Bofeng Logistics provides international sea freight logistics dedicated line services from major Chinese ports to France. France is an important global trade partner of China. Bofeng Logistics cooperates with multiple shipping companies, offering both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping modes.
I. Route Overview
France is an important global trade partner of China, with bilateral trade volume growing steadily. Major import and export goods include machinery and equipment, auto parts, cosmetics, luxury goods, chemical products, food, etc. Port of Le Havre (LEH) — France's largest container port, covering Paris and the northern region; Port of Marseille (MRS) — gateway to Southern France and the Mediterranean.
Bofeng Logistics maintains cooperation with multiple shipping companies on this route, providing one-stop services including FCL, LCL, customs clearance, warehousing, insurance, and door-to-door delivery.
II. Origin Ports and Destination Ports
2.1 Major Origin Ports in China
| Origin Port | Region | Advantage | Suitable Cargo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port of Shanghai | East China | Core departure port for China-France routes | Cargo from East China/Yangtze River Delta |
| Port of Shenzhen (Yantian) | South China | Major departure port in South China | Cargo from Pearl River Delta |
2.2 Major Destination Ports in France
Port of Le Havre (LEH) — France's largest container port, covering Paris and the northern region; Port of Marseille (MRS) — gateway to Southern France and the Mediterranean
III. Main Shipping Lines
| Shipping Line | Advantage Routes | Sailing Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| CMA CGM | French national carrier, comprehensive Asia-Europe coverage | Multiple sailings per week |
| COSCO Shipping | Leading capacity on Asia-Europe routes | Multiple sailings per week |
| Maersk | Well-established Asia-Europe network | Multiple sailings per week |
IV. Full Container Load (FCL) Service
4.1 Available Container Types
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L×W×H) | Suitable Cargo |
|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 5.90×2.35×2.39m | Heavy cargo, chemicals, hardware and building materials |
| 40GP | 12.03×2.35×2.39m | Light bulky cargo, furniture, textiles |
| 40HQ | 12.03×2.35×2.69m | High-volume cargo, electronics, machinery |
4.2 Reference Transit Time
| Origin Region | Destination Port | Direct/Transshipment | Reference Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| East China (Shanghai) | Le Havre | Direct | Approximately 26-30 days |
| South China (Shenzhen) | Le Havre | Direct or transshipment | Approximately 28-33 days |
Note: The above transit times are for reference only. Actual shipping time is affected by the shipping line's route design, transshipment port connections, port operation efficiency, weather, and other factors. Please confirm at time of booking.
V. Less than Container Load (LCL) Service
For small batch cargo, Bofeng Logistics offers sea freight LCL service from China to France. LCL cargo is charged based on the greater of volume or weight (RT = Revenue Ton), 1 CBM = 1000 KG. LCL shipments can be arranged from both South China and East China.
VI. Shipping Terms and Value-Added Services
| Term | Description | Applicable Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| FOB China Port | Seller responsible up to origin port, buyer arranges sea freight | Buyer-designated forwarder |
| CIF France Port | Seller responsible for sea freight + insurance to destination port | Seller controls transportation |
| DDP France Door | Seller responsible for entire journey to designated address in France (including customs duties) | Door-to-door service |
Value-Added Services: Export customs clearance, destination port customs brokerage, trucking pickup, warehousing and transshipment, transportation insurance.
VII. Operational Notes for France Route
7.1 Documentation Requirements
- Bill of Lading (B/L), Commercial Invoice, Packing List
- Invoice must specify detailed product name and HS code
- Some products require Certificate of Origin
7.2 Customs and Compliance
- Cosmetics, food, etc. must comply with EU CE standards and French ARPP requirements
- CMA CGM is based in Marseille, with strong Asia-Europe route advantages
- Port of Le Havre is the largest container port, covering Paris and northern regions
- Port of Marseille is suitable for Southern France and Mediterranean cargo
- Free time at destination port is typically 5-7 days
7.3 Important Notes
- It is recommended to book 2-3 weeks in advance; during peak season, 3-4 weeks in advance
- Special cargo (batteries, chemicals, etc.) must confirm compliance requirements in advance
- Free time at destination port is typically 3-7 days; detention charges apply beyond that
VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does sea freight take from China to France?
Approximately 26-30 days from East China, 28-33 days from South China. Actual time depends on the shipping line's route design and whether it is direct.
Q2: Which port is mainly used for sea freight to France?
Le Havre is France's largest container port, suitable for Paris and the northern region. Port of Marseille is suitable for Southern France and the Mediterranean region.
Q3: What are the customs clearance requirements for France?
An EORI number is required. Cosmetics, food, etc. must comply with EU CE standards. Bofeng Logistics can provide full documentation guidance.
IX. Further Reading
- Export Sea Freight Full Process
- International Sea Freight Operations Manual: Global Major Routes and Ports
- International Sea Freight Operations Manual: How to Choose Direct vs. Transshipment Vessels
X. Contact Us
Get real-time quotes and personalized logistics solutions for the China-France sea freight dedicated line:
- Tel: 130-7567-8958
- Email: info@zhbfwl.com
- Online Consultation: Get Sea Freight Quote
This article was created by the professional team at Bofeng Logistics, based on 20 years of international sea freight operation experience. If you have sea freight needs to France, please contact Bofeng Logistics for a personalized solution.