An ultimate Rail Freight guide for shipping goods from China

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This comprehensive guide covers all that you need to know while shipping your consignment via

rail from China to Central Asia, Russia or Europe.

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Rail freight is increasingly becoming an interesting alternative for businesses operating from

Europe, Russia, and Central Asia. This is because it is less expensive when compared to air

freight and quicker when compared to sea freight options.

Though the reach is still limited, there are plenty of routes connecting Europe and China. Go

through this guide to understand the basics of rail freight for shipping goods from China.

What is rail transport?

Rail freight involves the use of railroads and trains for transporting goods from one place to

another. If you opt for this method while shipping goods from China, then the goods would be

boarded on a cargo train by the logistics company and will be shipped to the intended destination.

Trains can easily carry bulk materials in large quantities over long distances. Rail freight

practices vary from one region to another. This mode of transportation is more efficient in

comparison to others.

Rail freight also serves as a perfect middle way between air and sea freight. It is faster than sea

freight but is yet more expensive. It is not as fast as air freight. But it is significantly cheaper.

You can benefit immensely by choosing this option if you are shipping goods from China to

Europe.

Rail freight shipping from China

China is the leading global manufacturers in the world. All the nations are heavily reliant on the

country for their trade needs. As a result, the country obviously has a strong network of air, sea

and rail freight in place to ensure the secure transportation of goods imported by businesses from

all over the world.

Moreover, due to environmental concerns, China is planning to increase the capacity of its rail

freight by 30 percent. This move was announced recently by the vice-director of the vehicle

emissions control center, Ding Yan. As trucks contribute majorly to pollution, Ding is stressing

the use of rail freight services while transporting goods to major transit hubs.

Which cities in China are connected to a railway network?

China has the largest railway network in the world. A railway freight service can be easily

booked by either the supplier or the buyer while transporting goods from China. It is the majorly

preferred choice for transporting bulk goods. The important cargo transported via trains is coal. It

accounts for over 50 percent of total rail freight tonnage.

Container cargo constitutes a small fraction of the total rail freight. In China, rail cargo accounts

for just 8 percent of the total freight shipments from China. In the US, rail freight accounts for

over 40 percent. This is the reason why the government is planning to increase the share of

railway goods transported to remove millions of trucks off roadways.

Majorly, rail freight services from China are preferred for domestic shipping. Railways serve as a

great connector to transit points from inland China. The largest rail ports are Alashankou,

Erenhot, Suifenhe, and Manzhouli. Also, cities in China have opened international rail freight

routes for promoting international trade.

Chongqing started rail freight services to Duisburg, Germany in 2011. This rail route shortened

shipping time to two weeks from five in comparison to sea freight. It also costs 80 percent

cheaper than air cargo shipments to Duisburg.

Yiwu is a major railway hub for cargo transported to and from Europe. Goods from this railway

port are delivered conveniently to

France

Italy

Germany

Spain

United Kingdom

Inland transportation is quite expensive in the European Union. Hence, sending goods from rail

freight seems to be a convenient option for many traders.

Advantages of choosing a rail freight service from China

Rail freight comes numerous benefits to offer. The major ones are:

1. Time and Cost Savings

The cost of rail freight from China is 50 percent cheaper in comparison to air cargo. Also,

the transit time taken is 45 percent to 50 percent shorter in comparison to sea freight

transport.

Rail freight is a great alternative for all companies operating internationally. It is cheaper

in comparison to other modes. If you want to benefit from quick and cheap delivery, then

relying on rail freight is a viable solution.

2. Quicker Customs Procedures

Customs inspection and declaration procedures can be completed easily in case of rail

freight. You can rely on DFH to manage the rail freight customs procedures from China.

Our trained team is aware of managing the complex process and will secure a clearance

certificate for your goods in no time.

3. Flexible services

A wide variety of goods are accepted for transportation via rail freight. This includes

dangerous goods, LCL and FCL and door-to-door deliveries.

Why rail freight is becoming a popular option from China to Europe?

Railway transportation is quite strong and suitable when it comes to the transportation of bulk

materials. It is also economical and environmental friendly. Before a proper network was

established to transport goods between China and Europe, the shipments were sent via Central

Asia and Mongolia. Tianjin and Qingdao are the two major ports for shipping rail freight from

China to Asia.

A dedicated rail route between China and Europe was established for boosting trade. It is now

becoming more reliable and popular for shipping cargo to Europe. Also, the direct train service

to Europe has lowered the time at transit hubs. Further, it has lowered the burden on air and sea

freight services.

Rail departure schedule from China to Europe

There are over 15 main cities in China that have rail freight connections with over 16 major

cities in Europe. The number of containers permitted per train is around 41 and varies depending

on the routes. Trains get reloaded at the borders if the rail gauge system is different. However,

this is a low-risk process.

Railways require high standards when it comes to loading sequence, cargo weight, and container

loading mechanism. The procedures are stricter when compared to other freight means. This is

the reason why high fashion clothing, electrical and mechanical products, electronic components

and other high-value products are transported from China to Europe via rail.

Can dangerous products be shipped by train from China?

It depends on the rail route and the container type allowed. Open top containers are not any

different from sea containers in terms of play load, capacity, and dimensions.

The New Silk Road

The Silk Road was a network of trade routes connecting the East and the West during ancient

times. It was central to political, cultural and economic interactions between the two regions

from the 2nd

to 8th

centuries. The route connected China with Southern Europe, East Africa,

Arabian Peninsula, Persia, and South Asia.

In a campaign to boost its trade network, China started a new railway line called “The New Silk

Road”. This railway line serves many European cities including Madrid and Hamburg. During

the first journey, the train carried 44 containers of clothes and suits and covered a journey of

12,000 kilometers to Europe. Ten containers were removed at Duisburg and the rest were

removed at Euro hub terminal at Barking.

Currently, four weekly train services from Duisburg and three weekly services from Hamburg

operate between China. The train from Duisburg crosses Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia and

reaches the Chinese city Chongqing. It is one of the largest industrial centers in the country.

The train covers a distance of 12,200 km between 15-20 days. The traditional wagon takes 22-25

days to reach the final destination. The train can carry 100 TEUs and 40-foot GPHC and PWHC

containers. All these containers have a GPS tracking system.

The first intermodal freight train from Chengdu to Vienna covered 9,800 km in just 14 days. It

carried 44 containers with goods such as machinery, lighting materials, household goods, tires,

and electronic equipment. The train traveled through Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, and Slovakia

before reaching its final destination.

This Cross-continental rail network connects 41 European cities with 43 cities in China. The

network spans over 13 countries. The service has also extended to Southeast Asia. In 2018, one

of the trains picked up cargo from Europe and carried it to Hanoi. This train carried electrical

commodities, coffee, rice and Vietnamese fruit on its return from Hanoi. China-Europe lines are

expected to connect more Southeast Asian nations such as Singapore, Laos, and Thailand.

How long does it take to deliver goods from China via rail freight?

The delivery time from China to Europe is around 10-20 days. It will save you around 10-15

days in comparison to sea freight.

Get in touch to learn more about the exact rail routes between China and Europe.

Rail freight vs. air freight vs. sea freight

Rail freight serves as a middle way between air and ocean freight. It is faster in comparison to

sea freight but is even expensive. It is significantly cheaper in comparison to air freight but not as

fast. Also, the environmental impact is lower.

A container ship from China that cannot pass the Suez Canal has to undertake a journey of

24,000 km to reach Europe. However, the China-Europe train covers the journey to the same

place in less than 11,000 km.

The scope of goods being delivered by rail freight includes wood, coffee beans, wines, grains,

automobiles, and clothing. It also includes mobile phones and computers. Although maritime

shipping is still the leader, there has been a rise in the values and cargo volumes using rail freight.

High volume customers can rely on slower but cheaper sea freight options. Customers who ship

high-value goods can rely on rail freight. If time is the major constraint, then air freight would be

a viable option.

How much does rail freight cost?

Currently, rail freight costs are half in comparison to air freight solutions. Volumetric charges are

not applicable while estimating rail freight charges. This can save thousands of dollars for

importers.

The rail freight option was not well-defined before 2013. It picked up the pace a couple of years

ago with the Chinese government establishing a rail network with European nations. The rail

freight charges will significantly come down in recent years.

Rail freight may cost anywhere around $0.6-$1 per kg depending upon the goods being

transported. You can contact DFH executives to learn more about the costs involved.

Can I send LCL and FCL cargo via rail?

Yes. The process is more or less similar. The delivery is defined based on the same incoterms.

The cargo is loaded either as FCL or LCL. The intercontinental rail freight is currently new.

Furthermore, it is essential to check what is acceptable in one nation and what is not because the

railway network between Europe and China spans over 13 countries. This limits the options for

most of the traders shipping goods from China.

Does the importer need any special documents?

The supplier needs to have a special license for transporting goods via rail. DFH has the

necessary expertise to ship goods to Europe from China. The trained staff knows how to apply

for a customs clearance while shipping goods. We have a decade of experience in successfully

shipping goods from China to other regions in the world.

Pros of rail freight

Reliable schedules and transit times

Cost-effective and quick deliveries over long distances

Ideal for transporting goods of large quantities

Rail freight has a record for being safe in comparison to other modes

Is environmental friendly because of lower emissions

Quicker delivery in comparison to ocean freight

Cons of rail freight

Goods can only be shipped to Russia, Europe and other regions in Asia

The railway line is not flexible

Door to door shipping is not possible with just trains

Not a great option for short distances

Rail freight corridor

The rail freight corridor established between China and European nations ensures easy

movement of goods from one destination to another. The New Silk Road has made it easier to

merge all countries within a single market.

This railway network currently consists of three main operational corridors.

Northern Rail Corridor

This route connects Europe with Russia. It follows the same course as the Trans-Siberian

Express.

Central Rail Corridor

This route traverses through Kazakhstan and links with the Northern rail corridor.

Southern Rail Corridor

This route is the longest of the three operational corridors. This route covers Georgia,

Kazakhstan, Turkey, Iran and Azerbaijan. It finally connects with the European rail

network.

Frequently asked Questions

1. What is rail freight?

It is transporting goods from one destination to another via train. It is currently a

conventional means of surface transportation from China to other regions in Asia and

Europe.

2. Why choose rail freight over other freight modes?

Rail freight is more of a complementary method. It is cheaper in comparison to air freight

and quicker when compared with sea freight. It is a great alternative for those looking for

a reasonable and quicker freight shipping option from China. Moreover, it is quite

reliable.

3. Which major cities in China have a reliable railway network?

China is an extensive railway network in the world. Currently, the rail freight shipping

option is available to western parts of Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and the Far East.

The popular cities include

Chongqing

Zhengzhou

Suzhou

Wuhan

Changsha

Chengdu

Guangzhou

Xi’an

Qingdao

Shanghai

Yiwu

Yiwu is a major rail freight hub in China.

4. Are there limitations on what goods to ship?

Yes. As the railway network passes through different nations, it has to be identified what

is permissible and what is not. For instance, shipping livestock is restricted and is deemed

to be unsafe via rail freight.

5. Are rail freight shipments always transported in containers?

No. It depends on the kind of goods that you wish to ship from China. Bulk cargo can be

shipped in sealed containers. Gases and liquids are transported in tanks.

6. Can I ship a single container using rail freight service?

Yes. It is possible to ship just a single container from China by using rail freight service.

You can also ship half a container. You can choose LCL or FCL depending on the

number of goods you are shipping from China. The same incoterms are applicable in rail

freight as well.

7. What is the bulk cargo?

It is transporting large volumes of goods. It is offloaded and loaded by dropping or

pouring at points. It can be anything from petroleum, grains, iron ore, coal or ballast.

8. How much does it cost to ship from China?

Shipping by rail is quite cheaper in comparison to air freight. The cost is more or less

similar to that of sea freight costs. The best thing is that volumetric charges are not

applicable in this case. Also, no excess surcharges are applicable.

9. What routes are used for shipping to Russia?

China to Russia railway network is popular as the Eurasian railway network. It covers

Yiwu, Shanghai and passes to Kazakhstan and Russia. London is the final destination.

10. How long does it take to deliver goods to Europe from China via rail?

Rail freight is quicker in comparison to sea freight while transporting goods from China

to Europe. Sea freight shipping may take 45 days whereas rail freight will take 15-20

days while shipping goods from China to Europe.

11. Is there any insurance available over rail freight?

Yes. You can opt for insurance for goods being shipped via rail if the shipment is of high

value.

12. What do terms carload and intermodal mean in rail freight?

The intermodal is used when cargo transportation when the shipping process is combined

with other means of transport such as roadways.

A carload is used when cargo remains on the train during the entire journey.

13. My final destination is not served by rail. Can I still ship by rail?

Yes. It is possible to ship goods from China to the nearest station of your chosen address.

You can then move goods in a truck or any other mode of transport to your desired

destination.

14. Can perishable goods be shipped via train?

Yes. You can ship perishable goods via trains. There are specific containers that have

been designed for carrying goods that are sensitive to temperature. These are also used in

sea freight and referred to as reefer containers.

15. Is it possible to track cargo?

Yes. You can easily track your consignment using our reliable services. However, you

need to have the shipping line details and bill of lading number for tracking your

shipment.

16. What are the documents involved in rail freight shipping?

Rail freight from China strengthened only after 2013. It is still new in comparison to

other modes of shipment. The precise documents required are still not defined. Hence,

you need to rely on freight forwarders while shipping goods from China.

If you have any queries, then you can contact support executives at DFH right away.

Why DFH is the best option for rail freight services from China?

Now that you know that there are numerous benefits of opting for rail freight especially if you

are shipping goods to Europe, you also need a reliable rail freight forwarder from China to ship

your goods safely and securely.

DHF is your trustworthy freight forwarder from China. We are here to assist you during each

stage of shipping the consignment of goods that you purchase from China. We promise cost-

effective solutions.

DFH offers professional rail freight services from any city in China. We conveniently package

your goods and ship them to your chosen destination. We have a decade of experience in

successful shipping goods from China to all over the world.

We are the best when it comes to shipping goods from China to Europe and Russia via rail. You

don’t have to worry about the complicated customs clearance procedures. Our experts will take

care of it for you. Just choose us and we will manage the rest for you.

Call us today for a free rail freight quote!