Top 10 Freight Forwarders from China to Australia in 2025 — DFH Logistics, Flexport, DHL Global Forwarding, DB Schenker, Kuehne + Nagel, SF International, Winsky Freight, China Freight, ShipChinaPro, and Sino Shipping — selected for their reliability, DDP expertise, transparent pricing, and on-time performance.
Shipping from China to Australia has become one of the most active trade routes in the Asia-Pacific region. Whether you’re an Amazon seller, e-commerce business, importer, or wholesaler, choosing the right freight forwarder is the difference between smooth delivery and weeks of delay.
As the Co-founder of DFH Logistics, I’ve managed thousands of shipments from China to major Australian destinations — Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to choose the best freight forwarder, the top companies in 2025, shipping methods, costs, customs requirements, and how to ensure your cargo arrives safely, quickly, and at the best possible rate.
Why Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder from China to Australia Matters
Australia’s import market is strict on customs documentation, quarantine inspection (AQIS), and tax compliance. A professional freight forwarder helps you handle:
- Supplier pickup and cargo consolidation
- Export declaration from China
- Sea, air, express, or DDP door-to-door delivery
- Customs clearance and duty/tax payment in Australia
- Final delivery to your warehouse, store, or FBA center
Without a reliable partner, importers often face hidden costs, long delays, and goods held at the port. That’s why the forwarder you choose is as important as the shipping method itself.
Shipping Methods from China to Australia
There are several options for shipping from China to Australia, depending on your budget, timeline, and product type.
| Shipping Method | Average Transit Time | Suitable For | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 5–9 days | Urgent shipments | Fast & reliable |
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 18–35 days | Bulk cargo, furniture, heavy goods | Most cost-effective |
| DDP Sea Freight | 25–40 days | Non-business importers, e-commerce sellers | Includes customs clearance & taxes |
| DDP Air Freight | 8–15 days | Small to medium cargo needing full service | Fast, all-inclusive, door-to-door |
| Express (DHL/UPS/FedEx) | 2–7 days | Samples or high-value items | Easiest, but most expensive |
Tip: For most small and medium importers, DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) is the best all-in-one choice because it covers customs, duty, and last-mile delivery — no import license or tax registration needed.
How to Choose the Best Freight Forwarder from China to Australia
When selecting a freight forwarder, look for these key factors:
- Experience with Australia Imports – They should understand AQIS requirements, customs codes, and import taxes (GST, duty).
- DDP Door-to-Door Capability – Forwarders who offer full DDP air & sea services simplify the process.
- Transparent Pricing – Avoid hidden charges and unclear destination fees.
- Supplier Coordination – Can they pick up and consolidate cargo from multiple suppliers?
- Responsive Communication – 24/7 tracking, real updates, and English-speaking support.
A reliable forwarder should provide one clear quotation, including freight, customs, tax, and delivery — no surprises later.
Read more details about: How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder in China
Top 10 Freight Forwarders from China to Australia (2025)
After evaluating service capability, transparency, reliability, customs experience, and customer reputation, here are the Top 10 Freight Forwarders from China to Australia in 2025 — trusted by importers, e-commerce sellers, and large enterprises alike.
1. DFH Global Logistics
Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Shenzhen, China, DFH Logistics offers full DDP air and sea freight services from China to Australia. Their all-in-one solutions include supplier pickup, consolidation, customs clearance, duty payment, and door-to-door delivery to all major Australian cities. Known for transparent pricing and 30 days of free warehousing.
2. Flexport
Established in 2013 in San Francisco, USA, Flexport provides digital freight forwarding with advanced real-time tracking, carbon reporting, and customs brokerage. Their China–Australia routes are optimized through integrated technology, giving importers clear visibility and pricing transparency.
3. DHL Global Forwarding
Part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, founded in 1969, DHL Global Forwarding operates across China and Australia with extensive air and ocean freight networks. Renowned for time-sensitive deliveries, door-to-door reliability, and customs brokerage expertise, it’s ideal for high-value or urgent shipments.
4. DB Schenker
With a history dating back to 1872 and offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Sydney, DB Schenker provides multimodal logistics, warehousing, and supply chain integration between China and Australia. Favored by corporate importers for large-scale, managed transport operations.
5. Kuehne + Nagel
Founded in 1890 in Bremen, Germany, Kuehne + Nagel is a global leader offering FCL/LCL sea freight, air cargo, and contract logistics. Its China–Australia routes provide end-to-end visibility, stable space booking, and strong customs clearance performance for containerized shipments.
6. SF International
Established in 1993 and headquartered in Shenzhen, SF International focuses on express and small-parcel DDP shipping from China to Australia. Offers fast customs clearance, reliable tracking, and strong last-mile partnerships within Australia for e-commerce clients.
7. Winsky Freight
Based in Shenzhen since 2012, Winsky Freight specializes in DDP air and sea freight from China to Australia. Their strengths lie in flexible routes, competitive pricing, and personalized service for Amazon sellers and small-to-medium importers.
8. China Freight
Operating since 2010 from Shanghai, China Freight provides air, sea, and express freight services tailored to importers shipping to Sydney and Melbourne. Known for quick quoting, LCL consolidation, and professional customs documentation.
9. ShipChinaPro
Founded in 2016, ShipChinaPro focuses on e-commerce logistics from China to Australia. They specialize in FBA deliveries, small-parcel DDP, and multi-supplier consolidation, making them ideal for online sellers seeking simple, door-to-door shipping.
10. Sino Shipping
Established in 2010 in Hong Kong, Sino Shipping provides international freight forwarding, customs clearance, and project cargo solutions from all major Chinese ports to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Recognized for strong documentation support and personalized client service.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship from China to Australia?
Shipping costs between China and Australia depend on the route (port pairs), transport mode, cargo weight/volume, and season.
Here’s a realistic 2025 overview based on average export prices from Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Ningbo to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
1. Sea Freight (LCL & FCL)
| Route | LCL (per CBM) | 20 ft FCL | 40 ft FCL | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South China → Sydney/Melbourne | $130 – $370 / CBM | $2,000 – $4,600 | $3,400 – $8,400 | 25 – 35 days | Most frequent sailings, stable price |
| East China → Brisbane/Adelaide | $150 – $390 / CBM | $2,200 – $4,900 | $3,600 – $8,700 | 28 – 38 days | Higher cost due to distance |
| South China → Perth | $160 – $410 / CBM | $2,400 – $5,000 | $3,900 – $8,900 | 30 – 40 days | Less frequent sailings, longer inland cost |
Tip: LCL is best for volumes under 10 CBM; above 15 CBM, FCL becomes more economical.
2. Air Freight costs from China to Australia
| Route | Economy Rate (USD/kg) | Express Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen/Guangzhou → Sydney/Melbourne | $5.5 – $7.0 | $7.5 – $9.0 | 5 – 8 days | Electronics, urgent goods |
| Shanghai/Ningbo → Brisbane/Perth | $6.0 – $8.5 | $8.5 – $10.5 | 6 – 9 days | Time-sensitive cargo |
| DDP Air (Door-to-Door) | $7.5 – $10/kg | — | 8 – 12 days | All-inclusive: customs, GST, delivery |
Charged weight = Actual Weight vs Volumetric Weight (6000 cm³/kg) — whichever is higher.
3. DDP Sea Freight (Door-to-Door, Tax Included)
Sea freight DDP shipping from China to Australia is charged by KG. The volume weight and gross weight which one is bigger then charged by which one.
The estimate price is around 1.5USD/KG -4.5USD/KG based on the charge weight.
Ideal for e-commerce sellers or small businesses seeking predictable “no hidden cost” shipping.
4. Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
| Weight Range | Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 20 kg | $11 – $14 | 3 – 5 days | Fastest but most expensive |
| 21 – 50 kg | $9 – $12 | 4 – 6 days | Includes door delivery + customs |
| 51 – 100 kg | $8 – $10 | 5 – 7 days | Good for sample or high-value cargo |
What Affects the Final Cost
- Cargo Type & Packaging: Hazardous, oversized, or battery-contained goods require surcharges.
- Origin Port: South China routes (Shenzhen, Guangzhou) are generally 5–10 % cheaper.
- Destination City: Sydney & Melbourne are most economical; Perth & Adelaide higher due to inland delivery.
- Season: Prices rise ~20–30 % before Chinese New Year and Q4 peak season.
Need an exact quote? Contact DFH Logistics — we’ll tailor the most efficient, tax-inclusive route for your cargo from any Chinese city to your Australian destination.
Customs Clearance and Import Tax in Australia
Importing into Australia involves:
- Import Declaration for goods over AUD 1,000
- 10% GST on most goods
- Duty rates depending on HS code (usually 0–5%)
- AQIS inspection for wooden, food, or organic products
If you use DDP shipping, your forwarder (like DFH Logistics) will handle:
- Customs declaration under their name
- Duty and GST prepayment
- Local delivery directly to your door
This makes it ideal for small businesses or individuals without an import license.
Common Shipping Challenges and How to Avoid Them
Common issues include:
- Delays due to missing paperwork
- Hidden destination fees from low-cost quotes
- Inspection delays for wooden packaging
- Incorrect HS code or declared value
Solutions:
- Work with a forwarder who double-checks all documents
- Confirm if quotes include GST and customs
- Use proper fumigation and packaging for wooden items
- Always provide a complete packing list and invoice
Read more details: Common Shipping Challenges When Importing from China and How to Solve Them
Why Importers Worldwide Choose DFH for Their China–Australia Shipments
- End-to-End Service — From supplier pickup to final delivery, DFH manages every step.
- DDP Expertise — Clear, all-inclusive pricing (no hidden charges).
- Flexible Options — Air, sea, express, and multimodal solutions.
- 30 Days Free Warehousing — Ideal for consolidating goods from multiple suppliers.
- Proven Record — 12+ years of experience and over 20,000 clients worldwide.
With DFH, you’ll enjoy stable schedules, transparent rates, and responsive English-speaking service — every shipment is tracked until it arrives.
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Conclusion
Shipping from China to Australia doesn’t need to be complicated.
By choosing a reliable freight forwarder — especially one experienced in DDP door-to-door delivery — you can save time, avoid customs issues, and focus on growing your business.
If you’re ready to start importing, DFH Logistics can help you plan the most efficient, tax-inclusive shipping route based on your cargo and budget.
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