China is set to become the world’s largest automobile exporter in 2023, with exports expected to reach 5.22 million vehicles. Among the key recipients of these vehicles is Russia, where the number of cars imported from China has grown significantly. According to Russian Customs data, nearly 70% of the cars Russia imports in the first half of 2023 are from China, a sharp increase from just 10% in 2021. Brands like Chery, Great Wall Haval, and FAW are leading the charge.
If you’re considering importing cars from China to Russia, this detailed guide from Miracle Logistics will help you understand the best shipping methods, costs, timeframes, and more.
Shipping Methods from China to Russia
Transporting cars from China to Russia is a complex process that requires careful planning. Given the limited availability of global shipping services due to trade restrictions with Russia, there are three primary ways to ship vehicles: by road, rail, or sea.
1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping
RoRo shipping is ideal for work vehicles as it involves driving the car onto the transport ship, which then carries it across in a large cargo hold. This method is cost-effective, though you will need to account for customs clearance and taxes, which can increase the overall cost. It’s an affordable option for bulk or non-luxury vehicles.
2. Shared Container Service
This method involves loading several cars into a single 40-foot container. While the costs are slightly higher compared to RoRo, you’ll share the cost of shipping with others, making it a more economical option for those shipping multiple vehicles. Additional costs, such as trucking, dock handling, and customs clearance fees, must be factored in.
3. Full Container Load (FCL)
For a more secure and faster service, a full container load offers the advantage of not having to wait for other vehicles to fill the container. Your car will be placed in a dedicated 20-foot container, ensuring increased safety and protection from external weather conditions. This method also comes with higher costs but offers superior safety.
Once the vehicle is loaded into the container, it will be securely sealed, and the shipping company will document the car’s condition for transparency.
Steps to Import Cars from China to Russia
Contact a Freight Forwarder: Choose a logistics company like Miracle Logistics that specializes in shipping cars from China to Russia.
Inquire About Costs: Shipping costs can vary based on the method and vehicle size. Generally, it ranges from $2,000 to $4,000.
Choose Your Shipping Method: Select from RoRo, shared container, or full container load options based on your specific needs.
Provide Documentation: Prepare and submit required documents, including proof of purchase, vehicle details, and customs-related forms.
Transport Vehicle to Port: Once booked, the car must be delivered to the designated export warehouse or port in China.
Make Payment: Pay for shipping services as per the logistics company’s requirements.
Customs Clearance in Russia: Upon arrival in Russia, the car will need to go through customs. Ensure you have a Russian customs broker to handle all related paperwork.
Receive the Vehicle: Once cleared, you can take possession of the vehicle.
Costs for Shipping Cars from China to Russia
The cost of shipping depends on the departure port, the destination port, and the shipping method chosen. Here are the estimated shipping prices for various Chinese ports:
Shanghai to Russia: $2,500 to $3,500
Tianjin to Russia: $2,800 to $3,800
Qingdao to Russia: $2,600 to $3,600
Guangzhou to Russia: $3,000 to $3,800
Additional costs such as customs duties, taxes, and insurance may apply. Typically, shipping a car from China to Russia could cost between $2,000 and $4,000, with import duties ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on the vehicle’s value.
Shipping Duration from China to Russia
Shipping times vary by method:
Sea Freight: Takes about 25 to 45 days, depending on the port of origin and destination.
Rail Transport: Faster than sea freight, with transit times ranging from 12 to 20 days.
Road Transport: For land shipments, transit times are between 22 to 30 days.
Import Documents for Cars from China to Russia
When importing cars to Russia, you will need to prepare several important documents, including:
Bill of Lading (for release, tax, and import purposes)
Russian tax identification number
Vehicle duty-paid value declaration
Certificate of origin from China (confirming the vehicle is new)
Commercial invoice and packing list
Combined Certificate of Value and Origin (CCVO)
Import authorization letter for the customs broker
For importing electric or hybrid vehicles, additional requirements apply, such as battery certification and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets).
How to Import Electric Cars from China to Russia
When shipping electric or hybrid cars, special considerations need to be made, such as ensuring the battery system is intact and free from damage. Some shipping companies may not accept electric vehicles, so confirm this with your logistics provider.
Steps for shipping electric cars include:
Inform the Freight Company: Indicate whether the vehicle is new or used.
Verify Battery Integrity: Ensure the battery is undamaged and that the vehicle complies with transport safety standards.
Complete Documentation: Provide the appropriate documentation for electric vehicles, including battery certifications.
Notify Customs: Notify Russian customs that you’re importing an electric vehicle to ensure smooth clearance.
Top Destinations for Chinese Car Exports in 2023
Russia: 909,000 vehicles
Mexico: 415,100 vehicles
Belgium: 217,400 vehicles
Australia: 214,600 vehicles
UK: 213,800 vehicles
Saudi Arabia: 213,600 vehicles
Philippines: 172,500 vehicles
Thailand: 170,600 vehicles
UAE: 160,000 vehicles
Spain: 138,700 vehicles
By choosing Miracle Logistics, you ensure that your vehicle shipping experience from China to Russia is seamless, secure, and efficient. Contact us today to begin the process of importing vehicles with ease!
