The four kinds of line
Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
The fastest option, often 5 to 10 days, with excellent tracking. It's also the most expensive per kilo, and import tax is usually collected from you on delivery.
Special lines
Lines run by logistics companies for specific countries, often with names like "EU Special Line" or "UK Line". They're good value at about 8 to 20 days, and many are "tax-included", meaning import tax is built into the shipping price.
Postal lines (EMS, China Post)
Handed to your national post service at the end. They're cheap for small, light parcels but slower, and tracking can go quiet for days.
Sea and rail freight
Very cheap per kilo for heavy hauls, but slow, often 30 to 60 days. Usually only worth it above about 10 kg.
Side by side
| Line type | Speed | Price per kg | Import tax | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express | 5 to 10 days | High | Usually paid on delivery | Urgent or high-value parcels |
| Special line | 8 to 20 days | Medium | Often included | Most hauls |
| Postal | 15 to 30 days | Low to medium | Depends on country | Small, light parcels |
| Sea / rail | 30 to 60 days | Lowest | Depends on line | Big, heavy hauls |
How to choose
- Work out your chargeable weightUse the weight calculator. Bulky parcels are charged by volume.
- Check what your country chargesIf your country taxes most imports, a tax-included line can work out cheaper overall. See customs.
- Check the line's limitsEach line has a maximum weight and its own list of items it won't carry.
- Compare the totalCompare shipping plus any tax you'll pay on arrival, not just the shipping price.
Restricted items
Many lines won't carry batteries (including power banks and electronics with built-in batteries), liquids, perfume, powders, magnets or knives. Some lines accept a few of these for a surcharge. Check before you pack. A parcel can be sent back to the warehouse if it contains something the line doesn't allow.
Tracking
You'll get a tracking number once the parcel leaves the warehouse. It's normal for tracking to pause for several days between leaving China and arriving in your country, especially on special and postal lines. Only worry if there's been no update for more than about 10 days.