Estimated moving costs: Melbourne to China
| Home size | Container type | Estimated cost | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / bedsit | LCL shared | $4,769–$6,732 | 3 weeks |
| 1 bedroom | LCL shared | $6,796–$9,594 | 3 weeks |
| 2 bedrooms | LCL shared | $9,524–$13,446 | 3 weeks |
| 3 bedrooms | 20ft FCL | $13,925–$19,658 | 3 weeks |
| 4+ bedrooms | 40ft FCL | $18,963–$26,771 | 3 weeks |
Estimates include ocean freight from Melbourne, origin port fees, destination port handling, customs clearance, and transit insurance. Rates are indicative — always get 3 quotes from licensed international removalists.
Shipping from Melbourne to China — what to expect
Melbourne is served by its own international container port, giving you direct access to container ship services. Sea freight to Shanghai / Shenzhen takes approximately 3 weeks. During this time, most people arrange temporary furnished accommodation at their destination.
The destination port is Shanghai / Shenzhen. Customs clearance at China typically adds 3–7 business days after arrival. Your removalist or customs broker handles this process — make sure your goods inventory list is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Cost breakdown for Melbourne to China
- Ocean freight: The main cost — varies by container size and market rates. LCL (shared container) is typically cheapest for homes under 33 m³.
- Origin port fees (Melbourne): Terminal handling at the Australian end. Typically $680.
- Destination port fees (Shanghai / Shenzhen): Terminal handling and customs clearance. Typically $1,200.
- Transit insurance: ~1–1.5% of declared goods value. Strongly recommended.
- Door-to-door delivery: Inland transport at destination — often quoted separately by removalists.