The trade relationship between China and Canada continues to play a vital role in North American commerce, with both countries maintaining strong economic ties despite global uncertainties. According to the latest figures from Statistics Canada, the total trade volume between China and Canada reached approximately $100 billion USD in 2023.

Ocean freight remains the dominant mode of transport on this trade route, accounting for over 65% of all Canadian imports from China. Its cost-effectiveness and high-volume capacity make it the preferred choice for businesses moving large shipments. Air freight, while representing a smaller share — around 5% — is crucial for time-sensitive and high-value goods.

This reflects a steady demand for goods and services flowing between the two nations, making cargo delivery from China to Canada a key component of international logistics.

Key Products and Shipping Trends

China continues to be one of Canada’s top trading partners, supplying a wide range of consumer and industrial goods. In 2023, electronics and electrical machinery led the list of imports, followed closely by household items and industrial components.

Top Imports from China to Canada:

• Electronics and electrical machinery
• Furniture, bedding, and lighting fixtures
• Machinery and mechanical appliances
• Toys, games, and sporting goods
• Footwear, apparel, and textiles

Shipping from Canada to China

Canada’s exports to China totaled more than $24 billion USD in 2023, with natural resources and agricultural products forming the backbone of outbound trade. Canadian industries continue to benefit from strong demand in China for high-quality raw materials and advanced technologies.

Top Canadian Exports to China:

• Agricultural products such as canola (rapeseed), barley, wheat, soybeans, and pork
• Wood, pulp, and paper products
• Ores, minerals, and metals
• Aerospace components and machinery
• Chemicals and pharmaceuticals

Despite evolving global trade dynamics, the China–Canada shipping corridor remains a strategic route for businesses looking to expand their international footprint. At Agora Freight, we provide intelligent, transparent, and cost-effective logistics solutions tailored to your needs — whether you’re shipping by sea, air, or using a multimodal approach. Our platform simplifies search of cheapest shipping option from Canada to China or backwards, freight booking and tracking, helping you stay in control every step of the way.

Ocean freight is the most economical and reliable method for shipping goods from China to Canada, particularly for large-volume or heavy cargo. Container vessels handle a diverse range of freight, and depending on the size and urgency of your shipment, you can opt for either Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) services. Key ports along this trade route include major Chinese export hubs such as Shanghai (CNSHA), Ningbo (CNNGB), Shenzhen (CNSZX), Qingdao (CNTAO), and Guangzhou (CNGZG). Canadian entry points are mainly located on the west coast at Vancouver (CAVAN) and Prince Rupert (CAPRR), and on the east coast at Montreal (CAMTR) and Halifax (CAHAL).

Some of the primary ports on this route are:

• Shanghai (CNSHA): one of the busiest container ports globally, offers frequent sailings to Canada’s west coast, typically via direct trans-Pacific services to Vancouver or Prince Rupert.
• Shenzhen (CNSZX): a major export gateway in southern China, provides consistent connections to Canadian ports, making it a strategic choice for manufacturers in the Pearl River Delta region.
• Ningbo-Zhoushan (CNNGB): renowned for its deep-water access and high throughput capacity, is a key departure point for shipments bound for Canada, especially for FCL cargo moving across the Pacific.

Cost breakdown for shipping from China to Canada by sea

When deciding between Full Container Load (FCL) and Less-than-Container Load (LCL), businesses should consider the cargo volume, budget, and delivery timeline.

• FCL typically ranges from $1,300 to $1,850 for a 20-foot container, depending on the port.
• LCL generally costs between $65 to $100 per cubic meter, depending on the nature of the cargo and the specific route.

Shipping by sea on this route typically takes between 20 and 40 days, depending on the specific ports involved and the shipping route. Factors such as customs clearance, weather conditions, and carrier schedules can also influence the overall transit time.

Several prominent shipping lines operate between the countries, ensuring reliable and timely delivery. Notable carriers include Maersk, COSCO Shipping, Evergreen Line, and CMA CGM.
It’s vital that the use of ocean transportation often translates into lower carbon emissions compared to air, making it a more sustainable choice for businesses concerned with environmental impact.

Shipping goods from China can be a complex process. Appointing the right freight forwarder is key. A dependable logistics partner enables businesses to navigate challenges effectively while providing the dedicated support of a logistics professional. Here’s how to ensure you choose the right one.

What to look for in a freight forwarder:

• Proven industry knowledgeSelect a forwarder with extensive experience in China-Canada shipments. They should Canadian customs regulations, documentation requirements, and trade compliance issues specific to your products.
• Wide range of servicesThe ideal freight forwarder offers more than just moving cargo from A to B. Additional services such as customs clearance, cargo insurance, warehousing, real-time cargo tracking is a must.
• Cost transparencyShipping costs can increase due to ‘hidden fees’. Choose a shipping agent from China to Canada that provides a detailed cost breakdown and transparent freight rates. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you identify the best value without compromising quality. Make sure you are comparing like with like and not an apple with a banana.
• Strong customer supportClear communication is paramount. A forwarder with a dedicated support team ensures you’ll receive timely updates and professional assistance, keeping your operations running smoothly.
• Customized shipping solutionsRegardless if you’re shipping small items or large consignments, the freight forwarder needs to offer solutions that meet your requirements.

A forwarder not only streamlines the transportation process but also minimizes risks. They handle everything from documentation and preparation for customs clearance, ensuring your goods reach their destination without unnecessary and potentially costly delays.

Taking your time when selecting a logistics provider partner will pay off. A forwarder who understands your business requirements and offers personal support can optimise your shipping experience. By choosing wisely, you can concentrate on your core business and leave the China-Canada forwarder to handle the logistics.

The cargo delivery time will depend on the type of transport used and the specific ports of departure and arrival.

Shipping to Canada by Sea

Ocean freight transit times vary based on whether you choose Full Container Load (FCL) or Less-than-Container Load (LCL) services:

• Full Container Load (FCL):
• • Shipping from major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen to key Canadian ports like Vancouver, Montreal, or Toronto typically takes between 20 and 35 days. This includes:
    • Direct sailing to West Coast ports (e.g., Vancouver): 15–20 days
    • Transit to East Coast ports via Panama Canal (e.g., Montreal): 25–35 days
    • Inland rail transport to central Canada (e.g., Toronto): 3–7 days

    Transit times can vary due to weather conditions, port congestion, and customs processing.

• Less-than-Container Load (LCL):
• • Shared container shipments require additional time for consolidation and deconsolidation. Typical LCL transit from China to Canada takes 30 to 45 days, depending on:
    • Consolidation time at origin: 3–6 days
    • Ocean transit to Canada: 20–30 days
    • Deconsolidation at destination port: 3–5 days
    • Final delivery to consignee: 2–4 days

Air Freight Shipping

Air freight is the fastest option for shipping cargo from China to Canada, suitable for urgent or high-value goods. While flight durations are relatively short (10–14 hours direct), total transit time includes cargo handling, customs clearance, and possible domestic delivery.

Standard air freight transit times:

• Shanghai to Toronto: 4–6 days
• Beijing to Vancouver: 3–5 days
• Guangzhou to Montreal: 5–7 days

Express service:

For extremely time-sensitive shipments, express air services offer the fastest delivery option, typically completing the process in 3-5 days door-to-door. These services use dedicated air freight with priority handling through customs.

Understanding these timelines is crucial for effective supply chain planning. Whether you’re shipping from Shanghai, Shenzhen, or other Chinese cities, knowing the shipping times from China to Canada helps you make informed logistics decisions.

Shipping from China to Canada transit time and price (May 2025)