Australia is one of the world’s leading eCommerce markets. This guide outlines the cheapest ways to ship to Australia from China or the U.S., providing clear options and accurate costs.
Table of Contents:
How much does it cost to ship to Australia?
Shipping costs to Australia vary depending on several factors. To help you find the cheapest way to ship a package to Australia, here’s an overview of the key pricing elements, with real examples from China.
Package weight & dimensions
Larger or heavier shipments naturally incur higher fees. Most carriers charge based on actual weight or dimensional weight, whichever is greater.
- For example, a 45kg small parcel (standard size box) shipped by air costs around $380–$450 from Shenzhen to Sydney.
- If sent via sea, the cost drops to around $120–$180, though delivery may take 2–4 weeks.
Shipping method: air vs sea
- Air freight is faster but pricier. It’s ideal for urgent eCommerce orders or lightweight goods.
- Sea freight is more economical for large shipments or non-time-sensitive orders.
Delivery speed options
Generally, faster delivery comes at a premium. Express couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS offer 2–4 day delivery, ideal for urgent or high-value goods. For budget-conscious shipping, ePacket, YunExpress, and Australia Post’s economy services offer slower but significantly cheaper alternatives.
What's the cheapest way to ship to Australia from China?
Let’s compare popular options from China to Australia, focusing on a 30kg (general cargo) shipment as a benchmark. Please note that all prices are approximate and may vary depending on the season, carrier, and specific shipment details.
1. Postal services vs couriers
| Service | Estimated Cost (USD) | Delivery Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia Post (International Parcel) | $120 - $150 | 1 - 15 days | Economical but slower |
| ePacket (via China Post) | $80 - $110 | 7 - 12 days | Affordable, suitable for small parcels |
| UPS | $350 - $400 | 3 - 5 days | Fast, but costly for heavy parcels |
| FedEx | $320 - $380 | 3 - 5 days | Reliable express service |
| DHL | $340 - $390 | 2 - 4 days | Premium service, slightly pricier |
2. Air freight
| Freight Type | Price per kg (USD) | Estimated Delivery | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Air | $8 - $12 | 5 - 7 days | Good balance of cost and speed |
| Standard Air | $12 - $18 | 3 - 5 days | Faster but higher price |
3. Sea freight costs (bulk cargo)
| Shipping Type | Estimated Cost (USD) | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LCL (Less than Container Load) | $100 - $150 per cubic meter | 27 - 40 days | Ideal for small bulk shipments |
| 20ft FCL (Full Container Load) | $1,200 - $1,500 | 20 - 30 days | Best for large volumes |
| 40ft FCL | $1,800 - $2,200 | 20 - 30 days | More cost-efficient per volume |
Ultimately, the cheapest way to ship a package to Australia depends on your priorities—whether it’s speed, volume, or budget. Lightweight parcels are often best handled through postal or ePacket services, while larger shipments tend to be more cost-effective by sea.
If you’re unsure which method best suits your cargo, ASLG offers tailored freight solutions to help you ship smarter. Our team streamlines the process and ensures smooth customs clearance.
What's the cheapest way to ship to Australia from the USA?
Let’s look at real examples of a 30kg shipment from the U.S. to Australia.
| Service | Estimated Cost (USD) | Delivery Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Priority Mail International | $180 - $220 | 7 - 14 days | Affordable but slower than couriers |
| UPS Worldwide Expedited | $450 - $520 | 3 - 5 days | Faster, reliable for heavier packages |
| FedEx International Economy | $430 - $500 | 3 - 5 days | Good balance of speed and cost |
| DHL Express | $480 - $550 | 2 - 4 days | Premium service with fast transit |
- Cheapest: The cheapest option is USPS Priority Mail International at $180 – $220.
- Fastest: The fastest option is DHL Express, delivering in 2–4 working days.
- Best value: The best value option is FedEx International Economy, offering a good balance of speed and price.
How long does it take to ship a package to Australia?
Transit times based on the location from which you’re shipping and the method you choose. From China, air freight typically takes around 2–5 days, while sea freight ranges from 14 to 30 days, depending on the destination port.
If you’re shipping from the U.S., expect 5–10 business days by air and 2–3 weeks by sea. On the other hand, shipments from the UK or Europe typically take about 5 days by air, or 3–4 weeks by sea freight.
While air freight is faster, it’s not always the cheapest way to ship a package to Australia. Knowing your shipping options helps you strike the right balance between speed and cost.
What to know before you ship to Australia
1. Get your customs paperwork right
Your commercial invoice must clearly state the correct product description and declared value, matching exactly what’s inside your shipment. Even minor discrepancies can trigger inspection delays, wasting time and money.
2. Understand GST on low-value goods
Imports valued at AUD 1,000 or less can still attract Goods and Services Tax (GST). This rule applies even to small personal parcels, so don’t assume “lightweight” means “tax-free.”
3. Avoid PO boxes and parcel lockers
You can’t ship from overseas to Australian PO boxes or parcel lockers. Many first-time shippers overlook this and end up with delays, returns, or even lost goods. Always confirm a valid street address with your recipient.
4. Watch out for restricted and prohibited items
Australia has strict biosecurity laws. Certain products, such as cosmetics, art supplies, and even wooden pencils, may require import permits. Items like fresh fruit or meat are strictly prohibited.
5. Know transit route restrictions
If your cargo passes through certain flagged countries, such as Egypt or Bangladesh, Australian customs may refuse entry altogether. Choose a freight forwarder who understands these transit rules to avoid costly rerouting.
6. Meet the 30-day clearance deadline
Finally, remember to complete customs clearance within 30 days; otherwise, authorities will destroy your shipment. If an issue arises, act quickly to resolve it.
Partner with the right freight forwarder
Shipping to Australia can be simple, affordable, and hassle-free when you plan. Airsupply, one of the leading China–Australia freight forwarders, specializes in helping businesses find the cheapest way to ship to Australia without compromising on speed or reliability.
How ASLG makes shipping to Australia easier
Airsupply manages the entire China-to-Australia shipping process for you. We handle customs brokerage, guide accurate documentation that meets Australian requirements, and ensure your shipment complies with all biosecurity rules.
Our team monitors your cargo in real time, works with trusted carriers, and prevents costly delays. Whether you’re sending a parcel, bulk freight, or specialized cargo, we connect you with the most efficient and budget-friendly shipping solution. Furthermore, from dangerous goods transport to Amazon FBA forwarding, Airsupply helps you save money, save time, and ship with confidence.
