Imagine finding a supplier in China, negotiating a great price, and then, when calculating the import costs, realizing that the shipping is much more expensive than you expected.
This is a very common situation, especially for those importing for the first time. And, most of the time, it happens because the type of transport was chosen without considering what really made sense for that cargo.
Before requesting any quote, it's worth understanding how each type of service works. shipping from China, What factors influence the price, and in which situations does each offer the best cost-benefit ratio?.
What are the main types of shipping from China to Brazil?
In general, there are three main methods used by Brazilian importers:
- LCL sea freight;
- Full container load (FCL) sea freight;
- Air freight.
Each one meets different needs. There isn't one option that's better than the other, but rather the one that best suits your cargo volume, deadline, and budget.
LCL (Less than Container Load) sea freight
LCL is known as shared container. In other words, your cargo shares space with goods from other importers.
This option may be suitable for companies that do not yet have sufficient volume to fill an entire container.
Among the main advantages:
- Lower initial investment;
- Ideal for small imports;
- It allows you to test new products before increasing orders.
On the other hand, the timeframe may be slightly longer, as it is necessary to consolidate and deconsolidate different cargoes at the port.
If you want to understand this model in more depth, check out our article. “"Understand what LCL and FCL shipping are.".
FCL (Full Container Load) sea freight
At FCL, the container is exclusively for your company. Even if it's not fully utilized, the entire space is reserved for a single operation.
This method is usually more advantageous when the import volume is high, as the cost per unit transported tends to decrease.
The main advantages include:
- Reduced risk of damage because it doesn't share space with other cargo;
- Fewer movement steps;
- Greater logistical predictability;
- Excellent value for money for large volumes.
For companies that regularly import from China, FCL (Full Container Load) typically becomes the most cost-effective option in the long run.
Air freight
When time is a priority, air freight is usually the best choice. Although it has a significantly higher cost than sea freight, it greatly reduces delivery time, making it suitable for:
- High value-added products;
- Electronics;
- Commercial samples;
- Urgent goods;
- Quick stock replenishment.
While sea freight can take around 30 to 50 days, depending on the route and customs processes, air freight typically arrives in Brazil in just a few days, plus the time needed for customs clearance. Delivery times vary depending on the airline, airport of origin and destination, and cargo release.
What is the shipping cost from China to Brazil?
There is no single price list because several factors influence the cost of international shipping. In general terms:
- LCL shipments are typically charged per cubic meter (m³);
- Air freight is typically charged by weight (actual or volumetric);
- FCL (Full Container Load) shipments have a fixed price per container.
Furthermore, the international market experiences constant fluctuations due to ship supply, global demand, seasonality, international conflicts, and fuel costs. Therefore, two Similar shipments can have significantly different prices. at different times.
What influences the price of shipping from China?
Besides the chosen method, there are other factors that directly impact the budget.
- cargo volumeThe larger the volume transported, the higher the total cost tends to be. On the other hand, larger operations usually reduce the proportional cost per product.
- WeightIn air transport, this factor is even more relevant. Companies use the higher value between the actual weight and the volumetric weight to calculate freight.
- City of origin in ChinaChina has numerous international ports and airports. Depending on the supplier's location, there may be a need for inland transport to the port of shipment, increasing costs.
- Port of destination in BrazilSantos, Itajaí, Navegantes, Paranaguá, and other ports have different structures and operational costs, which also influences the final price.
- Negotiated Incoterm: you Incoterms These terms define which costs and responsibilities belong to the buyer and seller during international transport. Depending on the Incoterm used (such as FOB, CIF, or EXW), the freight cost and other logistics costs can vary significantly. The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service itself uses the specified Incoterm to determine the customs value in certain transactions.
- Time of yearPeriods close to Black Friday, Christmas, and Chinese New Year typically see an increase in demand for international shipping. As a result, freight prices also tend to rise.
How to choose the best shipping method?
A simple way to think about it is to consider three questions:
- Is your load small? LCL is usually the best alternative.
- Does your company import large volumes regularly? FCL will likely offer better value for money.
- Do you need to receive the goods quickly? In this case, air travel tends to be the most suitable choice.
However, this decision involves other analyses, such as the total cost of the operation, taxes, storage, production schedule, and cash flow.
How to safely hire freight services from China?
A common mistake among novice importers is to only hire the cheapest freight service, but the problem is that an international operation involves much more than simply transporting cargo from one country to another.
It is necessary to consider documentation, logistical planning, customs clearance, shipment tracking, and support throughout all stages of the import process.
In Imports, This entire process is conducted in an integrated manner.
Our team analyzes the operation profile, identifies the most advantageous transportation method, and monitors each step to ensure your import is safer, more predictable, and more efficient. This way, you avoid unnecessary costs, reduce risks, and gain peace of mind to focus on growing your business.
Choosing the right shipping method to make your import more profitable.
Importing from China goes far beyond finding a good supplier. Choosing the right shipping method also makes a difference in the outcome of the operation, whether it's to reduce costs, avoid delays, or keep inventory stocked at the right time.
If you're still unsure which option makes the most sense for your import needs, you don't have to decide alone. Our team can analyze your project, answer your questions, and recommend the most advantageous alternative for your business.
Speak to one of our specialists via WhatsApp and receive personalized service: Click here to chat with the Importa team..