Shipping from China to Canada

As Canada continues to strengthen its trade ties with Asia in 2026, Shipping from China to Canada remains a cornerstone for Canadian businesses, e-commerce sellers, and manufacturers. Whether you are importing electronics to Vancouver, textiles to Montreal, or consumer goods to Toronto, navigating the trans-Pacific supply chain efficiently is key to your success.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about sea freight, air freight, shipping costs, transit times, and the unique customs clearance requirements of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Partnering with Dantful.US International Logistics ensures your cargo moves smoothly from the factory in China to your doorstep in Canada.

Overview of Shipping from China to Canada

China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner. The logistics route between these two nations is well-established but subject to fluctuations caused by seasonal demand, fuel costs, and regulatory changes like the CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) system.

Success in shipping from China to Canada relies on optimizing for:

• Cost: Balancing freight rates with inventory holding costs.

• Speed: Choosing between fast air service or economical sea routes.

• Compliance: Navigating GST, duties, and CBSA regulations.

Shipping Methods from China to Canada

Selecting the right mode of transport is crucial for your bottom line.

Sea Freight from China to Canada

Sea Freight is the most popular choice for bulk shipments, accounting for the vast majority of cargo volume. It offers the lowest cost per unit for large orders.

• FCL (Full Container Load): You book an entire container (20ft, 40ft, or 40HQ). This is the fastest ocean option as there is no need to consolidate cargo with other shippers.

• LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for smaller shipments (typically 1–15 CBM). Your goods share container space with other cargo. It is cost-effective but slightly slower due to consolidation at the origin and deconsolidation at the destination.

Air Freight from China to Canada

Air Freight from China to Canada is the go-to solution for high-value, low-volume, or time-sensitive goods.

• Standard Air Cargo: Shipped via commercial or cargo airlines to major hubs like Vancouver (YVR), Toronto (YYZ), or Montreal (YUL).

• Charter: For massive project cargo or emergencies.

Express Shipping from China to Canada

For samples, documents, or small parcels (under 100kg), Express Shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS) provides the fastest Door-to-Door shipping from China to Canada. It includes built-in customs clearance (for low-value items) and full tracking visibility.

Door to Door Shipping (DDP)

For Amazon FBA sellers and businesses wanting a hassle-free experience, Door to Door shipping from China to Canada (DDP – Delivered Duty Paid) is increasingly popular. The freight forwarder handles everything: pickup, export, freight, import customs, duty payment, and final delivery to your warehouse or Amazon fulfillment center.

Shipping Cost from China to Canada

Freight rates are dynamic. Below are estimated ranges for January 2026.

Shipping Method	Unit	Estimated Cost Range	Best For
Sea Freight (FCL)	20′ GP Container	$1,600 – $2,500	West Coast delivery, heavy goods
Sea Freight (FCL)	40′ HQ Container	$2,800 – $4,500	Large volume, furniture, textiles
Sea Freight (LCL)	Per CBM	$90 – $160	Small shipments (< 15 CBM)
Air Freight	Per Kg	$4.50 – $7.50	Urgent cargo > 45kg
Express	Per Kg	$6.50 – $9.50	Samples, Documents < 45kg

> Note: Rates to East Coast ports (Montreal/Toronto via rail or canal) will be higher than West Coast (Vancouver/Prince Rupert).

Transit Time from China to Canada

Shipping time from China to Canada varies significantly by route and mode.

Typical Transit Time Ranges

Origin Port (China)	Destination Port (Canada)	Transport Mode	Est. Transit Time
Shanghai / Ningbo	Vancouver (West Coast)	Sea Freight	14 – 18 Days
Shenzhen / Yantian	Vancouver (West Coast)	Sea Freight	16 – 20 Days
Any Major Port	Toronto / Montreal (East Coast)	Sea Freight (via Rail)	22 – 30 Days
Any Major Port	Halifax	Sea Freight (via Panama)	30 – 40 Days
PVG / HKG / SZX	YVR / YYZ / YUL	Air Freight	3 – 7 Days
China Door	Canada Door	Express	3 – 5 Days

Major Ports & Shipping Routes from China to Canada

Major Ports in China

• Shanghai Port: The world’s busiest container port.

• Ningbo-Zhoushan Port: Key for East China exports.

• Shenzhen Port (Yantian/Shekou): Gateway for electronics from the Pearl River Delta.

• Qingdao Port: Hub for Northern China.

Major Ports in Canada

• Vancouver Port (Metro Vancouver): Canada’s largest port and the primary gateway for Asian trade. Most goods destined for Toronto/Montreal enter here and move by rail.

• Prince Rupert Port: Located north of Vancouver, it offers the shortest sailing time from Asia and fast rail connections to the US Midwest and Central Canada.

• Montreal Port: A key inland port on the St. Lawrence River, serving Quebec and Ontario.

• Toronto: Primarily served via rail from Vancouver or Montreal.

Typical Shipping Routes

The Trans-Pacific route to the West Coast (Vancouver/Prince Rupert) is the standard. From there, the extensive CN Rail and CPKC rail networks transport goods inland to Toronto, Montreal, and Chicago (USA).

Shipping Process from China to Canada

1. Booking: Your forwarder arranges space with the carrier.

2. Pickup & Transport: Goods move from the factory to the Chinese port.

3. Export Clearance: Chinese Customs releases the goods.

4. Ocean/Air Transit: The journey across the Pacific.

5. Arrival & Deconsolidation: Arrival at Vancouver or other ports.

6. Import Customs Clearance: A crucial step involving the CBSA.

7. Inland Delivery: Rail or truck transport to the final destination.

Customs Clearance & Duties

Importing into Canada requires strict adherence to CBSA regulations.

• Business Number (BN): You must have a valid Import/Export account with the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency).

• Tariffs & Duties: Based on the HS Code and Country of Origin. China enjoys MFN (Most Favored Nation) status, but certain goods (e.g., EVs, steel) may face surtaxes.

• GST (Goods and Services Tax): A 5% GST is payable on almost all commercial imports at the time of entry.

• CARM: The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management system digitizes the collection of duties and taxes. Importers must register on the CARM Client Portal (CCP).

• Documentation: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, and Certificate of Origin are mandatory.

Choose a Reliable Shipping Partner

Selecting the right Freight forwarder China to Canada can save you time and money.

Why Choose Dantful.US International Logistics?

• Expertise: We understand the nuances of Canadian customs and the CARM system.

• Network: Strong relationships with carriers (COSCO, OOCL, ZIM) and Canadian rail providers.

• Solutions: From Amazon FBA shipping to specialized project cargo.

• Transparency: No hidden fees, clear communication, and 24/7 support.

FAQs

1. What is the cheapest way to ship from China to Canada? Sea freight (LCL) is generally the cheapest for small shipments (1-15 CBM), while Sea freight (FCL) offers the best value for large volumes.

2. How long does it take to ship from China to Toronto? Shipments typically arrive at Vancouver port first (14-18 days) and then travel by rail to Toronto. The total transit time is usually 22 to 30 days.

3. What is the import duty from China to Canada? Duties vary by product (HS Code). Additionally, a 5% GST is applied to the duty-paid value of the goods. Some goods may be duty-free, while others face specific tariffs.

4. Can you ship directly to Amazon FBA warehouses in Canada? Yes, Dantful offers Door to Door shipping from China to Canada directly to Amazon FBA centers (e.g., YYZ1, YVR2), handling all appointment bookings and customs clearance.

Ready to ship? Streamline your logistics with a partner who puts your business first. Contact Dantful.US International Logistics today for a competitive quote.