Shipping To Sri Lanka: The Complete Guide [2024]

In recent years, with the in-depth implementation of the "Belt and Road" initiative, Sri Lanka, as an essential node of the "21st Century Maritime Silk Road", has carried out extensive cooperation with China in the fields of infrastructure construction, production capacity cooperation, and cultural exchanges. This provides more solid infrastructure support for the logistics route of shipping to Sri Lanka and creates more business opportunities for enterprises in both countries.

Sri Lanka-China trade relations are dynamic and significant, with solid trade volumes and a wide range of imports, mainly covering key industries such as electronics, machinery and textiles. This article aims to provide comprehensive guidance and simplify the shipping process.

Shipping process to Sri Lanka

Shipping to Sri Lanka involves many aspects of international trade and customs formalities. The specific process varies depending on the type of goods, value, mode of transport, and whether or not you are working with a freight forwarder. Here is an overview of the typical process for exporting to Sri Lanka:

1. Prepare goods for export: Ensure that the goods comply with Sri Lanka's import requirements and standards and are adequately ##packaged and labeled
2. Obtain necessary documents: Prepare all the required export documents and certificates, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, import licenses, etc.
3. Choose a freight forwarder: A reliable freight forwarder handles shipping and customs clearance processes.
4. Choose the mode of transport: According to your needs, choose the appropriate mode of transport, such as sea, air, or land transport, and arrange for the transportation of goods to the destination in Sri Lanka.
5. Export declaration: Declare the export goods to the relevant agency or customs and complete the export declaration form and other necessary documents as required.
6. Payment of duties and fees: Pay relevant export duties, fees, taxes, and other related expenses as required.
7. Cargo transportation: Arrange cargo transportation to Sri Lanka, track the cargo transportation process, and ensure cargo is delivered safely to its destination.
8. Customs clearance: Carry out customs and customs clearance procedures for goods at the Sri Lankan customs and provide necessary documents and information for customs to accept and release the goods.
9. Delivery of goods: Ensure smooth delivery to the consignee, confirm that the consignee has received the goods and complete the transaction.

Sri Lanka customs and tax rates

When exporting to Sri Lanka from China, it is vital to understand the customs regulations. Duties and taxes are an essential aspect of the export and import process. Sri Lanka uses the CIF method, which means that import duties and taxes are calculated based on the value of the imported goods plus the freight. The import broker will usually also charge a fee for submitting import clearance documents to the local customs authorities. This customs clearance fee is in addition to the customs duties and import VAT/GST on the imported goods.

Sri Lanka tariffs and tax rates details

Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) Calculation method: CIF Taxes are calculated based on product prices and shipping costs Taxes (VAT /GST): 15% Tariff threshold: $0

The categories of items shipped in your order will be subject to the relevant tariffs at this rate. Mobile phone: 0%
Tablet: 0%
Computer: 0%
Camera: 0%
Accessories: 0%
Accessories (battery): 0%
Health and Beauty: 30%
Fashion: 15%
Watches: 0%
Jewelry: 0%
Pet accessories: 30%
Dry food and supplements: 30%
Household appliances: 0%
Home decoration: 30%
Toys: 15%
Sports: 0%
Luggage: 30%
Audio Video: 0%
Files: 0%
Games: 0%
Books and collectibles: 0%

Restricted and prohibited items in Sri Lanka

When considering importing from Hong Kong to Sri Lanka, it is essential to consider both China's export regulations and Sri Lanka's import regulations. China has strict laws regarding the export of certain items; similarly, Sri Lanka has strict import regulations.

The list of prohibited or controlled items includes:

• Dangerous drugs
• Psychotropic drugs
• Chemicals
• Antibiotic
• Weapons and ammunition
• Foreign Currency
• Strategic Products
• Rough Diamond
• Certain types of telecommunications equipment
• Battery
• Paint
• Poison
• Flammable items

The transportation of the following goods is also restricted:

• Animal
• Plant
• Endangered species
• Game
• Meat
• Poultry
• Powdered formula

Without the required licenses, permits, health certificates or written permission from China will result in legal prosecution and the items may be seized and confiscated.

Documents Required for Shipping to Sri Lanka

Shipping to Sri Lanka generally requires a series of documents and certifications, which are official records of transactions and help customs authorities verify the legality, safety and compliance of the goods being transported. The required documents include:

1. Commercial invoice: A commercial invoice includes information such as description, quantity, and value of goods.
2. Packing list: describes the detailed information of the goods, such as weight, size, packaging method, etc.
3. Shipping documents: A copy of the shipping method (such as bill of lading, airway bill, etc.).
4. Insurance policy: An insurance policy is required if the goods are insured.
5. Proof of departure: A document that proves the place of departure of the goods, such as a certificate of departure.
6. Import permits: Certain goods may require an import permit before being imported into Sri Lanka.
7. Sanitary and phytosanitary certificates: Sanitary and phytosanitary certificates for specific goods such as food and plants.
8. Quality inspection certificate: A document that proves that the goods meet quality standards.
9. Proof of origin: A document, such as a certificate or declaration, that proves the origin of goods.
10. Payment voucher: a voucher for payment of customs duties and other charges.

Specific documentation requirements for exporting to Sri Lanka vary depending on the type of goods, value, and changes in import policies. Failure to provide these documents or submitting inaccurate information may result in delays, additional costs, or even legal disputes.

Packaging guidelines

When shipping to Sri Lanka, proper packaging is essential to help protect your shipment from damage or loss during transit. Here are some packaging and labeling standards :

• Choose a sturdy box that can withstand the shipping process.
• Ensure the box is the correct size for your items and leaves enough room for cushioning material.
• Use bubble wrap, or cushioning materials such as foam to protect your items during shipping.
• Wrap each item individually in cushioning material.
• Seal the box with heavy-duty packing tape, covering all seams.
• Label the box with the recipient's address and contact details.
• The label on the package must be prominently displayed in large bold font using indelible ink or paint.
• Mark fragile items so couriers and freight forwarders can handle these packages more carefully.
• If your goods are susceptible to moisture or water damage, consider covering the outside of the package with a waterproof film or choosing waterproof packaging materials.

Sea Freight from China to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island country in the Indian Ocean south of the South Asian subcontinent. Sea transportation is the most common mode of transportation for transporting goods from China to Sri Lanka.

Delivery to major sea ports in Sri Lanka

Main ports for Chinese exports to Sri Lanka

1. Shanghai Port: The world's largest port in terms of container throughput, providing a wide range of global shipping services and connections, and is the first choice for shipping to Sri Lanka.
2. Shenzhen Port: Is adjacent to Hong Kong, specializing in electronics and high-tech products and providing efficient export services for these industries.
3. Guangzhou Port: It is the manufacturing center of the Pearl River Delta and can accommodate various types of goods.

Sri Lanka's leading ports for imports from China

1. Colombo Port: As a premier port, it leads in capacity, facilitating fast customs clearance and providing advanced logistics solutions. It is a vital transshipment point in South Asia.
2. Hambantota Port: Strategically located near international shipping routes, it is increasingly becoming an option to avoid congestion and delays in Colombo.
3. Galle Port: Although smaller, it is vital to regional trade and can efficiently support specific cargo types.

Ports of departure and arrival depend on various factors, such as distance from the cargo's origin, the cargo being transported, and the required transit time. Each of these factors affects the overall efficiency and cost of the shipping process.

FCL and LCL

In sea transportation, FCL and LCL are two standard modes of cargo transportation, each with its own characteristics and applicable scenarios.

Full container load (FCL) is the use of an entire container to load the goods of the same owner, usually filling the whole container or occupying most of the space. It is suitable for situations where the amount of goods is significant. It can maintain the independence of the goods during transportation and improve their safety. The goods do not need to be mixed with those of other owners, which helps to shorten the transportation time of the goods.

Container load (LCL) is consolidating a portion of cargo into the same container and transporting it with other shippers' cargo. It is suitable for situations where the cargo volume is small and can be charged according to the volume or weight of the cargo based on actual needs. LCL has the advantage of high flexibility and is suitable for situations where the cargo volume is small, the budget is limited, or the time requirements are relatively flexible.

When choosing between FCL or LCL shipping, you can consider the following factors:

• Cargo volume: FCL is suitable for larger cargo volumes, while LCL is for smaller cargo volumes.
• Time requirements: FCL may shorten the shipping time; LCL may take longer to arrange the transportation of goods.
• Budget: The cost of FCL and LCL will differ, so choose based on your budget.

The final choice depends on the specific situation and needs of your goods. In operation, you usually communicate with the freight forwarder or logistics company to choose the most suitable transportation method according to the actual situation.

Sea freight time

Ocean freight, including less-than-container Loads (LCL) and Full Container Loads (FCL), usually takes 18 to 28 days.

Sea freight costs

LCL (less than container load) rates may range from $38 to $65 per cubic meter

Air freight from China to Sri Lanka

Air transport is a fast and efficient way of transporting goods, suitable for situations where the value of goods is high and time is tight. It is especially suitable for goods with small volumes (less than two cubic meters), lightweight (less than 200 kilograms), and situations with high timeliness requirements. Air transport has become a very suitable choice.

Here is a summary of the advantages and considerations of choosing air freight:

1. Speed: Air transport is undoubtedly one of the fastest ways to transport goods. It can quickly deliver goods to their destinations, especially in emergencies.
2. Security: Airlines usually take strict security measures to ensure the safety of goods during transportation. High insurance coverage: Air freight offers extensive insurance coverage, providing more comprehensive protection for high-value goods and ensuring that the goods are adequately protected during transportation.
3. High timeliness requirements: For goods with high transportation timeliness requirements, such as medical supplies and high-end electronic products, choosing air transportation can ensure that the goods are delivered to the destination on time and safely.
4. Economic benefits: Although air freight costs are high, for goods with high value and high timeliness requirements, choosing air freight can bring significant economic benefits, ensure that the goods arrive at the destination quickly, and reduce potential losses.

Air freight time

Air freight from China to Sri Lanka is affected by many factors, including cargo type, flight schedule, route selection, seasonal factors, and customs clearance time. It usually takes between 3 and 8 days.

Air freight costs

Air freight costs from China to Sri Lanka are affected by many factors, including cargo weight, volume, transportation time, route selection, fuel surcharges, and seasonal factors. In addition, air freight costs from China to Sri Lanka change rapidly, and the current air freight rates may range from US$4 to US$9 per kilogram.

Express Shipping from China to Sri Lanka

Choosing an international express service is efficient and quick, especially when time is essential. Globally, international express companies such as DHL, UPS, FedEx, and EMS provide fast and reliable delivery services to ensure that packages can be delivered to their destinations safely and quickly. These companies have a complete logistics network and efficient transportation system to meet customers' urgent delivery needs.

Although relatively expensive, express delivery is the first choice for many people due to its high speed and reliability. Express delivery is wise for customers who pursue time efficiency and fast delivery.

Express costs to Sri Lanka

The cost of express delivery from China to Sri Lanka is affected by many factors, including the size, weight, delivery time and destination of the goods. A package weighing 5 kg will cost about US$35 to US$100.

The pricing strategies and service fees of mainstream international express delivery companies may vary. Therefore, when choosing a suitable express delivery company, you must consider service quality, timeliness and coverage, and price factors.

Working with a freight forwarder is a good option because they can offer more competitive prices and help you choose the shipping solution that best suits your needs. Working with a freight forwarder can also get discounts, making international express shipping of your goods more economical.

Express time to Sri Lanka

Shipping from China to Sri Lanka via express usually takes 3-5 days.

Why choose to cooperate with JIKE logistics

JIKE Logistics is a company dedicated to providing customers with comprehensive logistics solutions. We have rich experience and expertise to provide reliable support for your cargo transportation between China and Sri Lanka. We are well aware of the business environment and regulatory requirements of China and Sri Lanka. We can tailor the most suitable logistics solution for you to ensure that the goods arrive at the destination quickly and safely.

In developing the Sri Lankan market, choosing a reliable logistics partner who understands the local business environment is crucial. JIKE Logistics' professional team will fully support you and help you overcome various transportation challenges you may encounter, ensuring that your goods arrive at their destination smoothly and comply with local regulations and standards.

Whether you need air freight, express, or sea freight, JIKE Logistics will provide customized solutions according to your needs and efficient and reliable logistics services. Our professional team will serve you wholeheartedly, allowing you to focus on your business and enter the Sri Lankan market smoothly. Choosing JIKE Logistics as your logistics partner will support your business activities and help you succeed in the Sri Lankan market.

FAQs - Shipping to Sri Lanka