Shipping Containers from China to Iraq

Are you looking for the most efficient way to ship containers from China to Iraq? Navigating the complexities of sea freight, understanding main ports, and calculating the cost of shipping containers can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shipping containers from China to Iraq, including transit times, customs clearance, and how to choose the right freight forwarder for your needs. Get ready to streamline your shipping process!

Sea freight from China to Iraq

Shipping containers from China to Iraq via sea freight is one of the most economical and reliable methods for transporting large volumes of goods. As a professional freight forwarder, I recommend sea freight for businesses looking for balance between cost and capacity. With the surge in bilateral trade and Iraq’s ongoing reconstruction, demand for efficient shipping solutions continues to increase.

Sea freight options include Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL). FCL is ideal for businesses shipping larger quantities, as you get exclusive use of a container—commonly available sizes are 20ft (28 CBM), 40ft (56 CBM), and 40HQ (68 CBM). LCL is suitable for smaller shipments, where cargo from multiple shippers is consolidated in a single container, lowering costs for low-volume shipments.

Here’s why sea freight is often chosen for this trade lane:

• Cost-effectiveness: Sea freight typically offers the lowest per-unit transportation cost for bulk goods compared to air or road transport.

• Large Capacity: Containers can accommodate diverse cargo types, including machinery, electronics, textiles, and raw materials.

• Versatility: Both general and special cargo—such as oversized, hazardous, or temperature-controlled shipments—can be handled.

• Global Coverage: Major Chinese ports are well-connected to global shipping lines, ensuring frequent sailings to Middle Eastern destinations.

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we provide comprehensive sea freight services, including FCL, LCL, OOG (Out of Gauge), breakbulk shipments, and door-to-door solutions. Our expertise ensures competitive rates, optimized transit times, and professional handling of customs clearance, insurance, and warehousing. We are dedicated to providing seamless logistics, from pick-up in China to delivery in Iraq.

If you are also interested in other Middle Eastern routes, you might find our guide to Shipping from China to UAE helpful.

Main ports in China and Iraq

Choosing the correct ports is critical for efficient and cost-effective container shipping from China to Iraq. Below, I summarize the key seaports involved in this route:

Major Ports in China

Port Name	Location	Features & Advantages
Shanghai	East China	World’s busiest container port; advanced facilities; frequent sailings to Middle East.
Shenzhen	South China	Major export hub; efficient customs; ideal for electronics and consumer goods.
Ningbo-Zhoushan	East China	High capacity; robust connections to Arab Gulf.
Qingdao	North China	Strategic for northern manufacturers; modern logistics infrastructure.
Guangzhou (Nansha)	South China	Fast-growing; efficient for South and Southwest China shipments.
Xiamen	Southeast China	Flexible options; favored for small and medium exporters.

Main Ports in Iraq

Port Name	Location	Features & Advantages
Umm Qasr Port	South Iraq	Iraq’s largest and busiest port; main entry point for containerized cargo; modern container terminal.
Basra Port (Al Basrah)	South Iraq	Handles mainly bulk and general cargo, some container traffic; close to major industrial zones.
Khor Al Zubair Port	South Iraq	Specialized in industrial and bulk cargo; accessible for project shipments.

Umm Qasr Port is the primary destination for container shipments from China to Iraq. Most ocean carriers connect via regional transshipment hubs (e.g., Jebel Ali in Dubai) before final delivery to Iraq.

For those shipping to other Middle East countries, our article on Shipping from China to Saudi Arabia provides valuable port selection insights.

Typical Shipping Route Overview

Origin Port (China)	Transshipment Hub	Destination Port (Iraq)
Shanghai	Jebel Ali	Umm Qasr
Shenzhen	Jebel Ali	Umm Qasr
Ningbo	Jebel Ali	Umm Qasr

Depending on carrier and service, there may be direct sailings or transshipment via regional hubs.

When planning your shipments, it is important to select a port that matches your production or supplier location in China and is best suited for your consignee’s location in Iraq. At Dantful.US International Logistics, we leverage our extensive port network and local expertise to provide you with tailored shipping solutions for maximum efficiency and cost savings.

For a detailed quotation and optimal routing for your shipments from China to Iraq, contact our team today. We are committed to delivering reliable, professional, and cost-effective freight forwarding services for your cross-border trade needs.

Cost of Shipping Container from China to Iraq

When planning container shipping from China to Iraq, understanding the cost structure is essential for budgeting and supply chain management. The total shipping cost is affected by factors such as container size, origin and destination ports, shipping route, carrier selection, current fuel prices, seasonality, and additional services like customs clearance, insurance, and inland transportation.

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we specialize in providing transparent, cost-effective, and reliable shipping solutions. Below, I’ll break down the main cost components and provide current market rates for 2025.

Cost of Shipping 20ft Container from China to Iraq

A standard 20ft container (capacity: 28CBM) is ideal for small to medium cargo loads. The cost to ship a 20ft container from major ports in China (such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo) to main Iraqi ports (Umm Qasr, Basra) generally includes ocean freight, origin and destination charges, documentation, and possible surcharges.

Origin Port in China	Destination Port in Iraq	20ft Container Cost (USD, 2025 Estimate)	Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Umm Qasr	$3,800 – $4,500	28-35
Shenzhen	Umm Qasr	$3,900 – $4,700	28-36
Ningbo	Basra	$3,850 – $4,600	30-37

Please note: These are average market rates as of Q4 2025. Actual prices may vary depending on the shipping line, currency fluctuations, and seasonal demand. For a tailored quote, contact us at Dantful.US International Logistics for the most accurate rates.

For an in-depth breakdown specific to Iraq, please visit our Shipping Cost from China to Iraq guide.

Cost of Shipping 40ft Container from China to Iraq

A standard 40ft container (capacity: 56CBM) and 40ft High Cube container (68CBM) are suitable for larger shipments or bulky goods. The price per cubic meter is typically lower than the 20ft option, offering better value for high-volume cargo.

Origin Port in China	Destination Port in Iraq	40ft Container Cost (USD, 2025 Estimate)	Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Umm Qasr	$6,300 – $7,400	28-35
Shenzhen	Umm Qasr	$6,400 – $7,600	28-36
Ningbo	Basra	$6,350 – $7,500	30-37

Additional Cost Considerations:

• Port Charges: Handling, documentation, and security fees at both departure and arrival ports.

• Customs Clearance: Costs for import/export declaration, inspection, and local taxes/duties.

• Inland Transportation: Trucking from the factory or warehouse to the port in China and from the port to the final destination in Iraq.

• Insurance: Optional but highly recommended for cargo protection.

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we offer door-to-door, port-to-port, and consolidated shipment services, ensuring you always have a solution that matches your needs and budget.

Sea Freight Transit Time from China to Iraq

Transit time is a key consideration for both importers and exporters. The shipping duration depends mainly on the port pair, transshipment requirements, and the specific shipping line’s route.

In general, direct ocean freight routes between China and Iraq are limited. Most containers are shipped via transshipment hubs such as Jebel Ali (UAE) or Singapore, which can add several days to the journey.

Origin Port in China	Destination Port in Iraq	Typical Transit Time (Days)	Route Type
Shanghai	Umm Qasr	28 – 35	Via Jebel Ali
Shenzhen	Umm Qasr	28 – 36	Via Jebel Ali
Ningbo	Basra	30 – 37	Via Jebel Ali

Key Points:

• Transshipment: Most shipments are routed through major Middle East hubs. This adds flexibility but may affect total transit time.

• Seasonality: Peak shipping seasons, port congestion, or geopolitical factors may cause delays.

• End-to-End: Door-to-door delivery will require additional time for inland haulage in both China and Iraq.

For critical shipments, our team at Dantful.US International Logistics offers dedicated shipment tracking, proactive communication, and tailored solutions to help you manage your supply chain efficiently.

If you are comparing Middle East destinations, our article on Shipping from China to Kuwait may offer further insight into regional logistics.

Port to port shipping from China to Iraq

When considering port-to-port shipping from China to Iraq, it’s vital to understand the main routing options, processes, and factors that affect cost and transit time. As a professional freight forwarder, I’ll walk you through the essentials for a seamless port-to-port container shipping experience.

Main Port Pairs and Typical Routes

China is home to some of the world’s busiest export ports, including Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Qingdao. On the Iraqi side, the key international seaport is Umm Qasr Port, which handles the majority of containerized imports. Occasionally, cargo is routed via Basra Port or neighboring hub ports in the UAE (such as Jebel Ali) and then trucked into Iraq.

China Port	Iraq Port	Typical Route	Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Umm Qasr	Shanghai → Singapore → Jebel Ali → Umm Qasr	28–35
Ningbo	Umm Qasr	Ningbo → Singapore → Jebel Ali → Umm Qasr	30–38
Shenzhen	Umm Qasr	Shenzhen → Singapore → Jebel Ali → Umm Qasr	29–36
Qingdao	Umm Qasr	Qingdao → Singapore → Jebel Ali → Umm Qasr	31–39

Note: Direct shipping lines from China to Iraq are limited. Most cargos are transshipped at major Middle East hubs (especially Jebel Ali) before continuing to Umm Qasr.

FCL vs. LCL Port-to-Port Shipping

You can ship containers as Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL):

• FCL: Best for large shipments; you book an entire 20ft, 40ft, 40HQ, or 45HQ container.

• LCL: Suitable for smaller loads, where your cargo shares a container with others.

Essential Process Overview

1. Booking & Documentation: Arrange your shipment with a professional freight forwarder—like Dantful.US International Logistics—who will help prepare the Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and packing list.

2. Container Stuffing: At the origin port, your cargo is loaded and sealed into the container.

3. Port Operations: Goods are cleared for export and shipped towards Iraq, usually via a transshipment point.

4. Arrival & Unloading: Upon arrival at Umm Qasr Port, containers are unloaded and prepared for customs clearance.

Key Considerations

• Transit Times vary based on routing, carrier schedules, and possible congestion at transshipment hubs.

• Cost Efficiency: Port-to-port shipping is typically more cost-effective than door-to-door for bulk shipments.

• Service Provider: Choosing a reliable and experienced freight forwarder, such as Dantful.US International Logistics, ensures professional handling, cost savings, and full visibility throughout your shipment.

Our expertise at Dantful.US covers every aspect of the process, from sea freight and customs clearance to optional insurance and consolidated freight.

Customs Clearance of China to Iraq shipping

Customs clearance is a critical stage in the shipping process between China and Iraq. Proper handling ensures your cargo enters and leaves ports efficiently, avoiding costly delays and compliance issues.

Export Customs Clearance in China

Before goods leave China, they must be declared to China Customs. This process requires:

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List

• Bill of Lading

• Export License (for controlled goods)

• Certificate of Origin (when required)

• HS Codes correctly assigned for all goods

Your freight forwarder will submit these documents electronically to Chinese customs. Once cleared, the container is loaded onto the vessel.

Import Customs Clearance in Iraq

Upon arrival at Umm Qasr Port or another designated Iraqi port, import customs clearance is required. The process involves:

• Submission of original shipping documents

• Declaration of cargo type, value, and quantity

• Inspection by Iraqi customs authorities for compliance with local regulations

• Payment of import duties, taxes, and any applicable surcharges

Key Documents for Iraqi Customs

Document Name	Purpose
Commercial Invoice	Lists value, description, and quantity
Bill of Lading	Proof of shipment and ownership
Packing List	Itemizes the contents of each package
Certificate of Origin	Confirms the origin of goods
Import License	Required for certain controlled goods
Insurance Certificate	(If applicable) Provides cargo protection

Compliance Tips

• Use accurate HS Codes to avoid misclassification and penalties.

• Ensure all documents match exactly—discrepancies can cause release delays.

• Work with a logistics partner who understands both Chinese and Iraqi regulations.

Step-by-step guide to ship container from China to Iraq

Shipping containers from China to Iraq involves a series of coordinated steps. As an experienced freight forwarder, I recommend following this structured process to ensure efficiency, compliance, and timely delivery:

1. Cargo Preparation and Documentation

• Cargo Inspection & Packaging: Ensure your goods are packed and labeled according to international shipping standards. Select suitable packaging to protect goods during transit.

• Required Documents: Prepare key documents such as the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (B/L), Certificate of Origin, and any required export/import licenses.

2. Choose the Right Container and Shipping Mode

• Select the appropriate container size based on your cargo volume:

  Container Type	Capacity (CBM)
  20ft	28
  40ft	56
  40HQ	68
  45HQ	78

• Decide between Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL), depending on your cargo volume and budget.

3. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

• Partner with a professional logistics provider, such as Dantful.US International Logistics, for comprehensive support: ocean freight booking, customs clearance, insurance, and real-time tracking.

4. Booking and Space Reservation

• Reserve space with the shipping line from a major China port (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo) to the relevant Iraq entry port (commonly Umm Qasr).

• Confirm the shipping schedule and obtain the sailing date.

5. Inland Transportation in China

• Arrange trucking or rail freight to move your container from the factory or warehouse to the departure port.

• Ensure cargo arrives at the port on time for loading.

6. Customs Clearance and Export Formalities in China

• Submit export declaration to Chinese Customs with all required documents.

• Pay applicable export duties or taxes (if any).

• Once cleared, the shipping line loads your container aboard the vessel.

7. Ocean Freight Transit

• Your container is shipped from China to Iraq (typically via transshipment ports due to route structure).

• Typical sea transit time ranges from 25 to 40 days, depending on the origin and destination ports.

8. Arrival at Iraq Port and Import Customs Clearance

• Upon arrival at the Iraqi port, your local agent or freight forwarder handles import customs clearance.

• Prepare and submit the necessary paperwork to Iraqi Customs Authorities.

9. Payment of Duties and Taxes

• Settle any import duties, taxes, and port handling charges as per Iraqi regulations.

10. Container Release and Inland Delivery

• After customs clearance, your container is released.

• Arrange domestic transportation (truck or rail) from the port to the final delivery address in Iraq.

11. Return of Empty Container

• Once cargo is unloaded, return the empty container to the designated depot within the free period to avoid detention charges.

Tips for Smooth Shipping:

• Double-check documentation to avoid customs delays.

• Purchase adequate cargo insurance for risk mitigation.

• Work with a trusted, experienced freight forwarder for end-to-end support.

Freight forwarder from China to Iraq

Choosing the right freight forwarder is critical for a successful shipping experience from China to Iraq. As global trade specialists, we at Dantful.US International Logistics provide tailored and comprehensive logistics solutions for all types of businesses.

For those considering alternative logistics solutions, our Door to Door Shipping service provides seamless integration for your supply chain.

Why Work with Dantful.US International Logistics?

Service Feature	Dantful.US International Logistics
Service Portfolio	Sea Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, Road Freight, Amazon FBA, Warehouse, Customs Clearance, Insurance, Door to Door, OOG Freight, Consolidated Freight, Breakbulk Freight
Industry Experience	Highly Professional, Global Network
Cost-effectiveness	Competitive pricing with transparent fee structure
End-to-End Logistics Support	Yes
Customs Compliance & Advisory	Expert team, up-to-date with regulatory changes
Real-time Shipment Tracking	Available for all shipments
Customer Service	Multilingual, responsive, and dedicated support
Local Expertise in China and Iraq	Strong partnerships at major ports in both countries

Our Advantages for Shipping Containers from China to Iraq

• Comprehensive Modes: We offer Sea Freight (FCL & LCL), Air Freight, and multimodal solutions.

• Customs Expertise: Our in-house team manages both Chinese and Iraqi customs clearance efficiently, minimizing delays.

• Flexible Warehousing: We provide secure warehousing in major Chinese ports and destination support in Iraq.

• Integrated Insurance: We offer tailored cargo insurance for maximum goods safety.

• One-Stop Solution: From booking to final delivery, our “door-to-door” service streamlines the entire logistics chain.

How Dantful.US Can Support Your Business

• Manufacturers: Optimize bulk shipments and reduce supply chain costs.

• E-commerce Sellers: Fast and reliable first-leg shipping, seamless Amazon FBA integration.

• Importers & Exporters: Risk management, compliance, and transparent communication.

• SMEs and Individuals: Customized solutions and hands-on guidance for newcomers.

Contact us at Dantful.US International Logistics for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your specific shipping needs from China to Iraq. Our professional team is committed to delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and reliable end-to-end logistics solutions.