Shipping from China to Portugal – Complete Guide
How to ship from China to Portugal
BAT offers multiple shipping options from China to Portugal. In Portugal, most sea freight enters through Lisbon, Leixões (Porto), and Sines, while Lisbon Airport (LIS) and Porto Airport (OPO) are the main air cargo airports.
If you want to ship from China to Portugal, the process is simple. You just tell us the cargo type, volume or weight, and the final delivery address in Portugal. We handle the rest. BAT provides sea freight, air freight, rail freight, express shipping, and DDP door-to-door services, including batteries and other special cargo.
For large or heavy shipments, sea freight is usually the most cost-effective option.
FCL shipping is best for cargo over 15 CBM, with a transit time of about 32–42 days to Portuguese ports.
LCL shipping is suitable for smaller shipments, with frequent and stable sailings to Lisbon and Porto.
If you need a faster option but still want to control costs, rail freight from China to Portugal usually takes 22–30 days door to door. Many clients use rail for industrial parts and e-commerce goods.
For urgent cargo, air freight from China to Portugal takes about 6–10 days, depending on the route and flight schedule. For small parcels or samples, express shipping from China to Portugal with DHL, UPS, or FedEx usually takes 2–4 working days.
From pickup at your supplier in China to final delivery in Portugal, BAT handles export customs, import customs clearance, documentation, and local delivery. You don’t need to work with multiple agents. You ship once, and we take care of everything.
BAT offers DDP, DDU, and DAP shipping from China to Portugal. If you are not sure which option fits your cargo, send us the details. We will propose the right shipping solution for you.
Sea freight from China to Portugal
I. Main Shipping Routes
- Transit time: 28–32 days
- Sailing frequency: 1–2 sailings per week
- Notes: Limited space availability; booking is recommended 2–3 weeks in advance
- Transit time: 32–40 days
- Advantages: More flexible space availability and slightly lower cost
- Best for: Small-volume shipments or non-urgent cargo
II. Major Ports in Portugal
- Port of Lisbon (Lisboa) The most important and largest port in Portugal, with a long history in European maritime trade. It is a comprehensive port capable of handling containers, general cargo, liquid bulk, and Ro-Ro cargo.
- Port of Leixões Located north of Porto, this is the key port in northern Portugal. As a deep-water port with a depth of up to 16 meters, it compensates for the limitations of Lisbon Port in accommodating large vessels.
- Port of Sines Situated in southwest Portugal along the Atlantic coast, Sines is Portugal’s largest liquid bulk port and an important energy and industrial logistics hub.
III. Booking Guidelines
- Freight Forwarder Selection It is recommended to work with freight forwarders that specialize in China–Portugal shipping routes, offering DDP/DDU services and strong expertise in EU customs clearance regulations.
- Cost Control
- Shipping during the low seasons (January–March and September–October) can reduce costs by 10–20%
- For FCL shipments, maximize container utilization
- LCL is ideal for small-volume shipments
- Risk Management
- Purchase cargo insurance at 110% of cargo value to cover sea damage, loss, and delays
- Communicate with destination agents in advance to ensure accurate customs documentation and avoid cargo holds
IV. Common Challenges and Solutions
- Space Shortage Book early during peak seasons, consider transshipment routes, and adjust shipping schedules flexibly.
- Customs Clearance Delays Prepare complete documentation in advance, work with local customs brokers, and arrange pre-declaration.
- Rising Surcharges Sign long-term contracts to lock in freight rates, closely monitor carrier announcements, and adjust shipping plans in a timely manner.
Air freight from China to Portugal
If you need to ship cargo quickly from China to Portugal, air freight is the fastest option and one of the services most often used by BAT clients. If you are shipping urgent goods, high-value products, samples, or batteries, air freight is usually the best choice.
BAT works directly with airlines that operate stable routes to Portugal, including CA, PO, 7L, QR, and other European airlines. Even during peak seasons, we help you secure space and avoid delays.
For you, the process is very simple.
You just tell us what you are shipping, the weight, dimensions, and the delivery address in Portugal. We handle everything else.
How We Handle Air Freight from China to Portugal
We manage the full air freight process from China to Portugal, from start to finish:
Flight booking
Document preparation
Cargo inspection and packaging check
Export customs clearance in China
Import customs clearance in Portugal
Duty and VAT coordination (if needed)
Final delivery to your address
If you are shipping batteries or special cargo, we check the packaging, labels, MSDS, and documents before shipment. This ensures compliance with airline and IATA rules and helps avoid delays or flight rejection.
Major Airports in China (Air Freight to Portugal)
For air freight from China to Portugal, we mainly operate through:
Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG)
Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN)
Shenzhen Bao’an Airport (SZX)
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Chengdu Tianfu / Shuangliu Airport (TFU / CTU)
We select the airport based on your cargo type, airline capacity, and transit time.
Major Airports in Portugal for Cargo from China
Most air cargo from China enters Portugal through:
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
Porto Airport (OPO)
Faro Airport (FAO)
Common Air Freight Routes from China to Portugal
Shanghai (PVG) → Lisbon (LIS)
Usually via European hubs such as Frankfurt or Paris. Airport-to-airport transit time is about 4–6 days.
Guangzhou (CAN) → Lisbon (LIS)
Suitable for general cargo and batteries. Transit time is usually 4–7 days.
Hong Kong (HKG) → Porto (OPO)
A stable option for high-value or time-sensitive cargo. Transit time is about 4–6 days.
Direct flights to Portugal are limited, so most cargo moves via EU hubs. We choose the most stable and cost-effective routing.
After Arrival in Portugal
If BAT handles clearance and delivery, we prepare the import documents before the flight arrives.
After customs clearance and payment of VAT or duty in Portugal, we arrange cargo pickup and delivery.
In most cases, final delivery is completed within one working day after clearance.
For batteries or dangerous goods, we can also arrange certified DG trucks for delivery within Portugal.
If you are looking for a reliable air freight forwarder from China to Portugal, just contact us online. BAT is ready to assist.
Rail freight from China to Portugal
Main Rail Routes from China to Portugal
- Western Route Origin: Yiwu / Chengdu / Chongqing
- Exit gateways: Alashankou or Khorgos
- European rail hubs: Łódź (Poland) / Hamburg (Germany)
- Final delivery: Truck transport from European hub to Portugal
- Southern Europe Route Origin: Guangzhou / Shenzhen
- Exit gateway: Alashankou
- European transit hub: Madrid, Spain
- Final delivery: Truck transport from Madrid to Portugal
- China–Europe Railway Express (Madrid Hub Route) Origin: Yiwu
- Exit gateway: Alashankou
- European transit hub: Madrid
- Final delivery: Truck transport from Madrid to Portugal
Express shipping from China to Portugal
If you need to ship cargo quickly from China to Portugal, express shipping is also a popular choice for many customers. At BAT, we ship at least 2 tons of express cargo from China to Portugal every day. Express shipping is mainly used for small shipments, e-commerce parcels, samples, and urgent orders.
In real operations, China to Portugal express shipping is often faster than air freight and the process is simpler. If your cargo meets courier size and weight limits, the total cost can also be easier to control.
International Express Options from China to Portugal
At BAT, we mainly work with the following express services, covering all of Portugal:
DHL shipping from China to Portugal
Transit time: 2–4 working days
Best for urgent documents, small parcels, and samples
Fast customs clearance in Lisbon and Porto
UPS shipping from China to Portugal
Transit time: 3–5 working days
Suitable for commercial cargo and e-commerce orders
Good coverage for inland cities in Portugal
FedEx shipping from China to Portugal
Transit time: 3–6 working days
Used for samples and general commercial cargo
A stable option when timing is flexible
Express Size and Weight Limits (China to Portugal)
Most international couriers have clear limits per piece:
Maximum weight per piece: ≤ 68 kg
Maximum length (one side): ≤ 108 cm
Maximum girth: ≤ 400 cm
For overweight or oversized cargo, we will check in advance if it can be shipped and whether extra charges apply.
BAT Express Shipping Process from China to Portugal
Pickup and inspection
You can deliver the goods to BAT’s warehouse in China, or we can arrange pickup. We check the packaging first. For batteries, fragile items, or special cargo, we can help with repacking.
Waybill and dispatch
You only need to provide the commercial invoice and packing list. BAT handles labels, waybills, and system entry. After shipment, we give you the tracking number.
Customs clearance in Portugal
After arrival, customs clearance and VAT or duty are required. The main documents are the invoice and packing list. If you choose DDP shipping from China to Portugal, BAT can prepay these taxes for you.
Door-to-door delivery
After clearance, the courier delivers the cargo directly to your address in Portugal. In most cases, delivery is completed within one working day.
Advantages of BAT for Express Shipping to Portugal
Direct cooperation with DHL, UPS, and FedEx for fast booking
Can handle general cargo, batteries, and battery-powered products
Stable transit times with competitive pricing
DDP express shipping to Portugal available
Strong experience with Portuguese customs and VAT, reducing risks
Door to door shipping from China to Portugal
I. Door-to-Door Shipping Process
China Side Operations
International Transportation
European Operations (2–5 Days)
- Sea and air shipments: devanning after arrival at port or airport
- Rail shipments: gauge change (broad gauge to standard gauge) followed by truck transfer
Final Delivery (1–5 Days)
- Lisbon / Porto urban areas: delivery within 1–2 days
- Northern and inland regions: delivery within 3–5 days
- Optional services include delivery upstairs and unloading assistance
Battery shipping from China to Portugal
At BAT, we have over 20 years of experience shipping batteries from China to Portugal. Batteries are Class 9 dangerous goods, including lithium-ion batteries (UN3480 / UN3481) and lithium metal batteries (UN3090 / UN3091). We are very familiar with Portuguese customs rules, including shipping methods, customs clearance, and taxes.
Most battery shipments enter Portugal by air through Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO), or by sea through Lisbon, Leixões (Porto), and Sines.
We choose the right shipping method based on your battery type, quantity, and delivery schedule:
Air freight from China to Portugal – best for urgent or high-value batteries
Sea freight from China to Portugal – more cost-effective for large battery shipments
Express or rail freight – suitable for small quantities or specific battery products
How BAT ships batteries from China to Portugal
1. Battery check and route planning
You only need to tell us what type of battery you are shipping and when you need it in Portugal. We check whether it is lithium-ion, lithium metal, lead-acid, or truck batteries. Then we recommend the best option, such as FCL, LCL, air freight, or express shipping from China to Portugal.
2. Documents and packaging
Battery shipments to Portugal usually require a commercial invoice, packing list, MSDS, UN38.3 test report, and UN-certified packaging. We check all documents at our warehouse in China. If needed, BAT can also provide battery packaging services.
3. Export customs clearance in China
We handle export customs clearance and dangerous goods declarations in China. You do not need to deal with any paperwork.
4. Import customs clearance in Portugal
You can use your own customs broker, or let BAT handle the clearance for you. We also offer DDP battery shipping from China to Portugal, including VAT and duty payment.
5. Door-to-door delivery in Portugal
After customs clearance, we arrange safe delivery to your address in Portugal.
BAT ships power banks, e-bike batteries, EV batteries, energy storage systems, and other battery products to Portugal every week. We offer DAP, DDP, and DDU options, depending on your shipment needs.
If you are not sure how to ship batteries from China to Portugal, just send us your cargo details. We will check the battery type, confirm the documents, and recommend the safest and most cost-effective solution for you.
Shipping cost from China to Portugal
| Shipping Method | Cargo Volume / Weight | Reference Cost (RMB / USD) | Door-to-Door Transit Time | Remarks |
| Sea Freight FCL | 20GP | USD 8,500–10,000 | 30–40 days | Shenzhen / Ningbo → Lisbon, including export customs clearance, ocean freight, import clearance, and final delivery |
| Sea Freight FCL | 40HQ | USD 10,000–12,000 | 30–40 days | Same as above, suitable for large-volume general cargo |
| Sea Freight LCL | From 1 CBM | RMB 1,200–1,800 / CBM (USD 150–220 / CBM) | 32–42 days | Charged by the higher of weight or volume; minimum 1 CBM / 100 kg |
| Air Freight Line | From 0.5 kg | RMB 55–80 / kg (USD 5.5–8 / kg) | 7–12 days | Guangzhou / Shanghai → Lisbon, DDP (customs cleared & duty paid) |
| China–Europe Railway + Truck | 20GP | USD 9,000–11,000 | 28–38 days | Chengdu / Yiwu → Madrid → truck delivery, including gauge change and customs clearance |
| China–Europe Railway (LCL) | From 100 kg | RMB 18–22 / kg (USD 2–2.5 / kg) | 32–38 days | Suitable for small and medium shipments, more stable than sea freight |
| International Express (DHL/UPS) | From 0.5 kg | RMB 200–300 / kg (USD 20–30 / kg) | 3–7 days | Agency rates up to 60–75% off official prices, ideal for urgent shipments |
Shipping time from China to Portugal
Shipping time from China to Portugal depends on your chosen transport method, cargo type, volume, and even the season. Holidays in China or Portugal, special cargo like batteries, and unusual weather can all affect delivery times.
Shipping time from China to Portugal
| Shipping Method | Type / Route | Transit Time (Door-to-Door) | Notes / Cargo Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight – FCL | Shanghai / Ningbo / Shenzhen → Lisbon / Porto / Sines | 32–42 days | Best for large shipments like machinery, furniture, building materials, or batteries. Transit may extend slightly if customs paperwork is slow. |
| Sea Freight – LCL | China main ports → Lisbon / Porto | 36–46 days | Small shipments consolidated with other cargo. Slight delay may occur during consolidation/deconsolidation. |
| Rail Freight | Xi’an / Chengdu / Yiwu → Lisbon / Porto | 22–30 days | Good balance between cost and speed. Popular for industrial parts and e-commerce goods. Transit may vary if rail hubs are busy. |
| Air Freight – Direct | PVG / CAN / SZX → Lisbon (LIS) / Porto (OPO) | 5–9 days | Ideal for urgent, high-value cargo, electronics, or batteries. Customs clearance in Portugal can add a day or two. |
| Air Freight – Via EU Hub | China → Frankfurt / Paris → Lisbon / Porto | 7–12 days | More economical than direct flights. Transit time depends on layover duration. |
| Express Courier | DHL / UPS / FedEx (door-to-door) | 2–5 days | Small parcels or samples. Weight and size limits apply (≤ 68 kg, ≤ 108 cm length, ≤ 400 cm girth). |
| Express Courier – Batteries / Dangerous Goods | DHL / UPS / FedEx | 3–7 days | Special approval and documentation required. Transit may be slightly longer. |
Factors affecting transit time:
Holidays: Chinese New Year, Portuguese holidays, or Christmas may cause delays.
Cargo type: Batteries, dangerous goods, or fragile items need extra handling.
Customs: Missing documents, unpaid duties/VAT, or incorrect declarations can slow clearance.
Volume and route: Large shipments may take longer to consolidate, while small parcels usually move faster.
Choosing BAT as your freight forwarder can help speed up your shipments and reduce delays.
Import Tax and VAT in Portugal for Goods from China
- Customs duty rates generally range from 0% to 17%
- Standard VAT rate is 23%
- From 2026, the EUR 150 customs duty threshold will be abolished, meaning all imported goods must be declared and taxed, regardless of value.
Import Customs Duties
| Product Category | Typical Duty Rate | Examples |
| Electronic products | 0% | Mobile phones, laptops, tablets |
| Textiles | 5%–12% | Apparel, bedding |
| Furniture | 4%–6% | Wooden furniture, sofas |
| Toys | 0%–3.2% | Children’s toys |
| Footwear | 10%–17% | Sports shoes, leather shoes |
Value Added Tax (VAT)
VAT Rate Structure in Portugal
- Standard rate: 23% (applies to most imported goods)
- Intermediate rate: 13% (restaurants, energy, hotel services, etc.)
- Reduced rate: 6% (basic food, books, medicines, medical equipment, etc.)
VAT = (CIF value + Customs Duty + Anti-dumping Duty) × Applicable VAT rate
Calculation Examples
Case 1:
- Product value: EUR 1,000
- HS Code: 8517.12
- Customs duty: 0%
- CIF value: EUR 1,200
- Customs duty: 1,200 × 0% = EUR 0
- VAT: (1,200 + 0) × 23% = EUR 276
- Handling fee: EUR 2 (postal shipment)
Case 2:
- Product value: EUR 1,000
- HS Code: 8711.60
- Customs duty: 0%
- Anti-dumping duty: 48.5%
- CIF value: EUR 1,200
- Customs duty: 1,200 × 0% = EUR 0
- Anti-dumping duty: 1,200 × 48.5% = EUR 582
- VAT: (1,200 + 0 + 582) × 23% = EUR 419.86
- Handling fee: EUR 2 (postal shipment)
Quick Reference Tools
- EU TARIC Database For checking customs duty rates and anti-dumping duties: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp
- Portuguese Tax Authority (AT) Official Website For verifying VAT rates and import declaration procedures: https://www.portaldasfinancas.gov.pt
Customs Clearance in Portugal for Imports from China
Importing goods from China to Portugal can seem complicated, but at BAT, we make it simple and easy. Whether it’s electronics, clothing, machinery, or batteries, we handle every step so you can focus on your business.
Portugal requires proper import declarations, commercial invoices, and packing lists. Some products also need certificates or licenses. VAT is usually 23%, and certain items may have customs duties. BAT checks all your documents carefully. If you choose DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) from China to Portugal, we can prepay VAT and duties so your shipment clears customs quickly.
How BAT helps you clear customs smoothly
Document check: We review your invoices, packing lists, and certificates to meet Portugal customs requirements.
Submission and tracking: BAT submits all documents to Portuguese customs and monitors approval. We communicate directly with customs to avoid delays.
Duties and taxes: With DDP, we prepay VAT and duties. For DAP or standard imports, we guide you step by step.
Door-to-door delivery: From major ports and airports like Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO), Sines, and Faro (FAO), we deliver directly to your warehouse, office, or store.
Portugal has fewer major cargo airports than Spain, so choosing the right route is very important. BAT uses our experience to select the most efficient ports and airports, saving you time and costs.
With BAT, customs clearance for imports from China to Portugal is faster, easier, and more reliable.
Send us your cargo details today. We’ll provide a custom solution including documents, duties, and delivery so your goods reach Portugal smoothly.
Freight Forwarder from China to Portugal
BAT for shipping from China to Portugal
At BAT, we handle shipping from China to Portugal every week, so we know the full process very well. We offer sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and rail services. All options include door-to-door delivery within Portugal. Whether you ship full containers, a few pallets, or small parcels, you can track your cargo in real time and always know its status.
If you are shipping to Portugal, you don’t need to worry about routes or paperwork. You just tell us what you are shipping and the delivery address. We take care of everything else.
Why choose BAT for shipping from China to Portugal?
Over 20 years of international freight experience, including batteries and other dangerous goods
Direct cooperation with shipping lines, airlines, and courier companies for faster and more stable bookings
Certified dangerous goods handling, including professional lithium battery packaging
Free warehousing in China and Portugal, mainly around Lisbon and Porto, to save time and costs
Door-to-door delivery across Portugal, covering Lisbon, Porto, Sines, and other major ports and airports
DDP shipping from China to Portugal, including customs clearance, delivery, and VAT payment
24/7 support from our experienced team
At BAT, we choose the most efficient port or airport in Portugal for your cargo, not just the cheapest option.
If you are planning shipping from China to Portugal and want a clear and reliable solution, contact us. Send us your cargo details, and we will provide a practical shipping plan for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sea freight：30-45 Days
Air freight：6-10 Days
Express shipping：3-6 Days
Holidays, special cargo, or weather can affect timing.
Costs vary based on weight, volume, shipping method, and cargo type. Sea freight is cheaper for large shipments, air freight and express are faster but cost more. Contact BAT with your cargo details for a precise quote.
You’ll usually need a commercial invoice, packing list, import declaration, and sometimes certificates or licenses. VAT and duties may apply depending on the product.
Yes. BAT ships all kinds of batteries safely, including lithium-ion batteries. We handle special packaging, documentation, and customs clearance.
Yes. BAT offers full door-to-door service, from pickup in China to delivery at your address in Portugal.
Portugal requires accurate documents, VAT payment (usually 23%), and correct HS codes. Some products need extra certificates or licenses. BAT helps you handle everything smoothly.
Express shipping or air freight，it will take 3-10 days.
BAT provides a tracking number for every shipment. You can check your cargo online at every stage, from China to Portugal.
Duties depend on the product type. Most general goods have specific HS codes that determine the rate. BAT can help calculate duties before shipping.
No. Some items may be duty-free, but most goods pay VAT and sometimes customs duties. BAT can advise based on your cargo type.