Shipping goods from China to Georgia has become increasingly popular due to the strengthening trade ties between the two countries. China has emerged as one of Georgia’s largest trading partners. In 2023, the trade volume between China and Georgia reached $2.049 billion. Whether you’re a business sourcing bulk cargo or an e-commerce seller shipping individual parcels, understanding the process, costs, and available transportation methods is essential.
This comprehensive 2025 guide explores everything you need to know about cargo shipping from China to Georgia. Cargo shipping from China to Georgia has been increasing steadily over the years. We cover the most efficient shipping services, estimated freight charges, customs clearance procedures, and how to choose the best solution based on your shipping needs.
By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to calculate costs, compare transit time, and confidently select the right shipping method—whether you’re exporting from Shenzhen, China or any other major port city. Air freight offers advantages such as faster delivery and better security, making it a preferred choice for time-sensitive shipments.
Cargo Shipping Methods from China to Georgia
There are several shipping options available when transporting goods from China to Georgia. Sea freight is one of the most common modes of cargo shipping between China and Georgia. The best transportation method depends on your cargo volume, delivery schedule, and budget. Below are the most common and reliable solutions.
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most affordable method for bulk cargo. It offers larger cargo capacity and lower shipping costs. You can choose:
FCL (Full Container Load) – ideal for large shipments
LCL (Less than Container Load) – suitable for small shipments combined with others
Popular departure ports include Shenzhen, China, Shanghai, and Ningbo, while Poti Port and Batumi are key gateways on Georgia’s Black Sea coast.
Air Freight
Air freight is the fastest shipping service, often taking 5–9 days to arrive at Tbilisi International Airport. It’s ideal for high-value, time-sensitive cargo and e-commerce parcels. Routes are frequently served from PVG (Shanghai), CAN (Guangzhou), and SZX (Shenzhen).
Rail & Road Freight
If you’re shipping inland or want to avoid maritime delays, rail freight and road transport via Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey are viable options. Rail freight from China to Georgia can take 15 to 20 days to complete.
Door-to-Door and DDP Shipping
Many importers prefer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services. This transportation method includes freight, customs clearance, duties, and final delivery—making it a convenient way to handle your cargo shipping needs.
Shipping Time from China to Georgia (Transit Time Breakdown)
Shipping time varies depending on method, route, and customs process.
Sea Freight Transit Time
Generally 30–50 days depending on origin port and route. Sea freight offers advantages like larger capacity and lower cost, making it ideal for heavy cargo.
Air Freight Transit Time
Usually 3–7 days. Most flights land at Tbilisi International Airport.
Door-to-Door & DDP Transit Time
DDP by air: 8–12 days
DDP by sea: 40–50 days
Express courier (DHL/FedEx): 4–7 days
Shipping Cost from China to Georgia (By Mode)
Sea Freight Cost Table (FCL & LCL)
Container Type | Port of Origin | Port of Arrival | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
20GP | Shanghai | Poti | $1,600 – $2,000 |
40GP | Shenzhen | Batumi | $2,300 – $3,300 |
LCL (per CBM) | Ningbo | Poti | $60 – $100 |
Most cost-effective option for large shipments. Rates vary by port and shipping companies. Be sure to check if terminal handling charges are included.
Air Freight Cost
Air freight rates to Tbilisi vary by weight and service type:
21–50kg: $4.5 – $6.5/kg (standard) | $6 – $10/kg (express)
51–100kg: $3.5 – $5.5/kg (standard) | $5 – $9/kg (express)
100kg+: $2.5 – $5.2/kg (standard) | $4 – $8.5/kg (express)
Calculated by chargeable weight (actual or volumetric). Rates may fluctuate with fuel surcharges and demand.
DDP Shipping Cost
Typical DDP shipping costs from China to Georgia:
By air: $2 – $5/kg (includes freight, VAT, customs clearance)
By sea: $100 – $150/CBM (includes delivery, taxes, paperwork)
Includes freight, customs clearance, taxes, and delivery. Freight forwarders require a commercial invoice, packing list, and HS code.
💡 Some shipping companies charge extra based on cargo value or insurance.
To find out about shipping costs from China to the rest , you can click:
20ft & 40ft Container Shipping Costs from Taiwan to the USA
Shipping Costs for 20ft & 40ft Containers from China to Russia
Shipping Costs for 20ft & 40ft Containers from China to Turkey
Customs Clearance, Duties & Documentation
To clear customs in Georgia, prepare:
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Air waybill / bill of lading
Product HS code
For regulated goods, you may require extensive documentation. Georgia applies an 18% VAT and exempts many imports from duties. Confirm whether terminal handling or freight charges are included in your quote.
Other Shipping Services and Strategic Access
China’s ports like Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Qingdao connect to several shipping lines offering ocean cargo shipping through the Black Sea—ideal for transporting bulk cargo. FCL is preferred for full loads; LCL works well for shared freight.
Georgia’s strategic location between Europe and Asia makes it a gateway for international cargo transit, supported by China’s strong export infrastructure and common transport modes like sea, rail, and air.
Important Variables That Affect Shipping Cost
When importing goods, several variables involved in international shipping can influence total cost:
Cargo volume and dimensions
Whether the shipment has a fixed amount of declared value
Type of container used (20ft, 40ft, LCL)
Required documentation, such as a packing list and commercial invoice
Destination: largest cities like Tbilisi often have more frequent deliveries
It’s essential to confirm if your quote includes freight charges, unloading fees, or if the forwarder will charge a fixed amount. Tonlexing can assist in estimating the total delivery cost accurately and help with shipments that require extensive documentation.
Strategic Routes, Shipping Cargo & Ocean Transport Options
For international trade between China and Georgia, logistics providers offer different routes that connect major manufacturing cities to the Caucasus region. Georgia’s strategic location allows it to act as a bridge for connecting countries across Asia and Europe. The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route connects China to Georgia via railway, providing an efficient and reliable shipping option.
When choosing common modes of transport, importers often consider ocean cargo shipping for cost efficiency, especially when handling shipping cargo in bulk. This method supports FCL and LCL depending on cargo volume.
Several shipping lines operate from Qingdao, Ningbo, and Shenzhen. They provide popular methods like Ro-Ro, containerized freight, and consolidation. These routes offer a low carbon footprint when compared to air options.
When calculating total cost, don’t forget to check if quotes include unloading fees or a fixed amount for additional services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping from China to Georgia
What documents are required for customs clearance in Georgia?
You’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, and a shipping document (bill of lading or air waybill). Some shipments may also require certificates depending on the product category.
Does the shipping cost include freight charges and taxes?
Not always. Some quotes include only base shipping costs. Make sure to confirm whether your quote includes freight charges, customs duties, or DDP terms.
Can I ship from any Chinese city?
Yes, but the most popular ports include Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Ningbo. These offer better shipping rates and faster handling times.
Is tracking available for all shipments?
Yes. Most shipping companies provide a tracking number so you can monitor your cargo in real time.
Are there products that require extensive documentation?
Yes. Electronics, medical devices, and food products often require extensive documentation for customs clearance.
What’s the best solution for small e-commerce parcels?
Use DDP air or express courier. These convenient ways to ship include delivery, customs handling, and final-mile logistics—perfect for dropshipping and online sales.
