Shipping a car from China typically takes between 30 and 60 days from the factory to your destination port, depending on vehicle availability, port processing, and the final destination.

The total export timeline involves more than just the time spent at sea. To plan your import schedule accurately, it’s crucial to understand the entire process from sourcing to arrival. As an experienced auto exporter, Starvia Automotive breaks down the timeline into four key stages.

1. Vehicle Sourcing and Production (1–4 weeks)

The first stage is securing the vehicle. If you order a new car that is not in stock at the factory, you must account for the manufacturer's production lead time, which can range from a few weeks to over a month. For in-stock new vehicles or used cars, this stage is much faster and primarily involves finalizing the purchase and arranging for pre-shipment inspection.

2. Inland Transport and Port Preparation (1 week)

Once the vehicle is ready, it must be transported from the factory or seller's location to the departure port (such as Shanghai, Tianjin, or Guangzhou). During this time, the vehicle is prepared for export, and all initial documentation is gathered. This step is generally consistent and takes about one week.

3. Port Handling and Customs Clearance (1–2 weeks)

This is often where unexpected delays can occur. Before the car is loaded, it must clear Chinese customs, be assigned to a vessel, and wait for its scheduled departure. Booking space on a ship, especially during peak seasons, can take time. The shipping method also plays a role. Starvia Automotive’s RoRo and Container Shipping service helps you choose the best option based on your destination, order size, and budget, which can influence both transit time and overall cost.

4. Ocean Transit (2–6 weeks)

This is the actual sea voyage duration, which varies significantly by destination. Below are some general estimates from major Chinese ports:

  • Southeast Asia (e.g., Laem Chabang, Thailand): 15–20 days
  • Middle East (e.g., Jebel Ali, UAE): 25–30 days
  • East Africa (e.g., Mombasa, Kenya): 30–35 days
  • South America (e.g., Iquique, Chile): 40–50 days

By understanding these four stages, you can better anticipate the total time required to import your vehicles from China and manage your business operations accordingly.