How to Ship Containers to France
Shipping containers to France involves understanding port procedures, container types, documentation, and customs rules. Below is a guide answering common questions from businesses shipping goods into France.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What documents are needed to ship containers to France?
You’ll typically need the following:
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – Proof of receipt and shipment
- Commercial Invoice – Declares the value and nature of goods
- Packing List – Details the contents of the shipment
- Customs Declaration – Required for entry into France
- Certificate of Origin – May be needed depending on the product and country of export
Additional certificates may be required based on the nature of your goods, such as sanitary or phytosanitary certificates.
How are shipping costs to France calculated?
Costs depend on:
- Container size and type (20ft, 40ft, reefer, etc.)
- Origin and destination
- Mode of transport (FCL, LCL, door-to-door)
- Weight or volume of the goods
- Any extra services such as warehousing or insurance
To receive an accurate quote for your shipment, request a quote here.
How long does it take to ship a container to France?
Typical transit times:
- Sea freight: 10 to 40 days depending on the origin
- Air freight: 1 to 7 days
- Rail (intra-European): Around 5 to 12 days
Delays may occur due to customs checks, port congestion, or weather conditions.
What container sizes are available for shipping to France?
Standard container types include:
- 20ft container – Suitable for heavy, compact cargo
- 40ft container – Better for lighter, bulkier items
- 40ft high cube – Additional height for oversized goods
- Reefer containers – For temperature-controlled cargo
If you need advice on the right container type for your shipment, our team can help you here.
Can I ship a partial container to France?
Yes. If your cargo doesn’t fill a full container, Less than Container Load (LCL) is available. Your goods are grouped with others, and you pay only for the space you use.
What are the main container ports in France?
Key ports include:
- Le Havre – France’s largest and busiest container port
- Marseille-Fos – Major entry point from the Mediterranean
- Dunkirk – Well connected to northern Europe
Containers arriving at these ports can be cleared in-house by our multilingual team, with support from our office in France, ensuring a streamlined process.
What goods can be shipped in containers to France?
Commonly shipped goods include:
- Machinery and automotive parts
- Electronics and IT equipment
- Food and beverage products
- Consumer goods
- Industrial raw materials
If you need to check requirements for a specific product or category, contact our team here.
Is insurance required when shipping to France?
Insurance isn’t mandatory but is highly recommended. It provides financial protection in the event of damage, loss, or delay. Carrier liability alone may not cover the full value of your shipment.
How do customs procedures work in France?
France is part of the EU Customs Union. Clearance involves:
- Submitting digital declarations
- Paying applicable duties and VAT
- Undergoing inspection if selected
Containers arriving at French ports can be cleared in-house by our team to streamline the process. To help ensure smooth compliance, you can reach our team here.
What are the common mistakes to avoid?
Common issues include:
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Wrong HS codes
- Misuse of Incoterms
- Poor labelling or packaging
Need support with shipping containers to France?
At Customs Complete, we offer in-house customs clearance in France and can clear in over 90 countries. Our multilingual team operates 24/7 from offices in France, Ireland and the UK. We support clients across freight forwarding, customs, and compliance.
