Want To Know How to Ship Freight from China to Chile？
Ship Freight from China
2025-05-21
Shipping freight from China to Chile involves several steps and options depending on your budget, time constraints, and the type of goods you're shipping. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process efficiently:
1. Determine the Shipping Mode
There are three primary modes of shipping freight from China to Chile:
- Sea Freight (most common and cost-effective for large shipments)
- Air Freight (faster but more expensive)
- Rail and Multimodal (combination of sea, air, and land transport)
Sea Freight (Most Common)
- Port of Departure in China: Common ports include Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Qingdao.
- Port of Arrival in Chile: The primary port in Chile is Valparaíso. Other ports include San Antonio and Iquique (for the northern region).
Air Freight
- Airport of Departure in China: Major airports include Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), and Guangzhou (CAN).
- Airport of Arrival in Chile: The main airport is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago.
2. Choose a Freight Forwarder
A reliable freight forwarder can simplify the process by handling logistics, customs clearance, and documentation. Some well-known international freight forwarders include Kuehne + Nagel, DHL Global Forwarding, Sinotrans, and Agility.
- Get Quotes: Contact multiple forwarders to compare rates and services.
- Negotiate: Depending on the volume of your shipment, you may be able to negotiate better rates.
3. Prepare the Goods for Shipment
- Packaging: Ensure that your goods are properly packaged to avoid damage during transit.
- Labeling: Clearly label all packages with the correct shipping information, including the consignee's details and any handling instructions.
4. Customs Clearance
Both China and Chile have specific customs regulations that must be followed.
Export from China
- Documentation: You will need an export declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, and possibly other documents depending on the nature of the goods (e.g., certificates of origin, licenses).
- Customs Broker: Hire a customs broker in China to handle export clearance if your freight forwarder does not provide this service.
Import into Chile
- Documentation: Required documents include a bill of lading (for sea freight), commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin (if applicable).
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Be prepared to pay import duties and taxes. The amount will depend on the type of goods and their declared value.
- Customs Broker: Hire a customs broker in Chile to assist with import clearance.
5. Arrange Transportation to and from the Ports/Airports
- Inland Transportation in China: Arrange for trucks or trains to transport your goods from the factory or warehouse to the port of departure.
- Inland Transportation in Chile: Arrange for local transportation from the port or airport to the final destination.
6. Shipping Timelines
- Sea Freight: Typically takes 25-40 days from China to Chile, depending on the port of departure and arrival.
- Air Freight: Takes 3-7 days, depending on flight availability and customs clearance.
7. Tracking and Insurance
- Tracking: Ensure that you have a way to track your shipment, either through your freight forwarder or directly with the shipping line or airline.
- Insurance: Consider purchasing cargo insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.
8. Incoterms
Choose the appropriate Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) for your shipment. Common options include:
- FOB (Free on Board): The seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the vessel.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): The seller is responsible for the goods until they arrive at the destination port.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):
