Trade relations between Iran and China have grown significantly over the past few decades, evolving into a robust economic partnership. As two ancient civilizations with deep historical ties, both nations have leveraged their complementary economies to foster mutual growth. China, as the world's second-largest economy, is a major global exporter of manufactured goods, machinery, and technology. Iran, on the other hand, is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and minerals, making it a key supplier of energy and raw materials. This synergy has laid the foundation for a strong bilateral trade relationship.
China is one of Iran's largest trading partners, with trade volumes reaching billions of dollars annually. The two countries have collaborated extensively in energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors. China has invested heavily in Iran's oil and gas industry, while Iran has become a vital link in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure development strategy aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade across Asia, Europe, and Africa.
As of January 2025, shipping from China to Iran remains a critical component of this trade relationship. Efficient logistics networks, including sea and land routes, ensure the smooth flow of goods between the two countries. This enduring partnership highlights the importance of Iran and China in each other's economic landscapes and underscores their commitment to fostering long-term collaboration.
Over the past five months, shipping from China to Iran has seen steady activity. Sea freight remains the dominant mode for bulk and heavy goods, with competitive rates for 20ft and 40ft containers. Air freight, though costlier, is preferred for urgent shipments, offering faster delivery times for high-value and time-sensitive goods.
Unit Price of 20ft and 40ft Containers by Sea: The chart shows a gradual decline in sea freight costs from August to December 2024, with 40ft containers consistently priced higher than 20ft containers. This reflects improved shipping efficiency and reduced demand during the year-end period.
Unit Price per Kilogram by Air: Air freight prices peaked in October due to high demand for holiday season shipments. Prices stabilized in November and December as demand eased, making air freight more affordable for time-sensitive goods.
Monthly Comparison of Shipping Time: Air freight consistently outperformed sea freight in delivery speed, with an average of 3-5 days compared to 25-35 days by sea. Sea freight times improved slightly in December due to reduced port congestion.
Shipping goods from China to Iran involves several factors that influence transit time and cost. The choice of shipping method depends on budget, urgency, and cargo size. Common shipping methods include Less than Container Load (LCL), Full Container Load (FCL) for 20-foot and 40-foot containers, express shipping, and air freight. Each method offers different transit times and pricing structures, balancing speed and cost efficiency.
The following table outlines the estimated cost and transit time for different shipping methods:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Cost (USD) | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| LCL (Less than Container Load) | $50-$100 per CBM | 20-30 days |
| 20-foot FCL (Full Container Load) | $2,000-$3,000 per container | 18-25 days |
| 40-foot FCL (Full Container Load) | $3,500-$5,000 per container | 18-25 days |
| Express Shipping | $5-$10 per kg | 5-7 days |
| Air Freight | $4-$8 per kg | 7-10 days |
The cost and transit time vary depending on factors such as port congestion, seasonal demand, and customs clearance procedures. While sea freight options like LCL and FCL are cost-effective, air freight and express shipping provide faster delivery for urgent shipments.
Several components contribute to the total shipping cost. Below is a breakdown of key cost elements:
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Air Freight Cost | $4-$8 per kg |
| Fuel Surcharge | 10-20% of freight cost |
| Customs Duties | 5-15% of cargo value |
| Port Handling Fees | $50-$300 per shipment |
| Insurance | 0.3-1% of cargo value |
The customs policy between China and Iran is shaped by bilateral trade agreements and Iran's import regulations. As a member of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Iran follows the Harmonized System (HS) for classifying goods, which determines the applicable tariffs and duties. Import tariffs in Iran generally range from 4% to 30%, depending on the type of goods. Essential items like medicines and agricultural products often attract lower tariffs, while luxury goods and electronics may face higher rates. Additionally, a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 9% is applied to the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of imported goods. Certain products may also be subject to special taxes or excise duties, such as automobiles or tobacco. To facilitate trade, China and Iran have established preferential trade agreements under frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which can reduce tariffs for specific goods. However, importers must ensure compliance with Iranian customs regulations, including accurate documentation and adherence to import bans or restrictions on certain items. Non-compliance can result in delays, fines, or confiscation of goods. Understanding these policies is crucial for businesses to calculate costs and ensure smooth customs clearance when importing from China to Iran.
| Category | HS Code Range | Import Tariff (%) | Additional Taxes/Duties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicines | 3001-3006 | 4% | 9% VAT |
| Electronics | 8501-8548 | 15% | 9% VAT + 5% Excise Duty |
| Machinery | 8401-8487 | 10% | 9% VAT |
| Textiles | 5001-6310 | 20% | 9% VAT |
| Automobiles | 8701-8708 | 30% | 9% VAT + 10% Special Tax |
| Luxury Goods | 9101-9706 | 25% | 9% VAT + 15% Excise Duty |
Shipping goods from China to Iran involves multiple methods, each catering to different needs regarding cost, transit time, and convenience. The primary shipping methods include Door-to-Door, Express, Air Freight, and Sea Freight. Door-to-door shipping offers seamless logistics, express shipping provides the fastest delivery, air freight balances speed and cost, and sea freight remains the most economical for large shipments. Choosing the right method depends on the urgency, budget, and nature of the cargo.
Door-to-door shipping simplifies logistics by handling transportation, customs clearance, and delivery directly to the recipient’s address.
Advantages:
Considerations:
| Shipping Method | Estimated Transit Time | Estimated Cost (USD per kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 7-10 days | $6-$10 per kg |
| Sea Freight | 25-35 days | $2-$5 per kg |
Express shipping provides the fastest delivery, making it ideal for urgent shipments. Major courier companies like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT operate frequent services between China and Iran.
| Courier | Estimated Transit Time | Estimated Cost (USD per kg) |
| DHL | 5-7 days | $8-$12 per kg |
| FedEx | 6-8 days | $7-$11 per kg |
| UPS | 6-9 days | $7-$10 per kg |
| TNT | 7-10 days | $6-$9 per kg |
Air freight is an efficient solution balancing speed and cost, suitable for medium-sized shipments that are time-sensitive but not urgent.
| Shipping Method | Estimated Transit Time | Estimated Cost (USD per kg) |
| Standard Air Freight | 7-10 days | $4-$8 per kg |
| Expedited Air Freight | 5-7 days | $6-$10 per kg |
Sea freight is the most economical shipping method for large shipments, available in LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) options.
LCL: Ideal for smaller shipments consolidated with other cargo. FCL: Best for large shipments that fill an entire container, offering cost efficiency per unit.
| Shipping Method | Estimated Transit Time | Estimated Cost |
| LCL | 25-35 days | $50-$100 per CBM |
| 20-foot FCL | 18-25 days | $2,000-$3,000 per container |
| 40-foot FCL | 18-25 days | $3,500-$5,000 per container |
Choosing the appropriate shipping method ensures optimal cost-efficiency and timely delivery based on specific business needs.
China and Iran have several key ports facilitating trade between the two nations. Shenzhen, one of China’s major logistics hubs, plays a crucial role with both its seaports and Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport handling vast cargo volumes. Other critical ports include Shanghai, Ningbo, and Guangzhou in China, while Iran’s major ports include Bandar Abbas and Imam Khomeini Port.
China has several international airports serving as major transit points for air freight to Iran. These airports ensure efficient cargo handling, rapid transit times, and connections to global trade routes.
| Air Port | Port Code | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport | SZX | Proximity to major manufacturing hubs, advanced logistics infrastructure. |
| Shanghai Pudong International Airport | PVG | Largest air cargo hub in China, extensive global flight connections. |
| Beijing Capital International Airport | PEK | High cargo handling capacity, strong global reach. |
| Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport | CAN | Major air freight hub in Southern China, efficient customs clearance. |
| Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport | IKA | Iran’s primary international airport, well-connected to global trade routes. |
| Mashhad International Airport | MHD | Key airport for cargo transit, strategic location for regional distribution. |
China’s seaports serve as major gateways for maritime trade, while Iran’s ports handle substantial import volumes, providing access to key regional markets.
| Sea Port | Port Code | Advantages |
| Shenzhen Port | CNXSA | Key export hub, advanced container handling facilities. |
| Shanghai Port | CNSHG | Largest port in the world, high cargo efficiency. |
| Ningbo-Zhoushan Port | CNNGB | Excellent connectivity, extensive trade networks. |
| Guangzhou Port | CNGZU | Major South China port, high-volume capacity. |
| Bandar Abbas Port | IRBND | Iran’s busiest port, crucial for container shipments. |
| Imam Khomeini Port | IRBKM | Key trade port, strategic access to inland markets. |
These ports play an essential role in facilitating trade between China and Iran, providing efficient shipping solutions and robust infrastructure for global commerce.
Shipping from China to Iran involves several crucial steps to ensure a smooth and efficient process. By following a structured approach, businesses can minimize delays and optimize costs. 218 Freight offers expert freight forwarding services, making the entire shipping process seamless and hassle-free.
By partnering with 218 Freight, businesses can ensure a seamless shipping experience from China to Iran, optimizing costs and transit times effectively.
Shipping Alibaba goods from China to Iran can be complex, but working with a reliable third-party logistics (3PL) company like 218 Freight simplifies the process. A 3PL provider offers end-to-end logistics solutions, ensuring efficient transportation, customs clearance, and final delivery. Whether you are an e-commerce seller or a business sourcing products, 218 Freight guarantees smooth shipping at competitive rates.
With 218 Freight, you get a trusted 3PL partner that ensures your Alibaba goods reach Iran safely and on time. Benefit from efficient logistics, transparent pricing, and expert support to streamline your supply chain.
The most common shipping methods include air freight, sea freight (LCL and FCL), express shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS), and door-to-door services. Air freight is ideal for urgent shipments, while sea freight is more cost-effective for bulk cargo. Express shipping is the fastest but typically the most expensive option. Door-to-door services simplify the entire process, handling logistics from the supplier to the final destination.
Shipping time varies based on the method chosen:
Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (for sea freight) or air waybill (for air freight), customs declaration, and, in some cases, a certificate of origin. Specific products may require additional permits or licenses.
Import duties and taxes vary based on the type of goods being imported. Iran applies different tariff rates, and VAT may also be applicable. It's important to check the HS code of your product to determine the exact duty percentage. 218 Freight offers customs clearance assistance to simplify this process.
Shipping costs depend on the method, weight, volume, and destination. Estimated costs:
Yes, 3PL companies like 218 Freight offer consolidation services. This allows multiple shipments to be combined into one, reducing overall shipping costs and streamlining customs clearance.
After goods arrive in Iran, they go through customs clearance, which includes document verification, tariff assessment, and payment of duties. Hiring a professional customs broker, such as 218 Freight, ensures a smooth process and avoids unnecessary delays.
Yes, Iran restricts the import of certain items, including hazardous materials, alcohol, gambling-related products, and some electronic devices. It is essential to verify whether your goods comply with Iranian import regulations before shipping.
Most logistics providers, including 218 Freight, offer real-time tracking services. You will receive a tracking number to monitor your shipment’s status throughout the transit process.
218 Freight provides a seamless shipping experience with expert customs clearance, cost-effective shipping solutions, and reliable last-mile delivery. Our team ensures timely and secure transportation, offering full transparency and dedicated support throughout the process.
