How Much Does It Cost to Ship Large Packages from China?
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Large
Packages from China?
Shipping large packages from China can be confusing—especially when prices vary so much between shipping methods, destinations, and package sizes. Whether you’re an eCommerce seller, wholesaler, or importing goods in bulk, understanding shipping costs helps you choose the most cost-effective solution and avoid unexpected fees.
In this guide, we’ll break down how much it really costs to ship large packages from China, what affects pricing, and how to save money.
What Is Considered a “Large Package”?
In international shipping, a large package usually means:
Heavy weight (typically over 20–30 kg / 44–66 lbs)
Large dimensions (high volumetric weight)
Oversized cartons or pallets
Carriers calculate costs based on chargeable weight, which is the greater of:
Actual weight
Volumetric (dimensional) weight
Volumetric weight formula (air shipping):
(Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000
Shipping Cost by Method
1. Air Freight (Fastest, Most Expensive)
Best for: High-value or time-sensitive goods
Cost: $4 – $8 per kg
Transit time: 5–10 days
Charged by volumetric or actual weight (whichever is higher)
Large but lightweight packages can become very expensive by air.
2. Sea Freight (Cheapest for Large Packages)
Best for: Heavy or bulky shipments
LCL (Less than Container Load): $80 – $300+ per cubic meter
FCL (Full Container):
20ft container: $1,200 – $3,000+
40ft container: $2,000 – $5,000+
Transit time: 25–45 days
Sea freight is the most cost-effective option for large shipments.
3. Rail Freight (Balanced Option – Europe Routes)
Best for: Large shipments to Europe
Cost: $2 – $4 per kg
Transit time: 15–25 days
Less affected by volume than air freight
4. Express Couriers (DHL / UPS / FedEx)
Best for: Medium-large packages needing fast delivery
Cost: $6 – $12 per kg
Transit time: 3–7 days
Strict size limits & high oversized surcharges
Often not recommended for very large packages.
Factors That Affect Shipping Costs
Several variables influence the final price:
Destination country
Package weight & size
Shipping method
Fuel surcharges
Customs clearance & duties
Peak seasons (Q4, Chinese New Year)
Example Cost Comparison
| Package Size | Shipping Method | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 50 kg, bulky | Air Freight | $300 – $400 |
| 50 kg, bulky | Sea Freight (LCL) | $80 – $150 |
| 300 kg | Sea Freight | $200 – $400 |
| 1 pallet | Rail (EU) | $500 – $800 |
Prices vary by route and market conditions.
How to Reduce Shipping Costs
✔ Optimize carton size to reduce volumetric weight
✔ Consolidate multiple shipments
✔ Choose sea or rail instead of air
✔ Work with a reliable China freight forwarder
✔ Ship during off-peak seasons
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to ship large packages from China?
The answer depends on size, weight, destination, and shipping method—but for most large shipments, sea freight remains the cheapest option, while air freight offers speed at a higher price.
Choosing the right logistics partner can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on shipping.
Need a Custom Shipping Quote?
If you’re shipping large or heavy packages from China and want the best price, contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll help you find the fastest and most cost-effective solution for your business.
