China–Europe Rail Freight: Costs, Routes & Transit Times

China–Europe rail freight offers a middle ground between sea and air — typically ~35 days door to door at 30–50% less cost than air freight. It is increasingly popular for e-commerce and mid-volume importers.

How China–Europe Rail Works

Containerised cargo travels by rail from Chinese hubs (Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing) through Kazakhstan and Russia to European terminals — primarily Duisburg, Germany and Małaszewicze, Poland. From there, trucks deliver to your warehouse.

TY Freight coordinates rail bookings, export clearance, and EU import customs under DDP.

Rail vs Sea vs Air

• Rail: ~35 days · Mid-cost · Best for 5–20 CBM
• Sea: ~50 days · Lowest cost · Best for 10+ CBM planned orders
• Air: 5–9 days · Highest cost · Best for urgent cargo

See express vs air vs sea comparison.

When to Choose Rail

• Sea transit is too slow but air is too expensive
• Shipping to Germany, Poland, or Central Europe
• Seasonal inventory needing 2–3 week delivery