The shipping from China to Brazil market reached new heights in 2024, with bilateral trade hitting $158.33 billion and Brazil importing $69.19 billion worth of goods from China. Smart importers are now partnering with experienced freight forwarder China to Brazil services to overcome challenges like the new 20% import tax on parcels under $50 implemented in August 2024.
Brazil’s booming economy presents incredible opportunities for importers, but navigating its complex customs regulations and high import duties can turn profitable ventures into costly headaches. Many businesses struggle with lengthy China to Brazil shipping times, expensive freight rates, and the maze of documentation required for customs clearance China to Brazil.
China to Brazil Shipping Rates and Delivery Timeframes (2025)
Whether you need cost-effective sea freight to Brazil for large shipments or faster air freight to Brazil for urgent orders, understanding your options is crucial for success in Latin America’s largest market.
Costs
- Air freight (100kg+ to São Paulo): ~$5.50-7.50/kg
- Sea freight (20′ to Santos): $3,200-4,800
- Sea freight (20′ to Rio de Janeiro): $3,400-5,000
- Sea freight (40′ to Santos): $4,500-6,500
- Sea freight (40′ to Paranaguá): $4,800-6,800
- LCL (Less Container Load): $80-150/CBM
Delivery Times
| Mode | Route | Cost | Transit Time |
| Express Air | China → São Paulo | $7-10/kg | 3-6 days |
| Standard Air | China → Rio de Janeiro | $5.50-7.50/kg | 5-8 days |
| Sea FCL | China → Santos | $3,200-6,500 | 25-35 days |
| Sea LCL | China → Paranaguá | $80-150/CBM | 30-40 days |
| Rail + Sea | China → Brazil (Multimodal) | Variable | 35-45 days |
Comparing Air, Sea, and Express Freight Options for China-Brazil Trade
Your cargo volume, urgency, budget, and specific requirements determine the best shipping method from China to Brazil. Customs compliance, seasonal demand fluctuations, and Brazil’s port infrastructure all impact your decision. The method you pick directly affects delivery times, costs, and your import operation’s success.
| Method | Transit Time | Best For |
| Sea FCL | 25-35 days | Large volumes (15+ CBM), cost-effective bulk shipments |
| Sea LCL | 30-40 days | Small to medium volumes (1-15 CBM), shared container space |
| Air Freight | 3-8 days | Urgent shipments, high-value goods, time-sensitive products |
| Express Air | 3-5 days | Documents, samples, emergency shipments |
| Multimodal | 35-45 days | Mixed cargo types, flexible routing options |
Container Types for Ocean Freight
Ocean freight containers come in standardized sizes optimized for different cargo types and volumes. Container specifications help you calculate shipping costs, plan your cargo loading, and pick the most efficient option for your Brazil shipments.
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
| 20ft Standard | 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33 | Small to medium shipments, heavy cargo |
| 40ft Standard | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 67 | Large volume shipments, standard goods |
| 40ft High Cube | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 76 | Tall or voluminous cargo, maximized space |
| 45ft High Cube | 13.55m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 86 | Maximum volume shipments, oversized cargo |
International Door-to-Door Delivery (China To Brazil)
Door-to-door shipping from China to Brazil eliminates the complexity of managing multiple logistics partners by providing end-to-end service from your supplier’s location directly to your Brazilian address. The process begins with cargo collection from the Chinese manufacturer, followed by export customs clearance and documentation preparation in China. Your shipment then travels via air or sea freight to major Brazilian ports like Santos or São Paulo, where local agents handle import customs clearance, including the submission of required documents like commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
The customs clearance process in Brazil typically takes 1 to 15 days, depending on the type of imported goods. After clearance, local delivery partners transport your goods to the final destination, providing real-time tracking throughout the entire journey. This comprehensive service covers all fees, taxes, and handling charges upfront, making it ideal for businesses that want predictable costs and minimal involvement in the logistics process.
Amazon FBA Shipping: China-Brazil
Brazilian Amazon sellers benefit from specialized FBA shipping services that ensure products meet Amazon’s strict requirements while navigating Brazil’s complex customs environment. The process starts with FBA-compliant packaging and labeling at the Chinese supplier, including proper poly-bagging, expiration date formatting (MM-YYYY), and Amazon-specific barcodes on individual items and master cartons. For shipments under 21kg, express services are required, while air, sea, and rail options are available for heavier consignments exceeding 21kg.
Professional freight forwarders like those working with TopShipping handle critical aspects including customs documentation, tax calculations, and direct delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers in Brazil. TopShipping’s specialized Amazon FBA services include inventory management, consolidation from multiple suppliers, and customs clearance expertise specifically tailored for Brazilian import regulations. Their team coordinates with Amazon’s appointment systems, ensures FBA packaging compliance, and provides transparent tracking from Chinese warehouses to Brazilian Amazon facilities, helping sellers avoid costly delays and rejected shipments.
China to Brazil Transit Times: Sea Freight vs Air Cargo Delivery Speed
Accurate knowledge of delivery timelines helps businesses avoid stockouts, reduce storage costs, and make informed decisions about urgent versus bulk shipments. Efficient transit time management directly impacts customer satisfaction and overall profitability in the Brazil import market.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs Clearance & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
| Express Air | 2-3 days | 1-2 days | 3-5 days | Urgent documents, samples, emergency shipments |
| Standard Air | 3-5 days | 2-3 days | 5-8 days | High-value goods, time-sensitive products |
| Sea FCL | 28-35 days | 3-7 days | 35-42 days | Large volume shipments, cost-effective bulk cargo |
| Sea LCL | 30-38 days | 5-10 days | 40-48 days | Small to medium volumes, shared container space |
| Rail + Sea (Multimodal) | 35-42 days | 5-8 days | 45-50 days | Mixed cargo types, alternative routing |
What Factors Affect Transit Time China-Brazil:
- Port Congestion: Major Brazilian ports like Santos and Paranaguá experience delays during peak seasons and harvest periods, adding 3-7 extra days to standard transit times
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather affects both sea and air transport routes, particularly during Brazil’s rainy season (December-March) and typhoon seasons in Asia
- Customs Clearance Complexity: Brazilian customs procedures can extend delivery times by 1-15 days depending on product classification, documentation completeness, and inspection requirements
- Seasonal Volume Fluctuations: Peak shipping seasons (September-November) and Chinese holidays (Golden Week, Chinese New Year) create capacity constraints and longer processing times
- Documentation Accuracy: Incomplete or incorrect paperwork leads to customs delays, with missing certificates of origin or incorrect commercial invoices causing 3-10 day extensions
- Route Selection: Direct shipping routes are faster than those with transshipments through intermediate ports like Rotterdam or Panama, adding 5-10 days to total transit time
- Carrier Schedule Reliability: Some shipping lines maintain better on-time performance, with reliability rates varying between 60-85% on China-Brazil routes
Optimizing Inventory Strategies Amid Long Transit Times
Brazilian importers face long shipping times from China, with routes to Santos taking 35–50 days. Some businesses split their inventory strategy, sending urgent stock through faster US ports like Miami while maintaining bulk shipments direct to Brazil. This approach allows companies to respond quickly to market demands, access US-based testing and certification services, and explore serving both North and South American customers. Understanding shipping from China to US becomes valuable competitive knowledge that could transform your supply chain flexibility and reduce risks associated with long transit times.
Total Shipping Costs from China to Brazilian Ports
Transparent pricing helps companies plan budgets, compare air, sea, and LCL options, and avoid unexpected fees like customs duties or handling charges. Clear insight into the full cost structure enables importers to choose the right shipment method, optimize operations, and maintain profitability while ensuring timely delivery to the Brazilian market.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
| Express Air | $8.50-12.00/kg | $85 | Urgent shipments, documents, samples | 3-5 days |
| Standard Air | $6.40-8.50/kg | $64 | High-value goods, time-sensitive products | 5-8 days |
| Sea FCL (20ft) | $2,950-4,200 | $2,950 | Medium volume shipments, cost-effective | 35-42 days |
| Sea FCL (40ft) | $5,500-7,300 | $5,500 | Large volume shipments, maximum savings | 35-42 days |
| Sea LCL | $80-150/CBM | $200 | Small to medium volumes, shared space | 40-48 days |
| Door-to-Door Air | $3.20-7.20/kg | $100 | Complete service, no handling required | 7-10 days |
Shipping Cost Example: Small e-commerce shipment of 150 kg kitchenware items from Guangzhou to São Paulo via standard air freight.
- Base Freight Cost: $900
- Fuel Surcharge (BAF): $75
- Customs Clearance: $80
- Handling & Documentation Fees: $70
- Total Cost: $1,125 (including all fees)
- Transit Time: 6 days door-to-door
This example illustrates how businesses can plan and budget for small shipments from China to Brazil, ensuring timely delivery while keeping all charges transparent and predictable.
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from China To Brazil
- Cargo Weight and Volume: Volumetric weight calculations often apply for air freight, with rates decreasing significantly for shipments over 100kg and 1000kg thresholds
- Seasonal Demand Fluctuations: Peak seasons (September-November) and Chinese holidays can increase rates by 15-30% due to capacity constraints
- Fuel Price Volatility: Fuel surcharges directly impact both air and sea freight costs, with air freight being more sensitive to oil price changes
- Brazilian Import Duties: Import taxes range from 0-35% depending on product classification, plus VAT of 17-25% varying by Brazilian state
- Port Selection: Santos offers lower rates than smaller ports like Paranaguá or Rio de Janeiro, with cost differences of $200-500 per container
- Currency Exchange Rates: Fluctuations between USD, CNY, and BRL affect final shipping costs and payment timing
- Cargo Type and Special Handling: Hazardous materials, oversized cargo, or temperature-controlled shipments incur additional surcharges of 20-50%
Major Trade Routes and Port Pairs Between China and Brazil
The most popular shipping routes from China to Brazil help businesses optimize transit times, reduce costs, and ensure timely delivery. Using the right port pairs and shipping methods streamlines the supply chain, avoids congestion at busy ports, and allows companies to respond quickly to market demands, ultimately improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Main Departure Ports in China
- Shanghai Port: China’s largest port, handling majority of China-Brazil trade volume with frequent sailing schedules
- Ningbo-Zhoushan Port: Major container hub offering competitive rates and reliable services to Brazilian destinations
- Shenzhen Port: Key southern China port serving electronics and manufacturing goods shipments to Brazil
- Guangzhou/Nansha Port: Recently launched dedicated weekly service to South America with modern facilities
- Qingdao Port: Northern China gateway providing efficient connections to major Brazilian ports
- Tianjin Port: Beijing’s maritime gateway offering consolidated services for North China cargo
- Xiamen Port: Strategic Fujian province port with direct sailing schedules to Santos and Rio de Janeiro
- Dalian Port: Northeast China’s premier port serving heavy machinery and industrial equipment exports
Primary Arrival Ports in Brazil
- Santos Port: Brazil’s largest and busiest port handling 60% of China-Brazil container traffic, located near São Paulo industrial hub
- Paranaguá Port: Second-largest Brazilian port specializing in agricultural products and containerized cargo from China
- Rio de Janeiro Port: Historic port serving Rio metropolitan area with modern container terminals and customs facilities
- Itajaí Port: Southern Brazil’s main container port offering efficient handling for Chinese imports to Santa Catarina region
- Suape Port: Northeast Brazil’s strategic port providing access to emerging markets and industrial zones
Air Freight Hubs (China and Brazil)
- Shanghai Pudong (PVG): Primary air cargo gateway with direct flights to São Paulo and extensive freight handling capabilities
- Beijing Capital (PEK): Major northern hub offering cargo services to Brazilian destinations
- Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN): Southern China’s air freight center with growing Brazil connections
- Wuhan Tianhe (WUH): Central China hub providing shortest flight routes to Brazil at approximately 26 hours
- São Paulo-Guarulhos (GRU): Brazil’s busiest international airport handling majority of China air freight imports
- Rio de Janeiro-Galeão (GIG): Secondary air cargo hub serving Rio metropolitan area and southeastern Brazil
- Viracopos (VCP): Cargo-focused airport near São Paulo offering specialized freight handling facilities
Efficient Route Combinations
- Shanghai → Santos: Most popular sea route with 28-35 day transit time and weekly sailing schedules
- Ningbo → Paranaguá: Cost-effective alternative route with 30-36 day transit time and competitive rates
- Shenzhen → Santos: Southern China to Brazil’s main port with 32-38 day transit time via direct vessels
- Shanghai PVG → São Paulo GRU: Primary air route with 3-5 day delivery time for urgent shipments
- Guangzhou → Rio de Janeiro: Multimodal combination using trucking to Hong Kong then air freight to Brazil
Customs, Duties, Taxes and Cargo Insurance: China To Brazil
Customs, duties, and insurance are critical components of international shipping that directly impact costs and delivery reliability. Proper understanding ensures compliance with regulations, accurate duty calculation, and protection against potential losses or damages during transit. Businesses shipping from China to Brazil can use our import duty and taxes calculator to estimate charges and streamline their shipments.
Brazil Customs & Import Duties
Import Duties Depends on NCM code (Brazilian product classification) & product type:
- Range: 0% – 35% (most manufactured goods from China fall between 10–20%)
- Electronics: typically 16-20%
- Textiles & clothing: 18-35%
- Industrial machinery: 10-14%
Import Taxes:
- II (Import Tax): varies by product classification
- IPI (Industrial Products Tax): 0-15% depending on product
- ICMS (State VAT): 17-25% varies by Brazilian state
- PIS/COFINS: additional federal taxes of approximately 3.65%
Note: Each product must be classified with correct NCM code for accurate duties and compliance with Brazilian customs.
Cargo Insurance Protection
Not legally required but strongly recommended due to Brazil’s lengthy transit times and complex handling procedures.
- Typical cost: 0.4% – 0.8% of cargo value (higher than other destinations due to regional risks)
- Coverage types: All-risk, total loss, or specific perils
- Recommended for: High-value goods, electronics, machinery, and time-sensitive shipments
Incoterms Explained: FOB, CIF and Door-to-Door Delivery to Brazil
| Cost/Responsibility | FOB | CIF | DAP | DDP |
| Export Customs (China) | Seller | Seller | Seller | Seller |
| Main Freight (Sea/Air) | Buyer | Seller | Seller | Seller |
| Insurance | Buyer | Seller (minimum) | Seller | Seller |
| Brazilian Port Charges | Buyer | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Import Customs Clearance | Buyer | Buyer | Buyer | Seller |
| Import Duties & Taxes | Buyer | Buyer | Buyer | Seller |
| Final Delivery in Brazil | Buyer | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Best For | Buyers with Brazilian customs brokers | Standard B2B shipments | Door-to-door without customs hassle | E-commerce/full-service shipping |
DDP vs DDU: Best Shipping Terms for China to Brazil
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):
Under DDP terms, the Chinese seller takes full responsibility for all Brazilian import procedures and tax payments, delivering goods directly to your specified address with all costs included upfront. This arrangement works exceptionally well for e-commerce businesses, first-time importers, and smaller shipments where simplicity outweighs cost considerations. However, sellers must obtain Brazilian tax registration (CNPJ) to legally handle import duties, which can be complex and expensive for many Chinese exporters.
DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) / DAP:
DDU or DAP terms allow sellers to deliver goods to your Brazilian destination while you retain responsibility for import duty payments and customs clearance. This approach dominates B2B trade because it gives experienced importers full control over customs classification, duty optimization, and compliance procedures. Regular importers with established customs brokers often prefer this method as it provides better cost transparency and allows them to leverage their existing relationships with Brazilian customs authorities.
Benefits of Partnering with a China-Brazil Freight Forwarder
Choosing the right freight forwarder for China-Brazil trade goes beyond booking cargo space—it’s about strategic guidance, operational efficiency, and risk management. A reliable partner helps you navigate Brazil’s complex customs, select the optimal ports like Santos or Paranaguá, and determine whether sea freight, air cargo, or multimodal solutions best suit your shipment. Key benefits of partnering with an experienced freight forwarder include:
- Cost Optimization: Consolidate multiple supplier shipments to reduce per-unit expenses.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure accurate documentation to prevent customs delays or penalties.
- Operational Reliability: Advise on packaging standards suitable for long transit times and Brazil’s humid climate.
- Full Supply Chain Control: Maintain oversight of delivery schedules, total logistics costs, and cargo security.
With a trusted freight forwarder, shipping from China to Brazil becomes seamless and predictable. By combining secure cargo handling, transparent upfront pricing, and expert navigation of Brazilian customs, businesses can reduce risks, save time, and focus on growth rather than logistics challenges.
Track Your Shipments in Real-Time from China to Brazil
Modern shipping technology enables comprehensive cargo visibility throughout your China to Brazil journey, providing peace of mind during the extended 25-50 day transit periods typical for this route. Advanced tracking systems monitor your shipment from initial pickup at Chinese factories through export customs clearance, ocean or air transport, Brazilian port arrival, import customs processing, and final delivery to your destination.
Real-time updates include vessel departure notifications, estimated arrival times at Brazilian ports like Santos or Paranaguá, customs clearance status updates, and last-mile delivery confirmations, ensuring you stay informed at every critical milestone of your international shipment.
Service-Based Tracking:
- Container Vessel Tracking: Real-time GPS monitoring of your sea freight shipment with live vessel positions, port arrival/departure times, and weather-related delay notifications
- Air Cargo Flight Updates: Minute-by-minute flight tracking for air freight shipments with departure confirmations, transit hub updates, and arrival notifications at Brazilian airports
- Customs Clearance Status: Detailed updates on Brazilian customs processing including document submission, inspection schedules, duty assessments, and release authorizations
- Port Operations Monitoring: Live updates on container discharge, port handling procedures, and availability for pickup at Santos, Paranaguá, or other Brazilian terminals
- Last-Mile Delivery Tracking: GPS-enabled tracking of inland transportation from Brazilian ports to your final destination with estimated delivery windows
- Documentation Progress: Real-time status of critical shipping documents including bills of lading, commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and import licenses
- Exception Management: Instant alerts for potential delays, routing changes, customs holds, or other issues requiring immediate attention or action
Smart Notifications, Online Dashboard And Mobile App:
Smart notifications automatically trigger at key milestones – vessel departures from Shanghai or Shenzhen, arrival confirmations at Santos port, customs clearance completions, and delivery appointments – ensuring you never miss critical updates that could impact your business operations.
The comprehensive online dashboard provides a centralized view of all active shipments with interactive maps showing real-time vessel positions, customs status indicators, and projected delivery dates, while downloadable reports help you analyze shipping performance and costs across multiple shipments.
Mobile applications extend this functionality to your smartphone, enabling you to track containers, receive push notifications, upload documents, and communicate with your freight forwarder directly from anywhere in Brazil or China, making international logistics management as simple as checking your email.
Additional Considerations For China-Brazil Shipment
Beyond standard shipping procedures, China-Brazil trade involves unique challenges including Brazil’s strict import regulations, lengthy customs processing times, and specific handling requirements for various product categories that demand careful planning and expert guidance.
Sensitive & Special Cargo Handling
- Temperature-Controlled Shipments: Refrigerated containers and climate-controlled air freight for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products with strict temperature monitoring throughout 30-45 day transit times
- Hazardous Materials (DG Cargo): Specialized handling for batteries, chemicals, and flammable goods requiring IMDG certification, proper labeling, and advance customs notifications in Brazil
- High-Value Electronics: Enhanced security protocols, insurance coverage, and expedited customs clearance for smartphones, computers, and consumer electronics vulnerable to theft or damage
- Oversized Machinery: Break-bulk shipping solutions for industrial equipment requiring special permits, port handling equipment, and inland transport arrangements in Brazil
- Live Animals & Plants: CITES permits, veterinary certificates, and quarantine procedures coordinated with Brazilian agriculture authorities (MAPA)
- Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices: ANVISA registration requirements, cold chain maintenance, and specialized documentation for healthcare products entering Brazilian markets
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Completely Prohibited: Firearms, ammunition, explosives, narcotics, counterfeit goods, and items violating intellectual property rights
- Restricted Electronics: Telecommunications equipment requires ANATEL certification, while certain electronic devices need technical conformity assessments
- Food Products: Most fresh foods prohibited; processed foods require MAPA registration, health certificates, and may face lengthy inspection processes
- Textiles & Clothing: Subject to quotas, anti-dumping duties, and mandatory fiber content labeling in Portuguese language
- Automotive Parts: Restricted imports with high duties (up to 35%) and mandatory safety certifications for vehicle components
- Agricultural Products: Seeds, plants, and organic materials require phytosanitary certificates and MAPA import permits with potential quarantine periods
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: ANVISA registration mandatory for all cosmetic products before importation, with testing requirements for new formulations
Key Takeaways for Shipping Success Between China and Brazil
China-Brazil shipping success depends on careful planning, proper documentation, and experienced logistics partners who understand both countries’ complex regulations. With transit times ranging from 3-50 days and costs varying significantly by method, your cargo volume, urgency, and budget determine the optimal approach. Sea freight via Santos offers the best value for large shipments, while air freight through São Paulo provides speed for urgent deliveries.
Brazil’s high import duties (10-35%) and intricate customs procedures require accurate product classification and complete documentation to avoid costly delays. Smart importers leverage door-to-door services, real-time tracking, and professional customs clearance to navigate this challenging but profitable trade route. Whether shipping electronics, machinery, or consumer goods, success lies in partnering with freight forwarders who combine local expertise with transparent pricing, ensuring your products reach Brazilian markets efficiently and compliantly.
FAQ: China to Brazil Freight Forwarding
How long does it take to ship from China to Brazil?
- Sea freight usually takes 27 to 45 days depending on the ports involved. For example, Shekou to Rio de Janeiro is around 27 days.
- Air freight is faster, typically 5 to 10 business days depending on the carrier and customs clearance.
- Multimodal shipping, combining sea and air or land, can reduce time compared to sea freight but depends on the chosen route.
How much does it cost to ship from China to Brazil?
- Sea freight for a 20ft container generally costs between 2,550 and 4,550 USD.
- Air freight averages 5 to 10 USD per kilogram.
- Additional charges such as customs duties, insurance, port handling, and inland delivery should also be considered.
Why is shipping to Brazil so expensive?
- Brazil applies high import taxes and duties on incoming goods.
- Port congestion and lengthy customs clearance add to costs.
- Geographical distance and limited direct shipping routes increase transit expenses.
Who is the shipping agent from China to Brazil?
Freight forwarders and shipping agents based in China handle bookings, documentation, and consolidation for cargo bound for Brazil.
A shipping agent is essential to manage customs paperwork and coordinate with carriers to avoid delays.
Well-known international logistics companies such as DHL Global Forwarding, DB Schenker, and Kuehne + Nagel also provide services on this route.
How long does it take a package to clear customs in Brazil?
Customs clearance can take between 3 to 10 days, depending on documentation accuracy, the type of goods, and inspection requirements.
Does Amazon ship to Brazil?
Amazon US does ship some items to Brazil, but product eligibility depends on sellers and categories. Import taxes and shipping fees are applied at checkout.
