A COMPREHENSIVE SHIPPING GUIDE FROM CHINA TO JAPAN
China and Japan maintain robust trade relations, with Japan being one of China’s key trading partners. In 2025, Japan remained the world’s second-busiest container port, handling 41.1 million TEUs, while Chinese ports like Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan dominated global rankings. Bilateral trade is facilitated by agreements like the China-Japan Free Trade Agreement and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), ensuring seamless cargo movement. This guide provides a detailed overview of shipping logistics, taxes, policies, and procedures for businesses trading between these two economies.
Ocean Freight from China to Japan
Transit Time
Full Container Load (FCL): 5–15 days, depending on the origin and destination ports.
Shanghai/Ningbo to Tokyo/Yokohama: 3–5 days
Shanghai/Ningbo to Osaka/Kobe: 4–6 days
Shenzhen/Guangzhou to Tokyo/Yokohama: 5–7 days
Qingdao/Tianjin to Tokyo/Yokohama: 7–9 days
Less than Container Load (LCL): 7–18 days, including consolidation and deconsolidation.
Pricing
FCL (20GP): $800–$1,500 per container
LCL: $40–$115 per CBM (or ¥300–¥800/CBM)
Rates vary based on cargo type, season, and fuel surcharges.
Key Factors Affecting Rates
Fuel Surcharges (BAF): Linked to global oil price fluctuations.
Peak Seasons: Rates increase by 10%–30% during Q3 (July–September) and year-end holidays.
Cargo Type: Hazardous goods, oversized cargo, or high-value items incur additional fees.
Port Congestion: Major Japanese ports like Tokyo and Osaka are efficient, but global delays may indirectly affect rates.
Major Ports
China: Shanghai Port, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, Shenzhen Port, Guangzhou Port, Qingdao Port, Tianjin Port.
Japan: Tokyo Port, Yokohama Port, Osaka Port, Kobe Port, Nagoya Port.
Air Freight from China to Japan
Transit Time
1–5 days for major routes (e.g., Shanghai to Tokyo).
Express services offer next-day delivery for urgent shipments.
Pricing
≥45 kg: ¥13.5–¥23.5/kg (from Shanghai to Tokyo)
≥100 kg: ¥9–¥21.5/kg (discounts for larger volumes)
Rates include fuel surcharges but exclude customs fees and taxes.
Key Factors Affecting Rates
Fuel Prices: Direct impact on air freight surcharges.
Cargo Weight and Volume: Heavy or bulky cargo may incur volumetric weight charges.
Seasonal Demand: Higher rates during peak seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year, holidays).
Major Airports
China: Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Capital (PEK), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX).
Japan: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya Chubu (NGO).
Import Taxes in Japan
Japan’s Import Tax Policies
Japan imposes a 10% Consumption Tax (CT) on all imported goods.
Most goods enjoy 0% import duty, except for specific categories like alcohol, tobacco, and luxury items.
For goods with a value ≤ ¥50,000 JPY (≈ $350), no CT is levied.
Estimated Tax Rates for Key Goods
Electronics: 0% import duty + 10% CT
Textiles: 0% import duty + 10% CT
Alcohol: Specific duties + 10% CT
How to Find Tax Rates for Your Goods
Use Japan Customs’ online portal (customs.go.jp) for detailed tax classifications.
Consult a customs broker for accurate HS code classification and tax calculations.
How to Pay Import Taxes
Taxes are paid during customs clearance.
Freight forwarders or logistics providers often handle tax payments on behalf of importers.
Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Goods
Japan imposed a 95.2% anti-dumping duty on Chinese graphite electrodes in 2025, effective until 2030.
Businesses should monitor updates from Japan Customs and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for any changes.
Bilateral Favorable Trade Policies
China-Japan Free Trade Agreement: Reduces tariffs for 95% of goods, simplifies customs procedures, and promotes investment.
RCEP Agreement: Eliminates tariffs for over 90% of goods traded between member countries, including China and Japan.
Digital Trade and Green Economy Initiatives: Japan offers tax incentives for green projects (e.g., 10-year tax exemption for renewable energy companies).
Steps to Ship from China to Japan
Confirm Cargo Details: Classify goods (general, sensitive, or prohibited).
Choose Shipping Mode: Select ocean, air, or rail based on cost and urgency.
Book Logistics Services: Engage a freight forwarder for door-to-door or port-to-port services.
Customs Clearance:
Provide commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill, and certificate of origin.
Ensure accurate HS code classification for tax assessment.
Transportation and Tracking: Monitor shipments via real-time tracking systems.
Delivery: Unloading and final-mile logistics in Japan.
FAQs
Q1: What is the most cost-effective shipping method for heavy cargo?
A: Ocean freight is ideal for heavy or bulky cargo, with rates as low as $800 per container.
Q2: Are there any restrictions on importing electronics into Japan?
A: Electronics must comply with Japan’s safety standards (e.g., PSE certification). No import duties apply, but CT is levied.
Q3: How can I reduce CT costs for imports?
A: Utilize Japan’s CT deferment schemes or import through free trade zones where applicable.
Q4: Does Japan require a certificate of origin for all imports?
A: Only for goods claiming preferential tariffs under the China-Japan FTA or RCEP. Otherwise, a commercial invoice suffices.
Q5: What happens if my shipment is delayed?
A: Most logistics providers offer compensation for delays beyond their control (e.g., 5% of freight cost per day).