France Shipping Guide
France is Europe's third-largest economy. Le Havre is France's largest container port and a key Atlantic gateway to Europe. Marseille-Fos serves Mediterranean routes. China-France trade continues to grow, with strong French market demand for Chinese electronics, textiles, machinery, and home products. France has extremely high product quality standards.
Basic Information
Major Ports & Airports
France's largest container port on the English Channel, the preferred Atlantic route gateway to Europe.
Southern France's largest port serving Mediterranean routes, covering southern France and North Africa.
France's main cargo airport and a key European air freight hub.
Customs & Clearance
French Customs operates under the EU system using the DELTA electronic clearance system. French-language documentation is strongly preferred.
Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- EORI Number
- Certificate of Origin
- CE Declaration of Conformity
Restricted Items
- Food must comply with EU safety regulations
- Cosmetic ingredients have specific restrictions
- Chemicals require REACH compliance
- Textiles must meet labeling regulations
Customs Tips
VAT is 20%. Prepare French-language customs documents to accelerate clearance. French labor regulations are strict — plan delivery timing carefully.
Logistics Services
- FCL
- LCL
- Air Freight
- DDP Door-to-Door
- China-Europe Railway
Logistics Challenges
French-language requirements add communication costs. Strict labor regulations may cause strikes affecting port operations. Inland logistics network is well-developed.
Common Trade Goods
Exports from China
Imports from Country
Practical Tips
- 1Prepare French-language customs documents
- 2Understand French labor regulations' impact on delivery
- 3Le Havre covers northern France and Paris region
- 4Marseille suits Mediterranean route cargo