Freight Forwarder Bolivia | Shipping Costs & Services in Shipping to Bolivia from China

Shipping goods to Bolivia, whether for the first time or regularly, is challenging, especially given Bolivia's landlocked location. As an experienced freight forwarder in Bolivia headquartered in China, we'll simplify the entire shipping process for you, giving you everything you need to know about shipping to Bolivia from China so you can make intelligent, efficient decisions and ensure your shipment reaches its destination smoothly.

The Entire Process of Shipping to Bolivia from China

When we are preparing to ship your goods to Bolivia, the entire process can be broken down into the following key steps:

1. Planning and Preparation: We need to plan and prepare carefully before initiating transportation. This involves determining the shipment's weight, dimensions, quantity, and delivery time to develop a suitable shipping plan and schedule.

2. Packaging and Labeling: Before the goods are shipped, we must ensure that the goods are appropriately packaged and labeled. Good packaging protects goods from damage and loss, while clear labeling ensures goods are handled and distributed correctly.

3. Find a freight forwarder: Choosing a reliable freight forwarder is vital. They can provide you with competitive shipping costs and door-to-door full-service services, including cargo handling, customs clearance, inspection, transportation, and insurance. They can provide you with worry-free support.

4. Documentation and customs clearance: We must process the relevant documents and customs clearance procedures before starting the shipment. This may involve export declarations, commercial invoices, transportation insurance, supporting documents, etc. Correct handling of relevant documents ensures smooth clearance of goods at customs and the destination.

5. Goods‘ shipping: The shipment can be arranged once the goods are ready. The sea freight option involves crating the goods and shipping them to a port in Bolivia, while the air freight option involves handing them over to an airline and flying them to their destination.

6. Transportation tracking and notification: During the entire transportation process, the tracking system generally monitors the location and status of the goods in real time.

7. Customs Clearance and Delivery: Customs clearance procedures will be carried out when the goods arrive in Bolivia. This covers procedures such as paying customs duties, completing import formalities, and inspecting goods. Once the goods pass customs clearance successfully, they are delivered to the destination specified by the customer.

To summarize, shipping goods to Bolivia involves critical steps such as choosing the correct freight forwarder and preparing documents for shipping and customs clearance. Working with a freight forwarder in Bolivia and China can greatly save you time and money. As an experienced freight forwarder in Bolivia and China, we can ensure your cargo arrives in Bolivia safely and efficiently.

Air freight from China to Bolivia

By choosing air freight, you can load your goods onto a plane and use the fast air transport network to quickly deliver your goods from China to your destination in Bolivia. Compared with other modes of transportation, air freight can usually be completed within a few days, shortening the time required by traditional sea freight.

Especially for higher-value goods, choosing air freight can ensure their safety and speedy delivery. Airlines often offer higher insurance coverage during transportation, so you are better financially protected if the unexpected happens.

Of course, the cost of air freight is also relatively higher. However, for certain cargo types and emergencies, choosing air freight can make substantial economic sense and profit. Especially when time is of the essence, and your shipment is less than two cubic meters and weighs less than 200 kilograms, air freight is the option that best guarantees timely delivery.

Significant Airports in China-Bolivia Shipping

1. Air freight to China Airport in Bolivia

Here are some of the main airports in China that ship to Bolivia:

• Beijing Capital International Airport (code PEK): As one of the busiest airports in China, Beijing Capital International Airport has an extensive international flight network and provides various international route options.

• Shanghai Pudong International Airport (code PVG): Also one of the busiest cargo airports in China, Shanghai Pudong International Airport provides numerous international cargo routes and connects multiple international destinations.

• Shenzhen Baoan International Airport (code SZX): Bao'an Airport, one of the top 100 airports in the world and one of the top five airports in China,  is a modernized aviation port with sea, land and air intermodal transportation. Shenzhen Baoan International Airport is the fifth largest airport in mainland China.
  

• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (code CAN): In southern China, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is an important international airport providing a wide range of international flights and cargo routes connecting various destinations.

• Hong Kong International Airport (code HKG): As an essential aviation hub in Asia, Hong Kong International Airport has a wide range of international and cargo flights connecting all parts of the world.

These airports have comprehensive facilities and services, providing convenient options for shipping goods to Bolivia from China.  For specific transportation plans and flight arrangements, you can further discuss and confirm it with a freight forwarder company in Bolivia or in China. You can also contact Jike Logistics for help.

2. Main airports in Bolivia shipping from China

The main import airports in Bolivia include the following:

1. Joel William Cervera International Airport (El Alto International Airport, code LPB): Located in La Paz, it is one of Bolivia's most important international airports and one of the main entrances for imported goods.

2. Aeropuerto Internacional Viru Viru (Vargas International Airport, code VVI): Located in Santa Cruz, it is one of the busiest international airports in Bolivia and one of the main entrances for imported goods.

3. Jorge Wilsterman International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Simón Bolívar, code CBB): Located in the city of Cochabamba, it is one of the commercial centers of Bolivia and one of the main entrances for imported goods.

These airports have cargo areas and facilities that can handle large volumes of imported cargo. If you plan to ship goods to Bolivia, you can have your goods sent to one of the above airports, where they will then be cleared by customs and distributed to your warehouse/door.

Air freight costs and transit time (Dated 5th Aug. 2024)

The price of air freight for general cargo is usually between 7-13 USD per kilogram. However, air freight prices change frequently. Therefore, below shipping costs are for reference only.

Contact Jike for more options and the latest air freight from China to Bolivia.

Air freight time from China to Bolivia

Air freight times depend on several factors, including airline flight schedules, cargo handling procedures, weather conditions, and especially customs clearance procedures. Here are the average times for general air shipping from China to Bolivia:

Sea Freight Shipping to Bolivia from China

As you can see in the picture, Bolivia is located in the center of South America, bordering Brazil, Peru, Chile, and Argentina. Due to the lack of a coastline bordering the ocean, cargo cannot be shipped directly to ports in the country. Therefore, goods exported to Bolivia by sea are generally sent to ports in neighboring countries and transported by truck or train to their final destination in Bolivia.

Significant Ports in China-Bolivia Shipping

1. Major seaports shipping from China to Bolivia

The main shipping port from China to Bolivia is usually transported via the Pacific route. Here are some commonly used shipping ports between China and Bolivia:

• Ningbo Port: Ningbo Port is one of the essential ports on the East China Sea coast of China and one of the main channels for China's foreign trade. 

• Shanghai Port: Shanghai Port is one of the largest ports in China and one of the busiest ports in the world. 

• Shenzhen Port: Shenzhen Port is located in southern China and is one of China's essential export ports.

• Tianjin Port: Tianjin Port is one of the essential ports in northern China and one of the crucial hubs of China's foreign trade. From Tianjin Port, goods can be shipped to Bolivia via the Pacific route.

2. Major seaports shipping to Bolivia from China

Since Bolivia is a landlocked country, no ports directly face the ocean. However, through cooperation and transportation networks with neighboring countries, Bolivia can achieve maritime cargo transportation through some of the following major maritime ports:

• Cochabamba Port

• La Paz Port

• Santa Cruz Port

How much does freight forwarder Bolivia charge to ship a 20ft and 40ft container from China to Bolivia in 2024? (Dated 05, Aug. 2024)

Transportation costs from China to Bolivia vary depending on factors such as departure port, destination port, cargo type, ship owners,  and especially market supply and demand.

Note: Sea freight shipping from China to Bolivia fluctuates a lot, and the above shipping costs are current quotes only for reference.

Contact Jike for the latest sea freight from China to Bolivia.

Sea freight time from China to Bolivia

The time from China to Bolivia from port to port is  approximately 31 to 48 days, affected by weather and routes the ship-owners. And it takes around 40-58 days for door-to-door services, depending on clearing time and the speed of delivery team.

Major Sea Freight Shipping Types

FCL – Full Container Load

With total container shipping (FCL), you rent an entire container to transport your goods. If your shipment is large enough to fill a container or occupy most of the space (like bigger than 15cbm), choosing FCL shipping may be the most cost-effective option. FCL shipping is also faster because your goods are stored separately from other shipments, eliminating the need for assembly and disassembly processes. Of course, if you want to keep the container sealed during transportation, it is wise to choose FCL shipping.

LCL – Less than Container Load

Less than Container Loading (LCL) is sharing container space between your goods and other companies' goods. Our ocean freight consolidation service is the best option if your shipment fills only part of the container (like less than 10cbm). When using this service, the applicable rates depend on the shipment volume. However, if the cargo exceeds the maximum allowable weight per cubic meter, charges will be based on weight. LCL shipping may take longer due to the consolidation and devanning process. Your goods will be stored in a container warehouse before being packed in China. Upon arrival in Bolivia, they will be transferred to the destination warehouse before being shipped to your address.

RoRo transport

RoRo transport is economical and safe for transporting vehicles and heavy equipment to Bolivia. With a RoRo ship, your cargo can be conveniently loaded and unloaded on a designated vessel or hauled using a modular transport vehicle. RoRo transport is more economical than the traditional method of disassembly and reshipment. It can load and unload goods quickly and efficiently, saving unnecessary time and labor costs.

Whether your cargo is wheeled or non-wheeled, regardless of its type and size, it can be safely transported to Bolivia via a Ro-Ro vessel.

Breakbulk transportation

Breakbulk transportation is mainly suitable for transporting bulk goods not packaged in boxes, bags or barrels. During the loading and unloading, bulk cargo is generally packed into sacks or woven bags, cartons, wooden boxes and other containers and then hoisted into the cabin through a boom or crane.

Bulk cargo transportation is irreplaceable, especially for transporting large equipment, engineering, and raw materials. Therefore, breakbulk transportation is still an essential mode of transportation in the current logistics field.

Shipping to Bolivia from China.

International express delivery to Bolivia from China

One of the advantages of express transportation is that it is not limited by cargo volume and is suitable for packages of various sizes and weights. Your goods will be delivered to Bolivia quickly through express transportation, providing you with a convenient and reliable international door-to-door logistics solution.

You can receive your shipment at the fastest speed. It is especially suitable for goods with a small weight (less than 200 kg). Therefore, express shipping will be an ideal choice if your cargo weighs within this range and has high timeliness requirements.

Express shipping costs to Bolivia from China

Express shipping costs to Bolivia from China will vary depending on different international express companies and cargo chargeable weight. Generally, the shipping cost is about US$7 to US$11 per kilogram. 

Express shipping time

Usually, express shipping from China to Bolivia takes about 4 to 9 working days, and the goods are guaranteed to reach their destination quickly. Of course, transportation time may be affected by multiple factors, such as the volume and weight of the goods, the distance to the location, and the service speed of the transportation company.

Jike provide competitive express delivery services and have been committed to providing customers with high-quality services to ensure that goods arrive safely at Bolivia. We can also help to pick-up your goods from your Chinese supplier's warehouse. If you would like to get an accurate quotation, please get in touch with us directly, and we will provide you with the corresponding quotation information.

Shipping Tips from Bolivia Freight Forwarder

When shipping goods from China to Bolivia, please note the following important things:

1. Prepare the correct documentation and customs clearance procedures: Ensure you have the proper documentation and customs clearance procedures. This includes commercial invoices, packing lists, shipping documents, and certificates required for specific commodities (such as food safety certificates, drug registration certificates, etc.). Special licenses or permission documents may also be required.

2. Commodity classification and value declaration: It is essential to accurately declare the commodity classification and value of the goods. The HS code (goods code) of the goods will determine the applicable tariff and regulatory requirements. Ensure that goods are accurately classified and the values on the declaration documents are accurately filled in.

3. Choose the appropriate freight forwarder in Bolivia: Work with reliable logistics partners and ensure they have extensive experience in China-Bolivia shipping like Jike Logistics.

4. Consider purchasing cargo transportation insurance: Consider purchasing transportation insurance for your cargo to protect against accidents or losses during transportation. Cargo transportation insurance will provide you with extra protection and peace of mind.

Customs Clearance Process for importing into Bolivia

When shipping goods to Bolivia, the customs clearance process is crucial to ensure that your goods can legally enter the country and be delivered smoothly.

Here are the general steps for customs clearance for shipping to Bolivia:

1. Document preparation: First, you must prepare relevant documents, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, transportation contracts, insurance policies, etc. These documents will prove the goods' value and quantity and provide information related to customs.

2. Customs Declaration: Before the goods arrive at the destination port in Bolivia, your freight forwarder in Bolivia will provide the required declaration documents to customs. Customs will review these documents to ensure compliance with the goods.

3. Pay Duties and Taxes: Depending on the type and value of the goods, you may be required to pay import duties and other related taxes. Customs will calculate the fees payable based on the declared value of the goods and the tariff rate.

4. Inspections (if needed): Customs may conduct spot checks and goods inspections to ensure they comply with Bolivian import standards and regulations. This may include inspections of the goods' appearance, quality and quantity.

5. Review and Approval: Once all documents and fees have been verified and the shipment has passed inspection, Customs will review and approve it. Your goods will receive customs clearance permission and can officially enter Bolivia.

6. Delivery and Dispatch: Once customs clearance of your goods is complete, your freight forwarder in Bolivia will contact you to arrange delivery details. They will deliver the goods to your destination and provide relevant tracking and update information.

What Documents Do Freight Forwarders in Bolivia and China require for shipping?

When you are shipping goods to Bolivia, your freight forwarder in Bolivia/China will typically need to prepare the following documents:

• Commercial Invoice: This is a purchase and sales contract signed between you and your supplier, which details the description, quantity, unit price and total value of the goods.

• Packing List: This detailed list lists the exact contents, quantity and weight of each package or cargo. It is usually provided with the commercial invoice for customs to verify the information about the goods.

• Certificate of Origin: In some cases, certain goods may require proof of origin. This certificate certifies where the goods were manufactured or produced to enjoy corresponding tariff preferences or comply with import restrictions.

• Transportation Contract: This is a transportation contract signed between you and an international freight forwarder or courier company, which contains terms regarding transportation details, costs, and responsibilities.

• Import Permit/License: Depending on the type and nature of the goods, you may need to obtain a specific import permit or license. 

Bolivia's customs clearance requirements vary based on cargo type, value, and import policy. Before arranging the shipment of goods, it is recommended to contact a professional freight forwarder in Bolivia or China to understand the precise customs clearance document requirements and procedures.

Bolivia's import taxes and customs fees

Bolivia's customs tariffs involve many aspects, including import taxes, value-added tax, tariff quotas, etc.

Here are some everyday customs duties:

• The import tax threshold is 1,000 BOB. If the total value of your imported goods is less than 1,000 BOB, you do not need to pay VAT.

• Import taxes: The import tax rates vary depending on the type of goods. Bolivia typically imposes tax rates on imported goods between 0% and 35%, with some higher rates applicable to luxury goods and specific categories of goods.

• Value-added tax: Bolivia imposes value-added tax on imported goods, with the rate usually being 13%. The tax is calculated based on the import value of the goods.

• Tariff quota: Bolivia implements a tariff quota system for some specific commodities, such as cereals, sugar, and textiles. This means that imports of these goods need to be limited in quantity for a certain period.

Import tax product category ( the goods in the order will be charged relevant tariffs at the rate corresponding to the category )

Restricted and Prohibited Items Shipping to Bolivia

When shipping to Bolivia from China, there are some cargo restrictions and prohibited items. These restrictions and prohibitions are to ensure public safety, environmental protection and national security. Here are some common restricted and prohibited items:

Prohibited Items: Certain items, such as drugs, weapons, etc., are prohibited from being imported under any circumstances. These items are strictly prohibited for transport, and violation may involve legal liability.

Restricted Items: Restricted items require specific conditions or permission to be imported. For example, hazardous chemicals, cosmetics, food, cultural heritage, wildlife and their products, agricultural products, etc., must be approved by relevant departments before they can be imported.

Items with Value Limitations: According to Bolivian customs regulations, certain items (such as jewelry and valuables) may have value restrictions on import. Above the stated value, you may need to meet additional requirements or pay higher customs fees.

The above are just some common examples of restricted and prohibited items. The specific list of restricted and prohibited items changes frequently. Before shipment of goods, it is recommended to consult the customs department or a professional freight forwarder in Bolivia.

Work with a reliable freight forwarder in Bolivia - JIKE Logistics.

As we stressed above, choosing a logistics partner that understands the business environment in China and Bolivia is essential for success in the Bolivian market. Such a partner will provide you with professional logistics solutions and help you overcome challenges you may encounter. 

1. If you don't have a freight forwarder yet, we recommend JIKE Logistics for you;

2. If your current China freight forwarder or Bolivia freight forwarder charges too much, contact us for a free quote to compare the difference;

3. If your current freight forwarder in Bolivia or in China reply you so slow, try our service. We have a team work for 24/7 for our clients.

JIKE Logistics is a freight forwarder headquartered in China, and we have our team in Bolivia. We provide logistics services, including sea, air, and express intermodal transport shipping from China to Bolivia. As a professional freight forwarder in Bolivia and China, JIKE Logistics can help you handle the transportation, customs declaration, and clearance procedures of your goods. We have established good cooperative relationships with major airlines, shipping companies, and land transporters to ensure that goods can be delivered to their destination safely and promptly.

Jike Logistics focuses on providing customers with reliable and efficient cargo transportation solutions.

One of the benefits of working with JIKE Logistics is that their professional team has extensive logistics experience and knowledge and can provide you with personalized logistics solutions and consulting services. Whether you need to ship goods from China to Bolivia, JIKE Logistics can provide full support.

Freight Forwarder Tips

When working with JIKE Logistics or other freight forwarders, it is recommended that you discuss your cargo transportation needs with them in detail, including product name, quantity, weight, volume, cargo's China location and destination in Bolivia. Detailed information can facilate shipping quote and shipping solution.

Contact Jike for a free shipping quote from China to Bolivia.

FAQs - Freight Forwarder Bolivia