Shipping from China to Africa Has Never Been Easier
We provide reliable door-to-door shipping solutions from China to Africa, including sea freight, air freight, and express delivery across all major African countries. Compare sea/air/express transit times, indicative costs, compliance, and importer checklists. We support businesses of all sizes, from small shipments to full containers, with flexible logistics solutions across Africa.
Quick answer (typical transit times):
Sea freight (FCL/LCL): Port-to-port transit time is usually 20–45+ days, but can be longer depending on the gateway, transhipment, and congestion.
Air freight: The entire process for your shipment is around 5–10 days, in rough terms (it is faster if the destination airport is the final stop; door-to-door depends on customs and the distance from the airport).
Door-to-door services To Africa
Our end-to-end services cover every stage of your shipment, from pickup in China to final delivery in Africa. Sea freight: FCL (20’/40’/40HC) and LCL consolidation to the main African gateways (and inland delivery for select destinations). The following are our services simplified:
- Sea freight: FCL (20’/40’/40HC) and LCL consolidation for cost-effective bulk shipping
- Air freight: standard and time-definite options for faster delivery
- DDP options: duties/taxes handled where feasible for hassle-free delivery
- Customs brokerage & compliance support (PVoC, SONCAP, ACI/ACID, ECTN/BESC) for every shipment in accordance with destination laws.
- Port-to-door, Port-to-Port and airport-to-door services for all shipments.
We book capacity with major ocean and air networks, including Maersk, MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), and CMA CGM. For context, the CMA CGM’s WAX line offers weekly direct Asia services to Nigeria/West Africa.
For air cargo routes via Middle East hubs, we commonly leverage Emirates SkyCargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, and Etihad Cargo network/partner capacity, depending on lane and cargo type.
SHIPPING TRANSIT TIMES TO AFRICA - BRIEF INTRODUCTION
Transit times vary depending on the origin port in China, the destination country in Africa, and the shipping method you choose. Below are general timelines to help you plan your shipment.
The following transit times apply to the different port cities in China that commonly ship to various parts of Africa.
Shanghai → 25–35 days (East Africa), 35–45 days (West Africa)
Ningbo → 30–40 days
Shenzhen → 23–32 days
Guangzhou → 23–32 days
Qingdao → 28–38 days
Tianjin → 30–40 days
Air Freight To Africa
The Typical air freight transit time is between 5 to 10 days.
What affects airtime:
- Flight availability
- Cargo handling and customs clearance
- Final delivery location (airport to door)
Additional context (IMPORTANT):
- East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania): usually faster due to more direct routes
- West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana): takes longer due to transhipment and port congestion
- Southern Africa (South Africa): moderate transit times with stable routes
Delays may occur due to customs clearance, port congestion, or seasonal demand.
CUSTOMS & COMPLIANCE
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
- Import declaration
- Certificate of origin
Core documents are mandatory and issued by the respective governments for safety and security purposes. The following are a few examples:
- PVoC (Kenya)
- SONCAP (Nigeria)
- ECTN/BESC
- ACI/ACID (Egypt)
Service Workflow
Proper documentation and compliance are essential to avoid delays and additional costs at destination.
1. Share Shipment Details
Provide cargo type, dimensions, weight, origin, and destination so we can plan the best route.
2. Route plan + quote
We recommend the most suitable shipping method (sea, air, or express) based on your timeline and budget.
3. Book shipment
Once confirmed, we secure space with carriers and schedule your shipment.
4. Origin handling in China
Cargo is picked up, consolidated (if needed), and prepared for export.
5. Compliance setup
Required documents and certifications (like PVoC, SONCAP, etc.) are arranged before shipment.
6. Transport (Sea/Air Freight)
Your cargo is shipped via the selected mode, with tracking available.
7. Custom Clearance
Documentation is verified and duties/taxes are processed at destination.
8. Arrival At Destination And Inland Delivery
Cargo is transported from the port or airport to the final delivery address.
9. Collection of Bill of Lading
Final confirmation of delivery and documentation handover.
African Importer Checklist
Preparing in advance helps you avoid delays, extra costs, and customs issues when you pick up your goods at your destination.
- Confirm destination & gateway
Know which port or airport your shipment will arrive at and the final delivery location. - Validate HS codes
Correct product classification ensures accurate duties and avoids customs delays. - Prepare documents
Being transparent is key. Ensure all paperwork (invoice, packing list, certificates) is complete and accurate. - Decide Incoterms
Choose whether you or the supplier handles shipping, duties, and risks (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP). - Budget duties & taxes
Plan for import duties, VAT, and other destination charges.
A well-prepared shipment reduces the risk of delays and unexpected costs.
- Confirm destination & gateway
For any shipping requirements to Africa, contact us for the best shipping rates to africa
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about shipping from China to Africa.
How long does sea freight take?
Sea freight typically takes 20–45+ days depending on the route, port congestion, and final destination.
What’s the fastest shipping method?
Express shipping is the fastest (1–3 days), followed by air freight (5–10 days), depending on availability and customs clearance.
Is PVoC required?
Yes, for regulated goods in Kenya and some other countries. It ensures products meet local standards before shipment.
Do countries require ECTN/BESC?
Yes, several West and Central African countries require cargo tracking notes before arrival.
Typical air freight cost?
Air freight usually ranges from $4 to $10 per kg, depending on weight, route, and urgency.