Shipping goods from Mainland China to Taiwan is a vital part of cross-strait trade, supporting industries ranging from electronics and manufacturing to e-commerce and retail. Due to geographic proximity, well-developed logistics networks, and strong trade ties, the process is generally efficient—but it still requires careful planning, compliance with regulations, and an understanding of available shipping options.

How long does it take to ship from Mainland China to Taiwan? 

Major Chinese export hubs such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Ningbo frequently handle shipments bound for Taiwanese ports like Kaohsiung and Keelung. The short distance across the Taiwan Strait allows for relatively fast transit times compared to many international routes.

How much does it take to ship from Mainland China to Taiwan?

Shipping from mainland China to Taiwan is actually one of the cheapest international routes 

because the distance is very short,but the price still depends heavily on how you ship.

Here's a clear breakdown of typical costs (2025–2026):

What documents are required when shipping from Mainland China to Taiwan?

Shipping from mainland China to Taiwan requires a standard set of export and import documents, but because it's a cross-strait trade, accuracy and compliance are especially important. Here's a clear breakdown of what you'll need:

1. Core Shipping Documents (Always Required)

ØCommercial invoice

ØPacking list

ØBill of Lading (Sea) / Air Waybill (Air)

2. Export Documents (China Side)

ØExport Declaration: filed with China Customs, includes HS code, value, and shipment details

ØExport License (if required): needed for controlled goods (e.g., chemicals, medical items, tech equipment)

3. Import Documents (Taiwan Side)

ØImport Declaration

ØImport License (if applicable): required for regulated goods such as food and agriculture, Pharmaceuticals, Electronics, with certification requirements.

4. Additional Supporting Documents (When Needed)

ØCertificate of Origin (COO)

ØInspection / Quarantine Certificates

ØProduct Certifications: For the Taiwan market compliance, Electrical goods may need BSMI certification, and the labels must often be in Traditional Chinese.

ØInsurance Certificate

Taiwan has specific import regulations, including restrictions on certain goods such as agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and controlled technologies. Importers may also need to obtain licenses or permits depending on the product category.

Duties and taxes are assessed based on the product's classification under Taiwan's tariff system. It is important to correctly declare the value and type of goods to avoid delays or penalties.

Our DDP service from Mainland China to Taiwan

For traders or businesses that need to ship goods from China to Taiwan, choosing an efficient, stable, and worry-free logistics line is crucial. 

Choosing our ‘DDP’ (Door-to-Door) service means that our professional team will take care of all aspects of the process, including China’s export customs declaration, international sea freight, Taiwan import customs clearance (including tax payment), and local delivery in Taiwan. You only need to provide the goods information and delivery address to enjoy full-service from the factory to the warehouse. The entire transit time will be 12~15 days.

Our delivery available to most areas of Taiwan:

1. Taipei/New Taipei

2. Kaohsiung/Pingtung/Taitung/Tainan

3. Taichung/Miaoli/Changhua

4. Yunlin/Chiayi/Nantou

5. Taoyuan

6. Hsinchu

7. Keelung

8. Yilan

9. Remote/outlying island

Note: Lianjiang and Mazu cannot be delivered

Four key factors for successful transportation:

1. Accurate and complete documentation

The cornerstone of smooth customs clearance is accurate documentation, including detailed commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading. Be sure to truthfully declare the name, material, quantity, and value of the goods.

2. Special care should be taken regarding industry entry and taxes. 

Before shipping, it is essential to verify that the goods are not part of the categories banned or restricted from import into Taiwan. Items brought into Taiwan generally incur customs duties and commercial taxes, with rates determined by the HS coding of the products. Certain cosmetics may enjoy tax benefits if they possess an ECFA certificate of origin.

3. Professional Packaging and Reinforcement

To ensure the goods remain intact during sea voyages, professional reinforcement is essential. For fragile, easily deformed, or high-value equipment, we recommend using custom-made wooden crates or sturdy wooden frames for protection.

4. Choose a reliable freight forwarder

Select a logistics company that has its own or a stable cooperative customs clearance team and delivery network in Taiwan. A reliable forwarder can efficiently handle unexpected situations such as inspections and provide real-time tracking of your goods' status.

Conclusion

Shipping from China to Taiwan is a well-established and efficient process, supported by strong infrastructure and high trade volumes. By understanding the available shipping methods, complying with customs regulations, and working with experienced logistics providers, businesses can ensure smooth and cost-effective cross-strait transportation. Whether for large-scale manufacturing or small e-commerce orders, proper planning is the key to successful shipping operations.