Looking for the Cheapest Shipping from China to the Philippines? You’ve come to the right place. When you buy on Alibaba and want to ship to the Philippines, you need straightforward guidance that helps you minimize costs, avoid delays, and conquer customs clearance. Below is a quick key-points table to give you an immediate overview:
| Key Points | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Shipping Methods | Sea Freight (FCL/LCL), Express (DHL, UPS, SF-Express) |
| Cost Factors | Trucking, Local Charges, Ocean Freight, Destination Fees, Import Tax |
| Documents Needed | Packing List, Commercial Invoice, HS Code, Import Permit, Bill of Lading |
| Recommended Incoterms | FOB, EXW, FCA |
| Customs & Taxes | Duty (if over USD200), 12% Sales Tax, Excise Tax (if applicable) |
| Last Mile Delivery | Truck, Rail, or Inter-island Transport (depending on location) |
Keep reading, and you’ll discover how each step works, which documents you need, and the best ways to save money on shipping from China to the Philippines.
1. From China to the Philippines: Main Processes and Cost Breakdown
When you’re importing from China to the Philippines, you’ll encounter several cost components. Understanding them helps you plan better and avoid hidden fees. Moreover, it ensures you know exactly where your money goes.
1.1. Trucking Cost from Factory to Loading Port
Imagine you’ve purchased goods from a factory in Shanghai. To move products from the factory to Shanghai seaport, you’ll pay a trucking fee. If you’re shipping LCL (Less than Container Load), the cost might be around USD $50 per cubic meter. If you’re shipping FCL (Full Container Load), expect roughly USD $140 per 20-foot container or USD $170 per 40-foot container.
However, if your supplier is in another Chinese city, the land freight might vary. When you purchase under FOB terms, your supplier usually includes these trucking costs in their quote.
1.2. Origin Local Charges
Before your shipment leaves the port in China, you’ll need to settle local charges like:
- Terminal Handling Charge (THC)
- Booking Fee
- Documentation Fee
- Customs Clearance Fee
- Telex-release Fee (if applicable)
Often, these are baked into an FOB price. If not, you pay them separately at origin. Thankfully, they’re usually not expensive compared to the core ocean freight.
1.3. Ocean Freight Rates
Your freight forwarder or shipping partner might give you a consolidated quote. Typically, it includes the cost from the loading port in China all the way to the Philippine port (e.g., Manila). When they provide an all-in rate, it generally covers ocean freight, destination charges for LCL, duties, VAT, and customs clearance assistance. Always compare quotes from different forwarders for the cheapest shipping from China to the Philippines.
1.4. Destination Charges
When your cargo arrives in Manila, you’ll have to settle destination charges. These are separate from the ocean freight. You may see charges for:
- DTHC (Destination Terminal Handling Charge)
- Arrival Notice Fee
- Documentation Fee
- Inspection Fee
- Unpacking Fee (if LCL)
Even though these might seem small, you want to confirm them beforehand to avoid surprises.
1.5. Port Charges
If you’re shipping FCL, your container is charged per unit. If you’re shipping LCL, it’s calculated per cubic meter (CBM). These port charges go to local port authorities. You’ll typically pay them once your shipment arrives.
1.6. Customs Clearance and Taxes in Manila
You must provide complete documents for customs clearance. Once customs checks everything, you’ll pay any required duty and taxes:
- Duty: If your goods are worth under USD $200, you’re exempt from duty.
- Sales Tax (VAT): This is a 12% charge based on the total value of goods.
- Excise Tax: Applicable on certain products like alcohol, tobacco, or minerals. Rates differ depending on the product category.
1.7. Delivery from Manila Port to Your Warehouse
Finally, your cargo is ready to travel from Manila port to your warehouse. You can select trucks or rail, or opt for waterway transport if you’re moving goods to different islands. The archipelagic nature of the Philippines means flexibility is essential. Always choose a method that balances cost and speed.
2. Essential Documents for Shipping from China to the Philippines
Proper documentation is key to a smooth import process. Your customs clearance depends on accurate paperwork.
- Packing List
This outlines all the items in your shipment. Customs officers use it for reference. - Commercial Invoice
This is a legal bill of sale. It details the transaction terms between you and the supplier. - HS Code
Each product type has a unique six-digit code, which helps customs determine the duty rate. - Import Permit
Certain items (e.g., food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, tobacco, alcohol, minerals) require additional permits. Without them, customs can refuse entry. - Other Relevant Documents
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Certificate of Product Registration (for food/drug imports)
3. Express Shipping from Alibaba to the Philippines
When time is of the essence and your packages are under 150 kg, express shipping might be your best solution. You can still find affordable rates, especially if you only have samples or documents to ship.
- DHL
DHL boasts a robust global network. They handle customs clearance and offer reliable door-to-door tracking. - UPS
UPS often gives competitive rates. Moreover, it delivers swiftly from China to the Philippines. - SF-Express
This Shenzhen-based courier excels in regional shipping. You can enjoy quick delivery times throughout Asia.
The bigger your shipment, the higher the express costs. Thus, if you’re shipping more than 150 kg, it’s usually more cost-effective to choose sea freight or even air freight consolidation.
4. Recommended Incoterms for Alibaba Orders
Incoterms define who is responsible for shipping costs and risks. Here are three that are most popular and beneficial:
- FOB (Free on Board)
Your supplier covers the cost of delivering goods from the factory to the loading port in China. You handle freight from port to port and beyond. - EXW (Ex Works)
Your supplier simply makes goods available at their facility. You’re in charge of everything else: trucking, export customs clearance, and ocean freight. - FCA (Free Carrier)
The supplier delivers the goods to a specific carrier or terminal. After that, you’re responsible for costs and risks.
Choose the term that best fits your budget and shipping expertise. If you’re unfamiliar with complex logistics, FOB is often the safer bet.
5. How jinglogistics Helps You Ship from China to the Philippines
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider working with a reliable freight forwarder. jinglogistics specializes in China-to-Philippines shipping and offers:
- Extensive Experience
They ship more than 6000 TEUs to the Philippines annually, so they understand the route and local regulations. - All-in-One Service
BanSar handles pickup, consolidation, customs paperwork, and final delivery. You save time by having a single point of contact. - Discounted Freight Rates
With volume comes leverage. They partner with major carriers to secure favorable shipping prices. - Fast Customs Clearance
Their team knows the ins and outs of Philippine customs. That translates to fewer delays and quicker deliveries. - Transparent Communication
You’ll get regular updates, and you won’t have to chase different companies for details.
By choosing an experienced partner like jinglogistics, you reduce stress and can focus on other parts of your business. Meanwhile, they ensure you enjoy the cheapest shipping from China to the Philippines without sacrificing service quality.
6. Conclusion: Let Us Help You Ship Affordably
Shipping from Alibaba to the Philippines might seem complicated at first glance. Yet, when you break it down—trucking fees, local charges, ocean freight, and customs requirements—you realize it’s entirely manageable. With the right partner and proper documentation, you can save money and avoid hassles.
Remember, if your goods weigh less than 150 kg, express shipping could work best. Otherwise, sea freight often offers the lowest cost. Also, Incoterms like FOB, EXW, and FCA help you specify responsibilities and control shipping expenses.
If you’re still unsure or want professional assistance, jinglogistics can guide you every step of the way. You’ll find competitive prices, reliable service, and efficient customs clearance. Feel free to reach out by email or phone call to get a tailored shipping plan for your next import.
Your success in importing products from China to the Philippines starts here. Are you ready to simplify your shipping? Now is the time to take action and save on your next shipment.
