SUMMARY
What is the best way to ship goods to Hong Kong ?
Are you about to import (or export) products between Hong Kong and China? You still have a doubt regarding the regulation or transport method? This is because it is very difficult to find decent information among the ton of online advice that SINO Shipping has done its “country guide”.
At SINO Shipping, we understood that importers and exporters used to have some problems to find reliable information on internet. That’s why, our country guide is here to inform you on every step of your shipment.
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 1 Hong_Kong](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/if_Flag_of_Hong_Kong_96358-150x150-2.png)
What is the best method to ship your goods from China to Hong Kong?
As you probably now, Hong Kong is one of the major hubs in Asia for goods transport. Hong Kong is possessing one of the top ten busiest port in the world. Its International Airport is a major platform for the air freight of Chinese goods also. Linked by road to the city of Shenzhen, we can say that all the freight methods existing are implementable between China and Hong Kong. This said, the best method for you will depend on the type and volume of goods you’re sending, but also your location in China. SINO Shipping can propose you every method of shipping possible, our shipping and moving consultants will analyze the most suitable solution for your situation.
Small introduction to mention that we can propose every method of shipment + our moving consultant will analyze and determine the most suitable solution
Let’s see the best transportation methods according to the nature/volume/weight/class of goods
SEA FREIGHT TO HONG KONG
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 2 ship](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ship-2-300x300.png)
Ocean freight will be the best deal for you if :
- Your suppliers are located near a major Chinese port
- Your goods are bigger than 2 CBM
- You’re not in a hurry to receive them
Contact us now ! Your personal SINO advisor will find out customized solution for your import process from China to Hong Kong.
Overview – Ocean cargo from China to Hong Kong
Remark SINO : Bear in mind, the 3 most important criteria for sea freight are the price, the time of transportation, and the security.
Ocean freight from China to Hong Kong is a very common method used by enterprises located in northern China, near a major port.
The major advantage resides in the fact that you can ship massive quantities of goods for very low prices. Depending on where you are, it can easily be the cheapest solution.
*The drawback that is inherent to this method is the necessary time delay to receive your goods.
Shipping company offering services from China to Hong Kong port
Port of Hong Kong
You should probably know that the Port of Hong Kong is amongst the ten major ports in the world. In 2017, it was ranked at the fifth place of the busiest world port list, behind Ningbo-Zhoushan and in front of Busan. During the same year, it handled 20 million of TEU’s and 310 million tonnes of freight movement. Nine container terminals are located in Kwai Tsing, between The Tsing Yi Island and the Kwai Chung area. Another terminal is located on the Tuen Mun area. Also, Hong Kong port is a major platform in Asia for groupage and transshipment.
Should I ship by consolidation or full container from China to Hong Kong ?
LCL – Consolidation
Literally Less than a Container Load, LCL is a type of space management in containers. It is used when several remitters are needing to send products to the same destination. If their products are measuring a lot less than the volume of a container, they are sharing the space in the container between them.
*The billing basis in the maritime LCL is the W/M (Weight/Measurement). The W/M considers the volume or weight to the benefit of the company. The ratio between weight and volume is 1000 Kg / 1 m3
Info SINO : SINO Shipping is advising you LCL if your shipment is smaller than 15 CBM. It will be more adapted and cheaper.
FCL – Full Container
Literally Full Container Load, it is the opposite technique of LCL. When a supplier has a voluminous shipment to send, he is buying the complete space in a container to transport it.
SINO Shipping provides three types of full containers:
- The 20 feet which has an internal capacity of 33 cubic meters;
- The 40 feet which is able to carry up to 66 cubic meters;
- The 40 feet HQ, which has an internal capacity of 76 cubic meters.
LCL vs FCL, which one is the best for you?
LCL | FCL | ||
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CONS | |||
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TOP 5 – Shipping line
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 3 cma-cgm-logo](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cma-cgm-logo-1.png)
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 4 cosco-logo](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cosco-logo-1.png)
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 5 evergreen](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/evergreen-logo-300x54-2.png)
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 6 MAERSK](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/MAERSK-logo-300x66-2.png)
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 7 MSC](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/MSC-Logo-300x127-2.png)
How long does it take to ship from China to Hong Kong by sea freight ?
Here are the average transit times between China and Hong Kong:
*Please keep in mind that those transit times are just indicative timing between China and Hong Kong
How much does it cost to ship a container from China to Hong Kong?
*Except from the Guangdong Province, Hong Kongers importers are preferring ocean freight for two big benefits: you can transfer great volumes of goods for low rates.
This added with the fact that Hong Kong is a free port, explains why the majority of the traffic between the two countries is made via sea freight. If you need great and regular shipments through time, ocean freight will be your best deal!
SINO Advice : Because it depends on many factors, like the port of departure, the port of arrival, the cargo market prices, the carrier, the type of goods… We can’t give you average prices. Prices are fluctuating a lot because of these parameters. As we decided to quote each demand individually, request a quote from our SINO shipping consultant, he will provide you the best rates on the market.
Special sea freight services
Reefer container from China to Hong Kong
If your goods are requiring a transport under a controlled temperature, SINO Shipping is your ideal partner. We can book for you reefer container from all the ports of China in destination of Hong Kong. Food, chemical, or pharmaceutical products can be sent with this method, like any other type of products. This ensures a steady temperature during the whole freight.
Roro/Bulk/OOG from China to Hong Kong
Roll-on/Roll-off ships (Ro-Ro or Roro) are particularly useful for the transport of vehicles such as cars, trucks, trailers, boats… This type of ships has built-in or shore-based ramps that allows vehicles to roll directly inside of the vessel.
Bulk cargos are vessels containing a great tank, enabling to stock solid or liquid raw materials like oil, cement, wheat… in huge quantities, without containers.
Out of Gage (OOG) shipment are basically shipment that are bigger than a container, and that can’t be divided. These goods are needing a special caring to be transported. We’re completely proficient for this type of cargo too.
You can ask us these types of freight method, if your goods are corresponding to the precise criteria to plan these freights. We’re well rounded in the management of roro, oog and bulk cargo between China and Hong Kong.
AIR FREIGHT TO HONG KONG
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 8 airplane](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/airplane-4-300x300.png)
Air freight will be the most efficient solution if :
Your goods are smaller than 2 CBM and 200 kg
You’re in a hurry to receive/send the goods
Overview – Classic vs Express air freight
A classic air freight will enable a transfer of your goods within 6 days, while an express (courier) air freight will require 2 days at the most to deliver your goods. Because the flight time will be the same for the two methods, express air freight will be faster due to automatized customs clearance.
Classic Air freight | Express Air freight | ||
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CONS | |||
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Remark SINO : The two methods will be advantageous for shipments under 2 CBM and 150 kgs, and if the goods must be transferred asap. Express Air freight will be more adapted for small parcels under 0,5 CBM and 20 kgs, it will be very expensive for greater shipments. Classic Air freight prices per CBM will vary less from a small to a great volume.
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 9 how-to-calculate-gross-weight-airfreight-shipments](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/how-to-calculate-gross-weight-airfreight-shipments-3.png)
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 10 airfreight-volumetric-weight-formula](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/airfreight-volumetric-weight-formula-3.png)
*Your products will be charged with another method for our express services. The volumetric weight will be calculated with this ratio: 1 CBM = 200 kgs.
To sort out the chargeable weight of your goods, you must calculate its weight with the gross weight and the volumetric weightmethods. Then, you keep the biggest value, that will serve as a base to calculate the freight price of your goods.
Info SINO : Each customer has different requirements, that’s why, at SINO Shipping will determine your quote on a case-by-case method.
Should I choose a Classic Air freight from China to Hong Kong ?
Which airlines company should you ship with ?
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 11 hong-kong-airlines](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/hong-kong-airlines-logo-300x64-1.png)
Hong Kong Airlines is the national carrier of Hong Kong. The company has cargo flights to mains international airports worldwide.
Info SINO: You want further information about their services ? Check directly the official website: HK Air Cargo.
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 12 China_Eastern](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/China_Eastern_logo-300x69-2.png)
China cargo airlines is the cargo subsidiary of China Eastern, and it represents the first all-cargo airline operating dedicated freight services.
Info SINO : You want further information about their services ? Check directly the official website: China Eastern Cargo (website in Chinese).
SINO Plus : Our good partnerships with international cargo airlines enables us to propose you interesting rates for great air freight services between China and Hong Kong. We can plan both regular and courier air freight and add trucking services to deliver your goods everywhere you are. With SINO Shipping, China and Indonesia have never been so close!
How long is the transfer from China to Hong Kong by air freight ?
These are the average transit times between Hong Kong and the major Chinese cities:
Hong Kong | |
---|---|
Xi’An | 4 hours |
Shenzhen/Guangzhou | 30 minutes |
Qingdao | 4 hours |
Ningbo/Shanghai | 4 hours |
Beijing | 5 hours |
Chongqing | 5 hours |
Kunming | 3 hours |
Nanchang | 1 hours |
Harbin | 4 hours |
Changsha | 1 hours |
*This transit time are just indicative, and they are not including the whole delivery process (pickup, customs clearance…)
Remark SINO : It is hard to estimate as it mainly depends of the budget: a direct flight available within a day is possible, but will probably be more expensive. Also, please note that the transit time doesn’t not include the whole process (pick up & delivery, customs clearance…). In average, you can expect 6/9 days (export/import process included).
How much does it cost to ship a parcel from China to Hong Kong ?
As same as sea freight, it’s hard for us to provide average transit prices as many factors are engaged like the distance at departure and arrival from the airport, the dimensions, weight and nature of your goods… Again, we’re quoting each demand case by case. So, don’t be afraid to ask our freight consultant a quote, he will provide it to you within 48 hours!
SINO Plus : Each customer has different needs, that’s why, at SINO Shipping will determine your quote on a case-by-case method.
Should I choose an Express Air freight from China to Hong Kong ?
Express service – Perfect solution for small package
As said before, it will be the fastest solution existing to transfer your goods. Express services are ideal for particularly small shipment, measuring less than 0,20 CBM and weighing not more than 10 kgs. Of course, if your parcels are bigger, we can also send it via this method.
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 13 express-courier-1](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/express-courier-1-1-1024x205.png)
How long does it take for a package to be shipped from China to Hong Kong ?
Express companies have their own customs department which accelerate greatly the clearance procedure. This explains why only 2 days are necessary to transfer your goods from China to Hong Kong.
How much an Express service costs from China to Hong Kong ?
Again, we can’t provide you average prices as so many factors are involved. We’re still quoting case-by-case. But we have excellent relations with the companies mentioned above, which enables us to provide you competitive rates for great performances.
Hong Kong Airport
Active since 1998, Hong Kong Airport is the busiest airport in the world in terms of cargo traffic amongst Memphis and Shanghai International Airport, and the 8th in terms of passenger traffic according to the latest Airports Council International study. In 2017, it managed more than 5 million of tonnes of cargo and 73 million of passengers in total. Located on the south western part of Hong Kong, it’s a major trans-shipment, passenger hub and gateway for destinations in China and more largely eastern Asia. With 70,000 employees on average, it is a major enterprise for Hong Kong economic development. Around 100 airlines are operating flights from HKG to 180 cities worldwide.
TRUCKING FROM CHINA TO HONG KONG
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 14 truck](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/truck-5.png)
Remark SINO : Trucking is a must in international shipment, indeed we need it to handle local delivery: Pick up from warehouse to port/airport of departure, and obviously delivery from port/airport of arrival to final destination. SINO Shippingunderstood it and aim to offer the most suitable solution for our customers, that’s why we decided to provide Door to Door services from/to China.
Remark SINO : Do not waste time ! Fill our form and get a price within 48H !
Overview – Road freight from China to Hong Kong
Road freight is the only one land transportation method existing between the two countries, rail freight being stopped since the early 2010’s. Road freight to Hong Kong is very advantageous because highways in China are very well designed and maintained. It will be the best solution if your supplier is located near Hong Kong or in mainland China, and you can wait around a week for your goods to be delivered. Without regarding the type and dimensions of your goods, road freight will be a suitable solution.
Remark SINO : For further information about our trucking services, take a look to our dedicated page: Trucking services. Otherwise, please feel free to contact us, we will find you the best option for your shipment. Fill our online form in a minutes and get your quote within 48H!
What are the main routes from China to Hong Kong ?
The highway network is very dense in the eastern part of China. The western part of the country, being the less economically attractive part is less connected by roads. But you will hardly find a supplier situated in the west. As Hong Kong being located south to China, the city is greatly connected by road to all the other major Chinese cities.
What are the road transit times from China to Hong Kong ?
These are the average transit times between cities in China and Hong Kong. As road freight being the most unpredictable freight solution because of traffic jams, roadworks and accident, the numbers below can be multiplied by 1.5 or 2 on the most extreme cases.
Hong Kong | |
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Xi’An | 2 days |
Shenzhen/Guangzhou | 4 days |
Qingdao | 2 days |
Ningbo/Shanghai | 2 days |
Beijing | 3 days |
Chongqing | 2 days |
Kunming | 2 days |
Nanchang | 1 days |
Harbin | 4 days |
Changsha | 1 days |
How much does it cost to ship goods by truck ?
It’s still impossible to provide an average price, because a lot of parameters like the distance from departure to arrival, the dimensions, weight and nature of your goods are involved. We decided to quote individually to provide the best and more precise price every time !
LTL and FTL trucking
LTL and FTL are the same concepts as LCL and FCL but applied on trucks rather than containers.
LTL (Less than a Truck Load), is used when the size of your shipment is a lot inferior of the total volume of the truck tank. To optimize the journey, you will share the cargo tank with other suppliers or consignee that have small shipments to transfer like you. The total price of the truck transport will be split between you.
FTL (Full Truck Loaded), is used when your shipment is great enough to be the only shipment transported in the truck tank. Depending on your goods dimensions, it can be profitable to not share the space available in the truck tank, as you will use most of it.
Remark SINO : The quotation of this type of freight method is still depending on a lot of parameters, so average transit rates can’t be provided. We’re quoting case by case each demand, so don’t hesitate to ask our road freight expert to provide you a precise price!
DOOR TO DOOR FROM CHINA TO HONG KONG
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 15 train](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/train-4.png)
Remark SINO : Trucking is a must in international shipment, indeed we need it to handle local delivery: Pick up from warehouse to port/airport of departure, and obviously delivery from port/airport of arrival to final destination. SINO Shipping understood it and aim to offer the most suitable solution for our customers, that’s why we decided to provide Door to Door services from/to China.
Contact us now! Your personal SINO advisor will find out customized solution for your import process from China to France.
Overview – Door to Door
Door to door is the stress-free logistic solution. As it name says, we will take totally in charge the transport of your goods from your supplier’s facilities to your address. All the steps that may be involved, like the customs clearance, the trans-shipment, the warehousing, the decanting… will be taken in charge by us. The major advantage for you is that you will have to care less than with other methods, because you only have a tiny responsibility during the process. On the other hand, this method is the most expensive, as we’re taking in charge all the processes. Also, a freight insurance is strongly advised as many steps and protagonists will be involved.
Remark SINO: For further information about our Door-to-Door service, take a look to our dedicated page: Door to door service.Otherwise, please feel free to contact us, we will find you the best option for your shipment. Fill our online form in a minutes and get your quote within 48H!
Why door to door service is necessary ?
Some steps are mandatory, like the customs clearance. To deal with customs correctly and in the shortest time possible, a freight forwarder must be hired. We are also well-rounded in all the different stages of the goods transfer, like the delivery to your warehouse, office or home.
*Trust us, it will be much easier for us to handle all the procedures, than for you to take in charge a part of it.
SINO Shipping – Door to Door specialist
Our proficiency and expertise on door to door services is no longer to demonstrate. Our clients are always well-satisfied with the performance we deliver. Our skilled teams located in all the big Chinese cities are there to take care of your goods and to ensure a smooth travel for them. Also, we have very competitive prices, that will help you save money to optimize your supply chain management.
Our customs broker inform you
Customs clearance in hong kong
Globally it isn’t hard to make goods transit between Hong Kong and China in both ways, because of the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) existing between the two countries. Also, Hong Kong being culturally and politically bonded to China, the two regions are tending to cooperate. This will result in preferential tariff barriers and eased customs paperwork between Hong Kong and China.
How much duties and taxes will I pay?
The first step to achieve in all the import export processes, without a regard on the countries involved, is to determine the HS code of your products. Hong Kong, like the vast majority of the other countries is using the Harmonized System of tariff nomenclature, to classify products traded. The HS code is the combination of figures attributed to precise products to identify them the same way worldwide.
Calculate applicable tariff with the HS code
The HS code is the identification number attributed to goods through the HTS. Here is all the information contained in a HS code :
If you didn’t determine the HS code of your goods yet, we advise you to find it on this valuable website: Find HS Code. Otherwise, you should be able to find it directly with your supplier.
In fact, most of the goods imported into Hong Kong are tax free. The only goods on which taxes are applying, are tobacco goods, liquors, hydrocarbon oil and methyl alcohol.
For the liquors with an alcoholic strength superior than 30%, tariff barriers of 100% on the CIF value are applicable.
For liquors and wines that have an alcoholic strength inferior than 30%, the tariff barriers are zero.
If there is missing information that are not enabling the customs officials to correctly examine your products, the duty tariff of 160 USD per litre may be imposed.
For products containing tobacco, taxes are also varying on the type of products you’re importing:
- For each 1,000 cigarettes you will pay 1,906 USD.
- A kilo of cigars will cost you 2,455 USD in duties.
- For Chinese prepared tobacco you will pay 468 USD per kgs.
- All other types of transformed tobacco will undergo a rate of 2,309 USD per kgs.
For Hydrocarbon oils, how much you will pay is depending on the type of oil you’re importing:
- For aircraft gas the applicable rate is of51 USD per litres.
- For motor leaded gas, the applicable rate is of 82 USD per litres.
- For motor unleaded gas the applicable rates are of 06 USD per litres.
- For light diesel gas the rate that is applicable is of89 USD per litres. It is the same rate for ultra-low sulphur diesel.
- Euro V diesel are tax free.
For pure methyl alcohol and any intermixture composed by a part of methyl alcohol, the applicable rate is of 840 USD per hectoliters. For every intermixture exceeding the 30% of methyl alcohol contained, an additional rate of 28.10 USD per litres is applied on each supplementary percent.
Different taxes existing for your goods
GST
The debate launched for a design of the application of a GST (Goods and Services Tax) in Hong Kong started in the 19th of July 2006. But rapidly, it appears that the public opinion was fiercely opposed to the establishment of a GST. Henry Tang, at that time financial secretary of Hong Kong announced the demise of the project the 5 December 2006.
Info SINO : Bear in Mind that The tariff structure is subject to frequent changes.
How to get a taxes exemption ?
As detailed before, the majority of goods imported to Hong Kong are tax free, Chinese goods included. It means that a tax exemption isn’t necessary.
Does Sino Shipping charge duty ?
We will not charge you with additional costs about the customs clearance. As a proof of our sincerity, we will transmit you the draft released by the Hong Kong Customs, which indicates the amount of taxes applicable on your goods. We will only ask you to pay what’s indicated.
Customs contact in China
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 16 china-customs-emblem](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/china-customs-emblem.jpg)
Official name: General Administration of Customs of China
Official Website: Chinese Customs Website
Customs contact in Hong Kong
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 17 hong-kong-customs](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/hong-kong-customs.png)
Official name: General Administration of Customs of China
Official Website: Chinese Customs Website
Customs clearance process
The customs processes are varying in function of the way of entrance of your products in Hong Kong. Here is a quick recap of the different procedures existing for each way.
Sea Freight
Prior to the arrival of the cargo, the carrier must send the manifest to the C&ED via the Electronic System for Cargo Manifests (EMAN). For containers brought into Hong Kong by sea, a detention notice will be sent to the freight forwarder, the custodian and the consignee to inform them of the examination of the cargo. For cargo brought by river vessels, a detention notice will also be sent by Customs to the custodian, the freight forwarder and the consignee, for the same purpose.
Air Freight
Land Freight
For imports or exports through land borders, the Road Cargo System (ROCARS) allows freight forwarders or shippers to provide by electronic method the clearance documents to the C&ED. Trucks crossing the border will be informed by ROCARS if they should undergo analysis at the land boundary control points (LBCPs).
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 18 customs-process](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/customs-process-3-768x332.png)
What are the Licenses required (import & export)?
Import license
Like in every other country, an import license may be required, depending on the type of goods you’re planning to import. Most of the goods doesn’t need an import permit or license, but some chemical or sensitive products requires absolutely one. To find out what special documents your goods are requiring, go to this particular webpage of the Trade and Industry Department. It is a database detailing products subject to special documents for their importation.
Export license
Similarly, to an Import license, some categories of products involves special documents and authorization to be exported from Hong Kong. Again the same webpage of the Trade and Industry Department will help you to find if your goods requires licenses.
Necessary documents
The Bill of Lading or Airway bill (BL)
The Bill of Lading is the most important document when it comes to import. Similarly to the Manifest, the Bill of Lading is witnessing about the data of the shipment. Also, it provides details about the payment from the importer or the freight forwarder to the carrier. The Letter of Credit is then released after the BOL. The Airway Bill is the same document but referring for an air freight as the Bill of Lading is referring for a Sea freight.
In this scheme is detailed all the information provided by a Bill of Lading:
1 = Shipper
2 = Consignee
3 = Notify party
4 = Vessel No.
5 = Port of loading / discharge
6 = Place of receipt / delivery
7 = Containers No.
8 = Goods description
9 = Net weight
10 = Dimensions / volume
A packing list
A commercial invoice
Customs will verify if your declaration is corresponding to the goods you’re importing thanks to this document.
The Manifest
All the containers carried by the ship are described in the customs manifest (or cargo manifest). This document is used by customs as a base to zero in on the cargos transported. Also, it serves to find out if the cargos present at the beginning of the journey are still here when arriving at the port of destination.
This document is like an ID card of the cargoes, it is testifying of the origin of the products, if their transfer is legal and who are their owners. Because the manifest is aimed to perform a similar use as the Bill of Lading, the two documents are close from each other and sometimes not separated.
Import / Export license or removal permit (if required)
An Import or Export license is a paper released by a government authority, permitting specific goods to enter or leave its borders. The quantity of import or export allowed is described on every license. Most of the time, import and export licenses are used by government to protect their own market and national enterprises from international competition, or their territory from potential damages caused by the products imported/exported.
Import & Export declaration
In Hong Kong, there are 6 types of Import & Export declaration to make your goods transit:
- Form 1; Import Declaration for non-food products
- Form 1A; Import Declaration for food products classified in Appendix I of the Harmonized System
- Form 1B; Import Declaration for items exempted from declaration charge
- Form 2; Export Declaration for export items except clothing and footwear items made in Hong Kong
- Form 2 (same document); Re-export Declaration for re-export items except clothing and footwear items made in Hong Kong
- Form 2A; Export Declaration for clothing and footwear items made in Hong Kong specified in Schedule 1 to the Industry Training (Clothing Industry) Ordinance, Chapter 318, Laws of Hong Kong
- Form 2B; Export / Re-export Declaration for articles exempted from declaration charge
These documents must be electronically transmitted through the following governmental e-platforms:
Remark SINO : Some documents are not mentioned above as it is just an indicative list, please feel free to check what will be the requirements with our SINO Customs experts.
Our customs broker inform you
Prohibited & restricted items
Remark SINO : If you have one of the following item, you should check directly with our SINO Experts. Some of those items are restricted or even totally prohibited, it is important to anticipate such shipment to avoid any problem.
Drug Contraband
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 19 drug-contraband](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/drug-contraband.png)
Explosives
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 20 explosives](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/explosives.png)
Biohazard
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 21 biohazard](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/biohazard.png)
Chemicals
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 22 chemicals](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/chemicals.png)
Corrosive
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 23 corrosive](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/corrosive.png)
Counterfeit
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 24 counterfeit](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/counterfeit.png)
Ivory
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 25 ivory](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ivory.png)
Batteries
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 26 loose-lithium-batteries](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/loose-lithium-batteries.png)
Flammable
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 27 flammable-combustible](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/flammable-combustible.png)
Firearms
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 28 firearms](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/firearms.png)
Drugs
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 29 Prescription-Drugs](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Prescription-Drugs.png)
Counterfeit Notes
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 30 means-of-payment](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/means-of-payment_1.png)
Poison
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 31 poison](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/poison.png)
Pornography
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 32 pornography](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/pornography.png)
Knife
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 33 tactical-knives](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/tactical-knives.png)
Tobacco
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 34 tobacco](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/tobacco.png)
Gambling
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 35 gambling](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gambling.png)
Hazardous
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 36 hazardous-material](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/hazardous-material.png)
Trade agreement
Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA)
The CEPA is the first and only FTA (Free Trade Agreement) signed by the China and Hong Kong. It entered in action in 2003. This agreement enables Hong Kong to penetrate widely the Chinese markets for goods and services and strengthen the economic collaboration between the two parties. It provides a deeper liberalisation of the trades and investments between China and Hong Kong.
As Hong Kong being a free port, the CEPA is a springboard for Chinese enterprises of the Guangdong Province, to transfer their goods worldwide easily. The CEPA defines the following common goals. To enhance trade and investment exchanges by suppressing the tariff and non-tariff barriers on all the trade in goods from a party to another. To promote trade and investment and to reach the total liberalization of trade in services.
Trade relationship
China and Hong Kong had a historical story of up and down relationship. Mainland China’s government and people are tending to consider Hong Kong as their own, while Hong Kong’s government and Hong Kongers are deeply attached to their independence. Since 1997, year of the sovereignty of Hong Kong amongst Chinese and British influences, Hong Kong and Mainland China’s relations are really tensed, both countries using their influence to showcase their vision of the “One country, two systems” constitutional principle.
In great contrast of the political and social tensions between Hong Kong and Mainland China, the two countries have never been closer economically. Thanks to the CEPA, the two countries strengthened their economic cooperation.
According to the World Bank, in 2016, China was both the first import and export partner of Hong Kong. The Chinese goods flowing to Hong Kong represented 45 % of the goods entering in the state city, for a total value of 245 billion of USD. The goods exported by the state city where destined at 55% to Mainland China. This represented a total value of 16.7 billion of USD. On the Chinese point of view, Hong Kong is the second export partner with 14 % of the goods traded going there, after the United States. The state city is the 22nd import partner of China for this year.
Additional shipping services
Our warehousing services
Storage service in China
We’re storing goods in our Chinese warehouses before departure. We have warehouses available in every major Chinese city, enabling your goods to be stored close from your supplier’s offices. All our warehouses are designed and maintained to store your goods in the best conditions. Our warehouses are watched 24/7 by security guards with dogs, CCTV equipment enables us to see all the movement inside and outside our warehouses.
Info SINO: You want further information about our warehousing services ? Check directly our dedicated page: Storage services.
Storage service in Hong Kong
We’re also able to store goods in our Hong Kong warehouse before delivery to your address. The same security conditions are applied as all our warehouses in Mainland China. Also, we have very competitive rates for our warehousing services, so don’t be afraid to ask us !
Our packing/unpacking services
The packing of your goods is greatly important, because it conditions the safety of your goods for the whole logistic process. Here are some tips if you want to do it yourself, but our packing teams are fully proficient to perfectly wrap all your items.
Packing material
Palletization
It is necessary to put the cartons on pallets, in order to protect them and to ease their handling. If your supplier can’t ensure this procedure, we can also do it. We have all types of pallets adapted to all kind, sizes and weight of goods. Our moving teams are skilled in the use of pallet truck, ensuring a smooth flow of your goods.
Wooden boxes
These materials are generally used for <strong>large furnitures and machineries.</strong> Two techniques are existing, the wooden crate and the wooden case. The wooden case is mostly used when your objects can be manipulated no matter where they are headed. The wooden crate is used for goods that have a very important direction of use.
Our teams are only using <strong>quality wooden boxes, fulfilled with great polystyrene</strong> to protect your goods during the transit.
Others: bubble wrap, tape, wrapping paper…
We’re fully equipped to provide a tailor-made packing of your goods, no matter how tiny or big, fragile or heavy they are. You can trust us for this very important step of the import/export process
Why packing is important for the insurance ?
Packing is a step that must be handled with the highest precautions. A good packing will save your goods in most cases.
Freight insurance
How much does a freight insurance cost?
The price of the freight insurance you might subscribe to is directly linked with the declared value of your personal belongings. That’s why we’re advising you to not declare a “too low” total value of your goods, as in case of damage you will be incompletely refunded. Also, not a “too high” value as you will end paying a too expensive moving.
The price of your insurance will be calculated based on 2-3% of the value of your freight + items.
SINO Info : You can go deeper, to know what freight insurance will suit the best to your cargo by consulting our dedicated article Freight Insurance.
Supplier management in China
Control quality in China
As a responsible freight forwarder, it is our duty to control the quality of your goods and packing. It will ensure the longevity of your business and it is very important to avoid any possible issue. In this objective, we’re establishing close relationship with your supplier to keep your freight secured.
Relationship with supplier
3PL Services in China
Order fulfillment/Packing & labelling in China
Last mile delivery
Without regarding the size of your shipment, from a small parcel to a complete container, we’re able to do the last mile delivery, no matter where you are situated in Hong Kong. We’re fully proficient on Hong Kong geography.
Shipping personal effects from China
Excess baggage
From China to Hong Kong, we do ship excess baggage via Express Air freight, a fast and cheap process. On your choice, you can directly pick it up at the Hong Kong International Airport, or we can deliver it to your address.
Moving service from China to Hong Kong
We also offer relocation services. In order to get more information about them, please go on our dedicated website and do not hesitate to contact one of our moving department experts: SINO Relocation.
Free regulation advisor
Our 10 years of expertise on the Chinese freight/relocation market, gives us a full view of what may be required depending on the type, volume and weight of products you’re shipping. Don’t hesitate to ask our professional point of view, we will advise you for all your administrative or paperwork issues.
More than a decade of good services in Asia permit us to provide tailor-made freight solutions at ultra-competitive prices. Do not hesitate to contact our Expert collaborators for precise information about your transfer, we’re always happy to serve and spread knowledge!
FAQ – For 1st time importer from China
FAQ – Regulation
Paper work when shipping from China to Hong Kong
Manifest; Import / Export license or removal permit; Bill of lading or airway bill; The original invoice; Packing list; Import / Export declaration. All the documents are detailed in the necessary documents subsection.
Do i need a license to import goods from China to Hong Kong ?
It depends on the type of goods you’re importing, the answer is detailed in the Import license paragraph
Do I need a customs broker in Hong Kong ?
Of course, a professional customs broker like us is required to handle the customs clearance process
FAQ – Shipping budget optimization
How can Air Freight be cheaper than Ocean Freight ?
Air freight will be more advantageous for shipment smaller than 2 CBM and lighter than 150 kgs, in all other cases, sea freight will be more advantageous.
Do I need to pay insurance for my goods from China ?
It isn’t mandatory, but we strongly recommend it to you if you can’t run out of supplies for your business.
How do I reduce duty while importing goods from Chine to Hong Kong ?
We strongly recommend to not underestimate to customs the real value of your goods, as it can result in penalties that you should pay. Always put the right value, or a reasonable one if you don’t have the exact one.
Do I need to pay any duties and taxes in China ?
Good news, not at all!
How do i locate the import tariff for my product ?
Hong Kong being a free port, you will probably have zero tariff to pay for your import.
FAQ – SINO Tips
EXW, FOB or CIF ?
It depends on the habits of your supplier, but most of the Chinese suppliers are selling EXW or FOB. It doesn’t matter as we’re fully proficient for all these kinds of situations.
Will Chinese New year or Hollidays affect my shipment ?
Yes, shipment sent on these periods will probably end up on a delivery delay. Ensure yourself to ask a delivery before or after these Chinese national fests.
What method of payment is recommended for imports from China to Hong Kong?
We advise you to use Telegraphic transfer (T/T), Letter of Credit (L/C), Ali Baba Trade Assurance, Cryptocurrencies or PayPal.
Sino Door to Door services from China to Hong Kong - What we need to know to provide you a quote ?
HS Code, weight and dimension of the goods, the packing list, the pickup and delivery addresses.
Sino Door to Door services from China to Hong Kong - What we need to know to provide you a quote ?
HS Code, weight and dimension of the goods, the packing list, the pickup and delivery addresses.
How can I ensure that I have selected the correct site/supplier/factory to shop on ?
First, for the web platform, check its online reputation. For the supplier, ask him what are the countries where he exports the most. His quality of goods will certainly be a lot better if he is exporting to the US, Europe or Korea than Africa or the Middle East. If the supplier has a long track record on internet, of 5 years or more that’s a plus. On the company website, look if there is a common thread of products sold, like wooden phone case, wooden band watch… then it’s probably a factory. You can see more about it here : China importal.
FAQ – How SINO will help you?
I have bought many different items of goods from cities around China, could you gather together to send me ?
Yes, we can arrange a consolidation process in our warehouses in China, to send you all your goods in one single shipment.
What will you do next for customer services once I paid the cost ?
What if I'm not familiar with some shipping terms . Especially short forms.
Contact one of our SINO Advisors, you will get a well detailed answer in less than 48 hours.
Do you have a privacy policy ?
Of course, we’re not communicating any data about our customers. Your goods transfer will stay between you and us.
Can I change my shipping address after its been shipped ?
Yes, you can, but the sooner you inform us the better it is to modify the freight process.
Conclusion
Did you found a valuable supplier in Ali Baba, or TaoBao? Are you testing another freight forwarder to deliver your goods to Hong Kong? No matter what your situation is, you can fully rely on our wide range of shipping and sourcing services in China. Our long time experience and our fast growth are testifying that we’re the most promising freight forwarder in China. Hong Kong being a city where we’re used to deliver, you must contact us to have the best freight performance from Mainland China.
WHY CHOOSE US ?
Our Advantages
SINO Shipping, we understand perfectly the needs of our customers and establish a win-win collaboration with them.
“respect is earned. honesty is appreciated. trust is gained. loyalty is returned.”
![🥇Shipping from China to Hong Kong | Road, Sea & Air Freight [2022] 37 reliable-and-secure-sino-shipping](https://www.sino-shipping.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/reliable-and-secure-sino-shipping.png)
Reactivity
Make a request and you will be contacted within 24 hours maximum
Competitiveness
We guarantee very competitive price, ask us and compare !
Dedicated customs service
Do not hesitate to contact us for customs or administratives information
Multilingual team
We speak English, French and Chinese to avoid any communication issues
Tailored service
Small or big shipment, we can manage every request
Reliability
We ensure and secure all our shipments, safety is our priority !
Recurrent questions regarding the shipping from China to the United Kingdom
What is the shipping cost from China to the UK?
LCL: 150 USD /cbm FCL: 700 USD/20’: 1400 USD/40’ Express shipping door to door (10kg): 490 USD
How long does it take to ship from China to the UK?
Average transit time by sea: 40 days Average transit time by airfreight: 7 days (daily direct flight) Express shipping door to door (10kg): 2 days
What are the best freight options to send good from China to the UK?
There are only 2 options, by sea or by air, it depends on how big the volume and the weight are, and then you will decide which shipping methods is more adequate. You must calculate the ration time/cost.
How much tax will I pay for importing goods from China to the UK?
Your goods will not be released by customs until you’ve paid all duty and UK VAT. You might be able to claim duty charges and VAT back or delay payments for some imports from outside the EU, for example if you are temporarily importing goods with the intention of moving them to another EU country. After paying the duties and VAT applicable on your goods, they will be released by customs. If your situation requires it you can ask for a delay payments or duty charges and VAT back.
Do customs open every package?
No, they don’t immediately open your package without any reason. … They will only instantly check what’s inside of your package if: Your package has been damaged when it reached the Customs office or desk. The damages can include broken seals or plastic or any cover of your package.
How do I avoid custom charges?
When you make a shipping request, you’ll have to declare the value of your shipment. The value you enter on your request form is the value that will be declared at customs, so it is important that you declare accurately. If you declare too high a value, you may be assessed more taxes than you want to pay! If you declare too low a value, your declared value may be considered unreasonable and adjusted upward.
How can I reduce my shipping costs?
-Negotiate with multiple carriers -Get suppliers to use your shipping account number -Use packaging provided by your carrier -Consider a regional carrier -Use online shipping -Invest in prepaid shipping -Buy insurance from a third party -Factor in all shipping fees before billing customers -Consider hybrid services -Ask about association discounts
Interested in our logistics services? Need further assistance & dedicated information?