Shipping from China to Mexico is booming, with Chinese exports hitting $129.8 billion in 2024, compared to just $9.94 billion from Mexico a trade gap of nearly $120 billion.
Ocean freight alone grew by 18.9% in the first three quarters of 2024, making this one of the fastest-rising trade routes.
From FCL and LCL sea freight to air and express shipping, costs depend on cargo type, dimensional weight, and Mexico’s updated tariff rules.
Read on to discover cost estimates, Shipping Methods , and key tips for smooth freight from China to Mexico.
August 2025 Shipping Update: China → Mexico
Here’s the latest average market rates and transit times for shipments from China to Mexico (August 2025):
Costs
- Air Freight (1,000 kg+): ~$6.4 – $6.7 per kg
- Sea Freight (20′ container): ~$2,700
- Sea Freight (40′ container): ~$3,100 – $3,800
- Express Air (small packages): ~$8 – $12 per kg
Delivery Times
| Mode | Route | Cost | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | China → Mexico | ~$6.4–$6.7 per kg (1,000 kg+) | 5–8 days |
| Sea Freight (20′) | China → Mexico | ~$2,700 | 25–35 days |
| Sea Freight (40′) | China → Mexico | ~$3,100–$3,800 | 25–35 days |
| Express Air | China → Mexico | ~$8–$12 per kg | 2–5 days |
Best Shipping Routes from China to Mexico
When shipping goods from China to Mexico, the key factors that influence cost and delivery time are the chosen shipping method, the nature of the cargo, and the level of urgency.
| Mode of Shipping | Estimated Transit Time | Best For | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx) | 3 – 7 days | Small packages, urgent deliveries, samples, high-value goods | Fastest option, door-to-door service, easy customs clearance | Very expensive for heavy/large shipments |
| Air Freight | 5 – 12 days | Medium-sized shipments, electronics, seasonal goods, urgent B2B stock | Reliable speed, safer for fragile items, better than courier for larger volumes | Higher cost than sea, limited by cargo size & weight |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 25 – 40 days | Large shipments, bulk cargo, stable demand | Lowest cost per unit, suitable for containers, flexible capacity | Slow transit, port congestion risk, longer customs process |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 28 – 45 days | Small-to-medium shipments that don’t fill a container | Cost-effective for lower volumes, flexible for SMEs | Longer transit (consolidation & deconsolidation delays), higher damage/loss risk |
Guide to Ocean Freight Containers: China to Mexico
Selecting the right container is a key step for efficient shipping from China to Mexico, helping businesses save both time and money.
- Standard Containers: Perfect for most general cargo, including electronics, machinery, and textiles.
- Refrigerated Containers: Essential for perishable items or goods sensitive to temperature, such as food products and chemicals.
- High Cube Containers: Provide extra volume for bulky or oversized shipments without a major cost increase.
Choosing the proper container type ensures smoother logistics, better cost management, and timely delivery to meet Mexico’s growing import demand.
Here’s a quick guide to container sizes and their ideal cargo.
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard (TEU) | 5.90 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 33–37 | Smaller shipments, heavy cargo, machinery, metals, tiles |
| 40′ Standard (FEU) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 67–76 | Large-volume shipments, electronics, packaged goods |
| 40′ High Cube (HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.69 m | 76–86 | Light, bulky items, furniture, textiles, foam packaging |
| LCL (Less than Container Load) | Shared container space | 1–25 | Cost-effective for SMEs, irregular shipments, samples, small orders |
| Reefer Container (40′ HC) | 11.58 m × 2.29 m × 2.55 m | 67.7 | Perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, food products |
| Open Top Container (40′ HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.67 m | 75.55 | Oversized cargo, heavy machinery, construction materials |
| Flat Rack Container (40′ HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 53–60 | Extremely heavy or irregular-shaped cargo, vehicles, industrial equipment |
Complete Guide to Door-to-Door Shipping Services in Mexico
For businesses shipping from China to Mexico, door-to-door services make logistics simpler and more reliable. Whether it’s a small sample, high value parcel, or full container, choosing the right method Express, Air, or Sea ensures your shipment arrives on time with minimal handling. Accurate tracking, proper documentation, and expert customs support help avoid delays, giving you peace of mind and smooth operations.
Door-to-Door Shipping Process (China → Mexico)
- Collection: Your freight forwarder picks up the goods directly from the supplier’s warehouse in China.
- Export Preparation: Shipments are transported to the nearest port, airport, or rail terminal, and all export documentation is completed.
- Transit: Goods travel to Mexico via Sea, Air, or Rail, depending on the selected shipping method.
- Customs Clearance: Shipments are inspected and cleared at Mexican ports or airports with the help of local customs experts.
- Delivery to Destination: The cargo is delivered directly to the buyer’s facility or warehouse, ensuring a smooth and efficient door-to-door experience.
DDP Shipping from China to Mexico
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) ensures that the seller takes care of the entire shipping process, including transportation, insurance, and customs clearance, until the goods arrive at your facility in Mexico.
Once the shipment is sent, the buyer has no additional responsibilities.
Goods are prepared and cleared for export in China, either picked up from your factory or our warehouse.
In Mexico, our local partner manages all import procedures, so you don’t need to worry about VAT, import permits, or customs registration.
DDP provides a simple, reliable, and hassle-free solution, ideal for businesses of any size importing from China to Mexico.
Amazon FBA Shipping to Mexico
We provide full-service shipping from China directly to Amazon fulfillment centers in Mexico, with products fully packed, labeled, and FBA ready.
Our service covers every step transportation, customs clearance, and local compliance so you can focus on growing your brand, boosting sales, and reaching Mexican customers quickly and reliably.
Express Freight Services from China to Mexico
Need your goods fast? Express shipping from China to Mexico is the perfect solution for urgent deliveries, high-value items, or time-sensitive shipments. With trusted carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS, your packages move quickly from the supplier’s warehouse in China to your doorstep in Mexico.
Advantages of Express Shipping
- Fast Delivery: Shipments typically arrive within 3–7 days, ideal for urgent or time-sensitive goods.
- Reliable Tracking: Advanced tracking systems let you monitor your package every step of the way.
- Door to Door Convenience: Goods are picked up from the supplier and delivered directly to your location, minimizing handling.
- Simplified Customs Clearance: Express carriers handle most paperwork, reducing delays at Mexican ports.
- Safe for High Value Items: Secure handling ensures fragile or valuable products arrive intact.
Express shipping is perfect for businesses that need speed, reliability, and peace of mind while importing from China to Mexico.
Express Shipping Suited For
Express shipping is ideal for shipments that require speed, reliability, and careful handling. Typical use cases include:
- Urgent Deliveries: Time-sensitive orders that must reach customers quickly.
- Small Parcels & Samples: Lightweight items, product samples, or prototype shipments.
- High-Value Goods: Electronics, jewelry, or fragile items that need secure handling.
- B2B Stock Replenishment: Small-to-medium inventory shipments for retailers or distributors.
- Seasonal or Promotional Products: Goods that need to arrive before a specific date or campaign.
Using Express shipping ensures fast transit, minimal delays, and full tracking from China to Mexico, giving businesses peace of mind and operational efficiency.
How Long Does Shipping from China to Mexico Take?
Shipping goods from China to Mexico requires selecting the best transportation method to balance speed, cost, and reliability. Sea, air, rail, and express services each offer distinct advantages based on shipment size, urgency, and cargo type. Knowing transit times and delivery options helps importers manage inventory efficiently, reduce delays, and meet customer expectations across Mexico.
Here’s a table to estimated door-to-door transit times and the types of shipments each method is best suited for.
| Shipping Method | Estimated Transit Time | Customs & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL/FedEx/UPS) | 3–6 days | 1–2 days | 5–8 days | Urgent parcels, samples, eCommerce shipments |
| Air Freight (Standard) | 5–10 days | 2–3 days | 7–13 days | Medium-weight shipments, time-sensitive B2B cargo |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 20–35 days | 3–5 days | 23–40 days | Small to medium shipments, cost-effective option |
| Sea Freight (FCL) – 20ft | 18–30 days | 3–5 days | 21–35 days | Large shipments, full container loads |
| Sea Freight (FCL) – 40ft | 19–30 days | 3–5 days | 22–35 days | Large-volume cargo, cost-efficient |
| Rail Freight (via USA) | 12–18 days | 2–3 days | 14–21 days | Eco-friendly, faster alternative to sea freight |
Transit Time Factors and Solutions
Several factors influence how long shipments take from China to Mexico
- Mode of Transport: Sea, air, rail, and express each offer different speeds and handling options.
- Customs Procedures: Incomplete paperwork or random inspections can cause delays at Mexican ports.
- Port Traffic: Congested ports, especially in Veracruz, Lázaro Cárdenas, or Manzanillo, may slow deliveries.
- Seasonal Peaks: Holidays, promotional periods, and high-demand seasons can extend transit times.
Holiday & Peak Season Considerations for Shipping from China to Mexico
Shipping during holidays or peak seasons requires extra planning. High demand periods, such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, and major Mexican holidays, can lead to port congestion, limited carrier capacity, and longer transit times.
Shipping Costs & Transparent Pricing
Shipping goods from China to Mexico requires balancing speed, volume, and cost. At TopShipping, we provide transparent shipping rates per kilogram, including duties, customs fees, and handling charges. This helps importers plan their budgets accurately, avoid unexpected costs, and select the shipping method that best suits their delivery timeline and cargo type.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL/UPS/FedEx) | $10 – $15 per kg | $25 – $50 | Urgent parcels, samples, documents, eCommerce orders | 2 – 5 days |
| Air Freight (Standard) | $4.50 – $7.00 per kg | $100 – $200 | Medium-weight shipments, moderate urgency | 5 – 10 days |
| Air Freight (DDP) | $6 – $13 per kg | $150 – $300 | Time-sensitive B2B deliveries, all-inclusive service | 5 – 10 days |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | $100 – $150 per CBM | 1 CBM minimum | Small to medium shipments, cost-effective option | 18 – 32 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL) – 20ft | $1,650 – $1,800 per container | Full container load | Bulk shipments, exclusive container use | 15 – 28 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL) – 40ft | $1,800 – $2,000 per container | Full Container Load | Large-volume cargo at optimal cost | 15 – 28 days |
| Door-to-Door Service | $12 – $20 per kg | $150 – $300 | Complete logistics solution, hassle-free shipping | 8 – 15 days |
| Amazon FBA Shipping | $3 – $6 per kg | $200 – $500 | eCommerce sellers, direct to Amazon warehouses | 12 – 25 days |
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from China to Mexico
Shipping rates change due to multiple factors. Understanding them helps you select the most cost-effective China to Mexico shipping solution for your business:
- Shipping Method: air freight is faster but more expensive, while sea freight offers lower rates for large volumes. Express services carry premium pricing for speed and convenience.
- Cargo Weight & Volume: Costs increase with the actual weight or volumetric weight of your shipment. Lighter but bulky cargo can sometimes cost more than heavier, denser shipments.
- Type of Goods: Fragile, hazardous, or perishable items may require special handling, packaging, or refrigerated containers, adding to the cost.
- Distance & Route: Direct routes are generally cheaper and faster, while indirect routes (via transshipment hubs) can increase both cost and transit time.
- Seasonal Demand: Peak seasons, holidays, or sales periods can drive up prices due to limited carrier capacity and higher demand.
- Customs & Duties: Taxes, import duties, and customs clearance fees in Mexico influence the total shipping cost. Proper documentation can prevent unexpected charges.
- Insurance & Handling: Optional insurance for high-value goods and additional handling requirements can increase overall expenses.
By understanding these factors, importers can choose the most cost-effective shipping strategy, plan budgets accurately, and ensure smooth delivery to Mexico.
Common Import Duty Examples for Mexico
Mexico calculates import duties according to each product’s HS code, and the rates differ depending on the type of goods. On top of customs duties, a 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) is typically applied to the total import value, which covers the product price, shipping costs, insurance, and applicable tariffs. Certain categories, such as alcohol, tobacco, and luxury items, may also be subject to special excise taxes. To ensure smooth clearance and avoid additional costs, it’s important to provide accurate HS code classification and complete shipping documents.
| Product Category | Customs Duty Rate (from China) | VAT (IVA) Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Goods (Average) | ~5.8% (on CIF value) | 16% | VAT applies to CIF + duty. |
| Textiles & Apparel | Up to 35% (until Apr 2026) | 16% | Temporary higher tariffs for non-USMCA origins. |
| Footwear & Leather Goods | 10%–25% (footwear), 15%–30% (leather) | 16% | Varies by HS code and material. |
| Courier Shipments from China | Flat 19% duty | 16% | Applies to small parcels from non-treaty countries (effective Jan 2025). |
| Alcohol, Tobacco, Luxury Items | 20%–100% (product-specific) | 16% + IEPS | IEPS (excise) applies in addition to VAT. |
| IMMEX Program Imports | 0% (temporary import) | 0% | Duty & VAT-free for manufacturing & re-export under IMMEX. |
Mexico Customs & Import Documentation Requirements
| Document Type | Required For | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice (Factura Comercial) | All imports | Declares the value of goods for calculating Mexican customs duties (IGI) and VAT (IVA, usually 16%). Must include HS code, Incoterms, and currency. |
| Packing List (Lista de Empaque) | All shipments | Details cargo contents (weight, volume, packaging). Helps Mexican customs verify shipments during inspection. |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (Conocimiento de Embarque / Guía Aérea) | Sea & air freight | Proof of shipment and legal transport contract between shipper and carrier. Required for release at Mexican ports/airports. |
| Certificate of Origin (Certificado de Origen) | Goods under USMCA/T-MEC or other trade agreements | Allows reduced or zero duties for qualifying goods under T-MEC (ex-NAFTA) or other FTAs. |
| Pedimento de Importación (Mexican Import Declaration) | All commercial imports | Mandatory declaration filed electronically via SAT by a licensed Mexican customs broker (Agente Aduanal). Key document for clearance. |
| NOM Certificates (Normas Oficiales Mexicanas) | Electronics, appliances, textiles, toys, cosmetics, medical devices | Proof that goods meet Mexican quality, labeling, and safety standards. Required for many regulated produ |
Customs Clearance Tips for Shipping to Mexico
- Prepare Accurate Documentation :Ensure invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading are correct and consistent.
- Use the Correct HS Codes :Misclassification can cause delays, fines, or higher duties.
- Understand Import Duties and Taxes :Mexico charges Value-Added Tax (IVA) and customs duties; know your product’s rates.
- Hire a Licensed Customs Broker
- A local broker helps handle compliance and speeds up clearance.
- Check Restricted and Prohibited Items :Verify if your product requires permits or is restricted under Mexican law.
- Label and Translate Properly:Product descriptions in Spanish may be required for certain shipments.
- Keep Track of NAFTA/USMCA Rules:For goods involving the US or Canada, ensure you comply with regional trade agreements.
- Plan for Inspections:Random checks are common; proper packaging and documentation minimize risks.
Customs Clearance Methods & Incoterms for Shipping China to Mexico
| Incoterm | Seller’s Responsibility | Buyer’s Responsibility | Best For | Approx. Transit Time (China → Major Mexican Ports / Air: Mexico City) | Estimated Cost Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Handles full shipping, insurance, Mexican customs clearance, import duties (IGI), VAT (IVA 16%), and delivery to buyer’s door | Simply receive goods | First-time importers, eCommerce sellers, or businesses seeking hassle-free delivery | 28–40 days (sea) / 5–9 days (air) | Seller covers freight, insurance, customs duties, VAT, port handling & final delivery |
| DAP (Delivered At Place) | Delivers goods to agreed location in Mexico (port, airport, or buyer’s facility without duties paid) | Customs clearance, duties (IGI), VAT, local delivery | Experienced importers with their own customs broker | 25–38 days (sea) / 5–8 days (air) | Buyer pays import duties, VAT, and local inland transport |
| CIF (Cost Insurance Freight) | Arranges freight & insurance to a major Mexican port (e.g., Manzanillo or Veracruz) | Customs clearance, duties, VAT, and inland delivery | Port-to-port shipments requiring insurance | 25–35 days (sea) / 5–7 days (air cargo equivalent) | Seller pays ocean freight & insurance; buyer handles customs, VAT, and inland costs |
| FOB (Free On Board) | Delivers goods onto vessel/aircraft in China | Freight, insurance, customs clearance in Mexico, VAT, and delivery | Large importers controlling shipping contracts | Depends on buyer’s chosen mode: ~25–40 days (sea) / 5–9 days (air) | Buyer pays all costs after loading (freight, insurance, customs, VAT, inland transport) |
Customs Success Tips for Shipping Mexico
- Accurate Documentation: Ensure invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and other documents are complete and correctly filled out to prevent delays.
- HS Code Compliance: Classify goods correctly with Mexican Harmonized System codes to avoid fines and miscalculated duties.
- Use a Licensed Customs Broker: A registered broker (Agente Aduanal) can handle electronic filings (Pedimento) and speed up clearance.
- Understand Duties & Taxes: Be aware of import duties (IGI), VAT (IVA 16%), and any special taxes or permits required for regulated products.
- NOM Certificates: For regulated goods like electronics, cosmetics, toys, and appliances, ensure compliance with Mexican quality and safety standards.
- Plan for Peak Seasons: Shipping around holidays or high-demand periods can increase delays; book early to secure transit slots.
- Track Your Shipments: Active tracking helps identify bottlenecks early and keeps customs and transport issues under control.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Shipping goods to Mexico requires a thorough understanding of local import regulations. Some products are completely prohibited, while others require special permits, technical certificates, or compliance with Mexican standards (such as NOM). Knowing these requirements in advance helps prevent customs delays, fines, or cargo seizure.
To simplify planning, a practical table of prohibited and restricted items for Mexico has been created. This guide helps you ensure smooth, compliant, and secure shipments. By preparing the necessary permits, certifications, and documentation ahead of time, importers can optimize their logistics and avoid unexpected issues at Mexican customs.
| Category | Prohibited Items | Restricted / Conditional Items |
|---|---|---|
| Dangerous Goods & Weapons | Firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, pepper spray | Knives over certain length, chemicals requiring special permits, flammable liquids with limits (permits from Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional) |
| Endangered Species & Cultural Artifacts | Ivory, tiger skins, protected wildlife, CITES-listed species | Antiques, cultural artifacts – require import permits from Secretaría de Cultura or SEMARNAT |
| Food, Alcohol & Agricultural Products | Fresh meat, poultry, unpasteurized dairy without health certificates, unlicensed alcohol | Meat, dairy, fish, honey, live plants – must have official health or phytosanitary certificates (SENASICA) |
| Cosmetics & Personal Care | Products with banned or unsafe ingredients | Must comply with Mexican regulations; NOM certification or COFEPRIS approval required |
| Medical Devices & Pharmaceuticals | Unregistered drugs, unapproved medical devices | Registered medical devices; prescription medicines require COFEPRIS authorization |
| Currency | Counterfeit or illegal funds | Cash over 10,000 USD must be declared to Mexican Customs (SAT) |
| Electronics & Batteries | Non-compliant electronics, unsafe batteries | Lithium batteries, drones, or devices with radio transmitters must meet NOM safety standards and COFETEL regulations |
| Chemicals & Pesticides | Toxic chemicals without permit | Agricultural chemicals, pesticides require permits from SAGARPA and COFEPRIS |
| Alcohol & Tobacco | Smuggling or undeclared spirits/tobacco | Import requires permits, taxes, and compliance with Mexican customs and health rules |
Key Ports in China and Mexico for Shipping
Major Origin Ports & Cities in China for Mexico Shipments
- Shanghai (SHACN): China’s largest container port, ideal for bulk shipments and electronics bound for Mexican ports. Offers excellent sea freight connections and efficient documentation handling.
- Shenzhen/Yantian (SZXCN): Key hub for consumer goods, fashion, and electronics. Reliable sea and air freight options make it suitable for time-sensitive shipments.
- Guangzhou (CANCN): Major manufacturing center, providing flexible sea-air routes and competitive rates for both LCL and FCL shipments to Mexico.
- Ningbo (NGBCN): Cost-effective option for medium and large shipments, suitable for industrial goods, textiles, and machinery.
- Qingdao (TAOCN): Northern port supporting bulk cargo and industrial products with efficient port operations for Mexico-bound exports.
Major Destination Ports in Mexico
- Manzanillo (MXZLO): Mexico’s busiest Pacific port, handling the majority of containerized imports, especially for western Mexico.
- Lázaro Cárdenas (MXLZC): Key Pacific gateway for heavy machinery, bulk cargo, and industrial imports.
- Veracruz (MXVER): Eastern port on the Gulf of Mexico, ideal for consumer goods, food products, and general cargo distribution.
- Altamira (MXALT): Northern Gulf port serving industrial zones and automotive supply chains.
- Puerto Progreso (MXPRO): Specializes in regional distribution and smaller bulk shipments, supporting Yucatán and southern states.
Major Air Freight Hubs for China to Mexico Shipments
Major Airports in China
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): China’s largest air cargo hub, perfect for electronics, textiles, fashion, and general merchandise. Offers frequent flights to Mexico City and other major Mexican airports with efficient customs handling.
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): Major southern gateway for industrial machinery, automotive parts, and consumer goods. Reliable air freight connections to Gulf and Pacific ports in Mexico.
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX): Specializes in high-tech electronics, urgent shipments, and fashion items. Known for fast customs processing and competitive air freight rates.
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): Northern hub for samples, medical equipment, and priority cargo with multiple daily connections to Mexico.
- Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB): Growing hub for industrial and consumer goods, offering cost-effective air cargo options to Mexico.
Major Airports in Mexico
- Mexico City International Airport (MEX): Primary hub for international air shipments, serving central Mexico and the main distribution network for electronics, consumer goods, and perishable items.
- Guadalajara Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL): Western Mexico hub for industrial products, high-value shipments, and eCommerce orders.
- Monterrey General Mariano Escobedo International Airport (MTY): Northern industrial center, ideal for machinery, automotive parts, and urgent B2B cargo.
- Cancún International Airport (CUN): Eastern Mexico gateway for perishable goods, fashion, and tourism-related merchandise.
- Tijuana International Airport (TIJ): Northwestern Mexico, supporting cross-border trade with the U.S. and fast delivery for high-tech products.
Smart Shipping Routes & Airport Selection for Mexico
Shipping efficiently from China to Mexico requires careful selection of origin and destination airports.
Leading Chinese airports Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), and Beijing Capital (PEK) handle high volumes of electronics, textiles, industrial goods, and urgent shipments with frequent, reliable flights.
In Mexico, Mexico City (MEX) serves as the main hub for central distribution, while Guadalajara (GDL), Monterrey (MTY), Cancún (CUN), and Tijuana (TIJ) provide regional coverage and specialized handling for eCommerce, machinery, and perishable cargo.
Choosing the right airport pair ensures faster transit, reduced handling, lower costs, and smoother customs clearance, keeping shipments on time and supply chains uninterrupted.
Shipping Platforms & Freight Partners for China to Mexico
DHL Express – Speed with Full Tracking
- Transit Time: Usually 3–5 business days from Chinese hubs like Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen to Mexico City, Monterrey, or Guadalajara.
- Coverage: Extensive last-mile network across Mexico, including border regions and industrial zones.
- Best For: Time-sensitive deliveries, electronics, and eCommerce orders that require end-to-end tracking.
- Pro Insight: Best option when delivery precision and customer satisfaction are top priorities.
FedEx Express – Strong Customs Handling
- Transit Time: Around 4–6 business days from China to Mexico, with dependable clearance at Mexico City (MEX) airport.
- Coverage: Wide service area, ideal for both urban centers and regional markets across Mexico.
- Best For: SMEs shipping samples, spare parts, or consumer goods needing consistent delivery times.
- Pro Insight: Reliable choice when you want smoother customs processing and predictable delivery schedules.
UPS Express – Heavy & B2B Focused
- Transit Time: Typically 4–6 business days, supported by strong ground logistics throughout Mexico.
- Coverage: Well-suited for bulk cargo, cross-border fulfillment, and Amazon FBA shipments.
- Best For: Businesses with frequent or large-volume imports that need cost-efficiency without losing reliability.
- Pro Insight: Ideal for long-term partnerships where volume discounts and predictable schedules matter.
International Freight Forwarder from China to Mexico
Ship your goods from China to Mexico with ease through TopShipping, your trusted international logistics partner. From pickup at your supplier’s warehouse in China to final delivery in major cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, or Guadalajara, we ensure every step is handled with safety, punctuality, and peace of mind. With TopShipping, you get reliable, stress-free shipping solutions designed to fit your business needs.
How to Select the Right Freight Forwarder for Mexico?
Choosing the right freight forwarder for Mexico is one of the most important steps to ensure smooth and cost-effective shipping. A reliable forwarder helps with customs clearance, transportation, paperwork, and compliance with Mexican import regulations. Here are some tips to select the right one:
- Check Their Experience in Mexico:Select a freight forwarder that has proven experience handling shipments to and from Mexico. Knowledge of Mexican customs rules and local logistics is essential.
- Verify Customs Expertise :Mexico has strict customs requirements. Make sure the forwarder is skilled in customs clearance, tariff classifications, and required import documents.
- Consider Their Network and Local Presence :A strong network of local partners in Mexico ensures efficient handling of shipments at ports, borders, and warehouses.
- Compare Shipping Options and Costs :The right forwarder should offer multiple options—air, sea, and land freight—so you can balance speed and cost.
- Ask About Customer Support :Good communication is vital. Choose a forwarder who provides real-time tracking and quick responses to your questions.
- Check References and Reviews :Look for testimonials or customer reviews to confirm the forwarder’s reliability and service quality.
Shipping Made Simple: From China to Mexico in Easy Steps
1.Plan Your Shipment & Understand Mexican Regulations
- Define product type, size, weight, and any special requirements (fragile, hazardous, temperature-controlled).
- Check Mexico’s import rules, duties (IGI), and VAT (IVA 16%).
- Identify whether you need NOM certificates or special permits for restricted goods.
- Calculate a full cost estimate, including freight, insurance, and customs clearance.
2. Choose the Right Incoterm
- Select FOB, CIF, DAP, or DDP depending on how much control and responsibility you want.
- Clearly define who pays for freight, insurance, customs fees, and delivery at each stage.
3. Prepare Proper Documentation
- Commercial Invoice & Packing List (must include HS codes & Incoterms).
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB) as proof of transport.
- Certificate of Origin (important if you want to benefit from USMCA/T-MEC duty reductions).
- Any NOM compliance certificates or special permits (for electronics, food, or medical items).
4. Pack & Label Professionally
- Use strong pallets or cartons suitable for long ocean voyages.
- Add waterproofing and protective wrapping for humid port conditions.
- Apply bilingual labels (English/Spanish) with handling instructions, HS code, and consignee details.
5. Select the Best Shipping Method
- Sea Freight (LCL/FCL): Cheapest for bulk goods (28–40 days).
- Air Freight: 5–9 days, perfect for urgent or high-value cargo.
- Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx): Fastest for small packages and eCommerce.
6. Partner with a Reliable Freight Forwarder
- Choose a forwarder with experience on China–Mexico routes.
- Ensure they can handle customs brokerage, insurance, and door-to-door service.
7. Handle Export Clearance in China
- Your supplier prepares all export documents.
- Cargo must be cleared by Chinese customs before it can depart.
8. International Transport
- Shipment is moved via the chosen mode (sea, air, or courier).
- Use tracking tools to monitor progress in real-time.
9. Customs Clearance in Mexico
- A licensed Agente Aduanal files the Pedimento de Importación.
- Pay import duties (IGI), VAT (IVA 16%), and any additional charges.
- Customs inspects and authorizes release for inland transport.
10. Inland Delivery Across Mexico
- Cargo is delivered from major entry points (Manzanillo, Veracruz, Lázaro Cárdenas, or Mexico City airport).
- With DDP, the forwarder manages the full delivery to your warehouse or doorstep.
11. Post-Delivery Verification
- Check cargo condition, quantity, and packaging.
- Keep all customs and tax documents for compliance.
- Evaluate your freight forwarder’s performance for smoother future shipments.
Final Review
When shipping to Mexico, it’s important to choose a freight forwarder with proven local expertise, strong customs knowledge, and reliable carrier networks. Look for a partner that provides transparent pricing, real-time tracking tools, and support for both imports and exports. Topshipping is a trusted choice, offering tailored solutions that simplify logistics, minimize delays, and ensure smooth cross-border trade with Mexico.
FAQs: Shipping to Mexico
Can you ship items made in China to Mexico?
Yes, most goods can be shipped from China to Mexico as long as they comply with Mexican import regulations.
What is not allowed to be shipped to Mexico?
Prohibited items include firearms, explosives, counterfeit goods, certain chemicals, endangered species, and some unlicensed pharmaceuticals.
How to ship from China to Mexico?
Use a freight forwarder or courier service, choosing sea, air, or express shipping depending on cost, speed, and cargo size.
Does Mexico have an import tax from China?
Yes, Mexico applies customs duties (IGI) and 16% VAT (IVA) on most imported goods from China.
Is it difficult to ship to Mexico?
Not if you follow customs rules, provide accurate documentation, and work with an experienced freight forwarder.
How long is shipping from China to Mexico?
Air freight takes 5–9 days, express courier 3–7 days, and sea freight 28–40 days.
What is the fastest shipping to Mexico?
Express courier services like DHL, UPS, or FedEx are the fastest, delivering in 3–7 days.
What products does Mexico import from China?
Electronics, machinery, textiles, footwear, toys, chemicals, and automotive parts are major imports.
What does Mexico import from China?
Consumer electronics, machinery, vehicles, steel, plastics, and textiles are top import categories.
Does Mexico have a trade deficit with China?
Yes, Mexico imports more from China than it exports, creating a trade deficit.
How expensive is it to ship a package to Mexico?
Costs vary: express courier $8–$15/kg, air freight $5–$8/kg, and sea freight from $40/CBM.
Why is shipping to Mexico expensive?
High costs come from import taxes, long transit times, customs handling, and fuel surcharges.
Is UPS or FedEx better for shipping to Mexico?
Both are reliable; FedEx often excels in customs clearance, while UPS may be more cost-efficient for certain routes.
How much does Amazon charge to ship to Mexico?
Amazon fees vary by item size, weight, and shipping speed, typically ranging $3–$6/kg for FBA shipments.
