Shipping from China to Egypt is one of the most important trade routes connecting Asia and North Africa, powered by the Suez Canal, one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.

Each year, thousands of containers flow between Chinese manufacturing hubs — like Shenzhen, Ningbo, Shanghai, and Guangzhou — and Egyptian ports such as Alexandria, Port Said, and Sokhna.

In 2025, shipping between the two countries remains cost-effective and reliable, supported by steady vessel schedules and multiple air routes via Cairo International Airport (CAI).
Whether you are importing electronics, furniture, textiles, or industrial equipment, China offers a wide supplier base and flexible shipping options.

Most importers choose from four main logistics methods:

• Sea Freight (FCL/LCL): The most economical option for large or heavy shipments.
• Air Freight: Best for urgent or high-value cargo, with delivery in just 4–7 days.
• DDP Door-to-Door: Full-service delivery including customs clearance and taxes.
• Express Courier (DHL/FedEx/UPS): Ideal for small parcels, e-commerce orders, or samples.

Typical shipping times range from 25–35 days by sea and 4–7 days by air, depending on your chosen route and carrier.
Costs also vary by cargo type, weight, and destination — but overall, Egypt remains one of the most accessible import destinations in Africa thanks to its developed logistics and customs infrastructure.

Quick Fact: Around 90% of Egypt’s imports from China move through the Suez Canal, providing stable connectivity to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

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💬 Pro Tip

For small or first-time importers, using a DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service from China is the simplest and safest choice — your forwarder will handle export, transport, customs, and final delivery under one all-inclusive rate.

Before choosing a shipping method, it’s important to understand the average cost and delivery time from China to Egypt.

The total price depends on your cargo type, size, weight, and destination, as well as the shipping mode (sea, air, or door-to-door).

The table below summarizes the estimated 2025 freight rates and transit times based on current market averages for small to medium shipments.

Note: Prices fluctuate slightly depending on seasonal demand, fuel surcharges, and Red Sea route stability. For exact rates, request a customized quote with your cargo details (weight, dimensions, port, and delivery address).

🧭 Transit Routes & Highlights

Sea Freight:

• Main routes: Shanghai / Ningbo / Shenzhen → Suez Canal → Alexandria / Port Said / Sokhna

• Vessels depart weekly, with transit time averaging 25–35 days.

Air Freight:

• Direct connections: PVG / CAN / HKG → CAI (Cairo International Airport)

• Handled by EgyptAir Cargo, Qatar Airways, Emirates SkyCargo.

• Fast customs clearance under the Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA).

Door-to-Door (DDP):

• Popular for new importers; includes export, freight, duties, and delivery.

• Destinations covered: Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, 6th of October City, Port Said.

Pro Tip: For small shipments below 2 CBM or 200 kg, DDP Air is more practical than regular air freight — all costs are prepaid and clearance is automatic.

Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective way to ship goods from China to Egypt, suitable for bulk, heavy, or large-volume cargo.
Thanks to the Suez Canal, Egypt serves as a natural logistics hub between Asia, Africa, and Europe — handling over 10% of global container traffic.

Most shipments depart weekly from major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, and Qingdao, heading to Alexandria, Port Said, or Ain Sokhna.
Transit times range from 25 to 35 days, depending on carrier schedule and route type (direct or via transshipment).

🔹 Why Choose Sea Freight from China to Egypt

• Lowest transport cost per cubic meter or per container

• Weekly sailings with stable capacity from top carriers

• Wide cargo flexibility: LCL (Less than Container Load), FCL (Full Container Load), RORO, or Breakbulk

• Suitable for all sectors: manufacturing, furniture, textiles, electronics, and industrial goods

• Customs clearance supported at all major ports

In 2025, the Red Sea route remains stable with regular vessel schedules despite regional fluctuations.

🔹 Main Sea Freight Routes — China → Egypt

All sea freight routes to Egypt pass through the Suez Canal, one of the most strategic maritime gateways in the world.

🔹 Container Types & Typical Costs

Rates are reference averages — request a real-time quote for accurate pricing based on volume, port, and current fuel surcharge.

🔹 Key Egyptian Ports Explained

Alexandria handles over 60% of imports from China, while Sokhna is increasingly favored for industrial clients.

💬 Pro Tips for Importers

• Combine suppliers’ goods under one master Bill of Lading to reduce local handling fees.

• Verify that your supplier provides Form E to benefit from duty preference under trade agreements.

• Choose Ain Sokhna if your final delivery is in Cairo, Giza, or 6th of October City — inland trucking is faster.

• Avoid port storage charges by preparing clearance documents in advance.

Air freight from China to Egypt is the fastest and most reliable way to transport goods, especially for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable products such as electronics, auto parts, textiles, and samples.

With multiple direct and connecting flights between China’s major airports and Cairo International Airport (CAI), air cargo remains a key driver of trade between the two nations.

In 2025, air freight routes are more stable than ever — with airlines such as EgyptAir Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, and Emirates SkyCargo offering regular services from Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Shenzhen (SZX), and Hong Kong (HKG).

🔹 Why Choose Air Freight to Egypt

• Fastest delivery (4–7 days door-to-door)

• Reliable airline networks and daily schedules

• Secure handling for high-value goods

• Simplified customs clearance at Cairo Airport

• Ideal for small and medium-sized shipments

Air freight is often preferred for urgent or fragile cargo, ensuring minimal handling and predictable delivery times.

🔹 Major Air Freight Routes — China → Egypt

Most air shipments to Egypt arrive through CAI (Cairo International Airport), which handles over 70% of the nation’s import air cargo.

🔹 Air Freight Cost Reference

Rates vary by airline, season, and volumetric weight (L×W×H ÷ 6000). For precise quotes, request your cargo details (weight, volume, and pickup location).

🔹 When to Use Air Freight

• Urgent or high-value cargo (electronics, spare parts, fashion goods)

• Small to medium shipments (100–500 kg range)

• Time-critical projects or sample orders

• Temperature-sensitive or fragile goods

• Importers requiring predictable delivery times

🔹 Advantages of Cairo International Airport (CAI)

• Largest cargo hub in Egypt and North Africa

• Modern customs facilities for 24/7 clearance

• Dedicated terminals for perishable and dangerous goods

• Connected to main industrial zones in Cairo and 6th of October City

Air freight to CAI ensures faster customs release and direct access to Egypt’s industrial and consumer markets.

💬 Pro Tips for Importers

• Always confirm chargeable weight = max(Gross Weight, (L×W×H) ÷ 6000).

• Combine multiple small shipments under one MAWB (Master Air Waybill) to reduce handling fees.

• For first-time importers, DDP Air offers stress-free clearance and final delivery.

• Avoid shipping around Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb) — air rates spike by 30–40%.

• Use foam or double-wall boxes for fragile items; CAI has strict inspection standards.

For many importers in Egypt — especially SMEs or new traders — managing customs clearance, duties, and delivery can be complex.

That’s where Door-to-Door services come in, offering a complete logistics solution from the supplier’s factory in China to your final delivery address in Egypt.

The two main service types are DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and DAP (Delivered at Place) — similar in logistics coverage, but with one key difference: who pays and handles import duties and customs clearance.

🔹 DDP vs DAP — What’s the Difference?

Simply put: choose DDP if you want a “hassle-free” solution where your forwarder handles everything — from pickup and export in China to customs clearance and final delivery in Egypt.

🔹 Why Egyptian Importers Prefer DDP 

• No need for an import license or local customs agent.

• All costs known upfront — freight, duty, and taxes included.

• Perfect for first-time importers or e-commerce sellers.

• Door delivery available to Cairo, Giza, Alexandria, 6th of October City, and industrial areas.

• Avoid port demurrage and hidden local fees.

In 2025, DDP Air and DDP Sea have become increasingly popular due to simplified procedures and lower risk for Egyptian buyers.

🔹 DDP Shipping Options from China to Egypt

All DDP shipments include customs clearance under your forwarder’s company name and delivery to your address in Egypt.

💬 When to Choose DDP or DAP

Choose DDP if you:

• Don’t have an import license or local customs broker

• Want predictable all-inclusive pricing

• Need goods delivered to door without intervention

Choose DAP if you:

• Already have a valid import license

• Work with a local clearance agent

• Prefer to control customs process for cost optimization

⚠️ Important Notes for DDP to Egypt

• Egypt charges 5–30% customs duty and 14% VAT (applied to CIF value).

• Ensure your forwarder is experienced with Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA) procedures.

• DDP Sea shipments may require extra clearance time (2–4 days) compared to DDP Air.

• Avoid undervaluation — customs in Alexandria and Port Said conduct random inspections.

💡 Pro Tips

• For small shipments (<200 kg), DDP Air is usually more economical than sea freight.

• For bulk orders (>3 CBM), DDP Sea is the best balance of cost and convenience.

• Request one all-in DDP quotation covering: pickup, export docs, freight, duty, delivery.

A reliable freight forwarder will clearly list all included services — no hidden local charges after arrival.

If you’re shipping small parcels, samples, or urgent orders from China to Egypt, express courier services such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Aramex are the fastest and simplest options.
These international express networks provide door-to-door delivery within 3–5 days, including customs handling and last-mile delivery across Egypt.

In 2025, express shipping has become a preferred method for cross-border e-commerce sellers, Amazon FBA users, and SMEs who need reliability and speed over low cost.

🔹 Why Choose Express Courier for Egypt

• Fastest delivery: 3–5 working days door-to-door.

• No import license needed: customs handled by courier.

• End-to-end tracking: full visibility from pickup to delivery.

• All-inclusive rates: covers freight, duties, and last-mile delivery.

• Available for parcels from 0.5 kg to 300 kg.

Express couriers are ideal when time matters — for samples, spare parts, or e-commerce orders requiring immediate fulfillment.

🔹 Top Express Options from China to Egypt (2025 Reference)

Transit times depend on pickup location and customs congestion in Cairo.
For faster service, ship from South China (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong) — these hubs have more direct express flights to Egypt.

🔹 Express DDP vs Standard Courier

Many forwarders now offer Express DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), which includes duties and VAT in the quoted price, avoiding clearance delays in Egypt.

For small packages under 30 kg, DDP Express is often cheaper overall than standard courier once duties and VAT are included.

🔹 Typical Use Cases

• Product samples for potential buyers

• Urgent e-commerce replenishment stock

• Spare parts for factory or machinery repair

• Promotional materials and catalogs

• Medical or testing equipment under 100 kg

⚙️ Packaging & Documentation Tips

• Use sturdy, double-layer cartons and avoid irregular shapes.

• Provide accurate commodity description & HS code for customs declaration.

• Always include:

  • Invoice (with product value in USD)

  • Packing list

  • Receiver’s contact details and phone number

• Avoid shipping batteries, liquids, perfumes, powders, or magnetic items — these are restricted for air express.

💬 Pro Tips for Egypt-bound Express Shipments

• Express couriers deliver to Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, Port Said, and most major cities.

• For rural addresses, allow 1–2 extra days for last-mile delivery.

• Choose DHL or Aramex for faster customs clearance in Egypt.

• Always double-check your receiver’s Tax ID (if applicable) to avoid customs hold.

• Track shipments in real time using the courier’s online portal or API integration.

China and Egypt maintain strong logistics connectivity through multiple seaports and airports, forming one of the most active shipping corridors in the Middle East–Africa region.

The Suez Canal plays a central role in global maritime trade, linking the Red Sea and the Mediterranean — nearly all sea freight from China to Egypt passes through it.

For air cargo, Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the country’s main entry point, supported by smaller regional airports for domestic distribution.

🔹 Main Seaports — China to Egypt

Alexandria and Port Said are the main entry points for containerized cargo, while Sokhna is growing rapidly thanks to its proximity to Cairo’s logistics zones.

🔹 Main Airports — China to Egypt

Cairo International Airport (CAI) remains the dominant gateway for all air imports, with direct access to major Egyptian cities and industrial parks.

🔹 Geographical Advantage Summary

• Suez Canal — Core transit corridor connecting Asia to Europe via Egypt

• Alexandria & Port Said — Ideal for general imports and transshipment

• Ain Sokhna — Closest to Cairo (2 hours by truck)

• Cairo International (CAI) — Centralized air cargo hub with bonded zones

Egypt’s dual access to the Mediterranean and Red Sea makes it a regional logistics hub — linking Asia, Europe, and Africa through both maritime and air routes.

💬 Pro Tips for Route Planning

• Choose Alexandria for northbound cargo and general consumer goods.

• Choose Sokhna for industrial imports or DDP shipments destined for Cairo.

• For urgent air freight, ship via PVG / HKG → CAI (4–6 days).

• Avoid peak congestion at Port Said (Jan–Mar); schedule FCL bookings early.

• Always verify vessel ETA and flight frequency with your forwarder for accurate delivery planning.

Shipping from China to Egypt may sound complicated — but with the right freight forwarder, it’s a clear, step-by-step process.
Here’s how international shipments are typically handled in six key stages, from supplier pickup in China to final delivery in Egypt.

🔹 Step 1 — Prepare Your Documents

Before shipping, make sure all documents are ready and accurate.
Essential paperwork includes:

• Commercial Invoice (with product details and HS codes)

• Packing List (dimensions, weight, quantity)

• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)

• Certificate of Origin (Form E) for tariff reduction

• Import License or Tax ID (for DAP shipments)

Incomplete or inaccurate documents are the #1 cause of customs delays in Egypt.

🔹 Step 2 — Choose the Shipping Method

Select the right mode of transport based on your budget, urgency, and cargo size:

• Sea Freight (FCL/LCL): Cheapest, ideal for 25–35 days delivery

• Air Freight: Fast, 4–7 days delivery

• DDP (Door-to-Door): All-inclusive, handled by your forwarder

• Express Courier: Small parcels or samples (3–5 days)

For bulk cargo, sea freight is best. For small urgent goods, choose air or DDP express.

🔹 Step 3 — Pick-up & Export Customs in China

Your forwarder arranges cargo pick-up from the supplier and handles export clearance at Chinese Customs.
This includes:

• Export declaration submission

• Cargo inspection (if required)

• Issuance of export permit

• Booking space with carrier

Ensure your supplier provides the correct HS code and export license to avoid clearance hold.

🔹 Step 4 — International Freight Transport

Once the cargo is cleared, it is shipped via the chosen route:

• Sea Freight: Loaded on vessel via Suez Canal (25–35 days)

• Air Freight: Direct or 1-stop flight to Cairo (CAI) (4–7 days)

• Express: Handled by couriers like DHL/FedEx (3–5 days)

Your forwarder provides a tracking number or Bill of Lading for shipment visibility.

🔹 Step 5 — Customs Clearance in Egypt

When the shipment arrives in Egypt, customs procedures are managed either by:

• Your local broker (DAP), or

• Your forwarder (DDP)

Documents required by Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA):

• Original B/L or AWB

• Invoice & Packing List

• Certificate of Origin

• HS code declaration

Average clearance time:

• Air cargo: 2–3 days

• Sea cargo: 4–7 days

DDP shipments are cleared faster, as your forwarder uses pre-registered importer credentials.

🔹 Step 6 — Final Delivery to Door

Once customs clearance is complete, the goods are delivered to:

• Warehouse or factory (for bulk shipments)

• Residential or commercial address (for e-commerce / small parcels)

Transport modes inside Egypt: truck, van, or local courier.
You’ll receive confirmation with delivery proof or signed POD (Proof of Delivery).

With a reliable freight partner, shipping from China to Egypt can be seamless, transparent, and stress-free.

Customs clearance in Egypt is an essential part of the import process. All shipments arriving by sea, air, or courier must go through inspection and documentation review under the supervision of the Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA).

Although the process has improved significantly with digital systems like Nafeza (Single Window), importers should still be prepared with all necessary documents to avoid delays.

🔹 Customs Clearance Overview

Since 2023, all importers must register with Nafeza to submit digital pre-arrival declarations before goods are shipped.

🔹 Required Customs Documents

Make sure to prepare the following documents before your shipment departs China:

For DDP shipments, your freight forwarder handles all documentation under their import license.

🔹 Import Duties & VAT in Egypt (2025 Reference)

Duties are calculated on the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value. Always verify your product’s HS Code for the correct rate.

🔹 Customs Clearance Workflow in Egypt

DDP shipments typically bypass steps 4–6 for the importer, as your forwarder handles these under their account.

🔹 Common Reasons for Clearance Delays

• Incorrect HS Code or undervalued invoice

• Missing Form E (Certificate of Origin)

• Incomplete consignee information or Tax ID

• Random inspection by customs authority

• Late submission in Nafeza system

Pro Tip: Always send digital copies of all documents to your forwarder at least 5 days before ETD (Estimated Time of Departure).

🔹 DDP vs DAP Customs Handling

For small importers or e-commerce shipments, DDP is highly recommended — faster and more predictable.

💬 Pro Tips for Faster Customs Clearance

• Use DDP shipping to eliminate clearance risks.

• Confirm your HS Code and duty rate before confirming your order.

• Ensure Form E is correctly issued by the Chinese supplier.

• Avoid undervaluing goods — Egypt applies strict penalty measures.

• For large shipments, consider Port Said or Sokhna for faster clearance times.

Partnering with a forwarder experienced in the Egyptian market can reduce clearance time by up to 30%.

Here’s a quick comparison of the main shipping methods from China to Egypt, including average transit times, estimated costs, and the most suitable use cases.

This table helps importers choose the best balance between speed, cost, and convenience.

🔹 Quick Comparison: Shipping from China to Egypt (2025 Reference)

These are 2025 reference averages. Actual rates may vary by volume, port, and season (fuel surcharge, Red Sea conditions, etc.).

🔹 Average Delivery Timeline Overview

For most small and medium businesses, DDP Air offers the best mix of cost, speed, and simplicity.

Many Egypt importers source products directly through Alibaba.com, one of the world’s largest B2B trading platforms. While Alibaba makes it easy to connect with Chinese suppliers, shipping arrangements can often be confusing.

🔹 Does Alibaba Include Shipping?

Not always. Some suppliers offer FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) terms that cover part of the shipping process, but most do not provide full door-to-door delivery to the Egypt. Buyers are often responsible for arranging international freight, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery.

🔹 Common Issues Egypt Buyers Face

• Unexpected high shipping charges quoted by suppliers.
• Limited visibility on transit time or carrier selection.
• Lack of customs support once the cargo arrives at Jebel Ali or Abu Dhabi.
• Small parcels being routed through expensive courier services by default.

🔹 Best Practice for Alibaba Orders

1. Confirm Incoterms with your supplier (EXW, FOB, CIF).
2. Request dimensions and weight of the cargo before choosing sea/air/express.
3. Work with a trusted freight forwarder to manage the China-to-Egypt leg, including customs and delivery.
4. Consolidate multiple Alibaba orders into one shipment to lower costs.

🔹 How We Help

As a professional freight forwarder, we provide:

• Consolidation services for multiple Alibaba suppliers.
• Transparent shipping quotes from China to Egypt.
• Full customs clearance and VAT support in Egypt.
• Door-to-door delivery for both bulk shipments and small parcels.

👉 This ensures that Alibaba sourcing + reliable shipping works seamlessly for your Egypt business.