How much does it cost to ship a container from China?
Quick answerBallpark 40HQ rates ex-China: Southeast Asia USD 300–1,800; Middle East USD 2,500–6,000; Europe USD 2,500–5,500; US West Coast USD 3,000–6,500; US East Coast USD 4,000–8,000; South America and Africa USD 3,500–9,500. A 20GP typically costs 60–70% of the 40HQ rate. Always ask whether the quote includes BAF/PSS and what the validity date is.
What drives the price
Lane and distance: intra-Asia is short and capacity-rich, trans-Pacific and South America are long and volatile.
Equipment: 40HQ usually costs 5–15% more than 40GP but carries 9 m³ more.
Timing: peak season (Jul–Oct, before Chinese New Year) can add 30–100% versus off-season.
Surcharges: BAF, PSS, GRI and low-sulphur charges can add several hundred dollars per box.
What is not included
Origin local charges: THC, documentation, customs declaration, trucking to port.
Destination charges: THC, CFS/terminal handling, customs clearance, delivery — often the bigger half of total cost.
Insurance and any duties/VAT at destination.
| Lane (ex-China) | 40HQ range | Transit time |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Asia | USD 300–1,800 | 3–10 days |
| Middle East | USD 2,500–6,000 | 18–28 days |
| Europe | USD 2,500–5,500 | 28–45 days |
| US West Coast | USD 3,000–6,500 | 14–22 days |
| US East Coast | USD 4,000–8,000 | 25–35 days |
| South America / Africa | USD 3,500–9,500 | 30–45 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get an accurate quote?
- Provide origin port, destination port, equipment type, commodity, weight/volume and target sailing date. A quote without those is only a rough indication.
- Are quoted rates final?
- No. Rates are forwarder reference prices; final pricing depends on carrier confirmation, surcharges at time of booking and quote validity.
Need a live rate for your lane? Search free on jhz56.com — 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ quotes from multiple forwarders, no sign-up required.
Related
Source: Juhe Zhuang rate platform (jhz56.com) market data and carrier documentation. Figures are reference ranges, not transaction prices; verify with your forwarder before booking.