China to New Zealand: NZ Importers navigate China's Golden Week

With China being one of our major trading partners, its always interesting to see what’s trending:

China's Golden Week

Weeklong National Holiday from the 1st October to 7th October 2025

Purpose - It's a time for people to travel, visit family, and participate in celebrations related to the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Impact - The holiday leads to a surge in domestic and international travel, with many people visiting popular tourist attractions.

Logistical Considerations - The high demand for travel during Golden Week can lead to increased prices for flights, hotels, and transportation.

Supply Chain Impact - Importers/Exporters often rush to ship goods before the holiday, which can cause temporary constraints in the supply chain and potentially impact shipping costs.

Key points

• Possible Freight Increases , discussions are around US$50.00 to US$150.00 per container, but still to be confirmed.  
• Due to China's Golden Week and the build up till Christmas the demand on space is likely to be high so get your bookings in asap
• Be wary of cheap sea freight rates, they can carry a high rebate cost, on your destination charges, we have seen some cases of over 250 – 350 % higher destination charges than the current market rates.
• Confirm your Trading/Terms so you know what costs you are liable for.

Shipping Options from China to New Zealand

Sea Freight - Sea freight is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping from China to New Zealand. It is ideal for larger shipments or when time is not a critical factor.

FCL / Full Container Load - Suitable for large volumes. FCL shipping means your goods fill an entire container (either 20' or 40').

TEU – 20ft Unit / FEU 40ft Unit

This option is more cost-effective and secure.

Transit Time: Approximately 18-25 days from major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Ningbo to New Zealand ports such as Lyttelton, Port Chalmers, Bluff, Timaru, Nelson, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and Auckland

Cost: Flat rate per container, regardless of how full it is.

LCL / Less than Container Load - Suitable for smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container.

LCL involves consolidating your goods with other shipments.

Transit Time: Around 25-30 days.

Cost: Based on the volume and weight of your shipment.

Airfreight - Air freight is a faster but more expensive option.

Suitable for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.

Transit Time: Typically 3-7 days.

Cost: Higher per kilogram compared to sea freight, but more cost-effective for lighter, high-value items.

Courier / Express Shipping - Express shipping is the fastest option

Suitable for small and urgent shipments.

Transit Time: 2-5 days.

Cost: Most expensive, but ideal for urgent deliveries.

Key Considerations

Confirm your Buying Terms - Ex Works, FOB, CIF            

Export Ports: Major ports in China include Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo.

Import Ports: New Zealand,. Lyttelton, Port Chalmers, Bluff, Timaru, Nelson, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and Auckland

Customs and Duties: New Zealand has specific customs regulations. Ensure accurate documentation to avoid delays.

Insurance: Consider purchasing shipping insurance for all shipments to protect against potential losses.

Setting up an Order

Set your orders up with us asap to get your bookings in place

Refer: https://www.gatewaycargo.co.nz/news/shipping-tips-set-up-orders-understand-costs

Remember we are here to help so please contact us, Smart shipping begins with smart planning.

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