Shipping Routes from China to Tanzania

Are you looking for the most efficient Shipping Routes from China to Tanzania? Navigating the world of sea freight, air freight, and express shipping can be overwhelming, especially with so many ports and options available. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key routes, costs, transit times, and essential tips to help you choose the best shipping method for your business or personal needs. Let’s make your shipping process from China to Tanzania seamless and cost-effective!

Shipping from China to Tanzania

When planning your shipment from China to Tanzania, it’s essential to select the right shipping method based on your cargo type, delivery timeframe, and budget. As an industry expert at Dantful.US International Logistics, I’ll outline the primary freight options and provide actionable insights for each method.

Sea Freight from China to Tanzania

Sea freight is the most popular and cost-effective method for transporting large volumes of goods between China and Tanzania. Shipments typically depart from major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Guangzhou, arriving at Tanzanian ports like Dar es Salaam.

Related reading: If you are considering other African destinations, see our detailed guide on Shipping From China To Kenya.

Key Benefits:

• Best for bulk cargo: Suitable for shipments over 2 CBM or heavier than 500kg.

• Cost-effective: Lower cost per unit compared to air or express.

• Freight types: Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL) options are available.

• Container types: Choose from 20FT (28CBM), 40FT (56CBM), 40HQ (68CBM), and 45HQ (78CBM) containers.

Typical Transit Times (Reference Table):

Origin Port	Destination Port	FCL Transit Time	LCL Transit Time
Shanghai	Dar es Salaam	25-30 days	30-40 days
Shenzhen	Dar es Salaam	25-32 days	32-42 days
Ningbo	Dar es Salaam	27-35 days	35-45 days

Please note: Actual times may vary depending on schedule, carrier, and customs processing.

Dantful.US International Logistics offers comprehensive sea freight solutions—including FCL, LCL, OOG (Out of Gauge), and breakbulk cargo—ensuring safe and efficient delivery for your shipments.

Air Freight from China to Tanzania

Air freight is ideal for urgent shipments, high-value goods, or smaller, time-sensitive consignments. Major Chinese airports such as Beijing Capital (PEK), Shanghai Pudong (PVG), and Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) connect to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International (JRO), and Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International (ZNZ).

Key Benefits:

• Speed: Delivery within 3–7 days.

• Security: Safer for high-value or fragile goods.

• Tracking: Real-time cargo status updates.

Typical Transit Times:

Origin Airport	Destination Airport	Estimated Transit Time
PVG (Shanghai)	DAR (Dar es Salaam)	3–5 days
CAN (Guangzhou)	JRO (Kilimanjaro)	4–7 days

Note: Transit times include flying and customs clearance but may differ due to airline schedules or peak seasons.

Dantful.US provides tailored air freight services with flexible options, competitive rates, and end-to-end cargo management—including insurance and customs clearance.

Express Shipping from China to Tanzania

If you need the fastest delivery—typically for documents, samples, or small parcels—express shipping is the optimal choice. Partnering with leading carriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT, we ensure shipments reach anywhere in Tanzania within a short timeframe.

Key Benefits:

• Door-to-door service: Hassle-free pickup and delivery.

• Speed: Usually 3–5 working days.

• Convenience: Simplified documentation and customs process.

Express Delivery Comparison Table:

Carrier	Estimated Transit Time	Maximum Parcel Weight	Tracking
DHL	3–5 days	70kg (per piece)	Yes
FedEx	3–6 days	68kg (per piece)	Yes
UPS	4–7 days	70kg (per piece)	Yes

Dantful.US International Logistics can help you choose the most cost-efficient express option based on your cargo’s weight, destination, and urgency.

Door-to-Door Shipping from China to Tanzania

Door-to-door shipping simplifies your logistics by handling every step of the process—from pickup at your supplier’s address in China to final delivery at your location in Tanzania.

For a full overview of this service, visit our Door to Door Shipping from China to Tanzania resource.

Key Benefits:

• All-inclusive service: Covers pickup, export customs clearance, international transport, import customs, and last-mile delivery.

• Flexibility: Available by sea, air, and express.

• Transparency: One-stop solution with clear pricing and real-time updates.

Typical Door-to-Door Service Flow:

1. Cargo pickup at supplier (any city in China)

2. Export customs clearance and documentation

3. International transport (sea, air, or express)

4. Import clearance in Tanzania

5. Final delivery to your warehouse, office, or home

At Dantful.US International Logistics, our door-to-door solutions are fully customized, highly reliable, and designed to minimize your workload and risk, so you can focus on your core business.

Major Chinese Ports for Tanzania-Bound Shipments

The choice of port of departure in China affects both cost and transit time. Here are the major ports most frequently used for shipments to Tanzania:

Chinese Port	Location	Container Types Available	Main Advantages
Shanghai Port	East China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, 45HQ	Largest port, frequent sailings
Shenzhen Port	South China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, 45HQ	Proximity to manufacturing hubs
Ningbo-Zhoushan Port	East China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, 45HQ	High efficiency, vast network
Guangzhou Port	South China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ, 45HQ	Fast customs, flexible options
Xiamen Port	Southeast China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ	Suitable for electronics, apparel
Qingdao Port	North China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ	Options for northern suppliers
Tianjin Port	Northeast China	20FT, 40FT, 40HQ	Access for inland manufacturers

Selecting the right port:

• For factories in Guangdong, Shenzhen or Guangzhou are optimal.

• For suppliers in Zhejiang or Jiangsu, Shanghai or Ningbo are preferred.

• The closer the port, the lower the domestic transportation cost.

With Dantful.US International Logistics, you get expert guidance on port selection, container matching, and tailored shipping routes to Tanzania for the best balance between speed and cost.

If you’re interested in shipping to other key African markets, such as West Africa, you may also want to read about Shipping from China to Nigeria.

Key Tanzania Ports Receiving Shipments from China

When shipping from China to Tanzania, selecting the right destination port is crucial for efficient logistics, minimizing costs, and ensuring timely delivery. Tanzania features several major seaports and airports that play a significant role in handling international cargo from Asia, especially from China.

1. Dar es Salaam Port

Dar es Salaam Port is the largest and most significant port in Tanzania, handling over 90% of the country’s international trade. Strategically positioned on the Indian Ocean, it serves as the main entry point for goods shipped from China, not only to Tanzania but also to landlocked neighboring countries like Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

• Annual Throughput: Over 15 million tons (latest data)

• Key Cargoes: Containers, bulk cargo, vehicles, machinery, construction materials

• Facilities: Modern container terminals, bulk handling equipment, bonded warehouses, customs clearance centers

2. Tanga Port

Tanga Port is Tanzania’s second largest port, located in the northern coastal region. It primarily handles smaller container shipments, bulk cargo, and is increasingly used for project cargos. For certain Chinese exporters targeting northern Tanzania or regions bordering Kenya, this port offers advantages in transit times and reduced congestion.

• Annual Throughput: Approx. 750,000 tons

• Key Cargoes: Fertilizers, agricultural products, general merchandise

• Facilities: General cargo berths, storage facilities, customs offices

3. Mtwara Port

Situated in southern Tanzania, Mtwara Port is expanding in response to regional oil and gas exploration. While it is less commonly used than Dar es Salaam for Chinese shipments, it serves as an alternative for project cargo and bulk shipments destined for southern Tanzania and Mozambique.

• Key Cargoes: Bulk and breakbulk (cement, construction material, project equipment)

• Facilities: Deep-water berths, heavy-lift equipment

4. Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA)

For air freight, the primary entry point is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. It handles the majority of air cargo from China, thanks to its modern cargo terminals and efficient customs clearance processes.

• Air Cargo Throughput: Over 20,000 tonnes/year

• Facilities: Cold chain storage, bonded warehouses, express cargo services

Port Comparison Table

Port/Airport Name	Location	Type	Annual Throughput	Primary Use Cases	Notable Advantages
Dar es Salaam Port	Dar es Salaam	Seaport	15+ million tons	All cargo types	Main gateway, best connectivity
Tanga Port	Tanga	Seaport	~750,000 tons	Bulk, general cargo	Less congestion, northern access
Mtwara Port	Mtwara	Seaport	Data varies	Project, bulk cargo	Southern regions
JNIA	Dar es Salaam	Airport	20,000+ tonnes (air)	Air freight	Fastest, cold chain available

By understanding the features and capacities of each Tanzania port, importers and exporters can optimize their shipping routes from China to Tanzania.

For those considering other major shipping lanes, our insights on Shipping From China To South Africa may also be helpful.

Main Shipping Routes from China to Tanzania

Sea Freight Routes from China to Tanzania

Sea freight is the most popular and cost-effective way to move goods between China and Tanzania, especially for large volumes and heavy cargo. There are multiple established maritime routes, primarily departing from major Chinese ports to Dar es Salaam, the main Tanzanian port.

Major Chinese Ports of Origin

• Shanghai Port

• Ningbo-Zhoushan Port

• Shenzhen (Yantian/Shekou) Port

• Guangzhou (Nansha) Port

• Qingdao Port

• Xiamen Port

• Tianjin (Xingang) Port

Typical Sea Routes

1. Direct Route via Indian Ocean:

   • Route: Chinese port → Singapore/Colombo (transshipment) → Dar es Salaam

   • Transit Time: 25–35 days (depending on port of origin and vessel schedule)

   • Vessel Types: Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), Bulk carriers

2. Transshipment Route:

   • Route: Chinese port → Malaysia/Singapore/Colombo → Feeder vessel to Dar es Salaam/Tanga/Mtwara

   • Best for: Smaller shipments, LCL, or specialized cargo requiring specific feeder services

Sample Sea Route Transit Time Table

Departure Port in China	Final Port in Tanzania	Typical Transit Time (Days)	Route Type
Shanghai	Dar es Salaam	28–33	Direct/Transshipment
Shenzhen	Dar es Salaam	27–32	Direct/Transshipment
Guangzhou	Dar es Salaam	26–31	Direct/Transshipment
Qingdao	Dar es Salaam	30–36	Transshipment
Ningbo	Tanga	32–38	Transshipment

Best Practices for Sea Freight

• FCL (Full Container Load): Most cost-effective for volumes over 15 CBM. 20FT = 28CBM, 40FT = 56CBM, 40HQ = 68CBM, 45HQ = 78CBM.

• LCL (Less than Container Load): Suitable for smaller shipments sharing container space.

• Project & Breakbulk Cargo: Large machinery or construction equipment should use specialized vessels and ports.

Dantful.US International Logistics offers comprehensive sea freight solutions, including FCL, LCL, project cargo, customs clearance, insurance, and door-to-door delivery between China and Tanzania.

Air Freight Routes from China to Tanzania

Air freight is ideal for high-value, urgent, or time-sensitive shipments. Most air cargo from China to Tanzania is routed through major Chinese international airports to Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam.

Major Chinese Airports of Origin

• Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

• Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)

• Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Typical Air Freight Routing

• Direct Flights: Few direct flights, mainly via major air cargo carriers.

• One-stop/Transshipment: Most shipments are routed via Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), Addis Ababa (ADD), or Nairobi (NBO) with leading airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways.

Sample Air Freight Route and Transit Times

Origin Airport (China)	Destination (Tanzania)	Typical Route	Estimated Transit Time
PVG/PEK/CAN/HKG	JNIA	Via Dubai/Doha/Addis Ababa/Nairobi	3–7 days

Benefits of Air Freight

• Fastest transit times (typically 3–7 days including customs)

• Secure handling for high-value items (electronics, pharmaceuticals, samples)

• Reliable schedules and tracking

Air Freight Best Practices

• Choose consolidated air freight for cost-effective solutions

• Work with a professional freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics for seamless customs clearance and last-mile delivery

• Ensure proper documentation and packaging for compliance and cargo safety

How much is shipping from China to Tanzania

When planning your shipment from China to Tanzania, understanding the shipping costs is crucial for budgeting and supply chain management. In this section, I will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the main shipping modes—sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and door-to-door shipping—along with real-world cost ranges and the factors influencing them.

If you are evaluating costs to other destinations, you might want to compare with our in-depth guide on Shipping Cost from China to Kenya.

Cost of sea freight from China to Tanzania

Sea freight is typically the most cost-effective solution for large volumes or heavy cargo. The cost depends on several factors, including the type of container, cargo volume, weight, shipping routes, and chosen service (FCL or LCL).

Containerized Freight (FCL) – Estimated Costs (as of 2025)

Route	20FT Container (USD)	40FT Container (USD)	40HQ Container (USD)
Shanghai – Dar es Salaam	$2,500 – $3,200	$4,000 – $5,800	$4,200 – $6,100
Shenzhen – Dar es Salaam	$2,700 – $3,500	$4,200 – $6,000	$4,300 – $6,200
Ningbo – Dar es Salaam	$2,600 – $3,400	$4,100 – $5,900	$4,200 – $6,100

• Rates may fluctuate depending on peak seasons, shipping line selected, and fuel surcharges.

• LCL (Less than Container Load) rates are usually calculated per CBM (cubic meter), averaging $140–$200/CBM.

Additional costs may include port charges, customs clearance, documentation, and inland transportation in both China and Tanzania.

Cost of air freight from China to Tanzania per KG

Air freight offers the fastest delivery but comes at a higher price. Pricing is based on chargeable weight (actual or volumetric, whichever is higher), and varies depending on the origin airport in China and the destination, typically Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam.

Estimated Air Freight Rates (2025)

Origin Airport	Destination (DAR)	General Cargo ($/kg)	Minimum Charge (USD)
Shanghai (PVG)	Dar es Salaam	$5.50 – $7.50	$120
Guangzhou (CAN)	Dar es Salaam	$5.20 – $7.20	$120
Shenzhen (SZX)	Dar es Salaam	$5.80 – $7.80	$120

• Rates may vary for dangerous goods, temperature-controlled cargo, or oversized items.

• Peak season or urgent shipments can incur premium charges.

Express shipping cost from China to Tanzania per KG

Express shipping via global couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS ensures end-to-end delivery, often within 3-6 days. This is ideal for urgent, small, or high-value parcels.

Major Express Service Rates (2025)

Weight Bracket	DHL/FedEx/UPS ($/kg)	Estimated Delivery Time
0.5 – 5 kg	$18 – $25	3 – 6 days
5 – 21 kg	$14 – $20	3 – 6 days
21 – 50 kg	$10 – $17	3 – 6 days
50 kg+ (bulk rates)	$8 – $15	3 – 6 days

• Customs duties and taxes in Tanzania are not included.

• Bulk discounts apply for larger or regular shipments.

Door to door shipping cost from China to Tanzania

Door to door shipping combines sea or air freight with inland transportation and customs clearance, providing an all-inclusive solution.

Typical Door-to-Door Shipping Costs

Shipping Mode	100kg Cargo (USD)	500kg Cargo (USD)	1CBM Cargo (USD)	Delivery Time
Air (DDU/DDP)	$950 – $1,200	$4,500 – $5,800	–	6 – 10 days
Sea (DDU/DDP)	$350 – $550	$1,200 – $2,200	$400 – $600	30 – 40 days

• DDU: Delivered Duty Unpaid; DDP: Delivered Duty Paid (includes import duty/tax).

• Prices vary based on pickup and delivery addresses, cargo type, and selected service.

How long does it take to ship from China to Tanzania

Transit times from China to Tanzania depend on the shipping method, origin and destination points, and potential customs or port congestion.

Typical Shipping Times

Shipping Mode	Major Route/Port	Estimated Transit Time
Sea Freight	Shanghai – Dar es Salaam	28 – 35 days
Sea Freight	Shenzhen – Dar es Salaam	25 – 32 days
Sea Freight	Ningbo – Dar es Salaam	28 – 36 days
Air Freight	Major Chinese Airports – DAR	4 – 8 days
Express Courier	Door-to-door (DHL, FedEx)	3 – 6 days
Door-to-Door Sea	Door in China – Door in TZ	35 – 45 days
Door-to-Door Air	Door in China – Door in TZ	6 – 12 days

• Sea shipments may be delayed by transshipment, customs inspection, or port congestion.

• Air freight is generally reliable, but may be affected by flight schedules and cargo space availability.

• Express courier times are the fastest but may be subject to clearance delays during peak periods.

If you need precise lead times or a tailored logistics plan, our team at Dantful.US International Logistics provides real-time tracking and shipment optimization for all types of cargo between China and Tanzania. We leverage our global network and local expertise to minimize delays and streamline your supply chain.

Contact us for a free, customized quote and discover why many global traders trust our one-stop international logistics services.

How to choose the best shipping route for your shipment

Selecting the most suitable shipping route from China to Tanzania is essential for importers, exporters, manufacturers, and cross-border e-commerce sellers. A tailored route ensures cost efficiency, timely delivery, and a smooth customs clearance process. Here, I will guide you step by step on how to determine the best route for your cargo.

1. Assess Your Cargo Characteristics

Start by analyzing your shipment’s specifics:

• Cargo Type: Is it general cargo, perishable, hazardous, oversized, or high-value?

• Volume & Weight: For instance, a full container load (FCL) is usually suitable for large shipments, while less than container load (LCL) suits smaller volumes.

• Packaging & Handling Requirements: Fragile or special cargo may impact the route and transport mode.

2. Consider Time Sensitivity

Delivery deadlines dictate your shipping mode:

Mode	Estimated Transit Time (China to Tanzania)	Best Use Case
Sea Freight	25–35 days	Bulk, non-urgent shipments
Air Freight	4–7 days	Urgent, high-value goods
Express	3–5 days	Samples, small urgent parcels
Rail/Road	Not typical for China–Tanzania direct	Not directly available

Tip: For e-commerce sellers, air or express shipping offers fast replenishment. For manufacturers importing machinery, sea freight is usually more economical.

3. Evaluate Cost Efficiency

Match your budget with the available shipping options. Here’s a simplified comparison:

Mode	Typical Cost / KG*	Suitable Shipment Size
Sea Freight	$0.5–$1.2	>1000 kg (FCL/LCL)
Air Freight	$5–$8	100–1000 kg
Express	$7–$12	<100 kg
Door-to-Door	Varies, all-in-one price	Any, convenient for SMEs

*Costs are indicative, actual rates vary by route, season, and cargo.

4. Check Port Connectivity & Infrastructure

Analyze the major Chinese ports (such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo) and the Tanzanian ports (Dar es Salaam, Tanga) for their sailing schedules, frequency, and handling capabilities. Shipments departing from and arriving at higher-volume ports often benefit from lower costs and faster processing.

For more information about African shipping lanes, check our overview of Shipping from China to Africa.

5. Customs, Documentation & Restrictions

Review destination country regulations:

• Import/export licenses

• Documentation (Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, etc.)

• Restricted/prohibited items

• Required certifications

Pro tip: Experienced freight forwarders, such as Dantful.US International Logistics, offer customs clearance services, ensuring compliance and reducing risk.

6. Balance Flexibility and Reliability

Consider:

• Direct vs. transshipment routes (direct routes are faster, but limited; transshipment offers more flexibility but may add days)

• Carrier reputations for timeliness and cargo safety

• Route regularity, especially for LCL shipments

7. Value-added Services

Do you require:

• Warehouse options in China or Tanzania?

• Cargo insurance (recommended for high-value items)?

• Door-to-door or Amazon FBA solutions?

• Special handling: OOG (Out of Gauge), Breakbulk, Consolidated shipments?

Dantful.US can provide all these as part of a one-stop logistics service.

Decision Matrix for Route Selection

Criteria	Sea Freight	Air Freight	Express Shipping	Door-to-Door
Speed	Slow	Fast	Fastest	Varies
Cost	Low	Medium–High	High	All-inclusive
Cargo Size	Large & Heavy	Light/Medium	Small/Light	Any
Handling Complexity	Standard/Bulk	Fragile/Valuable	Samples/Docs	Flexible
Customs Complexity	Higher (DIY)	Moderate	Lower	Handled for you
Recommended For	Manufacturers, Bulk	Urgent, E-commerce	Samples, Urgent	SMEs, Individuals

Choose a right freight forwarder

A reliable, professional freight forwarder is vital for a successful shipping experience from China to Tanzania. Here’s what to consider:

1. Industry Experience and Global Reach

Select a partner with proven expertise in China–Tanzania logistics, including deep understanding of both countries’ port procedures, trade policies, and market dynamics.

Dantful.US International Logistics stands out as a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality one-stop international logistics service provider for global traders. We have extensive experience in managing sea, air, and express shipments to Tanzania, offering tailored solutions for every client.

2. Service Portfolio

A versatile freight forwarder should provide a comprehensive range of services:

• Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)

• Air Freight

• Rail Freight and Road Freight

• Amazon FBA solutions

• Warehouse management

• Customs Clearance

• Insurance and risk management

• Door-to-Door delivery

• OOG Freight, Consolidated Freight, Breakbulk Freight

With Dantful.US, you can access all of these under one roof, streamlining your supply chain.

3. Transparent Pricing & No Hidden Fees

Look for clear, itemized quotations. Ensure all costs (freight, surcharges, customs, delivery) are disclosed upfront. At Dantful.US, we provide transparent quotes and professional advice tailored to your shipment needs.

4. Strong Communication & Customer Support

Effective communication is key, especially for cross-border shipments. Our team at Dantful.US offers dedicated account managers, real-time updates, and rapid response to queries—giving you peace of mind throughout your shipment’s journey.

5. Reputation, Certifications & Compliance

Verify:

• Accreditations from recognized bodies (FIATA, WCA, etc.)

• Positive reviews and industry reputation

• Compliance with international logistics standards

Dantful.US upholds the highest standards of trust and compliance, ensuring your shipment is always in safe hands.

6. Value-added Solutions

Ask if your freight forwarder offers:

• Cargo tracking technologies

• Insurance handling

• Temporary storage or warehousing

• Customized shipping plans for unique cargo

Choosing the optimal shipping route and a reliable freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics ensures your shipment from China to Tanzania is efficient, cost-effective, and trouble-free. We are committed to delivering professionalism, transparency, and personalized logistics solutions to global traders, manufacturers, e-commerce sellers, and individuals alike. For tailored advice, feel free to contact our expert team for a free consultation and quotation.