Shipping from Alibaba to Spain: Complete Guide for Importers and Businesses (2025)

Spain is becoming one of Europe’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets, driven by Amazon Spain, Shopify stores, and cross-border online trade. More and more Spanish businesses are turning to Alibaba to source affordable, trending products directly from Chinese manufacturers.

But sourcing is only the beginning. The real challenge lies in shipping those goods efficiently and compliantly—from freight choice to customs clearance, VAT handling, and final-mile delivery.

In this complete 2025 guide, DFH Logistics shares 12+ years of shipping expertise to help Spanish importers, e-commerce sellers, and business owners understand how to ship from Alibaba to Spain safely, quickly, and affordably. Whether you’re a small startup or a full-scale wholesaler, this guide is tailored to your needs.

Why buy from Alibaba and ship to Spain?

Alibaba offers direct access to thousands of Chinese factories and suppliers—making it one of the most cost-effective and scalable platforms for Spanish importers.

Top reasons why Spanish businesses source from Alibaba:

• Factory-direct pricing: Better margins than sourcing from within the EU.
• Huge product range: Furniture, lighting, electronics, auto accessories, home & garden, and clothing remain top-selling categories.
• Supports various shipment sizes: From small trial orders to full 40HQ containers.
• Good for eCommerce sellers: Amazon.es, TikTok Shop Spain, and local marketplaces benefit from Alibaba’s flexible MOQ and trending product options.

Spain’s access to key ports like Barcelona and Valencia, as well as international airports like Madrid Barajas, enables smooth distribution both within the country and across Europe.

How does shipping work on Alibaba, and should your supplier handle it?

When you place an order on Alibaba, the supplier will usually ask: “Do you want us to arrange the shipping, or will you use your own freight forwarder?”
For Spanish importers, this choice can affect delivery time, cost, and customs clearance.

Option 1: Let the supplier handle the shipping

• Many Alibaba sellers include shipping in their offer, often using Cainiao (Alibaba’s official logistics network) or courier services like DHL, UPS, or FedEx.
• This option is simple for small parcels or sample orders because you don’t need to coordinate with a third party.

Drawbacks for Spanish importers:

• Higher cost for bulky cargo.
• Limited choice of transport modes (usually only courier or economy sea freight).
• Hidden markups—suppliers may charge more than the actual freight rate.
• Little support with Spanish customs clearance or 21% VAT requirements.

Option 2: Arrange shipping with your own freight forwarder

• Your supplier prepares the cargo and delivers it to your chosen forwarder’s warehouse in China.
• A professional freight forwarder (like DFH Logistics) manages:
  • Pickup from multiple suppliers
  • Export customs in China
  • International shipping (express, air, sea, rail, truck, or DDP)
  • Spanish customs clearance, duties, and VAT payment
  • Final-mile delivery to Madrid, Barcelona, or any EU destination

Benefits for Spanish importers:

• Full control over shipping cost and method.
• Transparent quotes without hidden supplier markups.
• Proper customs handling to avoid VAT issues.
• Flexible solutions for eCommerce, wholesale, and Amazon FBA.

Which is better for Spain?

• For samples and very small shipments, supplier-arranged shipping is acceptable.
• For larger shipments or repeated imports, it is more cost-effective and reliable to work with your own freight forwarder.
  This ensures compliance with Spanish customs, reduces risk of delays, and often lowers your overall landed cost.

What are the shipping methods from Alibaba to Spain?

Importers in Spain have several options to ship goods from Alibaba. The best choice depends on your shipment size, budget, and how quickly you need the goods.

1. Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS)

• Transit time: 3–7 business days
• Best for: Small shipments under 100 kg
• Advantages: Fast, door-to-door delivery with customs clearance included
• Limitations: High cost for bulky or heavy shipments

2. Air Freight

• Transit time: 5–12 business days (China to Madrid/Barcelona)
• Best for: 100–500 kg shipments that are time-sensitive
• Advantages: Cheaper than express courier for mid-sized shipments, faster than sea freight
• Limitations: Customs clearance and final-mile delivery in Spain may require a forwarder unless using DDP

3. Sea Freight (LCL & FCL)

• Transit time: 35–45 days (door-to-door)
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Best for 1–15 CBM shipments
• FCL (Full Container Load): Suitable for 20–40 CBM or larger orders; shipped via Port of Valencia or Port of Barcelona
• Advantages: Lowest unit cost for bulk imports
• Limitations: Long transit time

4. Railway Freight (China–Europe Rail)

• Transit time: 30–35 days (China → France → Spain by truck)
• Best for: Mid-sized shipments seeking balance between cost and speed
• Advantages: Faster than sea, cheaper than air, environmentally friendly
• Limitations: Limited capacity and routes, not suitable for all cargo

5. Truck Freight

• Transit time: 18–25 days
• Best for: Flexible, door-to-door shipping for e-commerce or distribution to EU neighbors
• Advantages: Direct delivery from China to Spain without port handling
• Limitations: Less economical for very large volumes

6. DDP Shipping (Delivered Duty Paid)

• Available via: Air, sea, rail, and truck
• Transit time: 7–12 days (Air DDP), 35–45 days (Sea DDP), 18–25 days (Truck DDP), 30–35 days (Rail DDP)
• Advantages: All-inclusive—pickup, freight, Spanish customs clearance, VAT & duty payment, and final delivery
• Best for: Businesses without EORI/VAT numbers, Amazon FBA sellers, and small importers
• Limitations: Must use a reliable forwarder to avoid compliance risks

Comparison Table: Shipping from Alibaba to Spain

What is DDP shipping from Alibaba to Spain?

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping is one of the most convenient solutions for Spanish importers. Under this method, your freight forwarder (or supplier’s agent) takes full responsibility for the entire logistics process—from the Chinese supplier’s warehouse all the way to your door in Spain.

How DDP shipping works

1. Pickup from your supplier in China.
2. Export customs clearance in China.
3. International transport by air, sea, rail, or truck.
4. Import customs clearance in Spain (including 21% VAT and duties).
5. Final delivery to your warehouse, store, or Amazon FBA Spain fulfillment center.

Benefits of DDP shipping for Spain

• No EORI or VAT registration needed: Your forwarder handles compliance on your behalf.
• All-in-one cost: A fixed quote that includes freight, customs clearance, VAT, and duties.
• Door-to-door service: From factory pickup in China to delivery in Madrid, Barcelona, or other Spanish cities.
• Time-saving: Avoid delays caused by missing paperwork or customs complications.

When is DDP shipping the right choice?

• If you’re a new importer with no EORI/VAT number.
• If you sell on Amazon.es or other e-commerce platforms requiring on-time delivery.
• If you want to avoid unexpected customs charges and prefer predictable landed costs.

Important note:
Not all DDP offers on Alibaba are reliable. Some suppliers declare artificially low cargo values, which may cause fines or delays at Spanish customs. To avoid this, work with a trusted forwarder like DFH Logistics, ensuring compliance and smooth delivery.

How much does it cost to ship from Alibaba to Spain?

The cost of shipping from Alibaba to Spain depends on the shipping method, cargo size, and whether you choose a DDP all-in service or handle customs yourself.

Key factors that affect shipping cost

• Transport mode: Express, air, sea, rail, or truck
• Cargo weight & volume: Air freight is charged by kg, while sea freight is based on CBM or container size
• Destination in Spain: Deliveries to Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia may have different trucking fees
• Duties & VAT: Standard 21% VAT applies to imports into Spain, unless covered under DDP

Average cost estimates (China → Spain)

Tip for New importers:

Compare at least two options before booking. For example, rail may look slightly more expensive than sea but can help you save weeks of delivery time and improve cash flow.

What is the cheapest way to ship from Alibaba to Spain?

For Spanish importers, the cheapest way to ship from Alibaba depends on the size of your cargo and how quickly you need it.

1. Sea Freight (LCL & FCL)

• FCL (Full Container Load): The lowest cost per unit for shipments above 20 CBM.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): Suitable for shipments of 1–15 CBM where goods are consolidated with others.
• Ports of entry: Mainly Barcelona and Valencia, two of Spain’s busiest ports for imports from China.

2. Railway Freight

• Transit time: 30–35 days.
• Cheaper than air and faster than sea.
• Works well for medium-sized shipments where you want to balance speed and cost.

3. DDP Sea Freight

• For importers without an EORI or VAT number, DDP sea freight is often the cheapest all-inclusive option.
• It covers freight, customs clearance, duties, and the 21% VAT in a single fixed quote.
• Removes the risk of unexpected customs bills upon arrival.

Cost-saving tips for New importers from Alibaba to Spain:

• Consolidate orders: Group multiple Alibaba orders into one shipment to reduce freight and clearance costs.
• Avoid peak seasons: Plan around Chinese New Year and Golden Week, when rates typically increase.
• Optimize packaging: Smaller volume = lower CBM costs for LCL shipments.
• Compare sea vs. rail: Sometimes rail is only slightly more expensive than sea but saves weeks in transit time.

Conclusion:
The absolute cheapest way to ship from Alibaba to Spain is usually sea freight (FCL or LCL). But if you want an all-inclusive solution without worrying about VAT or customs, DDP sea freight is the most cost-effective and stress-free option.

Do you need an EORI or VAT number to import from Alibaba to Spain?

When importing from Alibaba to Spain, most businesses will need both an EORI number and a VAT number—unless they use a DDP solution provided by a forwarder.

What is an EORI number?

• EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is required for all importers in the European Union.
• Spanish Customs uses this number to track and process shipments.
• Without an EORI, your goods cannot clear customs in Spain.

VAT requirements in Spain

• Spain applies a 21% standard VAT on most imported goods.
• If your company has a Spanish VAT number, you can reclaim this VAT in your tax returns.
• Without a VAT number, the tax becomes a direct cost that increases your landed price.

When you don’t need an EORI or VAT number

• If you choose DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid), your freight forwarder acts as the official importer.
• The forwarder uses their own EORI and VAT number to handle customs clearance.
• You receive the goods with all taxes and duties already paid, avoiding the need to register yourself.

Tip for New importers:

• New e-commerce sellers or Amazon FBA Spain sellers often start with DDP shipping because it avoids the complexity of customs registration.
• Established companies in Spain should register for both EORI and VAT to benefit from VAT recovery and full import control.

How is Spain customs clearance handled when shipping from Alibaba?

All goods imported from Alibaba into Spain must clear customs before they can be released. Most shipments arrive through the Port of Barcelona, Port of Valencia, or airports such as Madrid Barajas and Barcelona El Prat.

Steps in Spanish customs clearance

1. Arrival notice: Carrier submits shipment data to Spanish Customs (Agencia Tributaria).
2. Import declaration: The importer or forwarder files the declaration with HS codes, product values, and supplier details.
3. Duties & VAT calculation: Spanish Customs calculates import duty (based on HS codes) and the 21% VAT.
4. Inspection (if required): Some shipments may be selected for inspection, especially electronics, toys, or products needing CE or REACH compliance.
5. Cargo release: Once all taxes are paid and requirements are met, goods are released for delivery within Spain or to other EU countries.

Required documents

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of Lading (for sea) or Air Waybill (for air)
• EORI number (unless using DDP)
• Compliance certificates (CE, RoHS, REACH) if applicable

Common issues faced by Spanish importers

• Incorrect HS codes: May result in higher duty rates or delays.
• Undervaluation: If suppliers declare unrealistically low values, goods may be held, fined, or seized.
• Missing CE/REACH compliance: Electronics, cosmetics, and toys often require certification.

How DFH Logistics helps

• Ensure all paperwork is prepared correctly before departure from China.
• Proper HS code classification to minimize duty costs.
• Offer DDP shipping options to Spain, where DFH pays VAT and duties on your behalf.
• Provide compliance guidance for products needing EU certifications.

Tip:
Always confirm whether your product needs CE or REACH certificates before shipping. This avoids delays at Spanish Customs and ensures your goods can be legally sold across the EU.

What are the prohibited and restricted items when shipping from Alibaba to Spain?

Before importing from Alibaba to Spain, it is important to know which goods are prohibited or restricted. Spanish Customs (Agencia Tributaria) applies both national and EU regulations, and failure to comply can lead to fines, seizure, or destruction of your shipment.

Prohibited items (not allowed into Spain/EU at all)

• Counterfeit products
• Drugs and narcotics
• Firearms, explosives, and ammunition
• Hazardous chemicals and toxic substances
• Pornographic or obscene materials
• Products made from endangered species (CITES restricted)

Restricted items (allowed only with special permits or certifications)

• Batteries & power banks: Must comply with air transport safety regulations (MSDS required).
• Cosmetics & skincare: Must meet EU cosmetics regulations and labeling requirements.
• Food, plants, and agricultural products: Require health or phytosanitary certificates.
• Medical devices & pharmaceuticals: Need EU compliance certificates before entry.
• Electronics & toys: Must carry CE marking, and some products also require RoHS/REACH certification.

How to avoid problems at Spanish Customs

• Make sure your supplier provides all necessary compliance documents.
• Confirm product eligibility with your freight forwarder before shipping.
• Avoid under-declaring cargo values, as Spanish Customs checks for accuracy.
• If you don’t want to handle compliance yourself, use DDP shipping, where your forwarder takes responsibility.

Tip:
Spain enforces EU-wide safety and compliance standards strictly, especially for consumer goods. Partnering with a professional forwarder like DFH Logistics helps ensure your products meet regulations and pass customs without delays.

How long does it take to ship from Alibaba to Spain?

The delivery time from Alibaba to Spain depends on the shipping method you choose, the size of your shipment, and customs clearance speed. Goods usually enter Spain via the Port of Barcelona, Port of Valencia, or by air through Madrid Barajas and Barcelona El Prat airports.

Average transit times from China to Spain

• Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx): 3–7 business days
• Air Freight: 5–12 business days (China to Madrid/Barcelona)
• Sea Freight (LCL/FCL): 35–45 days (door-to-door via Valencia or Barcelona)
• Railway Freight (China–Europe Rail): 30–35 days (via Belgium customs then delivery by truck into Spain)
• Truck Freight: 18–25 days (direct road freight)
• DDP Shipping: 7–12 days by air DDP, 35–45 days by sea DDP, 18–25 days by truck DDP

Factors that affect shipping time

1. Seasonal peaks: Rates and transit times may increase during Chinese New Year and Golden Week.
2. Customs clearance: Missing paperwork or compliance issues can delay release.
3. Port congestion: Barcelona and Valencia ports are busy hubs; delays can occur during high traffic periods.
4. Final delivery: Shipments to inland cities like Seville or Zaragoza may take additional trucking days.

Tip:
If timing is critical, use air freight or express courier. For cost-sensitive bulk orders, sea freight is the best choice. DFH Logistics also offers multimodal solutions (rail + truck) to optimize both cost and delivery speed.

What is the best shipping method from Alibaba to Spain?

The best shipping method from Alibaba to Spain depends on your cargo type, budget, and delivery requirements. Each option has unique advantages for Spanish importers.

Best by shipment type

• Small, urgent shipments (<100 kg):
  Use Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx) for the fastest delivery—usually 3–7 days.

• Medium shipments (100–500 kg):
  Air Freight & Truck Freight offers a balance between cost and speed, taking 5–12 days.

• Large shipments (>1 CBM):
  Sea Freight (LCL or FCL) is the most economical choice. FCL is best for bulk imports above 20 CBM.

• Balance of speed and cost:
  Railway Freight (25–30 days) is faster than sea but much cheaper than air freight.

• For importers without EORI/VAT:
  DDP Shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) is the most convenient solution. It includes customs clearance, VAT, and duties, making it ideal for Amazon.es sellers and new importers.

Quick decision guide

Conclusion:
There is no single “best” method for every importer. Spanish businesses focused on speed should choose express or air freight. Those seeking low cost should use sea freight. And for those who want compliance and simplicity, DDP shipping is the safest option.

What is the Shipping process from Alibaba to Spain?

Shipping from Alibaba to Spain involves several steps, from placing your order with a supplier in China to receiving your goods in Spain. Understanding this process helps importers avoid delays, hidden costs, and compliance issues.

Step 1: Place order on Alibaba

• Choose a verified supplier and agree on Incoterms (EXW, FOB, CIF, or DDP).
• Confirm product details, packaging, and shipping requirements.

Step 2: Supplier prepares goods

• Supplier manufactures or prepares stock.
• Goods are packed according to export standards.
• A commercial invoice and packing list are issued.

Step 3: Handover to freight forwarder

• If using your own forwarder (like DFH Logistics):
  • Goods are collected from the supplier or consolidated at a warehouse in China.
  • Export customs declaration is handled by the forwarder.

Step 4: International shipping

• Cargo is shipped by air, sea, rail, truck, or courier depending on your choice.
• Transit times vary (3–45 days) depending on the method.

Step 5: Customs clearance in Spain

• At entry points like Barcelona, Valencia, or Madrid Barajas Airport, Spanish Customs reviews your documents.
• Import duties and 21% VAT are calculated.
• Compliance checks (CE, RoHS, REACH) may be required for certain products.

Step 6: Delivery within Spain

• Once cleared, goods are released and delivered to your address, warehouse, or Amazon FBA fulfillment center.
• If you choose DDP shipping, all customs and VAT handling are completed by your forwarder, and you receive goods directly at your door.

Working with an experienced freight forwarder simplifies this process. DFH Logistics can manage the entire chain—from supplier pickup in China to final delivery in Spain—so you can focus on sales and business growth.

Why choose DFH Logistics for shipping from Alibaba to Spain?

With over 12 years of freight forwarding experience, DFH Logistics has helped thousands of importers—from Amazon FBA sellers to large wholesalers—ship smoothly from China to Spain. We understand the specific challenges faced by Spanish businesses and provide tailored solutions.

Why Spanish importers trust DFH Logistics

1. End-to-end service: From supplier pickup in China to delivery in Spain.
2. DDP expertise: We handle Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping for clients without EORI/VAT numbers.
3. Multiple transport options: Express, air, sea (LCL/FCL), rail, truck, and multimodal combinations.
4. Competitive pricing: Transparent quotes with no hidden charges.
5. Free consolidation & warehousing: 30 days free storage in Shenzhen with supplier consolidation.
6. Compliance support: Assistance with CE, RoHS, and REACH certification for EU market entry.
7. Amazon FBA ready: Labeling, repacking, and direct delivery to Amazon.es fulfillment centers.

The DFH difference

• Many importers come to us after experiencing hidden fees, shipment delays, or poor communication with other forwarders.
• At DFH, we solve these issues with clear pricing, reliable delivery schedules, and professional customer support.
• Our Spanish clients highlight how DFH helps them save time, money, and stress, while keeping their supply chain running smoothly.

In short:
DFH Logistics is more than just a freight forwarder. We act as your strategic logistics partner in China, ensuring your shipments to Spain are cost-effective, compliant, and delivered on time.

Conclusion

Importing from Alibaba to Spain can be a profitable strategy for both small e-commerce sellers and established wholesalers. With competitive Chinese pricing and Spain’s strong logistics infrastructure, it has never been easier to build a reliable supply chain.

• For urgent small orders, Express Courier is the fastest method.
• For mid-sized shipments, Air Freight balances cost and speed.
• For bulk cargo, Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) offers the lowest per-unit rates.
• For importers without EORI/VAT, DDP shipping is the simplest and most hassle-free option.

At DFH Logistics, we simplify every step of the process—from supplier pickup in China, export customs clearance, international transport, Spanish customs clearance, VAT & duty handling, to final delivery across Spain or Europe. With 12+ years of experience, we ensure your shipments are delivered on time, cost-effectively, and in full compliance with EU regulations.

Ready to ship from Alibaba to Spain?
Contact DFH Logistics today for a customized shipping plan. Let us manage the logistics so you can focus on growing your business.