Shipping from China to Italy | Sea & Air Freight Rates
With the rapid development of the global economy, trade between China and Italy has become increasingly frequent. This is a very good market orientation for companies and individuals who need to transport goods from China to Italy, but do you know the transportation costs between the two countries? This article will provide a detailed analysis of the transportation costs of goods from China to Italy, hoping to help clarify any doubts.
Background Introduction to Italy
China and Italy are important trading partners under the “Belt and Road” initiative. They mainly import electronic products, machinery and equipment, daily consumer goods, food, etc. from China, which has increased the demand for cross-border logistics from China to Italy. Major Italian ports such as Genoa, Corsica, and La Spezia are the main destinations for cargo transportation from China to Italy.
Shipping from China to Italy
The choice of transportation mode is usually affected by factors such as the type of goods, transportation time requirements, and budget. The main modes of transportation are sea transportation and air transportation.
Sea Freight from China to Italy
Sea freight is the most common mode of transportation from China to Italy, especially for bulk cargo. The cost of sea freight is relatively low, but the transportation time is relatively long, usually taking 20 to 30 days, and can be extended from the Red Sea or African routes. For non emergency goods, sea freight is the most economical option. There are mainly two types of services: FCL and LCL:
- FCL (Full Container Load): Ideal for large shipments that take up an entire container. Provides privacy and security for bulk shipments.
- LCL (Less Than Container Load): Best for smaller shipments that don’t fill an entire container. Cost-effective since you share container space with other shippers.
Air Freight from China to Italy
Air freight is faster but more expensive and is suitable for time-sensitive shipments such as high-value products, perishables, etc. Air freight generally takes 5 to 7 days to ship, but the cost is usually several times that of sea freight
Rail Freight from China to Italy
In recent years, the China-Europe Express from China to Italy has gradually become a viable mode of transportation. Railway transportation combines the advantages of sea transportation and air transportation. Transportation time: 15-20 days, faster than sea transportation, and cheaper than air transportation.
Shipping Cost from China to Italy
The cost of shipping from China to Italy is usually made up of the following costs
- Basic freight: The basic cost of sea or air freight.
- Customs clearance costs: Import duties and VAT in Italy.
- Fuel surcharges: Fuel surcharges may be incurred during transportation.
- Port charges and terminal handling fees: These costs vary depending on the port of destination.
- Insurance costs: For valuable items, the additional cost of insurance cannot be ignored.
| Mode | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Ocean Freight (FCL) | $3,200-$5,000 per 40ft container |
| Ocean Freight (FCL) | $2,000-$3,000 per 20ft container |
| Ocean Freight (LCL) | $150-$200 per CBM |
| Air Freight | $5-$10 per kg |
| Express Shipping | $25-$40 per kg |
| Rail Freight | $5,000-$7,000 per container |
How to Calculate the Cost from China to Italy
The weight and volume of the goods directly affect the transportation cost. Air and rail transportation usually calculate the cost according to the volume or weight of the goods, while sea transportation usually charges according to the volume or volumetric weight (CBM) of the goods.
Actual weight
Actual weight refers to the actual weight of the goods, in kilograms (kg).
Volumetric weight
Volume weight is calculated based on the volume of the goods to ensure that reasonable charges are charged for goods that take up more space.
Calculation formula: Weight (kg) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000.
Ensure that the freight forwarder can reasonably calculate large and light goods and small and heavy goods. If the volumetric weight of the goods is higher than the actual weight, the freight is calculated according to the volumetric weight.
Cost of Shipping 20ft and 40ft Containers from China to Italy
Container shipping from China to Italy involves a variety of routes and port options, each with different cost estimates. Here is a range of costs for different routes:
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Genoa | $2050-$3150 | $3000-$5000 |
| Shenzhen | Genoa | $1900-$3000 | $3150-$4950 |
| Ningbo | Genoa | $2000-$3000 | $3050-$4850 |
| Shanghai | Naples | $1950-$2950 | $3150-$4800 |
| Shenzhen | Naples | $1900-$3100 | $3100-$5000 |
| Ningbo | Naples | $2050-$3050 | $3250-$5050 |
| Shanghai | Trieste | $1800-$3000 | $3050-$4850 |
| Shenzhen | Trieste | $1900-$2900 | $2900-$4800 |
| Ningbo | Trieste | $1850-$3150 | $3150-$4950 |
Container transportation rates in other countries:
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- Analysis of Freight Costs for 20ft and 40ft Containers From China To Canada
- Analysis of Freight Costs for 20ft and 40ft Containers From China To USA
Air Freight Cost from China to Italy
Air freight costs are usually calculated based on the weight of the goods. Generally speaking, the cost of air freight from China to Italy is roughly $5-10/kg. The following are different cost ranges:
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (Italy) | Cost Range (USD/kg) |
| Shanghai Pudong | Fiumicino | $5.0 – $10.0 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Fiumicino | $5.5 – $9.8 |
| Beijing Capital | Fiumicino | $5.5 – $8.8 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Malpensa | $6.5 – $9.2 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Malpensa | $6.5 – $9.5 |
| Beijing Capital | Malpensa | $5.3 – $9.6 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Gorillo | $5.6 – $8.9 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Gorillo | $6.0 – $9.6 |
| Beijing Capital | Gorillo | $5.5 – $10.0 |
Rail Freight Cost from China to Italy
Rail transport offers a balance of relatively low costs and short transit times. The cost of rail freight from China to Italy is roughly between $2,000 and $3,000 per ton, as shown in the table below:
| Departure City(China) | Arrival City(Germany) | Shipping costs |
|---|---|---|
| Zhengzhou | Milan | $2,000 – $2,800 / ton |
| Chongqing | Milan | $2,100 – $3,000 / ton |
| Wuhan | Milan | $2,200 – $2,900 / ton |
| Zhengzhou | Turin | $2,000 – $2,850 / ton |
| Chongqing | Turin | $2,200 – $2,900 / ton |
| Wuhan | Turin | $2,300 – $2,800 / ton |
Learn more about shipping costs to other regions below:
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Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from China to Italy
The shipping costs from China to Italy are affected by several factors, mainly including:
- Mode of transport: Different modes of transport have different costs, sea transport is relatively cheap, air transport and rail transport are relatively expensive.
- Different types of goods: Some goods such as dangerous goods and perishables require special handling, and the cost may increase.
- Transportation distance and time: The longer the distance and time required for transportation, the higher the cost. Sea transport is usually cheaper due to its long time, while air transport is more expensive due to its short time.
- Seasonal factors: During holidays and peak seasons, logistics demand surges and transportation prices may rise.
- Ports of different destinations: Different ports may charge different fees, and the fees at the destination port will also affect the total transportation cost.
Tips to Reduce Shipping Cost from China to Italy
There are many strategies to save money from China to Italy. Here are some practical suggestions that can help you reduce your overall shipping costs:
Choose the appropriate mode of transportation
Choose the appropriate mode of transportation based on the urgency of the goods and your budget. If time is not urgent, you can choose sea or rail transportation to reduce costs.
Optimize packaging
Try to reduce packaging materials and use light and sturdy packaging methods to avoid wasting space, reduce empty space, and reduce costs.
Cargo consolidation
If possible, multiple small batches of goods can be consolidated into large batches for transportation to reduce unit transportation costs.
Plan ahead of time
Plan the transportation route and time in advance to avoid high freight rates during peak seasons.
Rationally choose a freight forwarding company
Choosing an experienced and reputable freight forwarding company will help reduce unnecessary costs.
Top 10 Freight Forwarders Agencies In China In 2025
Why Choose Presou Logistics?
We specialize in providing seamless, cost-effective, and reliable shipping solutions from China to Italy for all your logistics needs.
- Comprehensive Solutions: From cargo pickup to final delivery, we manage every step of the process to ensure you enjoy a hassle-free experience.
- Competitive Pricing: Save on shipping costs with our transparent and customized pricing options.
- Customs Clearance Expertise: Our experienced professionals ensure smooth compliance with EU and Italian import regulations.
- Flexible Shipping Options: Choose from a variety of methods to suit your cargo type, urgency, and budget.
- Dedicated Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service to track your shipment and resolve any queries.
Shipping from China to Italy are influenced by a multitude of factors. This article delves into the considerations of time, budget, and the unique requirements of your goods. Through meticulous planning and selecting the appropriate service, you can effectively manage transportation expenses and enhance logistics efficiency. Let's explore how to optimize your shipping strategy to achieve cost savings and streamline your supply chain.