With the continuous deepening of China-Europe trade, China-Cyprus trade relations continue to develop. In 2024, the trade volume between the two countries is close to 1 billion US dollars. More and more companies are beginning to pay attention to importing from China. This article will introduce the details of shipping from China to Cyprus.
Introduction to Cyprus
Located in the eastern Mediterranean, close to the Middle East, Cyprus is an important transportation hub connecting Europe, Asia and Africa, radiating to neighboring countries such as Egypt, Israel and Greece.
Cyprus is highly dependent on imported goods and has strong consumption capacity. The country has limited resources and needs to import a large amount to meet domestic demand. Main imports include electromechanical products, textiles, furniture, building materials, etc.
Main ports
- Port of Limassol: Cyprus’ largest and busiest port, with a container terminal and the main import point for sea transportation. It has complete facilities and is suitable for handling containers, roll-on/roll-off cargo, heavy equipment, etc.
- Port of Larnaca: is a secondary commercial port, mainly handling small freight and oil and liquid commodities, and undertakes more freight and cruise transportation functions.
Main airports
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): The largest international airport in Cyprus, the first choice for air cargo.
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): It is the second largest airport in Cyprus. It plays a vital role in connecting the markets of Cyprus and surrounding areas.
How to Ship from China to Cyprus
There are two main modes of transportation from China to Cyprus, air freight and sea freight. The mode of transportation is selected according to factors such as the characteristics of the goods. The following is an introduction to the two modes of transportation
Sea Freight from China to Cyprus
Sea transportation is the most common mode of transportation. Sea transportation is a popular and economical way to transport large quantities of goods. Compared with air transportation, it has a lower cost and is very suitable for bulk transportation. It can accommodate large and heavy goods. Compared with air transportation, it has a lower carbon footprint. There are two main modes of transport: FCL and LCL
- Full container load (FCL): Ideal for businesses with enough goods to fill an entire container. Reduces the risk of damage and contamination of other goods. It is also more cost-effective for bulk goods.
- Less than container load (LCL): Suitable for businesses with a small number of goods and do not need to use full container loads. Consolidating multiple shipments into one container is a cost-effective solution for small-volume shipments.
Shipping process
- Booking space: Book a ship with a freight forwarder or shipping company.
- Pre-carriage: The goods are delivered to the designated port container yard.
- Customs export declaration: Submit declaration information and obtain release.
- Loading & sailing: The ship is loaded and leaves the port, passing through the Suez Canal.
- Destination customs clearance: The Cyprus importer or its agent performs customs clearance.
- Pickup and inland distribution: Pick up the goods and deliver them to the customer or warehouse.
Air Freight from China to Cyprus
Air Freight is the fastest mode of transport. It is the preferred mode of transport for high-value or time-sensitive goods.
The transportation time is significantly shortened, with a more predictable schedule, less impact of delays, and enhanced security measures to reduce the risk of damage or theft, but the cargo carrying space is limited.
Air Freight Process
- Booking: Select flights and airlines, and reserve cargo space.
- Goods delivery and palletizing: Packing, palletizing, labeling, and sending to the airport.
- Export customs declaration: declare to the Chinese customs and obtain release.
- Transit and flight: mostly transit through Dubai, Istanbul, Doha, etc.
- Customs clearance and pick-up at the port: Cyprus importers are responsible for customs clearance and pick-up.
Shipping Cost from China to Cyprus
The logistics cost of shipping from China to Cyprus is mainly composed of the following parts:
- Basic freight: sea/air freight
- Departure fee: including pickup fee, storage fee, customs clearance fee, etc.
- Destination fee: including Cyprus customs fee, VAT, import tariff, express fee, etc.
- Additional service fee: such as insurance, bill of lading, warehousing, packaging, distribution, etc.
Sea Freight Cost from China to Cyprus
Sea freight is usually charged by cargo volume (cubic meters) or weight (tons). If it is container transportation, it is generally charged according to the size of the container (20ft and 40ft containers). The following is a common range of fees:
| POL (port of loading) | POD (port of discharge) | LCL shipping cost | 20ft container cost | 40ft container cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Limassol | $85-$160 | $2150-$3050 | $3000-$4900 |
| Shenzhen | Limassol | $70-$145 | $2000-$2900 | $3050-$4850 |
| Qingdao | Limassol | $90-$140 | $2050-$2950 | $3050-$4750 |
| Ningbo | Limassol | $85-$150 | $2100-$3000 | $3150-$4850 |
| Shanghai | Larnaca | $70-$145 | $1950-$2850 | $3050-$4700 |
| Shenzhen | Larnaca | $80-$155 | $1900-$2800 | $3100-$4800 |
| Qingdao | Larnaca | $90-$165 | $2050-$2950 | $3050-$4750 |
| Ningbo | Larnaca | $85-$145 | $2000-$2950 | $2950-$4850 |
Air Freight Cost from China to Cyprus
Air freight is the fastest mode of transport, but it is more expensive and is charged by actual weight or volumetric weight. The cost is calculated based on the greater of the volumetric weight or actual weight. The calculation formula is usually: Volumetric weight = length × width × height / 6000.
| Departure Airport (China) | Arrival Airport (Cyprus) | Cost Per KG (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai Pudong | Larnaca | $5.8 – $10.5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Larnaca | $6.0 – $10.4 |
| Beijing Capital | Larnaca | $5.7 – $9.7 |
| Shanghai Pudong | Paphos | $6.0 – $11.5 |
| Guangzhou Baiyun | Paphos | $5.5 – $10.4 |
| Beijing Capital | Paphos | $5.8 – $10.5 |
Refer to the following shipping costs from China to other countries:
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Greece?
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Turkey
How Much Does it Cost to Ship from China to Egypt?
Shipping Time from China to Cyprus
The time it takes to ship goods from China to Cyprus varies depending on the mode of transport and a variety of factors that affect shipping time
Factors that affect shipping time
Understanding these factors can help companies plan their supply chains more effectively and ensure that goods are delivered in a timely manner. The main factors that affect shipping time include:
- Shipping routes: The availability of direct and indirect routes can affect shipping time. Direct routes are generally faster, but can be more expensive.
- Port and airport congestion: Congestion at major ports and airports can cause delays in the loading and unloading process, which can increase overall shipping time. Congestion is more likely to occur during peak seasons such as holidays or large trade events.
- Customs clearance: The efficiency of the customs clearance process at the origin and destination can affect shipping time. Delays in customs inspection, paperwork, or regulatory compliance can all lead to longer shipping times.
- Weather conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as storms or typhoons, can disrupt shipping plans and cause delays.
- Cargo type: Dangerous goods or perishable items may require special handling, inspection, or quarantine procedures, which can increase shipping time. .
- Carrier Schedules and Availability: The frequency and availability of a carrier’s service (whether ocean or air) will impact transit time.
| Shipping Method | Average Transit Time | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 20 – 30 days | Cost-effective, suitable for large volumes, subject to weather and port congestion |
| Air Freight | 3 – 7 days | Fast and reliable, higher cost, ideal for time-sensitive shipments |
Learn more about shipping times from China to other regions in the following articles:
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Greece?
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Turkey
How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to Egypt
DDP Shipping from China to Cyprus
DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) from China to Cyprus is a shipping term in international trade, which means that the seller is responsible for transporting the goods to the buyer’s designated location in Cyprus and completing all related costs (including freight, import customs clearance, duties and taxes).
Advantages of DDP Shipping
- Convenience: Eliminates the complexity of coordinating with multiple suppliers and provides a single point of contact for all logistics needs.
- Save time: Streamlined processes reduce shipping time and ensure timely delivery, which is critical to maintaining supply chain efficiency.
- Cost-effectiveness: Competitive prices with no hidden fees ensure that businesses can accurately budget.
- Reliability: Ensures reliable and safe transportation, minimizing the risk of delays or damage.
- End-to-end visibility: Provides real-time tracking and updates, allowing businesses to monitor the status of goods throughout the transportation process.
Customs Clearance Shipping from China to Cyprus
Customs clearance from China to Cyprus is a core link in transportation. As a member of the European Union, Cyprus has a strict customs clearance system and must comply with EU import requirements.
- Commercial Invoice: Contains goods details, price, currency, FOB/CIF and other terms
- Packing List: Displays packaging method, quantity, weight, volume, etc.
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill: B/L for sea and AWB for air
- Certificate of Origin: Some product requirements (such as preferential tariffs)
- CE Certificate: EU mandatory product certification
- EORI Number: Importers must have the EU EORI registration number
- VAT Number (such as DDP): VAT number used by customs clearance agents
Detailed explanation of Cyprus customs clearance steps
Goods arrive at the port/airport
Arrival at Limassol Port or Larnaca Airport
Import declaration
Cyprus customs clearance agents use the TARIC system for declaration (EU unified customs system)
Provide customs clearance information
Submit the above documents to the customs for review
Pay taxes and fees
The system automatically calculates and pays import tariffs, VAT and other fees (value added tax VAT: 19%)
Cargo inspection (if sampled)
Some high-risk products may be inspected, such as food, electronics, and chemicals
Release and delivery
After customs clearance is completed, the customs clearance company or logistics company will arrange local delivery
How to Find the Best Freight Forwarding
Choosing a professional, efficient and transparent freight forwarder is the key to ensuring smooth transportation and controlling costs. The following are the evaluation criteria:
- Professional qualifications: whether there is an international freight forwarding certificate, membership of organizations such as WCA or FIATA.
- Rich experience in European business: familiar with Bulgaria and the EU customs clearance process.
- Comprehensive service coverage: whether door-to-door, double clearance, warehousing, tax payment and other services are provided.
- Reasonable and transparent prices: whether the fees are clear and there are no hidden charges.
- Customer reputation and cases: whether there are successful cases of China Insurance Transportation, you can refer to customer reviews.
- Provide tracking system: real-time tracking and timely feedback on logistics status.
Cyprus is not only a potential import market, but also an important springboard for Chinese companies to enter the EU and Mediterranean markets. Choose the right mode of transportation and cooperate with professional freight forwarders, contact Ubestshipping‘s professional cross-border logistics team to help you complete each transportation task efficiently and safely!