由 caicai8478 Freight
Sea freight: suitable for bulk tea transportation, relatively low cost. From Chinese ports such as Ningbo and Shanghai to major European ports such as Rotterdam and Hamburg, the freight of a 20-foot standard container fluctuates in different seasons and market conditions, generally around US$1,000-3,000. If it is less than container load (LCL), it is charged per cubic meter or per ton, usually around US$100-300 per cubic meter. The transportation time is long, about 30-45 days5.
Air freight: fast speed, suitable for high-value and time-sensitive tea. Direct flights from major Chinese aviation hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other places to European cities, the freight per kilogram is usually around RMB 30-80, and the transportation time is generally 8-15 days. However, air freight prices are greatly affected by factors such as season and flight capacity, and prices may be higher during peak seasons or when capacity is tight5.
China-Europe Express: The transportation time is shorter than sea freight, about 25-35 days, and the cost is lower than air freight. From cities such as Chengdu and Chongqing in China to some cities in Europe, the freight varies according to the weight and volume of the goods, and the general freight per ton is around RMB 2,000-5,0005.
Tariffs
The EU has different tariff policies on tea imports, depending on factors such as the type, quality and country of origin of the tea. Generally speaking, the tariff rate for ordinary tea such as green tea is relatively low, which may be around 5%-10%; while some special teas or specially processed teas may have slightly higher tariff rates, around 10%-15%. If there is a relevant trade agreement or preferential policy between China and a member state of the EU, eligible tea may enjoy lower tariff rates or even tariff reductions.
Surcharges
Transportation surcharge 3: In sea and air transport, there may be fuel surcharges, currency depreciation surcharges, port surcharges, port congestion surcharges, etc. Fuel surcharges will be adjusted according to international oil price fluctuations, and generally account for a certain percentage of the basic freight, such as about 10% – 30%. Port surcharges vary from port to port, usually ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars per container; port congestion surcharges are charged when the port is congested, and the fees also vary depending on the port and the degree of congestion.
Customs clearance and related surcharges: including customs declaration fees, inspection and quarantine fees, etc. Customs declaration fees are generally around a few hundred yuan each time, and inspection and quarantine fees are calculated based on the value of the goods and relevant regulations, usually a certain percentage of the value of the goods, such as about 0.1% – 0.5%. If tea requires special inspection, testing or certification, corresponding fees will also be incurred. In addition, if the goods are delayed or stored during transportation, additional fees may also be incurred.