Looking to cut shipping costs without sacrificing reliability? Whether you’re a business owner sourcing products from Chinese suppliers or an individual sending packages to Peru, finding the most affordable shipping method is key to maximizing your budget. From ocean freight for bulk cargo to economical trim parcel options, this guide breaks down the cheapest ways to ship from China to Peru—so you can ship smarter, save more, and avoid unexpected fees.
How to Calculate Shipping from China to Peru
In international transportation between China and Peru, the freight cost is influenced by multiple factors and is primarily determined by the two modes of transportation: sea and air.
Sea transportation is mainly charged according to the type of service. Full Container Load (FCL) is a term used to describe a shipment of cargo that is loaded into a single container, based on the number of containers and the type of container. Less than container load (LCL) is charged by cargo volume (CBM).
The charging mode for air transportation is based on the higher of cargo weight and volumetric weight (Volumetric Weight). The volumetric weight formula is typically used: Volumetric Weight (KG) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000. There will be slight differences between different airlines, routes, and transshipment points. The specific quotation is subject to the current flight.
It is mainly composed of the following fees:
- Freight: The basic cost of sea or air transportation, usually quoted by the shipping company or airline according to the destination and cargo characteristics
- Document fees: The costs of making bills of lading, declaration documents, export customs declaration documents, etc.
- Customs declaration fees: Customs declaration and agency fees at the export or import place
- THC: Operational costs such as loading and unloading, yard, and weighing at ports or airports
- Destination miscellaneous fees: Including local charges such as unpacking, warehousing, customs clearance, and delivery
- Insurance: (optional) Insurance for cargo, the rate is generally 0.2%-0.5% of the cargo value
- Surcharges: Including peak season surcharge (PSS), fuel surcharge (BAF/FSC), war risk surcharge (WRS), etc.
Shipping to Peru from China
Sea Freight
Sea Freight is one of the most commonly used methods of international transportation. It has high flexibility in terms of cargo size and type. It can transport all kinds of goods at a low cost and with high cost-effectiveness. It is suitable for large-volume, heavy-weight, and low-time cargo. There are two main types of transportation services: FCL and LCL.
- Full Container Load (FCL) refers to a cargo owner using a standard container to transport goods alone. It is suitable for customers with large cargo volume and can fill a full container.
- Less than container load (LCL): The goods of multiple cargo owners are transported in the same container. It is suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as for small batches of goods, to help save costs.
Air Freight
Air freight is the fastest international logistics method, suitable for high-value, light-weight goods, especially products with high unit value and small volume. Frequent flights, increasingly dense China-New Zealand routes, more flexible transportation, simplified procedures, and more efficient customs declaration and inspection than sea and air freight.
Cheapest Way to Ship from China to Peru
The cheapest way to ship from China to Peru is primarily through sea freight, especially for bulk or larger items. Here’s a breakdown of the most cost-effective options available:
- Sea Freight Options:
- Full Container Load (FCL): If you have enough goods to fill a container, rates are about USD 1,550 for a 20-foot container and USD 1,700 for a 40-foot container.
- Less than Container Load (LCL): For smaller shipments, prices range from approximately USD 120 per cubic meter (m3). This is economical for businesses that do not need a full container but still ship larger volumes.
- Air Freight:
- This is faster (3-7 days) but significantly more expensive, typically costing around USD 5 to 15 per kg, depending on the weight and whether you are sending larger shipments. Air freight is best for urgent or high-value items, but not for basic bulk shipping due to higher costs.
- Other Considerations:
- Be aware of additional fees, such as fuel surcharges, customs duties, and port handling fees, which can increase the total shipping cost.
- E-Packet options are available for lightweight packages (under 2 kg), offering a cheaper and effective way to send smaller parcels. The costs for these can range from USD 5 to USD 15.
- Using a reliable freight forwarder is recommended, as they may offer consolidated shipping options, which can further reduce costs.
In summary, sea freight is often the most cost-effective solution for shipping larger quantities from China to Peru. However, for urgent small items, consider air freight or E-Packet services. Research and quotes from shipping companies will help you find the best deal tailored to your specific shipment.
Steps for Shipping from China to Peru
Whether you choose sea or air freight, international shipping must follow a strict set of procedures to ensure that your goods arrive safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Below are the key steps involved in the shipping process:
Preparation Stage
Determine the cargo details, including product name, quantity, weight, volume, and whether the items are classified as hazardous materials.
Choose a suitable freight forwarder
Discuss the scope of service, pricing, estimated transit time, and other relevant details.
Book and Arrange Airport or Port Pickup
The freight forwarder books space with the shipping line or airline and provides the vessel schedule or flight information.
Domestic Pickup/Delivery
Under FOB (Free on Board) terms, the supplier delivers the goods to the designated warehouse.
Under EXW (Ex Works) terms, the freight forwarder arranges for the pickup of goods directly from the factory or supplier’s location.
During Transportation
Throughout transit, real-time tracking and monitoring services are provided to keep you informed of the shipment’s status at every stage.
Peru Import Customs Clearance and Release
The consignee must provide a local tax ID number (RUC), a power of attorney, and an import license, if applicable.
Customs duties, value-added tax (VAT), and any other import fees are paid by Peruvian regulations.
End of Delivery or Self-Pickup
The consignee either picks up the goods personally or authorizes a customs broker or logistics provider to handle the final delivery.
