Shipping Cost from China to Ireland

When planning to shipping from China to Ireland, it is vital to have a thorough understanding of the various costs involved. The journey is more than just loading a container onto a ship and shipping it around the world; it’s a complex process involving multiple stages and considerations.

Here is a price guide for shipping from China to Ireland. An in-depth look at the approximate cost of shipping 20ft and 40ft containers from China to Ireland, as well as other costs.

As an EU member state, Ireland is a key gateway for Chinese companies to enter the European market, and shipping from China to Ireland is becoming increasingly important. Common export products include electronic components, home appliances, clothing and textiles, machinery and equipment, and daily necessities.

For shipping from China to Ireland, sea freight is the primary option for bulk cargo, with both full container load (FCL) and less-than-container load (LCL) options catering to diverse customer needs. The main ports of call are Dublin Port and the Port of Cork, both of which offer comprehensive facilities and nationwide logistics coverage. Air freight, primarily through Dublin International Airport (DUB), is suitable for light cargo, high-value products, and time-sensitive shipments.

Sea freight typically takes 25–35 days, while air freight can reach customers in 4–8 days. Each mode of transport has its own advantages, and companies typically choose based on cargo volume, budget, and delivery requirements. For companies seeking a balance between time and cost, some freight forwarders offer combined sea and air transport solutions.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that goods imported into Ireland must comply with relevant EU standards, such as CE certification and environmental regulations for batteries and electronic products. Incomplete documentation or improper labeling can lead to customs clearance delays or even shipment returns. Therefore, pre-shipment documentation preparation is crucial.

How Much does Shipping Cost from China to Ireland (updated 2025)

Shipping costs from China to Ireland vary greatly depending on the method of transport. Generally speaking, a 20-foot container costs between $2,550 and $4,800. Air freight costs between $5 and $9 per kilogram.

The final cost of shipping from China to Ireland depends on several factors. Before preparing a quote, your freight forwarder may ask for the following details:

• Nature of your shipment
• Your preferred shipping method (FCL, LCL, air freight)
• The weight and dimensions of your shipment
• Origin and destination
• Service type (e.g. port-to-port, door-to-door)

Cost Of Shipping 20ft Container From China To Ireland

A 20ft container is a standard size shipping container that can hold approximately 24-26 tons of cargo. Shipping a 20-foot container from China to Ireland typically costs US$2,550 to US$4,850, depending on the specific route and shipping company. Additional charges may include port handling charges, customs clearance fees, and insurance.

Cost Of Shipping 40ft Container From China To Ireland

The 40ft container is larger and can hold approximately 54 tons of cargo. While it offers more capacity, it also costs more to ship a 40-foot container. The typical price range for shipping a 40-foot container from China to Ireland is US$3,050 to US$5,050. As with 20′ containers, additional charges may apply.

How much does it cost to ship a container from China to Ireland?

These are the average prices to ship a container from China to Ireland with the cheapest rates for loading and shipping containers from the major ports in China to Ireland for 20ft and 40ft containers (FCL) with all types of cargo such as: commercial cargo, vehicles, or personal effects for international shipments to Ireland.

It is difficult to provide an accurate cost estimate for shipping 20ft and 40ft containers from China to Ireland due to the many variables involved. However, as a general guide, you can expect a 40-foot container to cost significantly more than a 20-foot container due to its greater capacity and associated higher handling costs.

Container shipping from China to Ireland involves various costs that must be carefully considered. Understanding the factors that affect these costs and obtaining accurate quotes from China freight forwarders is critical to making informed decisions and ensuring cost-effective shipping. With the right planning and execution, importers and exporters can successfully complete the shipping process and ensure that their goods arrive in Ireland safely and on time.

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Additional Cost of Ocean Freight from China to Ireland

While core shipping costs are high, additional fees and charges can also affect the total expense of shipping a container from China to Ireland.

Port Fees and Handling Charges
Port fees and handling charges are an important part of the total shipping cost that needs to be considered. These charges include:

• Berthing charges: charges for the use of port facilities during container unloading.
• Loading and unloading charges: charges incurred for loading containers onto a vessel and unloading them once they arrive at the destination port.
• Storage charges: additional charges may be charged if the container is not picked up within the stipulated time upon arrival at the port.

These charges can vary from port to port and should be carefully considered when estimating the total shipping cost.

In order to obtain an accurate cost estimate, it is recommended to contact the Chinese freight forwarding company Basenton Logistics. Basenton can provide a detailed quote based on your specific shipping requirements, including container size, cargo type, required route and estimated transit time.

Factors affecting the price of shipping from China to Ireland

Distance and Route: The distance between China and Ireland, along with the chosen shipping route, is a significant factor in determining the cost. Direct routes may be faster but could be more expensive, while indirect routes may offer cost savings but increase transit time.

Type of Container: The size and type of container (20ft or 40ft) affect the cost. A 40ft container can hold more cargo, but it also costs more to ship. Additionally, the type of container (e.g., standard dry cargo, refrigerated, or open-top) may have additional costs associated with it.

Learn more: Shipping Container Types and Sizes Guide

Freight Charges

The most significant cost component is the freight charge, which covers the transportation of the container from China to Ireland. This cost is determined by several factors, including the size of the container (20ft or 40ft), the type of shipping service chosen (e.g., Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL)), and the shipping company’s rates.

Generally, a 40ft container will cost more to ship than a 20ft container due to its larger capacity and the associated handling costs. Additionally, rates can vary significantly between shipping companies, so it’s essential to compare quotes and select a reliable and cost-effective option.

Port and Terminal Charges: Port and terminal charges cover the costs associated with loading and unloading the container at the originating and destination ports. These charges can vary depending on the port’s location, facilities, and regulations. It’s important to factor in these costs when calculating the overall shipping expense.

Insurance: Cargo insurance is essential to protect against potential losses during transportation. The cost of insurance depends on the value of the goods and the level of coverage desired.

Customs and Duties: Ireland has its own import regulations and tariffs, which can add to the overall cost of shipping. Importers must ensure they comply with all relevant customs regulations and pay any applicable duties.

Air Freight Cost from China to Ireland

For air freight between China and Ireland, freight costs generally range from $5 to $10 per kilogram, depending on a variety of factors. These factors include distance from departure and arrival airports, size, weight, and the nature of the cargo.

If you are interested in the cost from China to other European countries (Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Romania), you can click on the link:

How long does it take to ship from China to Ireland?

From China to Ireland, sea shipping takes 30 to 55 days and air shipping takes 3 to 7 days.
Actual shipping time depends on a variety of factors, such as shipping mode, departure/destination terminals, selected services and routes, weather, seasonal changes in shipping markets, etc.

Door to Door Shipping from China to Ireland

Door to Door service is a comprehensive shipping solution that simplifies the logistics process by handling every stage of shipping from the supplier’s location in China to the recipient’s address in Ireland. This service ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience as the freight forwarder takes care of all aspects, including pickup, transportation, customs clearance, and final delivery.

Two common terms associated with door to door services are DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):

• DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid): Under DDU terms, the seller is responsible for shipping the goods to the destination but does not pay import duties or taxes. The buyer must deal with customs duties and any associated fees when the goods arrive.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): DDP is a more comprehensive service where the seller assumes all responsibilities, including shipping, customs clearance, and payment of import duties and taxes. This provides a complete end-to-end solution, eliminating the need for the buyer to deal with customs-related complexities.

Key Factors to Consider for Door-to-Door Shipping from China to Ireland

When choosing a door-to-door service, you should consider several key factors:

• Mode of Shipping: Choose Air Freight or Ocean Freight, depending on the nature of your shipment, your urgency, and your budget.
• Customs Regulations: Make sure you comply with both Chinese and Irish customs regulations. Understanding the documentation and procedures required for customs clearance is essential.
• Cost: Evaluate the total cost of a door-to-door service, including freight, duties, taxes, and any additional charges. Consider the advantages of DDP over DDU for a more predictable cost structure.
• Delivery Time: Evaluate the estimated delivery time and choose a service that fits your schedule. Air freight offers faster delivery times than ocean freight.
• Insurance: Choose a comprehensive insurance service to protect against potential loss or damage during shipping.
• Freight Forwarder Expertise: Choose a reliable and experienced freight forwarder who can provide personalized service and support throughout the shipping process.

DDP Shipping from China to Ireland

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping is becoming the preferred choice for many small and medium-sized enterprises and e-commerce sellers. Compared to traditional shipping methods, DDP greatly simplifies the shipping process for the consignee, as the seller or freight forwarder handles all aspects of shipping, customs clearance, duties, and VAT, leaving the buyer simply waiting to receive the goods.

As part of the European Union, Ireland has very strict import standards and compliance requirements. Electronic products, food, and medical supplies, in particular, are subject to specific EU regulations. For businesses unfamiliar with customs clearance, choosing traditional shipping methods can lead to the risk of incomplete documentation, customs delays, and even cargo being held at the port. DDP services help clients prepare documents and estimate taxes in advance, ensuring smooth customs clearance.

DDP shipping also offers cost savings. While sellers must bear taxes upfront, DDP avoids the added costs associated with customs delays, providing greater cost transparency for e-commerce sellers. For cross-border sellers who need stable and controllable logistics, the DDP model allows them to better expand into the Irish and entire EU markets.

Learn more: DDP Shipping from China

Shipping company from China to Ireland

For international shipping between China and Ireland, choosing an experienced freight forwarder is crucial. While the Irish market may be small, it has stringent customs clearance and compliance requirements, and cross-border transportation is complex. Only a professional logistics company can ensure timely and safe delivery of goods.

Basenton Logistics has many years of practical experience operating routes from China to Europe and is deeply familiar with the shipping processes in the Irish market. We offer a variety of transportation services, including full container load (FCL), less than container load (LCL), air freight, door-to-door (DDP), and delivery-to-delivery (DDP), to help customers flexibly meet their diverse needs and budgets. Leveraging long-standing partnerships with numerous shipping companies and airlines, Basenton ensures stable shipping space and reasonable freight rates.

In addition to transportation services, Basenton also provides professional support during customs clearance. Familiar with EU and Irish import compliance standards, we can review documents in advance and provide guidance on preparing certification documents to mitigate customs clearance risks. We also offer value-added services such as local delivery and freight insurance, providing customers with a complete logistics solution from factory to warehouse.

For companies expanding into the European market, especially those using Ireland as a starting point, Basenton Logistics is not only a carrier, but also a long-term strategic partner. Our goal is to provide customers with safe, efficient, and economical cross-border supply chain support, making international trade easier.

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