Whether you’re delivering e-commerce orders, machinery parts, or even Li-ion batteries, international shipping to Ukraine requires some planning. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the practical steps for shipping from China to Ukraine.
Best options for shipping to Ukraine from China
When shipping from China to Ukraine, your two main options are air freight and sea freight, each with its advantages, transit times, and ideal cargo types. The best choice depends on your budget, delivery urgency, and the size of your cargo.
Air freight from China to Ukraine
Air freight is ideal for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments. If you’re sending goods under 300 kg or items such as medical devices or electronics, this method is often the most practical.
- Standard air shipping typically takes 1–3 days, excluding final delivery.
- Express air freight delivers within 3–5 days door-to-door via carriers such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS, but comes at a higher cost.
Major airports in Ukraine handling international cargo include:
- Boryspil International Airport (KBP) in Kyiv
- Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO)
Both airports remain operational for cargo shipments, although some routes may face restrictions due to current conditions.
Sea freight from China to Ukraine
Ocean freight is the preferred option for larger shipments, typically over 2 CBM or 500 kg, where cost savings outweigh the longer transit time. It’s perfect for bulk goods, building materials, machinery, or furniture.
- FCL (Full Container Load) is best when you can fill a 20ft or 40ft container. Offers security, fixed cost, and fewer handling risks.
- LCL (Less than Container Load) is more flexible for smaller loads. You can share container space with other shippers and pay by volume (CBM).
Transit time from China to Ukraine:
- Port-to-port: 30–35 days on average (e.g., Shanghai to Odesa).
- Door-to-door: 40–50 days, depending on inland transport and customs delays.
Main seaports in Ukraine:
- Odesa Port
- Chornomorsk Port
However, direct sea and air routes into Ukraine are increasingly unreliable due to war-related disruptions. Ukrainian airspace remains restricted, and seaports face operational delays, route closures, and surging war-risk premiums.
In light of these challenges, businesses now ask: Can you ship to Ukraine right now—and do it safely?
The Warsaw workaround: ASLG proved fast-track
Instead of gambling on unstable direct lanes, we route shipments through Warsaw, Poland, and then handle final delivery into Ukraine by bonded truck.
Step 1: Ship from China to Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW)
- Standard air freight: 5–7 days from hubs like Shenzhen or Shanghai
- Express air service: 3–4 days for time-sensitive cargo (e.g., medical kits, electronics)
Step 2: Deliver from Warsaw to Ukraine (Road Delivery)
- Daily bonded trucks run from Warsaw → Lviv → Kyiv
- Border clearance within hours, not days
- Final delivery in under 24 hours from landing at WAW
Full compliance & security
- Sealed trucks using TIR carnet, minimizing inspections
- Special handling for dangerous goods like lithium-ion batteries
- All necessary documents, including UN38.3, MSDS, and labeling, pre-checked
Real-world example
A Shenzhen EV battery maker recently moved 1.2 tons of Li-ion modules via our Warsaw corridor.
- Air freight to LGG: 2 days
- LGG to Warsaw: 1 day
- Truck to Kyiv: 18 hours
Total transit time: Just 3 days, 18 hours, fully compliant, and no delays.
Shipping cost from China to Ukraine
Air freight rates per kg from China
| Mode | Transit Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3–5 days | US$ 4–6 per kg |
| Express | 2–4 days | US$ 8–10 per kg |
Sea freight rates from China
| Mode | Transit Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ft container | 30–35 days | US$ 2,200–2,800 (20 ft) |
| 40 ft container | 30–35 days | US$ 3,500–4,200 (40 ft) |
| LCL Consolidation | 32–40 days | US$ 80–100 per CBM |
Note: Bunker and war-risk surcharges can add 8–12% during peak seasons.
Extra costs to watch out for
Even competitive base rates won’t include everything. Be sure to budget for:
- Customs clearance fees: US$ 80–150 per entry
- Import duty & 20% VAT based on declared CIF value
- Document fees, e.g., bill of lading release, certificate of origin
- Terminal handling & port congestion: US$ 100–250 per container
- Warehouse or demurrage if the cargo exceeds the free storage period
- Cargo insurance: Approx. 0.3% of invoice value
- Remote-area or last-mile surcharges for areas beyond Kyiv/Odesa
At ASLG, we offer transparent pricing and help keep your shipping from China to Ukraine on time, on budget, and fully compliant.
Customs clearance for shipping to Ukraine
Whether you’re shipping from China to Ukraine by air or sea, proper paperwork and classification make all the difference in avoiding delays, fines, or cargo holds.
Essential documents
For most commercial shipments, Ukrainian customs require the following:
- Packing list
- Commercial invoice
- Import declaration
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of origin (when applicable)
- Product certifications for specific goods (e.g., electronics, machinery)
If you’re shipping regulated items, such as Li-ion batteries, be prepared for increased scrutiny. You’ll need:
- 3 test report
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
- Dangerous goods labeling that meets international standards
- In some cases, pre-import approval for chemical components or high-capacity batteries
HS codes and tax classification
Ukraine uses the Harmonized System (HS code) to classify goods and determine applicable taxes and duties. Accuracy is key. A mismatched or outdated HS code can cause:
- Shipment customs inspection
- Additional documentation requests
- Fines or reclassification penalties
Ensure your product descriptions and HS codes align with Ukraine’s customs database. A trusted freight forwarder or customs broker can help verify the details before shipment.
Tariff and duty rules for imports to Ukraine
Based on the HS code classification, the following fees typically apply:
- Import duty: Generally ranges from 0% to 10%, depending on the product type. For example, clothing and electronics often fall into the 5–10% range.
- VAT (Value Added Tax): A flat 20%, calculated based on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
- Excise tax: It applies to specific products such as alcohol, fuel, and tobacco.
Quick cost example
Let’s say a Kyiv-based retailer imports cordless drills (HS Code 8467) valued at €2,000 CIF:
- Declared CIF= €2,000
- Duty (5 %)= €100
- VAT (20 % of €2,100)= €420
- Total border payment:€520
Is there a de minimis threshold?
Yes, but for personal shipments. As of current regulations:
- Parcels under €150 (about $160) are exempt from import duty. However, VAT still applies in most cases.
- This exemption does not apply to commercial (B2B) shipments. For B2B shipments, all goods must be declared and taxed accordingly, regardless of value.
Practical customs tips
- Always declare honestly; customs cross-check values.
- Pre-calculate your landed cost (product + freight + duty + VAT) to avoid pricing surprises.
- Lean on a seasoned freight forwarder like Airsupply, who already ships to Ukraine; they’ll catch any documentation or customs issues before your cargo leaves China.
Conclusion
Shipping from China to Ukraine doesn’t have to be complicated. From cargo pickup and port coordination to last-mile delivery in Kyiv or Odesa, our team handles everything.
Why choose ASLG?
- Real case studies: We regularly manage FCL shipments for battery suppliers in Shenzhen and arrange express air freight for medical equipment bound for Ukraine’s western regions.
- Clear pricing: Get transparent quotes that include all costs, no hidden fees, and no guesswork.
- Real-time updates: You stay in control with proactive tracking and clear communication at every milestone.
- Tailored logistics: From LCL consolidation to door-to-door delivery, we customize the plan around your cargo and timeline.
FAQs：
How long does it take to ship goods from China to Ukraine?
- Air freight takes 2–13 days, depending on whether you choose port-to-port or door-to-door service.
- Sea freight (FCL or LCL) typically takes 30–40 days, including port handling and inland transportation to destinations.
How much does shipping from China to Ukraine cost?
Air freight from China to Ukraine typically ranges from $4 to $10 per kg, depending on urgency and service level.
On the other hand, FCL sea freight costs around $2,200–4,200 per container (20ft or 40ft). LCL shipments usually cost about $80–100 per CBM.
For accurate rates tailored to your shipment, get a quote from our team. We’ll help you avoid surprises and stay on budget.
