Importing from China to the UK before Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year falls on Saturday 10th February in 2024, when the beginning of the Year of the Dragon is celebrated.These celebrations last for up to ten days, and can mean Chinese companies are closed for some time. Unlike the UK where many companies continue to trade, EVERYTHING shuts throughout China. This impacts the supply chain and has quite and, in turn, on world trade.Please see our FAQ on importing from China to the UK for more general information.
How Chinese New Year impacts importing goods from China to the UK
Our agents in China will be closed from the 10th to the 17th February for the Spring Festival. However, production slows down significantly at Chinese businesses up to a week before (from the 3rd February) and can take a week to get back to normal levels on reopening (18th-25th February)
Smaller (LCL) shipments from China to the UK
LCL, or less than container load, is generally used for smaller shipments. The last date for shipping LCL is the 25th/26th January.
More information on LCL
Larger (FCL) shipments/container shipments from China to the UK
FCL or full container load is used for larger shipments. As space is at a premium due to the rush to ship before the holiday, those wishing to ship this way need to apply to an agent for space/availability. This will be limited and subject to haulage availability.
Please be aware rates will be at a premium in the run up to Chinese New Year.
Airfreight from China to the UK
Airfreight will see a rise in demand due to the lack of available shipping.This will inevitably affect the cost and available spaces for airfreight, so this option can be costly.
Shipping from China to the UK after the holiday
There is good news for those who can wait to ship their goods until after the holiday. After the rush to ship everything before the new year begins, there is generally no backlog when companies begin operating again. To rejuvenate growth, rates are typically reduced meaning it can be a very cost effective time to ship.
Happy New Year or xīn nián kuài lè !