Sea Freight From China To France requires reliable freight forwarders to handle the complex logistics, customs regulations and international trade routes. Given that China is the global manufacturing hub and France is an important European market, choosing the right freight forwarder is crucial for your efficient and cost-effective management of the supply chain. This article will introduce the top ten best freight forwarders from China to France in 2025, providing detailed information about their history, core services, advantages, etc., to help you find the appropriate freight forwarder more easily.
Kuehne + Nagel
Founded in 1890 in Bremen, Germany, Kuehne + Nagel (K+N) has grown into a global logistics leader with over 1,300 offices in 100+ countries. Its China operations began in the 1970s, capitalizing on the country's rise as a manufacturing powerhouse.
Main Business: K+N offers air, sea, rail, and road freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, and end-to-end supply chain solutions. They specialize in integrated logistics with a focus on sustainability.
Major Markets: Global reach with strong presence in Asia, Europe (including France), North America, and Latin America.
Advantages:
- Advanced digital platforms like myKN for real-time tracking and booking.
- Expertise in carbon-neutral logistics, aligning with France's sustainability goals.
- Extensive network ensuring reliable service to major French ports like Le Havre and Marseille.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 4.5 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) globally, with significant volumes on China-France routes.
Reasons to Choose:
- Comprehensive global network ensures seamless delivery to France.
- Industry-leading technology for transparency and efficiency.
- Proven track record in handling high-volume shipments from China.
DHL Global Forwarding
Established in 1969 in the USA, DHL Global Forwarding (part of Deutsche Post DHL Group) has a robust presence in China since the 1980s. It's a global leader in logistics with operations in over 220 countries.
Main Business: Air, sea, road, and rail freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and specialized solutions like GoGreen for sustainable logistics.
Major Markets: Strong in Europe (including France), Asia, North America, and emerging markets like Africa.
Advantages:
- Multimodal optimization for cost-effective routes to France.
- Advanced tracking via myDHLi platform, offering real-time visibility.
- Expertise in handling diverse cargo types, including perishables and hazardous goods.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Around 3.8 million TEUs globally, with a significant share on China-Europe routes.
Reasons to Choose:
- Extensive experience in China's high-volume export market.
- Tailored solutions for industries like automotive and fashion, key sectors in France.
- Reliable customs clearance services to navigate EU regulations.
Zhejiang Wilson Supply Chain Management Co., Ltd.
Established in 2011 and headquartered in Ningbo, Zhejiang Wilson Supply Chain Management Co., Ltd. has grown from a small team of three to a professional logistics provider with 26 experienced staff members. With offices in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong since 2015, 2018, and 2020 respectively, Wilson has achieved an annual turnover of 150 million RMB and a 10% yearly growth rate.
Main Business: Wilson specializes in international sea, air, and rail freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and supply chain management. They excel in handling fertilizers, chemicals, oversized cargo, and dangerous goods (e.g., Class 2 and 5.1 materials), offering FCL, LCL, and DDP services tailored to client needs.
Major Markets: Wilson serves Southeast Asia, India-Pakistan, the Middle East, Africa, Europe (with a strong focus on France), and the Americas. Their expertise in China-France routes makes them a top choice for European importers.
Advantages:
- Strategic partnerships with leading carriers like COSCO, Maersk, MSC, and Hapag-Lloyd ensure competitive rates and reliable schedules.
- Expertise in handling complex cargo, including fertilizers, chemicals, and oversized equipment, ideal for France's diverse import needs.
- Comprehensive AEO, FIATA/IATA, ISO, and NVOCC certifications ensure compliance and efficiency in customs processes.
- Nationwide coverage in China (Ningbo, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong) enables flexible pickup and consolidation.
- Real-time tracking and bilingual support provide transparency and responsive customer service.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 56,000 TEUs, with significant volumes on China-France routes, reflecting their leadership in specialized logistics.
Reasons to Choose:
- Tailored solutions for complex shipments, such as fertilizers and dangerous goods, meeting France's stringent regulations.
- Seamless DDP services simplify customs, taxes, and final delivery for French importers.
- Competitive pricing and guaranteed space, even during peak seasons, due to strong carrier relationships.
- Proven expertise in France's key ports (Le Havre, Marseille) ensures smooth customs clearance and delivery.
- Advanced digital logistics system offers end-to-end visibility and real-time updates.
Sinotrans Limited
Founded in 1950, Sinotrans is one of China's largest logistics providers, headquartered in Beijing. It has expanded globally, with a strong focus on Asia-Europe trade routes.
Main Business: Sea, air, rail, and road freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, and supply chain management. Sinotrans excels in multimodal transport, leveraging China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Major Markets: Asia, Europe (including France), North America, and Belt and Road countries like Qatar and Malaysia.
Advantages:
- Deep local knowledge of Chinese ports like Shanghai and Ningbo.
- Strong rail freight capabilities via China-Europe Railway Express.
- Competitive pricing due to partnerships with major carriers.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 3.89 million TEUs globally, ranking second in ocean freight forwarding.
Reasons to Choose:
- Expertise in rail freight, offering faster alternatives to ocean shipping for China-France routes.
- Extensive network in China ensures efficient cargo consolidation.
- Reliable customs services for smooth entry into France.
CEVA Logistics
Established in 2007 in Marseille, France, CEVA is part of the CMA CGM Group, a global shipping giant. It has a strong presence in China since its inception, leveraging CMA CGM's maritime expertise.
Main Business: Ocean, air, and ground freight forwarding, contract logistics, customs brokerage, and e-commerce solutions. CEVA specializes in automotive logistics and containerized vehicle shipments.
Major Markets: Europe (with a strong focus on France), North America, Asia, and Latin America.
Advantages:
- Seamless integration with CMA CGM's shipping network for optimized China-France routes.
- Expertise in automotive and e-commerce logistics, key industries in France.
- Real-time tracking and multimodal solutions for flexibility.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Around 2.5 million TEUs globally, with significant volumes to France.
Reasons to Choose:
- Local expertise in France ensures smooth customs and delivery processes.
- Strong focus on sustainability, supporting France's environmental policies.
- Tailored solutions for high-value goods like vehicles and electronics.
Nippon Express
Founded in 1872 in Tokyo, Japan, Nippon Express entered China in the 1980s and has grown into a top global freight forwarder. It expanded from ground transport to integrated logistics.
Main Business: Air, sea, rail, and truck freight forwarding, warehousing, customs clearance, and specialized transport for perishables and live animals.
Major Markets: Asia (especially ASEAN countries), Europe (including France), and North America.
Advantages:
- Expertise in cold chain logistics, ideal for France's food and beverage imports.
- Extensive logistics hubs in China for efficient cargo handling.
- Strong rail freight options via China-Europe routes.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 2 million TEUs globally.
Reasons to Choose:
- Reliable cold chain solutions for perishable goods like wine and cheese.
- Comprehensive network in China and Europe ensures timely deliveries.
- High customer satisfaction due to meticulous service.
Kerry Logistics
Founded in 1981 in Hong Kong, Kerry Logistics has become a leading Asia-based 3PL with a strong presence in mainland China since the 1990s.
Main Business: Air, sea, rail, and road freight forwarding, warehousing, customs brokerage, and supply chain solutions. They focus on customized logistics for multinational corporations.
Major Markets: Asia, Europe (including France), North America, and emerging markets.
Advantages:
- Strong network in Asia, ensuring efficient cargo consolidation from China.
- Expertise in e-commerce logistics, ideal for France's growing online retail market.
- Advanced digital platforms for tracking and management.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Around 1.8 million TEUs globally.
Reasons to Choose:
- Tailored solutions for industries like fashion and electronics, key French imports.
- Competitive pricing through strong carrier relationships.
- High reliability in meeting delivery schedules to France.
Bansar
Operating for over 10 years, Bansar is a China-based freight forwarder with offices across major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo.
Main Business: Sea, air, and rail freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and door-to-door shipping. They cater to small and medium-sized businesses.
Major Markets: Europe (including France), North America, Asia, and Australia.
Advantages:
- Affordable shipping rates due to strong carrier partnerships.
- Expertise in door-to-door delivery, simplifying logistics for French importers.
- Flexible solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 500,000 TEUs, focused on SME shipments.
Reasons to Choose:
- Cost-effective solutions for small businesses importing to France.
- Fast delivery options via air and rail freight.
- Excellent customer service with personalized support.
Foresmart Forwarding
Established in Shenzhen, China, Foresmart has grown rapidly since joining the Container xChange platform in 2020, focusing on global cargo transportation.
Main Business: FCL and LCL ocean freight, air freight, customs clearance, warehousing, and Amazon FBA delivery services.
Major Markets: Europe (including France), North America, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
Advantages:
- Extensive global network with reliable partners in France.
- Expertise in Amazon FBA logistics, catering to France's e-commerce boom.
- High customer ratings (4.7 stars on xChange).freightforwarderservices.com
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Around 300,000 TEUs, with growth in China-Europe routes.
Reasons to Choose:
- Seamless customs clearance and delivery in France.
- Competitive pricing for LCL shipments, ideal for smaller cargo.
- Strong focus on customer satisfaction and reliability.
TJ China Freight
Founded in 2003, TJ China Freight is a China-based freight forwarder with a focus on sea, air, and rail logistics. It has built a reputation for cost-effective solutions.
Main Business: Ocean, air, and rail freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and Amazon FBA logistics. They specialize in large and complex shipments.
Major Markets: Europe (including France), USA, UK, Australia, and Russia.
Advantages:
- Expertise in handling oversized and complex cargo.
- Competitive pricing through partnerships with top carriers.
- Professional packaging and reinforcement services to prevent damage.
Estimated Annual Container Volume: Approximately 400,000 TEUs.
Reasons to Choose:
- Proven track record in delivering to France with no cargo damage.
- Comprehensive services for Amazon FBA sellers in France.
- Responsive customer service with competitive quotes.
Why Choose a Freight Forwarder for China-France Shipping?
Freight forwarders play a crucial role in managing the complexities of international shipping. Here's why partnering with one of these top 10 freight forwarders is a smart choice:
- Local Expertise: Chinese freight forwarders have deep knowledge of local ports and regulations, ensuring efficient cargo handling.
- Global Networks: Their partnerships with carriers and agents in France guarantee smooth deliveries.
- Cost Efficiency: Competitive pricing and cargo consolidation reduce shipping costs.
- Technology-Driven Solutions: Advanced tracking and digital platforms provide transparency and control.
- Customs Expertise: Navigating EU customs regulations is seamless with experienced forwarders.
Tips for Choosing the Right Freight Forwarder
- Evaluate Experience: Choose a forwarder with a proven track record on China-France routes.
- Check Technology: Opt for companies with digital platforms for real-time tracking and booking.
- Assess Service Range: Ensure they offer air, sea, rail, and customs services to meet your needs.
- Verify Reputation: Look for customer reviews and industry certifications.
- Compare Pricing: Balance cost with service quality and reliability.
Final Thoughts
In recent years, Sino-French bilateral trade has grown steadily, thanks to the deepening economic ties between the two countries and the strong demand for industrial, consumer and technological products. As a major economy in the European Union and China's main trading partner in Europe, France continues to import a wide range of Chinese products, including machinery, electronic products, textiles and chemicals, while exporting luxury goods, aerospace components and agricultural products to China.
The continuous growth of trade has given rise to a strong demand for reliable and cost-effective logistics services. Among various transportation modes, sea transportation remains the most commonly used method for transporting bulk or non-urgent goods between China and France. If you are looking for a reliable freight forwarder from China to France , please contact us for a cheap quote.
