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Container Shipping to Shanghai — Get Instant Quotes
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Why ship to Shanghai with iContainers?
- World’s busiest port. The Port of Shanghai moved 51.5 million TEU in 2024, the first gateway ever to break the 50 million barrier, guaranteeing frequent sailings and competitive space. english.shanghai.gov.cn
- Two-hub flexibility. Cargo can discharge at Yangshan Deep-Water Port (14 million TEU in 1H 2025, +7 % YoY) or the urban Waigaoqiao terminals, letting you dodge berth queues when one facility is congested. lingang.gov.cn
- Air-freight backup. Pudong International Airport handled ≈ 3.8 million t of cargo in 2024, ranking second globally—ideal for urgent pallets.Wikipedia
- Live disruption intel. We track typhoon alerts (e.g., Typhoon Bebinca, 2024) so you can add buffer days or reroute before storms hit. The Loadstar
Our Container Shipping Services to Shanghai
| Service | Best for | Typical lead times* | Key terminals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Container Load (FCL) | High-volume imports—electronics, auto parts, industrial machinery | LA → SHA 19-27 days; Rotterdam → SHA 35-40 days | Yangshan, Waigaoqiao |
| Less-than-Container Load (LCL) | ≤ 15 m³—SME spare parts, fashion, specialty foods | Singapore → SHA ≈ 5-6 days at sea | Same as FCL |
| Air Freight | Samples, perishables, high-value spares | EU/US → SHA 5-9 days door-to-door | Pudong (PVG) |
*Port-to-port for sea; door-to-door for air.
What makes this lane unique?
- FCL dominates big-ticket goods, but LCL demand spikes in Q4 when importers top up e-commerce stock without over-ordering.
- Primary ports & airport served: Yangshan, Waigaoqiao, SIPG terminals, and PVG.
- Seasonal pinch points: Chinese New Year, Golden Week (1 Oct) and typhoons can tighten capacity—book 3-4 weeks ahead in these windows.
Container shipping rates to Shanghai
How much does it cost to ship a container to Shanghai?
Estimated Transit Times to Shanghai
| Origin | Mode | Transit time |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, US | FCL | 19 – 27 days |
| Rotterdam, NL | FCL | 35 – 40 days |
| Singapore | LCL/FCL | 5 – 6 days |
| Frankfurt → PVG | Air | 5 – 9 days |
Shanghai port snapshot
| Terminal | 2024/25 throughput | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Yangshan Deep-Water Port | 14 m TEU in 1H 2025 (+7 %) | 15-m-draft berths, 24/7 automation |
| Waigaoqiao (phases I-IV) | Part of 51.5 m TEU total | Near-city location speeds drayage |
| Pudong Int’l Airport (PVG) | 3.8 m t cargo (2024) | #2 air-cargo hub worldwide |
What do shippers typically send to Shanghai?
- Consumer electronics & components—China’s top import segment via Shanghai. CBRE
- Industrial machinery & auto parts for Yangtze River Delta factories.
- Chemicals & raw materials feeding petro-chem complexes.
Shanghai-specific challenges & tips
- Typhoon season (Jun – Nov): ports may close 24-48 h; plan buffer time or route via northern Chinese gateways.
- Holiday peaks: Chinese New Year & Golden Week squeeze capacity—book earlier and consider LCL to secure space.
- Customs accuracy: Ensure HS codes match invoice descriptions; China’s system flags mismatches quickly.
FAQs About Shipping Containers to Shanghai
Is LCL cheaper for small loads?
Yes—below ~15 m³, LCL usually costs less than paying for a full 20 ft FCL.
Do I need cargo insurance?
Not mandatory, but strongly advised given seasonal typhoon risk and high-value goods.
Which Incoterm is common for imports?
Most buyers choose CIF Shanghai for simplicity; sellers wanting cost control opt for FOB origin port.
How long is free-time at Shanghai terminals?
Standard free days are 5-7; demurrage accrues daily thereafter.