How to Export from India to China: Routes, Ports & Documents
China is one of the largest trading partners for India, and exporting there is well-supported by frequent ocean services. This guide covers the main routes, ports, documents and compliance points for India-to-China shipments.
Main ports and sea routes
Most India-to-China cargo moves by ocean freight. Exports typically depart from gateway ports such as Nhava Sheva (JNPT), Mundra, Chennai or Kolkata, and arrive at major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao or Tianjin.
Many services route via a transhipment hub such as Singapore, Colombo or Port Klang, where containers transfer between vessels. Direct services exist on busy lanes but transhipment is common.
Typical transit times
- Ocean FCL: approximately 12 to 20 days port-to-port, depending on the port pair, carrier and transhipment.
- Ocean LCL: a few days longer because of consolidation and de-consolidation.
- Air freight: generally 2 to 6 days for urgent or high-value cargo.
Documents you will need
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Shipping Bill filed with Indian customs.
- Bill of lading (ocean) or air waybill (air).
- Certificate of origin, where the buyer or a trade preference requires it.
- IEC (Importer Exporter Code) and GSTIN registered to the exporter.
China-side compliance to check
Your Chinese buyer is usually the importer of record and must be registered with China Customs. Some products require additional approvals (for example CCC certification for certain regulated goods, or specific permits for food and agricultural items). Confirm HS classification and any inspection requirements with your buyer before shipping to avoid clearance delays.