Overview
Sea freight from China to Latin America is the backbone of most import businesses in the region. This guide covers everything from transit times and port selection to documentation and hidden costs.
Main Shipping Routes
**China to Mexico:** Shanghai or Ningbo to Manzanillo or Lázaro Cárdenas. Transit: 18–25 days.
**China to Colombia:** Shanghai or Yantian to Buenaventura or Cartagena. Transit: 25–35 days.
**China to Argentina:** Shanghai to Buenos Aires. Transit: 30–40 days.
**China to Chile:** Shanghai to Valparaíso or San Antonio. Transit: 28–35 days.
**China to Peru:** Shanghai to Callao. Transit: 25–32 days.
FCL vs. LCL: Which is Right for You?
**FCL (Full Container Load):** You rent the entire container. More cost-efficient for large shipments (typically 15+ CBM). Lower risk of cargo damage. Faster customs clearance.
**LCL (Less than Container Load):** Your goods share a container with other cargo. Cost-effective for smaller shipments. Longer transit time due to consolidation/deconsolidation. Slightly higher damage risk.
Essential Export Documents
1. **Commercial Invoice** — Declares the goods, value, and buyer/seller 2. **Packing List** — Itemized list of what's in each carton 3. **Bill of Lading (B/L)** — The shipping contract and title document 4. **Certificate of Origin** — Required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements 5. **Inspection Certificates** — If required for your product category
Incoterms for LatAm Buyers
**FOB (Free on Board):** Supplier's responsibility ends when goods are loaded on the vessel. You pay freight and insurance. Most common for experienced importers.
**CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight):** Supplier arranges freight and insurance to the destination port. Convenient but typically more expensive — supplier marks up logistics.
**DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):** Supplier handles everything including import duties. Simplest for the buyer but most expensive.
Our recommendation for most LatAm importers: **FOB**, using your own freight forwarder, gives you control and transparency over logistics costs.