1. Key Ports and Shipping Overview

Port of Djibouti

As Djibouti’s only major container port, it handles over 95% of the country’s imports and exports, serving as a critical transit point for goods destined for Ethiopia and other East African nations. The port accommodates 20ft, 40ft containers, and specialized cargo, ensuring seamless connectivity between China and Africa.

China Origin Ports

Primary Routes: Direct and transit services from major Chinese ports including Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Qingdao.

Shipping Types:

• Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal for large shipments (e.g., machinery, furniture, building materials), offering exclusive use of a container.
• Less than Container Load (LCL): Cost-effective for small batches (e.g., e-commerce parcels, samples), with consolidation services to reduce costs.

2. Shipping Costs and Transit Times

Cost of shipping  Container Shipping from China to Djibouti

3.How long does it take from China to Djibouti

Sea Freight Time from China to Djibouti

Sea shipping is slower than air shipping, but it's often cheaper. The duration for sea transport can change based on where your goods start and the route they take. Typically, it takes about 20 to 30 days for items to travel from major Chinese ports to Djibouti. Here's a breakdown of the estimated shipping times:

Learn more about South Africa's national transport information

Shipping Containers to Mauritania

Shipping Containers from China to Lome Togo

Shipping Containers to Nigeria in June 2025

Container Shipping from China to Egypt

Container Shipping from China to Djibouti

Container Shipping from China to Cameroon

Direct Routes:

• Shanghai/Shenzhen → Djibouti: 15–22 days (via direct services by COSCO, CMA CGM).

Transit Routes:

•  Via Singapore/Suez Canal: 22–30 days (suitable for non-urgent cargo, with 5–10% cost savings).

Air Freight Time from China to Djibouti

Air freight is much quicker than sea freight, though it costs more. It's great for sending things fast, especially when you need them right away. It takes about 3 to 7 days to fly goods from big airports in China to Djibouti International Airport.

4. Operational and Documentation

Step-by-Step Process

1. Inquiry & Booking:

• Contact Presou Logistics with cargo details (name, weight, volume) for a personalized quote; book 3 weeks in advance during peak seasons (e.g., pre-holiday periods).

2. Cargo Preparation:

• FCL: Pack at factory or port, providing a detailed Packing List and Commercial Invoice.
• LCL: Deliver goods to our consolidation warehouse, with clear marking (Mark) for easy sorting.

3. Export Customs & Ocean Freight:

• Presou Logistics handles Chinese customs clearance, requiring declarations, invoices, and permits for sensitive goods (e.g., batteries, medical equipment).
• Receive Bill of Lading (B/L) and verify consignee information.

4. Djibouti Customs Clearance & Delivery:

• Required documents: Original B/L, Arabic-translated Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin (FORM A for tariff benefits).
• Choose port pickup or local delivery (Djibouti City delivery: ~$200–$350).

Taxes and Duties

• Import Duty: 5–30% (e.g., 10% for electronics, 5% for furniture, 25% for vehicles).
• VAT: 12% (calculated on CIF value + duties).
• Additional Fees: Port storage ($5–$10/day/container), customs agency fees (~$150).

Tip: Leverage China-Africa trade agreements for duty exemptions; submit Certificate of Origin to Djibouti Customs.

5. Presou Logistics’ Service Advantages

 Customized Solutions

• Door-to-Door (DDP) Service: Full-service coverage from factory pickup to final delivery, ideal for clients without local clearance capabilities (25–30% higher than port-to-port).
• Special Cargo Handling: Expertise in hazardous materials (requires MSDS), refrigerated goods (-20°C to +25°C), and oversized equipment.

Risk Management and Support

• Cargo Insurance: Default "All Risks" coverage (0.5% of cargo value) for damage, loss, or delay.
• Real-Time Tracking: Monitor container status via our website or customer service, with 48-hour alerts for anomalies (e.g., delayed port arrival).
• Document Pre-Check: Our team reviews customs documents in advance to minimize clearance delays.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does shipping to Djibouti require transshipment?

A: Direct services are available (e.g., 2 weekly Shanghai-Djibouti sailings), but some routes may transit via the Middle East.

Q: How long does Djibouti customs clearance take?

A: 3–5 working days normally; 7–10 days for high-value or inspected shipments.

Q: How is LCL cargo secured?

A: We use waterproof, durable packaging and 24/7 warehouse monitoring, with full tracking records for accountability.

Presou Logistics is committed to delivering seamless, reliable container shipping from China to Djibouti. With our expertise in African logistics, competitive pricing, and end-to-end service, we simplify the complexities of international trade. Whether you’re expanding into new markets or shipping personal items, trust us to handle your cargo with precision and care. Contact us today for a tailored quote and experience logistics excellence.