China to Aruba: Comprehensive Shipping Guide to Oranjestad

Ocean Freight: Primary Routes and Key Details

1. Chinese Departure Ports & Transit

• Ports: Xiamen, Tianjin, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Qingdao, Ningbo, Nanjing, Hong Kong, Fuzhou, Dalian.
• Route: All ports use CMA CGM’s PEX2 service with a standardized two-step transit:
  • 1st Leg: China → Kingston, Jamaica (via PEX2 service).
  • 2nd Leg: Kingston → Manzanillo, Panama → Oranjestad, Aruba (via feeder vessels).
• Transit Time: 35–45 days (including 中转等待时间), subject to seasonal delays (e.g., winter tourism peaks).

2. Cargo Types & Container Services

• FCL Only: Ideal for large shipments (e.g., construction materials, vehicles, industrial equipment).
• No LCL Services: Consolidation not mentioned; consider partnering with San Logistics Limited for potential LCL options (not explicitly listed in sources).

3. Key Shipping Lines & Local Agents

Customs and Documentation

1. Required Documents

• Commercial Invoice (English/Dutch), Packing List, Bill of Lading (B/L), Certificate of Origin (CO).
• For vehicles/equipment: Technical specifications and proof of insurance.
• Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Rules: Tariff reductions may apply—verify with agents.

2. Tariffs & Restrictions

• Duties: 5–15% of CIF value + 9% VAT (standard for non-exempt goods).
• Exemptions: Medical supplies, educational materials, and some agricultural equipment.
• Prohibited Items: Used tires, non-biodegradable plastics, and certain 动植物 products (subject to strict biosecurity checks).

Local Logistics and Delivery

1. Port of Oranjestad

• Facilities: Container terminal, Ro-Ro capabilities, and limited cold storage.
• Challenges: Small port size may cause delays during peak seasons (December–April).

2. Inland Transport

• Road Network: Paved highways connect Oranjestad to resorts (e.g., Palm Beach, 15 minutes) and industrial zones (e.g., Paradera, 10 minutes).
• Fleet Options:
  • Secured trucks for high-value goods (e.g., electronics, luxury items).
  • Flatbed trucks for oversized cargo (e.g., machinery for Aruba’s energy sector).
• Local Partners: Use agents like VR SHIPPING for last-mile delivery to remote areas (e.g., San Nicolas, 30 minutes south).

3. Additional Services

• Cargo Tracking: Available via major carriers (e.g., Maersk, CMA CGM) through their respective portals.
• VGM Compliance: All carriers require Verified Gross Mass (VGM) for container shipments—submit weights 24 hours before loading.

Critical Tips for Shipping to Aruba

1. Peak Season Planning:
   • Avoid shipping between December–April (tourism peak) without pre-booking container space.
2. Documentation Accuracy:
   • Ensure invoices include HS codes and a local contact’s VAT number. Use agents to review documents for CARICOM compliance.
3. Sustainability Rules:
   • Aruba prohibits single-use plastics in marine zones—use eco-friendly packaging (e.g., biodegradable materials).
4. Contact for Support:
   • San Logistics Limited (info@sangrupo.com) for tailored quotes or assistance with complex shipments (e.g., hazardous materials, perishables).