Zealand
The FOB (Free on Board) value of any imported goods is subject to a 15% GST charge in New Zealand. Another thing to know is that taxes bump up the total amount by about 10%.
Duty Rates:
Product Type | Estimated Duty Rate |
General Imports | 0% – 10% |
Average Duty Rate | ~4% |
Exempt Items (e.g. laptops, guitars) | 0% |
All landed costs should be considered in importing and these expenses are freight, customs fees, taxes and brokerage fees.
Logistics Costs of Importing from China to New Zealand
There are various costs you need to consider.
- Fees related to the work of customs brokers
- Costs Connected to Freight Forwarding
- Fees and Taxes When Importing
- New Zealand deals with local Delivery Fees.
Guanwutong enables you to simplify the process and avoid unplanned expenses.
Door to Door Delivery From China To New Zealand
Door-to-door shipping is available under DAP or DDP terms, with two main delivery types:
Delivery Options:
Method | Description | Delivery Time | Cost Level |
Trucking Delivery | From local station to your address by truck | 1–2 days | Moderate |
Express Delivery | Direct express courier delivery | Fastest | Highest |
Trucking is more affordable than express but pricier than standard ground transport.
Door to Door Shipping Delivery From China To New Zealand
Shipping Method | Estimated Time | Best For |
Express Freight | 2–5 working days | Urgent and time-sensitive shipments |
Air Freight | 3–7 working days | Goods over 200 kg needing fast delivery |
Sea Freight | 28–35 days (port-to-port)+ ~7 days for final delivery | Large, non-urgent cargo |
Express Freight Shipping:
Urgent deliveries are handled through express freight which makes sure your goods are delivered to New Zealand within 2 to 5 days. It is the most convenient when you need details fast.
Air Freight Shipping:
Air freight is best for heavy cargo which is usually over 200 kg. Between 3 and 7 days is the usual transit time for most routes which makes it a good solution if you need fast and affordable shipping.
Sea Freight Shipping:
When sending big, less important shipments, opting for sea freight is the most economical way. Travel from port to port is 28 to 35 days and door delivery at the destination is about 7 days more.
DDP Shipping From China To New Zealand
People usually go for DDP shipping because it is so simple and convenient. The person you purchase from (Guanwutong) is responsible for all costs related to the shipment such as taxes and duties.
It is useful for businesses seeking to reduce problems and lower their expenses. DDP means that all fees related to transport are covered in the price, so you won’t be charged extras when goods reach the destination.
DDP Benefits:
- The receiver will not be charged with any hidden fees.
- Simple customs clearance
- When shopping with Amazon FBA, for business or private purposes, an physical address matters.
DDP Shipping Cost From China To New Zealand
Depending on the needs for urgency and the size of the cargo, DDP can be done via a number of modes.
- Sea Freight
- Air Freight
- Road Freight
- Rail Freight
Goods are taken from the factory or shipped to our warehouse in Shenzhen. In both China and New Zealand, there is customs management for every shipment. The last stop of delivery is managed by express couriers.
DDP Shipping Transit Time From China To New Zealand
DDP Shipping requirement from China to New Zealand :
Mode | Transit Time | Cost Estimate |
Sea Freight DDP | 15 – 20 days | $190 per CBM |
Air Freight DDP | 5 – 8 days | $3.5 – $6.00 per kg |
Choosing DDP saves both time and money by removing the burden of managing duties and customs paperwork.
Alibaba and Amazon Shipping from China to New Zealand
Shipments to New Zealand from Alibaba suppliers are made by both air and sea freight. Therefore, it’s safer to use a freight forwarder than to depend entirely on suppliers to avoid extra costs and get proper service.
Guanwutong takes care of shipping from China to Amazon FBA and Alibaba orders which are destined for New Zealand. Because of good logistics systems, they can match and manage the numerous features of international e-commerce shipping.
Why Choose a Freight Forwarder like Guanwutong?
Benefits | Details |
Fast Amazon FBA Delivery | Orders delivered to FBA warehouses in 1–2 business days |
Smooth Alibaba Shipping | Quick, dependable delivery from Chinese sellers |
Exclusive Carrier Rates | Lower shipping costs through trusted partnerships |
Full Coordination | From FBA scheduling to Alibaba compliance |
The logistics team manages the entire procedure which helps international shipping be stress-free and easy.
Information on Goods Imported into New Zealand from China
China provides New Zealand with many different goods. These are the main products that India imports:
Category | Examples |
Electrical Machinery | Batteries, generators |
General Machinery | Engines, refrigeration units |
Vehicles & Parts | Cars, trucks, components |
Computers & Electronics | PCs, parts, gadgets |
Mineral Fuels | Oil, coal |
Plastic Products | Packaging, PVC items |
Optical & Medical Equipment | Eyewear, instruments |
Iron and Steel | Raw and finished materials |
Household Appliances | Kitchen and commercial electronics |
Organic Chemicals | Industrial-use chemicals |
Aluminium Goods | Raw and processed aluminium |
Tires | Various types and sizes |
Prohibited and Restricted Items
You should make sure that what you are shipping to New Zealand isn’t restricted or banned before any problems with customs or shipping time arise.
These Are the Items that Are Not Permitted in the Baggage or Restricted:
- Jewelry
- Wet blue colored leather
- Raw minerals
- Paints and coatings that are not toxic
- Tobacco products
- Precious stones and stamps are included.
- Antiques
You’ll be able to find a complete guide on the New Zealand Customs website or from your freight partner.
Freight Storage and Warehousing Services in New Zealand
There is secure warehousing available at Guanwutong for storing cargo until the time it’s needed or for consolidating shipments. The service proves helpful when you work with multiple suppliers or need to handle a big shipment.
Warehouse Services Available:
- Managing cargo during the process of loading and unloading
- Process of creating crates and pallets
- Short-term storage
- Shipping your goods in one unbroken load
Accepting deliveries to a warehouse makes costs lower and allows for wider delivery flexibility.
Freight Forwarders from China to New Zealand
Selecting between air and sea transport is your first thing to do. Always ensure that you get rate quotations from an honest freight forwarder.
Want to make shipping less complicated? Please have a look at our Step-by-Step Shipping Guide which covers:
- Required documents
- Cost breakdowns
- Transit tracking
- Customs procedures
Find a Freight Forwarder
An international freight forwarder eases the process of shipping goods across borders. They administer every aspect of the process, solve any arising problems and cut the risks involved.
Before You Start:
Find out about Incoterms which mean different parties take on various duties for shipping. When you know these terms, it will prevent you from making expensive mistakes and confusing suppliers.
Freight Documents and Forms
You only need to worry about the main documents; most of the tasks will be handled by your forwarder.
Must-Have Documents:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- A Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
- Register for licenses to import or export (if any)
Take the time to review your work confirming each thing is correct. A tiny mistake can have big effects on the costs. Always have a guide to freight charges handy to make sure there are no extra charges.
Packing Guideline for shipping from China to New Zealand
Goods are often grouped in different ways depending on the industry. For example:
By Use or Nature | Examples |
Nutrition-Based | Food vs Non-Food |
Chemical Composition | Mineral, Plant-Based, Synthetic |
Physical Form | Liquid vs Solid |
When things are shipped by sea freight, they are packed according to how they will be stored and moved over a long distance. Since ships are made for carrying bulk goods, the way items are packed matters a lot.
These are the main guidelines to follow for shipping goods from China to New Zealand:
1. Remove Old Labels
Get rid of all expired labels or markings prior to packing your shipment. Put on the proper shipment label to ensure there is no disruption.
2. Barcode Visibility
The barcode needs to be laid down flat and can be seen without obstruction.
Barcodes should not be covered by anything else.
- Tape
- Shrink-wrap
- Straps
Since there are multiple checkpoints with barcodes, anything that gets in the way may result in delays.
3. Label Placement
Put the waybill in an outside position on top or side of the package. Keep the label from touching the edges or corners, so it does not tear.
4. Protection for Fragile Items
Surround any delicate items with something that will cushion them. Don’t place fragile things next to corners inside the cardboard box.
Protective Packaging Tips | Why It Matters |
Bubble wrap or foam inserts | Prevents breakage during handling |
Double boxing for valuables | Adds an extra safety layer |
5. Packing Sharp Items
If anything has sharp edges or points, securely wrap it so it won’t gouge the box while being shipped. This keeps both the products and the people dealing with them in good condition.