Disclaimer: Customs regulations and shipping company policies change frequently. The information in this guide is for general planning purposes. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with your chosen shipping provider and the relevant customs authorities.
Moving internationally is a significant undertaking, and leaving China involves unique logistical and bureaucratic steps.
Whether you’re concluding an expat assignment, returning home after studies, or simply relocating, this updated 2025 guide provides a clear roadmap for efficiently and safely shipping your personal belongings out of China.
Pre-Shipment Essentials: Documentation and Preparation
Before contacting any shipping company, complete these critical preparatory steps.
Proper documentation prevents customs delays in China and your home country.
- Gather Proof of Residence: You will need to prove you legally lived in China. Collect copies of your work permit, residence permit, passport pages showing your Chinese visa and entry stamps, and even utility bills or rental contracts in your name.
- Prepare a Detailed Inventory List: Create a room-by-room list of all items you plan to ship. For each box or item, note:
- Description (e.g., “men’s winter clothing,” “kitchen utensils,” “hardcover books”)
- Quantity
- Approximate value (in USD or your home currency)
- This list is for customs and is crucial for insurance.
- Understand Prohibited Items: All carriers prohibit shipping batteries, flammable liquids, weapons, and prescription drugs without documentation. China has specific restrictions on exporting antiques, certain cultural artifacts, and high-value electronics without proof of purchase. When in doubt, declare it.
Your Shipping Options: A Detailed Comparison
1. International Postal Service (China Post)
Best for: Small shipments under 20kg, mostly non-valuable personal items like clothes, books, and lightweight household goods.
- Process & Cost: You can send parcels by SAL (Sea-Air) or direct sea freight for the lowest cost, but transit times range from 6 to 12 weeks. Air mail is faster (2-4 weeks) but significantly more expensive. Prices are weight-based.
- Key Considerations:
- Strict Limits: Maximum weight per parcel is 20kg, with size restrictions.
- Limited Tracking & Insurance: Full tracking and comprehensive insurance are often not available. Loss or damage claims can be difficult.
- Customs Handling: You must handle customs declarations yourself at the post office. The receiving country’s customs may contact you for duties.
2. International Express Couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Best for: Urgent, high-value shipments under 30-50kg, important documents, or essential items you need quickly.
- Process & Cost: These are door-to-door premium services. You can get online quotes by entering dimensions and weight on their websites. Transit time is typically 3-7 business days worldwide.
- Key Considerations:
- Speed & Reliability: Extremely fast and reliable with full online tracking.
- High Cost: The most expensive option per kilo. Unexpected duties and handling fees in the destination country are common and can be substantial.
- Customs: While they facilitate the process, you are responsible for providing accurate customs documentation. Incomplete paperwork will cause delays.
3. International Removal & Freight Companies
Best for: The complete relocation of a household, including furniture, appliances, and multiple boxes.
This is the standard for full-service moves.
- Process & Cost: Companies provide a door-to-door service. A consultant will visit your home to survey your items, provide a detailed quote, and guide you through the entire process. Your goods are typically packed, transported by truck to a port, shipped via sea freight in a shared container (LCL) or your own container (FCL), then cleared through customs and delivered to your new home. Transit time is 8-14 weeks for sea freight.
- Key Considerations:
- Comprehensive Service: They handle packing, customs paperwork for export and import, and delivery. This is the least stressful option.
- Cost Structure: You pay for volume (cubic meters) rather than weight. While the upfront cost is higher, it becomes economical for larger shipments.
- Essential Document: A reputable mover will guide you in obtaining a “Certificate of Household Goods and Personal Effects” or similar from your home country’s embassy in China. This document is often required to waive import taxes, proving your used items are personal effects, not new commercial imports.
Recommended Moving Companies with Expat Experience
Based on long-standing reputations within the expat community, the following companies specialize in international removals from China:
- Asian Tigers Mobility: Known for high-touch, professional service and handling complex moves.
- Santa Fe Relocation: Offers robust services and has a strong global network.
- Seven Seas Worldwide: Popular for their “MoveCube” option—a cost-effective, self-pack container ideal for smaller apartments or partial moves.
- Crown Relocations: Provides full-service solutions and comprehensive insurance options.
Action Tip: Always get at least three in-person surveys and written quotes from different companies. Verify their China business license and ask for references from recent clients.
Final Checklist Before You Ship
- [ ] Documents Scanned: Have digital copies of passport, visa, inventory list, and proof of residence.
- [ ] Embassy Letter: Applied for and obtained a customs exemption letter from your embassy if advised by your mover.
- [ ] Inventory Finalized: Created a numbered list matching the labels on every box.
- [ ] Prohibited Items Removed: Ensured no batteries, aerosols, or prohibited items are in any boxes.
- [ ] Insurance Confirmed: Understood exactly what is covered and the claims process.
- [ ] Delivery Instructions: Provided clear delivery address and contact details for the destination.
By methodically preparing, understanding your options, and choosing the right partner for your needs, you can transform a potentially stressful process into a manageable task.
Plan ahead, allow extra time for paperwork, and soon your belongings will be safely reunited with you at home.
About the Author
