Shipping from China to Bahrain: Customs, Cost, Transit Time and More [2026]

At CFC we endeavor to make international shipping affordable, efficient, and effortless for the unique needs of Bahrain customers. Shipping from China to Bahrain can be easy when you find the experts.
Bahrain Customs
Bahrain uses HS Code for tariff classification purposes. As a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates), it applies the GCC common external tariff of at least 5% to be levied on most goods imported from countries outside the GCC, including China. Customs duties are calculated Ad valorem on the C.I.F value.
The import procedures are:
- The customs/ import declaration shall be electronically completed by the importer, his representative or the authorized customs broker.
- All documents and requirements shall be submitted to the customs office (Bill of Lading – Invoice).
- Goods are subject to inspection and examination based on the risk assessment criteria.
- Issuance of the exit order and release of goods.
After submitting the customs declaration form using the eCAS Customs Clearing System, the procedure for customs clearance is as follows:
- Pay the duty and fees due at the cashier desk in the customs point where the goods will be cleared
- Submit all the relevant documentation to the customs clearing officer at the customs point
- Pay the relevant cargo handling fees and make an appointment for movement of the cargo at the port operator desk
- Port operator will move the container to the relevant inspection point
- Customs will risk assess the goods and inspection may be carried out accordingly
- Goods will be cleared and allowed to leave the customs point
Sea Freight from China to Bahrain
We work with shipping centers globally, so we can easily find the most cost-effective and fastest route to ship to Bahrain from China. Our team of logistics experts approach every consignment with a detailed understanding of the most effective way to provide our customers with the services and products they require.
Top Container Ports in Bahrain
Khalifa Bin Salman Port is the largest container port in Bahrain. The port area is 900,000 square meters, the warehouse area is 23,600 square meters, and the container yard can store 10,800 standard containers.
KBSP’s strategic location in the middle of the Arabian Gulf, together with its deep-water berths and approach channel enables it to accept the largest oceangoing container vessels and its direct overland links to the mainland of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia positions the port as a major regional distribution center.
The other ports are Port of Manama and Port of Mina Salman.
Sea Freight Cost from China to Bahrain
Ocean freight rates largely swing due to factors including the points of loading and destination, chosen carrier, nature of your goods, and the constant ebb and flow of market conditions.
For instance, the port-to-port container rate from Shenzhen China to KSBP Bahrain is $1,500 for 1x40ft container.
Our specialized team will deliver the best possible shipping cost suited for your specific needs, crafting unique quotes with patience and precision, on a case by-case-basis.
Sea Freight Transit Time from China to Bahrain
On average, one can expect a sea journey of 20-25 days. However, keep in mind that this timing can vary based on the specific ports of departure and arrival.
Air Freight from China to Bahrain

For businesses, speed and reliability often trump cost – it’s what makes air freight the perfect choice for transporting goods from China to Bahrain.
Routes from China to Bahrain: Beijing (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong) – Dubai – Bahrain (Emirates Airlines), Beijing (Shanghai, Chengdu) – Abu Dhabi – Bahrain (Etihad Airways), Hong Kong – Dubai – Bahrain (Cathay Pacific Airways), etc.
The direct flights from China to Bahrain, Shanghai/Guangzhou – Manama, have been officially opened.
Top Airports in Bahrain
Bahrain International Airport – BAH is an air transportation hub connecting the East and the West. It connects 57+ destination airports with 41 airlines.
Located on Muharraq Island, adjacent to the capital Manama and the city of Muharraq, it serves as the hub for the national carrier Gulf Air.
Air Freight Cost from China to Bahrain
If you’re sending over 150kgs, air cargo becomes an attractive choice in terms of cost-effectiveness and reliability. Although this shipping method may come with longer transit times due to their fixed schedules, the security and rapid delivery it offers will serve your budgetary needs perfectly.
If you’re sending less than 150kgs, express courier ensures faster delivery through streamlined processes. Partnering with top-notch courier firms like FedEx, UPS, or DHL, could expedite your merchandise movement between China and Bahrain.
Pinpointing an exact cost is challenging due to several factors, such as the distance from departure and arrival airports, package dimensions, weight, and the nature of the goods. Rest assured, our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible rates, as we provide quotes on a case-by-case basis.
Air Freight Transit Time from China to Bahrain
On average, shipping goods via air freight between China and Bahrain can take around 3-5 days.
Working with CFC

If you are looking for transportation from China To Bahrain, CFC is the best option for you. Please feel free to contact us regarding your cargo shipment in China. We also offer tailor made customized freight quotation according to your specific supply chain needs.
CFC News - Sept. 2, 2026
Top-10 Global Container Port Throughput in H1 2026:
1. Shanghai, China
2. Ningbo-Zhoushan, China
3. Singapore, Singapore
4. Shenzhen, China
5. Qingdao, China
6. Guangzhou, China
7. Tianjin, China
8. Busan, Korea
9. LA/LB, USA
10. Port Kelang, Malaysia
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My machine arrived in good order and I am happy with CFC's shipping arrangements. I received quotes from other forwarding companies but they kept changing the amounts. Your quote was exact and there were no hidden charges. I would be happy to recommend CFC to other importers of goods from China.
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