Ever wondered how to send a parcel, letter, or document through the postal system in China? Whether you’re an expat, student, or business owner, knowing how “China post” works is essential for hassle-free communication and deliveries.
Understanding the process can save you time, money, and avoid common mistakes. In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide, helpful tips, and insider insights—all designed to make using China’s postal services simple and stress-free.
Related Video
How Does China Post Work? A Comprehensive Guide to Sending and Tracking Parcels
China Post is the official postal service of China, offering a variety of options for shipping letters, parcels, and packages to both domestic and international destinations. If you’re looking to send or track a package with China Post, whether you’re a business owner, shopper, or individual, understanding the system is key to a smooth experience. In this article, we’ll break down how China Post works, outline its main features, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of its services.
1. Understanding China Post
China Post operates a vast nationwide and international network for delivering mail and packages from China to virtually anywhere in the world. It’s widely used by online retailers, especially those selling on platforms like AliExpress, eBay, and Amazon.
Main Services Offered
China Post offers several shipping options to suit different needs:
– Ordinary Small Packet Plus: Economical, for lightweight and inexpensive items, usually without tracking.
– Registered Airmail: Slightly more expensive, with end-to-end tracking and delivery confirmation.
– EMS (Express Mail Service): Fastest option, includes detailed tracking and prioritizes speed.
– ePacket: Designed for faster eCommerce deliveries to selected countries, with tracking.
2. Step-by-Step: How to Send a Parcel with China Post
Here’s what you need to do if you want to send a parcel via China Post:
1. Packaging Your Item
- Use a strong, secure box or envelope.
- Include a detailed and accurate description of the contents.
- Check the weight and dimensions—these will affect the shipping cost.
2. Fill Out the Customs Declaration Form
- For international shipping, clearly state the item, value, and purpose.
- Attach the completed customs form securely to your parcel.
3. Take Your Parcel to the Post Office
- Visit a local China Post branch.
- The staff will weigh and measure your package, help you choose the right service, and provide a tracking number if applicable.
4. Pay for Shipping
- Costs are determined by destination, weight, dimensions, and service level.
5. Keep Your Receipt and Tracking Number
- This number allows you to monitor the status of your parcel.
3. Tracking Your China Post Package
One of the key concerns for senders and recipients is knowing where the package is.
How Tracking Works
- Registered Services: You get a tracking number—usually a 13-digit code (e.g., RR123456789CN).
- Ordinary Small Packet Plus: Usually, no tracking after leaving China.
- EMS and ePacket: Full end-to-end tracking.
Where to Track Your Parcel
You can track your China Post parcel on:
– China Post’s official website.
– Third-party tracking websites and apps that aggregate information from various carriers.
– Many eCommerce platforms also integrate tracking updates into your order page.
Tracking Statuses You Might See
- Acceptance: The package is received by China Post.
- Departure from outward office of exchange: Package left the export office in China.
- Arrival at inward office of exchange: Package reached the destination country’s import office.
- Delivered: Successfully handed over to the recipient.
4. Benefits of Using China Post
China Post is widely used for a reason. Here’s what stands out:
- Global Reach: Ships to most countries internationally.
- Variety of Services: Options for different budgets and speed requirements.
- Affordability: Cost-effective, especially for lightweight and small items.
- Integration with Online Retailers: Most Chinese eCommerce sellers offer shipping via China Post.
5. Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While China Post is popular, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here’s what to watch out for, and how to address common issues:
Possible Challenges
- Long Delivery Times: Economy options can take several weeks.
- Tracking Gaps: Some services have limited tracking, especially after leaving China.
- Customs Delays: Parcels can be delayed at customs in the destination country.
- Lost or Damaged Parcels: Economy services generally offer limited compensation.
Practical Tips to Minimize Issues
- Choose the Right Service: If speed and reliability matter, opt for Registered Airmail, ePacket, or EMS.
- Track Regularly: Use multiple tracking tools for updates.
- Provide Clear Contact Information: Ensures local delivery agents can reach you.
- Package Securely: Protects items from damage during transit.
- Be Patient: Economy packages may take time, especially during holidays or major shopping seasons.
6. Tips and Best Practices for Efficient Use
Here are expert-backed suggestions to make your China Post shipping process smooth:
- Double-Check Addresses: Mistakes in the address can cause delivery failure or return to sender.
- Understand Prohibited Items: Don’t ship goods restricted by either China or the destination country.
- Use the Right Tracking Tools: Some apps offer more detailed tracking by aggregating updates from several carriers.
- Insure Expensive Items: Consider shipping insurance for valuable parcels.
7. Cost-Saving Tips When Shipping with China Post
Shipping costs can quickly add up, especially for businesses or frequent shippers. Here’s how to save money:
- Use Economy Services for Low-Value Goods: For inexpensive, non-urgent items, low-cost options are available.
- Compare Pricing: Ask at your post office for quotes on different services.
- Consolidate Parcels: Sending multiple small items in one larger parcel can be cheaper than many individual shipments.
- Weight Wisely: Even a few grams can change the postal rate. Always check before finalizing packing.
- Look for Commercial Contracts: If you ship in bulk, negotiate better rates or use a freight forwarder.
8. Commonly Used Third-Party Tracking Platforms
Many users track China Post shipments using trusted third-party platforms that bring together data from multiple sources. These platforms provide more frequent updates and clearer status explanations:
- Comprehensive tracking across international carriers.
- Notification options for major status changes.
- Detailed location and time stamps for each update.
- Support for languages besides Chinese and English.
9. Summary
China Post offers a convenient, reliable, and budget-friendly means of sending parcels from China to almost any country in the world. By understanding how to use the service, which shipping method to choose, and how best to track and protect your shipments, you ensure a more secure and efficient delivery experience. While there can be delays and occasional tracking uncertainties, most parcels do arrive safely, and millions of successful deliveries are made each year via China Post.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get a China Post tracking number?
You’ll receive a tracking number when you choose a service that includes tracking (such as Registered Airmail, EMS, or ePacket) at your local post office or from the shipper if ordering online. The tracking number is usually 13 characters long and ends with “CN”.
Why isn’t my tracking information updating?
Sometimes tracking status lags, especially when parcels are in transit between shipping hubs or after leaving China. Updates should resume once the package reaches the destination country’s local post office network.
What should I do if my China Post parcel is lost or delayed?
First, check all available tracking platforms for the latest information. If it’s lost or overdue, contact the sender or your local post office to file a claim. For valuable items, always choose a service with insurance.
How long does it take for China Post to deliver internationally?
Delivery times vary:
– Ordinary shipping: 2-8 weeks, depending on destination.
– Registered Airmail or ePacket: 10-30 days on average.
– EMS: 3-10 working days for most locations.
Can I send anything via China Post?
No. Prohibited items include hazardous materials, perishable goods, weapons, and certain electronics, among others. Always check the list of restricted items before shipping to avoid confiscation or delays.
Shipping with China Post is a practical choice for getting goods from China to the rest of the world. With the right knowledge and tools, you can enjoy affordable rates and reliable delivery, whether you’re sending gifts, running an online business, or just tracking an order.
