由 caicai8478 Logistics method selection
International express
DHL/UPS/FedEx:
Advantages: fast delivery (3-7 days), full traceability, suitable for small urgent items.
Disadvantages: high cost (first weight is about 300-500 yuan, additional weight is calculated by grams), and tariffs may be high.
EMS (China Post):
Advantages: strong customs clearance capabilities, suitable for sensitive goods (such as food, cosmetics), moderate price (first weight is about 200-300 yuan).
Disadvantages: slow delivery (7-15 days), unstable delivery in some African countries.
Special line logistics
Special line in Africa (such as Sudafei, Aramex):
Advantages: optimized for African routes, lower prices than express delivery (first weight is about 150-250 yuan), delivery time is 10-20 days.
Service: Some provide “double clearance and tax package” (customs clearance + tax payment), suitable for bulk shipments.
Sea/Air
Sea transport:
Advantages: Lowest price (about 1000-3000 yuan per cubic meter), suitable for large items or large quantities (such as furniture, mechanical equipment).
Disadvantages: Long time (30-60 days), need to handle customs clearance at the destination port by yourself.
Air transport:
Advantages: Balance time (7-15 days) and cost (charged by kilogram), suitable for medium volume.
Cross-border e-commerce platform logistics
Such as Alibaba International Station, SHEIN: Support “official logistics”, suitable for merchants, one-click delivery.
- Key points
Customs clearance materials
Required documents: commercial invoice (indicate the value of the goods), packing list, waybill.
Special goods: Certificate of origin and quality inspection report (such as electrical appliances, medicines) are required.
Low declaration risk: African customs strictly inspect, it is recommended to declare truthfully to avoid detention or fines.
Prohibited items
Common prohibited items in Africa: liquids, powders, batteries (special channels required), counterfeit brands, cash.
Differences between countries: Nigeria prohibits the import of old clothes, while South Africa restricts the import of electronic products.
Tariff calculation
Tariffs in Africa are generally high (10%-30%), and some countries impose tariffs based on commodity categories (e.g., Kenya has a 20% tariff on mobile phones).
You can check the official website of the customs of the destination country in advance, or consult the logistics company to estimate the taxes and fees.
- Practical steps
Packing skills
Shockproof and moisture-proof: Use bubble film and vacuum bags to seal, and mark fragile items with “Fragile”.
Control volume: Ocean shipping is charged by volume or weight, and try to compress the packaging.
Order process
E-commerce platform: Choose a seller that supports “direct shipping to Africa”, or use official shipping (such as Taobao official shipping).
Logistics company: After comparing quotations, make an appointment for door-to-door pickup, or deliver to the logistics warehouse.
Tracking and after-sales
Save the logistics order number and track it through the official website or third-party platform (17TRACK).
In case of delays or customs detention, contact the logistics company in time to provide customs clearance assistance.
- Recommended solutions
Small and urgent items: DHL/UPS (fast but expensive) or EMS (cost-effective).
Bulk goods: Africa dedicated line (double clearance tax included) or sea transportation (large items).
E-commerce sellers: cooperate with dedicated logistics and sign long-term agreements to reduce freight costs.
- Frequently asked questions
Q: How to reduce tariffs?
A: Ship in batches (the value of a single bill is lower than the tax-free amount of the destination country), or choose a tax-inclusive channel.
Q: Which African countries are difficult to clear customs?
A: Angola, Nigeria, Congo and other countries have complicated procedures. It is recommended to confirm the policy in advance.
By reasonably choosing logistics methods, preparing complete documents, and paying attention to the laws and regulations of the destination country, sending items from China to Africa can take into account both efficiency and cost. It is recommended to consult a professional logistics company (such as 4PX Delivery and Jitu International) before the first mailing to obtain a personalized solution.