Shipping from China to Philippines (2026 Guide): Cost, Time, Air & Sea Freight

5 min read. Updated Mar 2026
Shipping from China to the Philippines is one of the busiest trade routes in Southeast Asia. As members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), China and the Philippines maintain strong trade connections in electronics, machinery, consumer goods, textiles, and construction materials.

china to philippines shipping route

Shipping from China to the Philippines is one of the busiest trade routes in Southeast Asia. As members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), China and the Philippines maintain strong trade connections in electronics, machinery, consumer goods, textiles, and construction materials.

For businesses importing from China, choosing the right logistics solution is essential. Shipping to the Philippines requires understanding transit time, shipping costs, customs clearance rules, and the most reliable freight routes.

This guide explains everything you need to know about shipping from China to the Philippines, including:

  • Shipping costs
  • Air freight and sea freight options
  • Transit times
  • Customs clearance requirements
  • Direct cargo routes between China and the Philippines


China to Philippines Shipping Overview

The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, which makes logistics planning particularly important. Most international cargo enters through several major logistics hubs before being distributed domestically.

Major Airports in the Philippines

  • Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
  • Clark International Airport (CRK)
  • Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
  • Davao International Airport (DVO)

Major Seaports

  • Manila North Harbor
  • Manila South Harbor
  • Cebu Port
  • Batangas Port

Among these gateways, Manila serves as the primary logistics hub, handling the majority of international cargo shipments.



Shipping Cost from China to Philippines

Shipping costs depend on cargo weight, volume, transportation method, and seasonal demand.

Below is a general cost estimate for common freight options.

Shipping MethodTransit TimeTypical Cost
Air Freight3–5 days$4 – $8 per kg
Sea Freight (LCL)12–18 days$80 – $150 per CBM
Sea Freight (FCL)10–16 days$1200 – $2800 per container

Air freight is typically chosen for urgent shipments and high-value cargo, while sea freight is the most economical option for large or heavy goods.



How Long Does Shipping from China to Philippines Take?

Shipping time varies depending on the transportation method.

  • Air freight: 3–5 days door-to-door
  • Sea freight (LCL): 12–18 days
  • Sea freight (FCL): 10–16 days

Air freight is the fastest option for urgent shipments, while sea freight provides the lowest cost for bulk cargo.



Air Freight from China to Philippines

Air freight is the preferred solution for time-sensitive shipments such as electronics, spare parts, medical equipment, samples, and cross-border e-commerce goods.

Typical air cargo transit time is 1–2 days airport-to-airport, or 3–5 days door-to-door including customs clearance and final delivery.

Direct Air Cargo Routes from China to Philippines

BSI Global Logistics operates stable air freight services between major Chinese cities and the Philippines through multiple airline partners.

Guangzhou → Manila

Airline: China Southern Airlines
Frequency: Daily
Aircraft: B757F

Shenzhen → Manila

Airline: SF Airlines
Frequency: Tuesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday / Sunday
Aircraft: B757F

Shenzhen → Manila

Airline: Sichuan Airlines
Frequency: Monday / Wednesday / Friday / Saturday
Aircraft: A320F

Nanning → Manila

Airline: Philippine Airlines
Frequency: Daily
Aircraft: B738F

Wuhu → Manila

Airline: Central Airlines
Frequency: Monday / Tuesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
Aircraft: B738F

Wenzhou → Manila

Airline: YTO Airlines
Frequency: Monday / Tuesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
Aircraft: B738F

Yiwu → Manila

Airline: China Postal Airlines
Frequency: Tuesday / Thursday / Saturday
Aircraft: B738F



Additional Air Cargo Destinations in the Philippines

Nanning → Clark (CRK)

Airline: Philippine Airlines
Frequency: Daily
Aircraft: B738F

Yiwu → Clark (CRK)

Airline: China Postal Airlines
Frequency: Monday / Wednesday
Aircraft: B738F

Nanning → Cebu / Davao

Airline: Philippine Airlines
Frequency: Monday / Tuesday / Thursday / Saturday
Aircraft: B738F

These routes provide stable cargo capacity and flexible scheduling, ensuring reliable air freight service between China and the Philippines.



Sea Freight from China to Philippines

Sea freight is the most cost-effective shipping method for large shipments such as furniture, building materials, machinery, and wholesale goods.

Most shipments depart from major ports in South China, including:

  • Shenzhen (Shekou / Yantian)
  • Guangzhou (Nansha)
  • Shanghai
  • Ningbo

Typical transit times from South China to Manila:

Fast vessel: 3–4 days to port
Standard service:
5–7 days to port

Door-to-door delivery usually takes 10–18 days depending on customs clearance and local distribution.



Sea Freight Routes to Manila

BSI Global Logistics cooperates with regional shipping lines operating frequent services between South China and Manila.

Shekou → Manila North

Carrier: SITC
Service: CPX3

Vessel schedule:

  • SITC HENGDE / 2610S
  • SITC HENGDE / 2611S
  • SITC HENGDE / 2612S


Shekou → Manila South

Carrier: TSL
Service: MBX

Vessels include:

  • ASTRAIOS / 26001S
  • ZHONG GU LIN YI / 26002S
  • ZHONG GU XIA MEN / 26003S
  • TS PUSAN / 26003S
  • ZHONG GU LIN YI / 26003S

These services provide frequent departures and stable container capacity for cargo moving between China and the Philippines.



Philippines Customs Clearance Guide

Imports into the Philippines are regulated by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

To avoid delays or penalties, importers must prepare complete documentation.

Required Documents

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
  • Import permit (if applicable)

Additional Certifications

Some products require additional approval:

Cargo TypeCertification
ElectronicsBPS Certification
Food & CosmeticsPhilippines FDA
Battery ProductsUN38.3 and MSDS

Incorrect declarations or missing documents can result in cargo delays, inspections, or penalties.



Air Freight vs Sea Freight

Choosing the right shipping method depends on cargo type, urgency, and budget.

FactorAir FreightSea Freight
Transit Time3–5 days10–18 days
CostHigherLower
Best ForUrgent shipmentsBulk cargo
Cargo VolumeSmall to mediumLarge shipments

Many importers combine both options by using air freight for urgent orders and sea freight for regular inventory shipments.



Step-by-Step: How to Ship from China to Philippines

The international shipping process generally follows these steps:

  1. Choose the shipping method (air or sea freight)
  2. Prepare cargo details and shipping documents
  3. Export customs clearance in China
  4. International transportation
  5. Import customs clearance in the Philippines
  6. Final delivery to the destination warehouse or address

Working with an experienced freight forwarder simplifies the entire process and reduces customs risks.



Why Choose BSI Global Logistics

BSI Global Logistics provides integrated logistics solutions between China and the Philippines.

Our services include:

  • Direct air cargo routes with multiple airline partners
  • Frequent sea freight services from South China ports
  • Customs clearance support in China and the Philippines
  • Door-to-door shipping solutions
  • Real-time cargo tracking

With extensive experience in Southeast Asian logistics, BSI helps businesses move cargo efficiently, safely, and compliantly.



FAQ – Shipping from China to Philippines

How long does shipping from China to Philippines take?

Air freight typically takes 3–5 days, while sea freight usually takes 10–18 days depending on the shipping route and customs clearance.

What is the cheapest way to ship to the Philippines?

Sea freight LCL is usually the cheapest option for small shipments, while FCL containers are best for large cargo volumes.

Can lithium batteries be shipped to the Philippines?

Yes, lithium battery shipments require UN38.3 certification and MSDS documentation and must follow international air cargo safety regulations.

Can RCEP reduce import duties?

Yes. Products with an RCEP Certificate of Origin may qualify for reduced or zero import duties when entering the Philippines.



Request a Shipping Quote

To receive an accurate freight quotation, please provide the following information:

  • Cargo description
  • Weight and volume
  • Pickup location in China
  • Delivery location in the Philippines
  • Shipping method (air or sea)
  • Expected shipping date

Our logistics specialists usually respond within one business hour.


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