How to Ship Containers to France
Shipping containers involves many factors, and knowing how to ship containers to France requires a clear understanding of transport options, documentation, and customs procedures. Businesses involved in international trade often work across tight timelines and regulations, and careful planning is essential to avoid delays and unnecessary costs.
This guide outlines the key aspects of how to ship containers to France, including modes of transport, costs, transit times, and customs clearance.
In this blog we will go through the following topics:
Main Shipping Options to France
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most commonly used option for transporting containers to France. It offers competitive pricing for large volumes and is suitable for both full container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL). Key ports in France, such as Le Havre and Marseille-Fos, are well equipped to handle international cargo and offer direct access to inland transport networks.
Air Freight
Air transport is typically used for high-value or urgent cargo. While not standard for full containers, it is an option for businesses prioritising speed over volume. Transit times are significantly shorter, though costs are higher.
Road and Rail
For shipments from other European countries, containerised goods can be delivered efficiently by road or rail. France’s central location and developed infrastructure support smooth transit from neighbouring markets like Germany, Belgium, Spain, and Italy.
Estimated Transit Times
Transit duration varies depending on the origin and method of transport:
- From East Asia (e.g. China) to Le Havre: 30–35 days by sea
- From North America (e.g. US East Coast): 12–16 days by sea
- From neighbouring EU countries: 2–6 days by road or rail
- By air: 1–5 days, depending on the route and customs clearance
Transit estimates may be affected by port congestion, carrier schedules, and peak shipping periods.
What Influences Shipping Costs?
Container shipping costs to France are affected by several variables:
- Container size: Standard sizes include 20ft and 40ft containers, with rates adjusted according to volume and weight.
- Type of load: Full container loads (FCL) offer better value per unit, while shared containers (LCL) are used for smaller consignments.
- Distance and route: Longer routes, transshipments, or inland delivery zones increase costs.
- Market conditions: Seasonal demand, fuel prices, and port charges also contribute to rate fluctuations.
Key Ports for Container Shipments to France
Le Havre
One of France’s busiest ports, Le Havre is a preferred gateway for transatlantic and Asia-Europe trade. It offers fast access to Paris and northern Europe via rail and motorway links.
Marseille-Fos
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille-Fos is used for shipments from southern trade lanes, including Africa and the Middle East.
Dunkirk
Close to Belgium and the UK, Dunkirk is efficient for northern European distribution and often sees less congestion than other major ports.
Customs and Documentation
Shipping containers into France from outside the EU involves completing standard import formalities:
- Commercial invoice
- Bill of lading or air waybill
- Packing list
- Import declaration
- Certificates (as required: origin, conformity, health, etc.)
Businesses based in the EU will need a valid EORI number. Import VAT and customs duties may apply, depending on the classification and origin of goods. Ensuring the accuracy of commodity codes and declared values is critical to avoid penalties or clearance delays.
Planning container shipments to France involves more than selecting a transport mode. Understanding transit times, documentation, and customs processes is essential for smooth delivery. For businesses trading with France from outside the EU, ensuring full compliance with customs requirements is particularly important.
Ready to ship containers to France?
At Customs Complete, we manage customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and supply chain coordination for businesses shipping to France. We provide direct support with import procedures and documentation through our multilingual team based in France, Ireland, and the UK.
