Exporting products from Spain to China is a strategic opportunity for companies looking to expand into one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets. With a growing demand for“Made in Spain” products such as wine, olive oil or specialized machinery, the Asian giant offers enormous potential, but also poses logistical and regulatory challenges.
In this context, having a reliable logistics partner like Across Logistics can make the difference between success and unnecessary obstacles.
This comprehensive guide will take you step-by-step through the process of exporting from Spain to China, from initial planning to delivery at destination, so that your business can take full advantage of the opportunities China has to offer.
Understanding the Chinese Market: Opportunities and Challenges
Before embarking on exporting products from Spain to China, it is essential to understand the landscape you will face. China is not only the world’s second largest economy, but also a market with a growing demand for quality European products, especially Spanish ones.
However, along with opportunities come challenges such as strict regulations, cultural differences and complex logistics that require precise planning.
Why export to China?
China represents a market of more than 1.4 billion consumers, with a notable appetite for Spanish products such as wine, olive oil, Iberian ham and many others. Sectors such as food and technology are booming, driven by an expanding middle class and trade agreements that facilitate access from the European Union.
Exporting to China not only opens doors to new sources of income, but also positions your company as a global player. The key is to identify which products are in demand and how to reach them efficiently.
Main challenges for exporters
Although the potential is enormous, exporting to China is not without its challenges. Cultural barriers, such as negotiations with local partners, and language differences can complicate trade relations.
In addition, customs regulations and tariffs require meticulous preparation to avoid delays or unexpected costs. Logistics also plays a critical role: moving goods from Spain to ports such as Shanghai or Shenzhen requires impeccable coordination, something in which Across Logistics excels with its expertise in international transportation and supply chain management.
Preparing for export: Initial steps
Once you are clear about the potential of the Chinese market, the next step is to prepare your company to export successfully. This initial process requires a combination of research, adaptation and strategic alliances to ensure that your products reach China in the best conditions.
Market and product research
Not all products are equally successful in China, so it is crucial to investigate what consumers demand and how your offer fits in. As we have mentioned before, we know that certain Spanish products such as wine, olive oil or quality textiles are often well received, but may need adjustments, such as Mandarin labels or specific certifications.
Analyze consumer trends, study the competition and make sure your product complies with local regulations. This initial step is the basis for a smooth export.
Find a business partner in China
Exporting to China is often most effective when you have a local partner, such as a distributor or trade agent. These allies will help you navigate the complexities of the market, from distribution to negotiations with retailers.
Look for partners with experience in your industry and establish clear agreements from the start. One option to consider is Across Logistics, which not only coordinates transportation and logistics to get your products to you on time, but can also act as your local partner with locations in Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Hong Kong, providing direct connections and in-depth knowledge of the Chinese market.
Tariffs, regulations and documentation: What you need to know
Exporting to China involves much more than moving goods from one point to another; it requires compliance with a legal and customs framework that may seem intimidating at first.
From tariffs that affect your costs to product-specific regulations and a list of must-have documents, this stage is critical to avoid delays or penalties.
📌 With proper planning and the support of experts such as Across Logistics in customs management customs management you can overcome these obstacles with confidence.
Import regulations in China
China imposes strict regulations to protect its domestic market and ensure the quality of imported products. Depending on what you export, you may face requirements such as safety standards, sanitary certifications (for food) or specific restrictions (e.g. on chemicals).
Research the regulations applicable to your industry and be prepared to comply with them before shipping your goods, as any non-compliance may stop your shipment at customs.
Customs duties and costs
Tariffs are a key factor in your cost calculations when exporting to China. These duties vary according to the type of product, classified by its HS (Harmonized System) code, and can range from 5% to over 20% in some cases.
Although Spain, as part of the EU, does not have a direct free trade agreement with China, certain products may benefit from preferential rates under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) regime.
Uses tools such as the TARIC database or consult with our experts to estimate these costs accurately.
Essential export documents
To get your goods through Chinese customs without problems, you need to prepare and present a number of key documents. These vary slightly by product and mode of transport, but the following are the most common and essential.
📌 Across Logistics, with its customs expertise, can help you gather and validate them to avoid mistakes. Here is the detailed list:
📑 Commercial Invoice: Details the value, description and quantity of exported products. Must be clear and in English or Chinese. More info
📑 Packing List (Packing List): Specifies the contents of each package, including weight, dimensions and number of packages.
📑 Certificate of origin: Confirms that the products come from Spain (or the EU), issued by chambers of commerce; it may influence the applied tariffs.
📑 Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB): The B/L is the shipping document that proves the contract of shipment and the ownership of the cargo; the AWB serves the same function for air transport, but is not a title of ownership.
📑 Sanitary or phytosanitary certificates: Mandatory for products such as food, plants or animals; they guarantee that they comply with Chinese health standards.
📑 Import license: Required for certain restricted goods (e.g. chemicals, specific machinery); your Chinese importer usually arranges this.
📑 Customs declaration: Mandatory form in China that summarizes the details of the shipment and taxes to be paid.
Make sure they are all complete and in the correct language (English or Chinese, as appropriate) to avoid delays.
Environmental regulations: RoHS and WEEE for export to China
When exporting electrical and electronic products to China, it is essential to comply with specific regulations governing the use of hazardous substances and waste management. Two of the main regulations affecting this type of merchandise are:
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances): Restricts the use of materials such as lead, mercury and cadmium in electronic devices, ensuring that they are safe for the environment and consumers.
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment): Mandates the correct management of waste from these products, promoting their recycling and reducing their environmental impact.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in the detention of goods at customs, financial penalties and even the impossibility of marketing products in the Chinese market. To avoid these problems, it is essential:
✅ Check the compliance of products with regulations before exporting.
✅ Include appropriate documentation, such as Declaration of Conformity and required certificates.
✅ Prepare for possible inspections at Chinese customs, ensuring that labeling and materials comply with requirements.
📌 Consulting with experts in international trade and environmental regulations, such as Across Logistics, can facilitate this process and avoid setbacks.
Customs process and how to avoid problems
Customs clearance in China involves submitting your documents, paying duties and, in some cases, passing a physical inspection of the cargo. Errors such as incorrect labeling or incomplete documentation are common causes of delays.
📌 To minimize risks, review everything in advance and consider working with a customs broker or logistics partner like Across Logistics, who knows the procedures and can expedite the process.
Transportation options: Choosing the best logistics route
Once you have your product ready and the documentation in order, the next step is to decide how to get it from Spain to China. Choosing the right transport depends on factors such as the type of goods, urgency and your budget, and can make all the difference to customer satisfaction and the profitability of your operation.
📌 Whether by sea, air or a combination of both, having an experienced logistics partner like Across Logistics ensures that your shipments arrive on time and in perfect condition. In this section, we’ll explore the main transportation options and how to choose the best one for your business.
Shipping from Spain to China
🚢 The maritime transport is the most popular option for exporting large volumes to China due to its competitive cost. From Spanish ports such as Valencia or Barcelona to destinations such as Shanghai or Shenzhen, transit time is usually around 25 to 35 days.
You can opt for full containers (FCL) or shared containers (LCL), depending on the quantity of goods. It is ideal for non-perishable or low urgency products, such as machinery or textiles.
Airfreight: Speed and efficiency
✈️ If you need speed, air transport air transport is the solution. Perfect for perishable goods such as fresh food or urgent shipments, it connects airports like Madrid-Barajas with Beijing or Shanghai in just 1-3 days.
Although more expensive, its speed may justify the investment in certain cases.
Multimodal transportation
🔄 Multimodal transport combines several options (sea, air, land) to balance costs and time. For example, you could ship goods by sea to a Chinese port and then use trucks for domestic distribution. This flexibility is ideal for complex projects or shipments to regions far from major ports.
📌It is a specialty of Across Logistics, which designs customized routes according to your needs.
Costs and factors to consider
Choosing between these options requires analyzing costs (ocean is cheaper, air is more expensive) and factors such as weight, volume and urgency. Also consider the impact of peak seasons, such as Chinese New Year, which can affect timing and rates. Comparing these variables will help you make an informed and profitable decision for your export.
Supply Chain Management: From Source to Destination
Exporting to China does not end with the shipment; supply chain management is key for your products to reach the end customer in optimal conditions and at the right time.
From packing to delivery at destination, each stage must be well coordinated to avoid unforeseen events.
📌 With comprehensive solutions like those offered by Across Logistics, you can maintain control and visibility of your goods at all times. In this section, we’ll explain how to manage these processes to make your export a success from start to finish.
Export packaging and labeling
The right packaging protects your product during transport and complies with Chinese regulations, which require resistant materials and, in some cases, technical specifications (such as for machinery).
In addition, labeling must be in Mandarin Chinese and include details such as origin, ingredients (if applicable) and instructions for use. A mistake here can delay your shipment through customs, so check these requirements carefully before shipping.
Tracking and traceability
Knowing where your goods are at all times is essential to maintain the confidence of your partners in China. Real-time tracking tools allow you to monitor progress from port of departure to final destination.
📌 Across Logistics offers advanced traceability systems that give you full visibility, helping you react quickly to any unforeseen events, such as delays or route changes.
Warehousing and distribution in China
Once your cargo arrives in China, it may need temporary storage prior to distribution. Ports like Shanghai offer warehouses, but you can also coordinate solutions close to your end customer. From there, inland distribution (by truck or rail) connects your product to the market.
An experienced logistics partner such as Across Logistics can optimize this last mile so that everything flows smoothly.
Practical tips for successful exporting
Successfully reaching the Chinese market requires more than meeting legal requirements and choosing a carrier; it’s also about anticipating the details that can make or break your operation. From time planning to protecting your cargo, small adjustments can save you big problems.
In this section, we will share practical tips that will help you optimize the process, and with the support of experts like Across Logistics, you will be able to execute them more easily and safely.
Time and seasonal planning
The calendar plays a crucial role in exporting to China. Holidays such as Chinese New Year (January or February) “paralyze” ports and factories, increasing waiting times and costs.
Plan your shipments at least 2-3 months in advance and avoid these peak seasons if possible. A good schedule ensures that your merchandise arrives when your customer needs it.
International transportation insurance
Protecting your cargo against damage, loss or theft is a smart investment. Transport insurance varies according to the means of transport (sea, air) and the value of the goods, covering from basic incidents to total risks.
Evaluate your needs and take out a policy that gives you peace of mind, especially for high-value products such as machinery or perishable foodstuffs.
Collaboration with logistics experts
Coordinating an export to China can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with a partner like Across Logistics simplifies every step, from customs clearance to final delivery.
Their expertise in international routing and customized solutions allows you to focus on your business while they handle the logistics with precision.
Across Logistics: Your logistics partner for exporting to China
Reaching the Chinese market with your products is an achievable goal if you follow a structured approach and have the right support. Throughout this guide, we have explored how to understand market opportunities and challenges, prepare your export, comply with tariffs and regulations, choose the right transport, manage the supply chain and apply practical tips.
However, success doesn’t just depend on theory: you need a logistics partner to turn these steps into action. Across Logistics with its expertise in international transport and specialized customs services, is ready to be that key partner.
From tariff classification to document management, their team is with you so that your goods cross borders smoothly. Let’s see how to take the next step together.
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