Shipping from Hong Kong to Germany
Latest Updated in February 2024
Overview of Shipping to Germany from Hong Kong
Shipping from Hong Kong to Germany is an important and dynamic aspect of international trade. With Hong Kong serving as a key logistics and shipping hub in Asia, and Germany being a significant consumer market, the shipping route between these two regions plays a vital role in connecting businesses and consumers.
Understanding the intricacies of shipping from Hong Kong to Germany is essential for businesses and individuals seeking efficient and reliable transportation of goods across this popular trade route.
Shipping Options to Germany from Hong Kong: How to choose?
Shipping from Hong Kong to Germany can be done by air freight, sea freight, or courier services. Each mode has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on various factors such as the size and weight of the shipment, delivery time, and cost.
Some key factors to consider when shipping from Hong Kong to Germany include:
Size & weight of shipment: Courier is suitable for small shipments; FCL shipping is better for bulk shipping, while LCL shipping is more appropriate for smaller packages.
Costs: Air freight is generally more expensive than sea freight, but it is faster. Fuel costs for air freight are also higher than those for sea freight.
Weather conditions: Incidents such as storms and hurricanes could alter the shipping route.
For help finding the best shipping mode for your shipment, use our Instant Quote.
Air Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
Air freight is considerably faster than sea freight, with goods reaching their destination in a matter of days rather than several weeks or months. It is ideal for urgent shipments or perishable goods that require fast delivery. Additionally, air shipping involves minimal handling of items, making it one of the safest shipping options.
Yet shipping by air is more expensive than shipping by sea. The mode chosen will depend on the size and weight of the shipment, and how quickly it needs to arrive at the destination. Learn more about Air Freight services.
Sea Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
Sea freight is the cheapest and most time-consuming mode of shipping. It can be used for bulk shipping and is divided into LCL (Less than Container Loads) and FCL (Full Container Loads). The choice between FCL and LCL shipping methods depends on the size of the shipment, the urgency of delivery, and the characteristics of the goods. Learn more about Sea Freight services.
FCL Sea Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
FCL sea freight offers the advantage of being cost-effective, faster transit time, and lower potential for damage compared to LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping. FCL means your goods fill an entire container, either 20’ or 40’ long. If you are shipping at a high volume, you’ll save time and money by shipping FCL. Pricing for FCL is done as a flat rate, regardless of whether or not your container is completely full.
LCL Sea Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
LCL sea freight is a shipping method suitable for smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container and will be shipped along with other parcels or pallets. However, LCL shipping has some disadvantages, such as longer transit times, higher costs per unit, and a higher chance of damage due to the need for consolidation and deconsolidation of goods at the origin and destination ports.
Courier to Germany from Hong Kong
Courier services are suitable when you need to send small to medium-sized packages quickly from Hong Kong to Germany, typically ranging from 4 to 8 days, making them ideal for urgent shipments. Some courier services offer door-to-door delivery services, making it convenient for customers. Learn more about Courier services.
Post Service to Germany from Hong Kong
Post services are suitable for sending documents or small-sized packages that are not time-sensitive from Hong Kong to Germany. Postal services are generally used to send documents, gifts, and merchandise. Learn more about Post Service.
Want to compare the best Express, Air Freight, Sea Freight, Rail Freight & Trucking rates so as to have better control on cost?
Shipping Cost & Delivery Time to Germany from Hong Kong
The shipping cost from Hong Kong to Germany is influenced by various factors. These include the mode of transportation, the size and weight of the shipment, the port of arrival, handling requirements, fuel costs, market demand. By considering these factors, shippers can make informed decisions to manage and optimize the cost of shipping.
While transit time is impacted by the specific location of the shipment, the size of the shipment, and seasonal factors. The choice of shipping mode, such as courier, air or sea freight, can significantly impact the transit time. Transported by Air is generally faster than ocean, with delivery times ranging from 3 to 8 days, while ocean freight can take between 25 and 41 days, depending on the destination and load type.
Gain real-time information on the status of your shipment with our real-time Track & Trace.
Air Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
Shipping cost of air freight from Hong Kong to the Germany is generally calculated per kilogram. In some cases, the chargeable weight is determined by the volumetric weight rather than the actual weight.
The cheapest option for air freight from Hong Kong to Germany is generally for shipments weighing between 150 kg to 500 kg, with typically between 3 to 8 days in delivery time.
Weight (kg) | Rate (USD/kg) | Transit Time (Days) |
+100 | $ 6.30 | 4 - 8 |
+300 | $ 6.00 | 4 - 8 |
+500 | $ 6.00 | 4 - 8 |
+1000 | $ 5.80 | 4 - 8 |
*Actual rates as of January 2024
For the latest air freight offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
Sea Freight to Germany from Hong Kong
Shipping cost of sea freight is typically calculated based on the volumetric weight of the shipment. Once a shipment weighs more than around 500 kg, shipping by sea generally becomes the more cost-effective option due to economies of scale. The typical transit time for sea freight is between 25 to 41 days, with LCL shipment is generally a few days longer than FCL shipment.
LCL Shipping Rates to Germany from Hong Kong
Shipping Route | Rate (USD/CBM) | Transit Time (Days) |
Shipping to Bremen | $ 60.00 | 36 - 39 |
Shipping to Bonn | $ 80.00 | 37 - 40 |
Shipping to Augsburg | $ 80.00 | 38 - 41 |
*Actual rates as of January 2024
For the latest LCL shipping offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
FCL Shipping Rates to Germany from Hong Kong
Shipping Route | Rate (USD/20GP) | Rate (USD/40GP) | Transit Time (Days) |
Shipping to Hamburg | $ 2,000.00 | $ 3,635.00 | 31 - 38 |
Shipping to Bremerhaven | $ 3,536.00 | $ 5,055.00 | 34 - 37 |
*Actual rates as of February 2024
For the latest FCL shipping offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
Express to Germany from Hong Kong
Small packages are often most suitable for courier services due to their lower weight and size, which can make them more cost-effective to ship. Additionally, many courier services offer specific pricing and services tailored to small packages, making them a convenient and efficient option for shipping smaller items internationally. The typical transit time for courier services is between 4 to 8 days.
Post Service to Germany from Hong Kong
When it is suitable to use mail services for sending a package depends on various factors such as the size and weight of the package, the destination, and the urgency of delivery. For instance, Hongkong Post also offers various mail services for international destinations, including Germany, with delivery times ranging from 1 week to 4 weeks depending on the service chosen.
The Cheapest Shipping Option to Germany from Hong Kong
Discover the cheapest rates with our instant quote function.
Shipping to Germany from Hong Kong – From HK$ 185 / US$ 23 *
Get the best international freight rates to Germany from Hong Kong to save your cost with FreightAmigo
Introduction of the Germany Customs Regulations
Germany calculates customs duties-based value of goods, nature and characteristics, and the quantity of goods being shipped. The specific duty amount is determined by factors such as the type of commodity, quantity, declared value, or duty paid value as determined by Germany customs. The 3 main types of duty are:
- Customs duty: Applicable to all imported goods
- Import value-added tax (VAT): Applicable to all imported goods
- Excise duty: Applicable to tobacco products and spirits, alcopops, beer, sparkling wines and intermediate products
Duties Threshold and Exemption
The duties threshold for goods imported into Germany from Hong Kong is set at € 3.00. A duty amount less than € 3.00 is generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, goods exceeding this threshold are subject to applicable duties and taxes upon importation.
Common Goods Shipped to Germany from Hong Kong
Hong Kong and Germany have a wide range of common goods that are frequently traded between the two regions. These goods encompass various industries, including electronics, consumer goods, textiles, machinery, and toys, among others. Despite ongoing efforts to maintain a favorable trade environment, challenges related to shipping to Germany from Hong Kong persist.
Leveraging platform services can greatly simplify the logistics process. These platforms connect businesses with a wide network of reliable logistics services providers, streamlining the transportation of goods across borders.
Some common goods shipped to Germany from Hong Kong are:
Hong Kong has been a prominent hub for toy manufacturing for several decades. Navigating the import and export market for toys between Hong Kong and Germany requires a good understanding of regulations, standards, and industry trends. Working with experienced shipping professionals can help ensure compliance and smooth transactions in this market.
Shipping electronics from Hong Kong to Germany has thrived due to Hong Kong’s position as a major export hub, facilitating the smooth flow of goods and trade activities. However, evolving trade factors have introduced new challenges and considerations for businesses involved in this shipping route.
Hong Kong is a key hub for importing and exporting food and beverage products. Its strategic location and strong trade links with the Germany make it an ideal location for businesses to take advantage of Hong Kong’s logistics expertise and reputation for quality, benefiting from the trade between these two places.
The car battery market in shipping to Germany from Hong Kong is experiencing a significant surge due to the increased import of lithium-ion batteries. The shipping landscape between Hong Kong and Germany is being influenced by this rapid expansion in the car battery market, particularly for EVs.
The import and export market for Super Cars between Hong Kong and Germany is thriving. Hong Kong’s logistics expertise and the Germany’s demand for luxury vehicles make it an ideal route for shipping these super cars. Businesses can leverage Hong Kong’s logistics capabilities and the Germany market’s affinity for exceptional automobiles to maximize opportunities in this sector.
Prohibited & Restricted Items for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany
Germany does publish a list of items prohibited from import, but it pays to read the regulations carefully as some of these prohibited items may be sent across the border if specific requirements are met or licenses are obtained. The list of prohibited items includes:
- animal and plant products
- Food and Animal Feed
- medical products
- Textile products
- Printed material, audio or film with promotional elements
- Counterfeit, pirated and infringing products
- Egyptian Seeds and Beans
- dairy products such as eggs and honey
- cereal
- Cocoa and Cocoa Preparations
- Beverages, Alcohol and Vinegar
- any tobacco product
Items prohibited from entry:
- cannabis resin
- Chemical factory products
- organic chemicals
- pyrotechnic components
- wooden product
- Coins and Medals
- money and debt
Before you arrange a shipment to Germany from Hong Kong, please also ensure you are complied with the rules and regulations listed. This will help to avoid any risk of your packages being delayed or returned, any unforeseen complications or extra charge. Learn more here.
For the latest information, please refer to the German Customs – Zoll official website.
Top shipping routes to Germany from Hong Kong
The major seaport in Hong Kong is the Port of Hong Kong (HKHKG); while in Germany, there are several ports you can direct your shipment to, but it is best to use a port that is closest to your final destination. While there are many possible routes, here are some commonly used shipping lanes are:
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Hong Kong to Berlin (DEUEB)
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Hong Kong to Bremen (DEBRE)
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Hong Kong to Bremerhaven (DEBRV)
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Hong Kong to Hamburg (DEHAM)
There are additional shipping routes available depending on your specific needs and the destination within Germany. FreightAmigo can provide you with real-time rates and options for these and other shipping routes to help you make informed decisions for your shipments from Hong Kong to Germany.
Useful information for Shipping to Germany from Hong Kong
How much to ship to Germany?
When sending goods from Hong Kong to Germany, the overall cost can differ based on various factors such as the size and weight of the shipment, chosen shipping method, delivery timeframe, courier selection, and any extra charges. With FreightAmigo, we provide assistance in comparing shipping modes and couriers to identify the most cost-effective shipping solution that aligns with your requirements.
What are the top couriers to ship to Germany?
- FedEx
- UPS
- DHL
- TNT
- DPD
- GLS
- Hermes
- Kühne & Nagel
How long does it take to ship to Germany?
The transit time when shipping to Germany from Hong Kong will be different by using different transportation mode. For air freight, it usually takes 3 to 8 days, while ocean freight can take between 25 and 41 days, and if using LCL shipment is generally a few days longer than FCL shipment.
Nevertheless, it is essential to complete customs forms accurately and provide precise declarations for packages. FreightAmigo simplifies this process by enabling document digitization during the booking procedure, making it convenient and efficient.
Suggestions for keeping down costs and shipping time
Ship off-peak seasons
During peak seasons or high-volume periods for your ecommerce business, it’s crucial to proactively communicate the order deadlines to customers to ensure timely delivery. Carriers have specific cutoffs during holidays to avoid late arrivals, so customers should place orders early to minimize shipping costs. Apart from time constraints, other factors like labor shortages, weather events, pandemic-related shutdowns, and federal holidays can affect cutoffs. Effective communication about order deadlines helps customers plan accordingly and reduces the risk of delays or additional expenses.
Make Packages Lighter
To reduce package weight, minimize the use of packaging materials and opt for lightweight alternatives like air pillows. Consider using lightboxes instead of bulky boxes for certain items. For durable products, use branded plastic bags instead of heavy boxes to lower shipping costs. Learn more about branded shipping for additional information.
Optimize Delivery Routes
To achieve fast delivery speeds, businesses should focus on optimizing their delivery routes. Selecting the most efficient and cost-effective routes is essential in today’s consumer-driven society. Manual calculations can hinder route optimization, so using routing software is crucial, especially for businesses with multiple vehicles or high order volumes. A comprehensive route optimization system can significantly reduce manual work and accelerate the shipping process, benefiting fleet managers and delivery drivers alike.
There are different options for cargo transportation. If you want to choose the most convenient and suitable solution, it is best to have the full support of logistics experts!
Why choose FreightAmigo when shipping to Germany?
Having a reliable partner is crucial when dealing with the intricacies of freight forwarding and logistics in the German market. By working with a knowledgeable logistics expert who understands the local regulations, customs procedures, and transportation choices, you can ensure a seamless and efficient shipping experience.
Whether you’re looking for the fastest or cheapest way to ship to Germany, FreightAmigo is here to help!
We have a global network of over 1,000 logistics providers, insurance companies, banks, and financial institutions. Our platform offers comprehensive door-to-door solutions for road, air, ocean, truck, and rail freight, ensuring competitive freight rates when shipping to Germany. Through our platform, you can conveniently arrange cargo insurance, export credit insurance, and trade finance with just a few clicks. Our streamlined processes can be completed in as little as 3 minutes, and our advanced AI-powered predictive ETA allows you to track shipment status in real-time.
Useful information for Shipping to Germany from Hong Kong
As a business center, Germany is focused on making business transactions as easy as possible. Because of this, most small, letter-size shipments are completely duty-free and easily pass through the border of Germany. This makes it extremely easy to ship paperwork, proposals and other business mail from HK to DE. Yet packages often need full customs forms and proper declarations, and rest in mind that FreightAmigo will digitize and simplify this as part of the booking process.[/vc_raw_html]
Simple Booking Steps for Shipping to Germany from Hong Kong
At FreightAmigo, we are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive logistics solution that makes arranging international shipping a breeze. With five different transportation modes to choose from, we have all your shipping needs covered!
Packing Tips When Shipping To Germany From Hong Kong
Use High-Quality Packing Materials
It is best to avoid using containers that may be easily damaged and instead opt for robust cardboard boxes specifically designed for international shipping. Additionally, reinforce the bottom of the boxes using durable parcel tape before packing to provide extra strength and security.
Secure Contents with Ample Cushioning
Wrap each item individually using bubble wrap and secure it with tape. Fill any empty spaces between items using crumpled newspaper or towels to prevent movement during transit. Finally, seal the boxes securely by applying multiple layers of parcel tape.
Maintain a Detailed Inventory
Keep a thorough record of your shipment by documenting the contents of each box in your online shipping account as you pack. Ensure clear labeling on each box, including your name, box number, job number, and destination details.
Prepare Boxes for Collection
Before the courier arrives for collection, make sure to weigh each box to ensure it falls within the allowed weight limit. Have all your packed boxes, bags, and suitcases prepared and waiting at the building entrance for convenient pickup by the courier.
Protection for Fragile or Delicate Items
Consider using inner packaging materials such as foam inserts or air-filled cushions to provide additional protection for fragile or delicate items during transit. These materials can help absorb shocks and prevent damage caused by impact.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping from Hong Kong to Germany
How to choose air or sea freight for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany?
The difference between air and sea freight for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany lies in the transit time, cost, and suitability for different types of shipments. The choice between air and sea freight depends on the size, weight, and urgency of the shipment. Air freight is recommended for smaller, time-sensitive shipments, while sea freight is more cost-effective for larger shipments. Find the best solutions with our Instant Quote.
Do I need cargo insurance for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany?
It is advisable to consider insurance coverage to protect your goods in case of damage or loss during transit. On FreightAmigo platform, you can easily insure your goods in just one click when arranging your shipment. Learn more about our Cargo Insurance services.
What are the import requirements and documentation for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany?
When importing goods from Hong Kong to Germany, the customs process involves completing customs clearance procedures, providing supporting documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and filling in an accurate import declaration. Consult with our expert to simplify the shipping process and ensure compliance to avoid any additional charges. Learn more about our Customs Clearance services.
What are the Incoterms for shipping from Hong Kong to Germany?
Incoterms affect freight prices from Hong Kong to Germany by specifying the level of service the freight forwarder offers and the responsibilities of both the seller and buyer. Learn more about the Incoterms here.
Useful Topics for Shipping from Hong Kong to Germany
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* All final charges are based on FreightAmigo Services Limited’s online system.