Shipping from China to Peru

Shipping from China to Peru: A Comprehensive Logistics Guide for Importers

Customers exporting goods from China to Peru typically focus on several key logistics aspects. Here's a detailed breakdown:

I. Shipping Methods & Transit Times

1. Sea Freight vs. Air Freight: How to Choose?

   • Sea Freight:

     • Main Ports: China (Shanghai/Ningbo/Shenzhen) → Peru (Port of Callao).

     • Transit Time: Approximately 25-35 days (direct Pacific routes); transshipment routes may extend to 40-50 days.

     • Cost: Approx. 1500-3,500 per 20GP container (varies by cargo volume & peak season).

        

   • Air Freight (Ideal for air shipping from China):

     • Main Airports: China (PVG/CAN) → Peru (Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport - LIM).

     • Transit Time: 3-7 days (direct flights or via USA/Europe). Goods are typically loaded into specialized air cargo containers (ULDs - Unit Load Devices) for efficient handling in air international shipping.

     • Cost: Approx. 5-8kg (for general cargo); volumetric weight needs careful calculation.

        

   • Recommendation: Choose sea freight for bulk shipments; opt for air freight for urgent or high-value goods.

2. Is Rail or Land Transport Feasible?

   • Peru and China have no direct land connections. Shipments require sea or air transport.

II. Customs Clearance & Documentation Requirements

1. Essential Document Checklist:

   • Commercial Invoice (must be in Spanish)

   • Packing List

   • Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight)

   • Certificate of Origin (COO): For China-Peru FTA preferential tariffs, a Form RCEP or China-Peru Free Trade Agreement Certificate is required.

   • Special Documents:

     • Food/Cosmetics: Sanitary Certificate (SANIPES certification).

     • Electronic Products: Peruvian Telecommunications Certification (MTC).

     • Machinery: INACAL Safety Certification.

2. Goods Under Strict Peruvian Customs Scrutiny:

   • Electronics, textiles, food products, pharmaceuticals, used equipment.

   • Anti-Dumping Duties: Certain Chinese-made footwear and textiles may face additional taxes.

III. Customs Duties & Tax Calculation

1. Customs Duty Rates:

   • Use the Peruvian Tariff Code (Nomenclatura Arancelaria / NANDINA based on HS Code) to check rates. Average duty is 0%-11% (the China-Peru FTA covers 90% of products with duty-free access).

   • Value Added Tax (IGV): 18% (calculated on CIF value + Customs Duty).

   • Surcharges: Some goods (e.g., luxury items) are subject to Excise Tax (ISC).

2. Leveraging the Free Trade Agreement (FTA):

   • Providing a valid Certificate of Origin (Form China-Peru FTA) can grant zero-duty access.

   • Example: A machinery product with a standard 10% duty can be reduced to 0% with an FTA certificate.

IV. Selecting Logistics Partners

1. Key Capability Requirements:

   • Familiarity with Latin American shipping routes, especially Peruvian port/airport operations.

   • Ability to provide DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services, including assistance with SANIPES and other certifications.

   • Established local customs brokerage network to handle random Peruvian customs inspections (approx. 5% probability).

2. Recommended Service Provider Types:

   • Sea Freight: Freight forwarders specializing in Latin America with partnerships with carriers like MSC, CMA CGM, COSCO.

   • Air Freight: Agents with access to LATAM Cargo, Avianca Cargo, and other key airlines facilitating air international shipping.

V. Packaging & Labeling Requirements

1. Mandatory Labels:

   • Product labels in Spanish (ingredients, usage, country of origin).

   • Importer's information (Name, Tax ID - RUC).

   • Food/Pharmaceuticals: Expiry date, storage conditions.

2. Special Packaging Requirements:

   • Wooden packaging requires IPPC fumigation mark.

   • Fragile items need a "FRÁGIL" label and appropriate insurance (rate approx. 0.3% of cargo value).

VI. Risks & Mitigation Strategies

1. Common Risks:

   • Customs Detention: Due to incomplete documentation or under-declaration (declared value should be 80%-120% of FOB value).

   • Strike Delays: Peruvian port unions frequently strike (average 2-3 times a year); a 10-day buffer is advisable.

   • Cargo Damage: Pacific routes can experience rough seas; "All Risks" insurance is recommended.

2. Mitigation Strategies:

   • Opt for logistics solutions that include a Strike Clause.

   • For cargo valued over $100,000, consider splitting Bills of Lading to reduce the risk associated with single-batch inspections.

VII. Sample Logistics Solutions & Costs

Note: Costs for air shipping from China and other modes are indicative and subject to change.

VIII. Contact & Resources