HSBC Expat

Shipping and Removals in China


Expats considering shipping to China should get quotes from several companies and carefully research those organisations that come recommended. Large international companies, like Crown Relocations, may have offices in both your home country and China; while other companies may outsource one end of the shipping process.

Shipping containers for expats considering shipping to ChinaFurthermore, as many flats can be rented furnished in China, and an overwhelming assortment of shopping options, for nearly every kind of item, exists, it may be worth leaving most of your household belongings in storage in your home country.

Shipping times vary depending on where in the world you're shipping from, though most companies will be able to provide an accurate estimate of arrival time. Use expat forums and online testimonials to confirm this estimate if you're feeling sceptical.

Air freight is a popular method and a much faster way to ship smaller cargo, although costs can be much more expensive than if shipping by sea – air freight is typically billed by weight while sea freight is billed according to the size of container. That said, some expats prefer to spend a little more on the cost of excess baggage to have their belongings arrive immediately.

It is a good idea to buy insurance on shipped cargo.

Expats should also note that China levies various taxes depending on the type of imported goods; electrical goods are always taxed, and books may be confiscated by customs depending on the material.

Be meticulous about making copies and keeping the paperwork that must be completed, you'll need this information when exporting your items from China back to your home country.

Shipping pets to China


Shipping pets to China is perfectly plausible, but as expats will likely find themselves living in a not-so spacious apartment with little accessible green space, it's a decision that deserves some careful consideration. Furthermore, more and more of China's cities are beginning to limit the number of furry friends per household, though officially, expats are allowed to import one pet per "Z" visa.  
shipping pets to China
No microchipping is required, but two certificates are needed to bring pets into China. An International Health Certificate must be given to the pet’s owner by a government affiliated veterinarian within thirty days before the pet is imported. A Vaccination Certificate is also needed, but may be included in the International Health Certificate. This ensures all vaccinations are covered and up to date. China requires that pets be vaccinated for rabies at least one month and no more than twelve months before import.

There is a 30 day quarantine period after arrival, although the pet may be allowed to spend at least part of this time in the owner's residence.

Certain Chinese cities require you to register your pet, a process that demands you pay a licensing fee - the amount varies depending on where in the city you live.

Laws are subject to constant change, pet owners planning to import should confirm all legislation prior to departure.

Become our local expat expert for your area in China!

Expat Arrivals is looking for contributors to make this the ultimate guide for international expats.

If you are an established expat who could make time to write useful information for expats in your city in China and answering forum questions from new and prospective expats, please contact us.

As our local expert you can have your profile showing on each page you publish, and will have an option to promote your website or blog.

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