Whether you’re sending a package to a loved one in China or expecting a delivery from across the globe, understanding how postal service works in China is essential. With its vast geography and booming e-commerce, China’s postal system plays a vital role for businesses and individuals alike.
This article breaks down how the Chinese postal service operates, what to expect when mailing or receiving items, and tips for ensuring your mail arrives safely and on time.
Related Video
Understanding How Postal Service Works in China
When you need to send or receive mail and parcels in China, the first name you’ll hear is China Post. The Chinese postal system includes regular postal services (China Post), express delivery (EMS), private couriers, and international shipping partners. Whether you’re a resident, expat, business owner, or traveler, knowing how the postal system works in China can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about navigating postal services in China, covering how the system works, tracking options, shipping processes, cost considerations, practical tips, and answers to common questions.
Overview: How Postal Service Works in China
The Chinese postal system is extensive and fairly reliable, connecting major cities, remote villages, and the global network. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:
- China Post is the national postal operator – handling everything from letters and postcards to parcels and registered mail.
- EMS (Express Mail Service) is an official express courier service for faster, tracked shipments.
- Private couriers (like SF Express, JD Logistics, ZTO Express, and others) offer more specialized or speedier services but at higher costs.
- International shipping relies on partnerships with foreign postal services and private logistics companies.
Sending Mail or Parcels Within China
Step-by-Step Process
- Packing
Make sure your item is well-protected and labeled clearly—especially if it’s fragile. Some post offices will have packing supplies for sale. - Choosing the Service
Decide between China Post (standard mail), EMS (express), or a private courier, depending on your budget and urgency. - Addressing Your Package
Write the address in Chinese if possible (for domestic). For international, include both English and Chinese if you can. - Visiting a Post Office or Courier Outlet
Bring your ID, especially for valuable or international shipments. - Filling Out Forms
Complete a shipping form. Declare contents for international parcels. - Paying the Fee
Prices depend on weight, size, destination, and speed. You’ll get a receipt and, if tracked, a tracking number. - Tracking (if applicable)
Use your tracking number on China Post or EMS sites, as well as popular logistics apps.
Domestic Shipping: Points to Know
- Standard service typically takes 2–7 days within China, depending on distance and service type.
- Express options (e.g., EMS, SF Express) often deliver within 1–3 days.
- Delivery to remote areas or during holidays may take longer.
- In most cities, home pickup and delivery are available, especially for larger shipments or business clients.
Sending Mail or Parcels Internationally
The Process
- Prepare International Paperwork
For international shipments, provide itemized contents in English and a customs declaration. - Address Carefully
Print names and addresses clearly, using the Roman alphabet for overseas destinations. - Choose the Service
- Airmail: Faster but pricier.
- Surface Mail: Cheaper but slow (sometimes several weeks).
- EMS Global: For important or time-sensitive packages, with good tracking.
- Private Couriers: Even faster for urgent documents or goods.
- Pay Shipping Fees
Costs are based on size, weight, destination country, and speed. - Track Your Shipment
Most standard and express services offer tracking that works across borders (tracking numbers remain valid with their counterpart postal services or logistics partners abroad).
Cost Tips for International Shipping
- Lighter and smaller packages cost less—consider dividing heavy shipments when possible.
- Compare quotes from China Post, EMS, and private couriers.
- Watch out for peak season surcharges (around Chinese New Year or holiday periods).
- For business shipping, bulk discounts may be available.
Customs & Restrictions
- Declare contents honestly to avoid customs issues; some goods are prohibited or restricted.
- Check import regulations of the destination country, especially for food, cosmetics, electronics, and batteries.
- Expect customs delays: International parcels can be held up for inspection, leading to unpredictable delivery times.
Tracking Your Mail or Parcel
Keeping track of your package is simple:
- When you ship via China Post or EMS, you receive a 13-digit tracking number.
- Tracking is available in English and Chinese on official China Post and EMS websites, and through logistics apps.
- Many international tracking services also recognize China Post tracking numbers once the item leaves China.
Tracking Tips
- Progress updates can lag a few days, especially during customs processing.
- Once items cross borders, tracking status may shift to the local post of the destination country.
- If you don’t see updates for a while, contact the sending office or your local post office for help.
Benefits of the Chinese Postal Service
- Vast network: Post offices in almost every town and city.
- Affordable: Basic services cost less than most private couriers.
- Various options: From economy to express and business logistics.
- Reliable recently: Especially in cities and for traceable deliveries.
Challenges and Common Issues
- Language barrier: Most clerks speak Mandarin; addresses should be in Chinese if possible.
- Inconsistent speed: Remote areas may experience slow delivery.
- Lost or delayed items: While rare, lost items do occur; tracking and insurance help reduce risk.
- Limited compensation: For lost or damaged parcels, reimbursement usually covers only the declared value and shipping cost—so insure valuable shipments.
- Customs delays: Particularly for international packages to or from countries with strict import controls.
Practical Tips for Using Postal Services in China
- Always get a receipt and tracking number.
- Use Chinese characters for the recipient’s name and address to avoid confusion.
- Take a photo of your shipment and its form for reference.
- If unsure, bring your phone and use a translation app at the post office.
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits.
- For online shopping returns, check if the platform arranges home pickup.
- Write “Fragile” (易碎品) in bold for delicate items, though careful handling is never guaranteed.
- For valuable or urgent documents, opt for EMS or SF Express, and ask for extra insurance if available.
Cost-Saving Advice
- For non-urgent packages, use standard China Post or surface mail.
- Organize group shipments with friends or colleagues for discounted rates.
- Avoid overpacking—weight affects price more than size.
- Pre-calculate shipping costs online if possible to compare options.
- If possible, use flat-rate boxes or envelopes for small items.
Postal Services for Expats and Travelers
- Most cities have at least one English-speaking post office in business or expat areas.
- Larger post offices often have dedicated windows or signs in English.
- For tourists, sending postcards is simple—just pick up a card and stamp at the counter.
- Expats sending goods home should always double-check customs regulations and preferred delivery times.
Business Shipping: Key Aspects
- Registered businesses get streamlined shipping contracts with China Post or private couriers.
- Pickup and bulk shipping discounts are available for large volume clients.
- Dedicated account managers are common for companies using express or international services.
- E-commerce sellers should explore integration with logistics software for real-time tracking and automatic address importing.
When to Use Private Couriers
- For high-value goods, faster service, customizable delivery times, or detailed insurance options, private couriers like SF Express and JD Logistics are preferred.
- They may offer better tracking and customer support, but expect higher costs.
Inbound Mail to China
If you’re receiving mail from abroad:
- Provide your complete Chinese address (including postal code and phone number).
- Notify the sender to indicate your name in both English and Chinese if possible.
- Tracking works across most international boundaries; local post offices will deliver upon arrival.
Summary
Navigating China’s postal service is straightforward when you know the process. Choose the right service for your needs, prepare your package carefully, complete the required paperwork, and always keep your tracking number. Costs depend on distance, speed, and parcel weight; surface mail is cheaper but slower, while EMS and private couriers are faster at a premium. With smart choices and preparation, the postal system in China can be a reliable tool for connecting you with friends, family, and the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I track my parcel sent with China Post or EMS?
You’ll receive a tracking number at the time of shipping. Enter this number on China Post or EMS tracking portals, or use popular tracking apps. For international items, tracking continues on the destination country’s postal service site.
How long does standard shipping take within China?
Domestic shipments typically arrive within 2–7 days, depending on the destination and service chosen. Express services usually deliver within one to three days.
What is the cheapest way to send a package within China?
Standard China Post services (Surface or Regular Mail) are the most affordable option for non-urgent shipments. Costs are based on weight and distance, but even remote villages can receive packages for a reasonable fee.
Can I send international parcels from any Chinese post office?
Most city and town post offices handle international shipments, though it’s best to visit larger branches for more options and English-speaking staff. Remember to bring identification and fill out a detailed customs declaration.
Are there items I cannot send from China?
Yes. Prohibited items include dangerous goods, live animals, perishables, illegal products, and some electronics with batteries. Before sending, check both Chinese and destination country restrictions to avoid delays or seizures at customs.
By understanding the ins and outs of China’s postal system, you’ll navigate shipping and receiving with confidence—whether you’re a resident, business, or traveler.
