What Non‑DG Chemicals Does France Commonly Import from China?
France imports a wide range of Non‑DG (non‑dangerous) chemical products from China, primarily serving its pharmaceutical, agrochemical, cosmetics, plastics, and coatings industries. Key product categories include:
- Organic Chemicals — Nitrogen‑heterocyclic compounds, carboxylic acids and derivatives, acyclic alcohols. Imports exceeded USD 430 million in 2023.
- Miscellaneous Chemical Products — Composite diagnostic reagents, doped chemical elements for electronics, activated carbon, artificial graphite. Imports topped USD 270 million in 2022.
- Agrochemicals — Insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and plant growth regulators (~USD 12 million in 2022).
- Inorganic Chemicals — Inorganic acids, peroxides, chlorides, and other basic inorganics (~USD 48 million in 2022).
- Flavours, Fragrances & Coating Raw Materials — France's perfume and coating industries import significant volumes of these intermediates from China.
- Plastic Resins & Synthetic Fibres — Basic chemical feedstocks for French manufacturing.
- Rubber Additives & Plasticisers — Rubber accelerators, composite plasticisers (~USD 4 million in 2022).
How to Ship Non‑DG Chemical Samples from Chongqing to France
Chemical sample shipping is the first step in trade negotiations. From Chongqing, samples can be sent via international couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) or air freight. Here is the standard procedure:
Sample Preparation
- Confirm the sample is Non‑DG (check MSDS Section 14 for dangerous goods classification).
- Use well‑sealed packaging with "Chemical Sample" labels and composition details.
- Provide a complete MSDS (English + French recommended) – this is mandatory for French customs.
- For powder samples, use double‑layer packaging to prevent leakage.
Courier & Documentation
- Recommended Carriers: DHL, FedEx, UPS – 3‑5 days to Paris.
- Commercial Invoice: Mark as "chemical samples, no commercial value" or low value. Include HS code and composition details.
- Consignee Requirements: The French importer must have an EORI number and ensure REACH compliance (imports <1 ton/year are usually exempt from registration).
Air Freight Process for Non‑DG Chemicals from Chongqing to France
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) has launched multiple all‑cargo routes to Europe, including the "Chongqing–Hahn" route, with 88 international (regional) routes in total. Air freight is the top choice for samples, high‑value goods, and urgent orders. The full process:
| Step | Action | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Booking | Provide MSDS, product details, weight, dimensions; book with airline or forwarder. | Confirm airline acceptance for the specific chemical category. |
| 2 Cargo Delivery | Deliver to CKG cargo terminal or use the Xiyong Comprehensive Bonded Zone air freight station for direct airport linkage. | The Xiyong station enables "factory door to aircraft belly" direct connection. |
| 3 Export Declaration | Submit commercial invoice, packing list, MSDS, and customs declaration via e‑customs. | Accurate HS code and product description are critical. |
| 4 Loading & Take‑off | Cargo loaded onto freighter or passenger belly to Paris CDG or other French airports. | Direct or connecting flights via European hubs. |
| 5 France Import Clearance | French customs reviews documents; import broker submits MSDS, REACH declaration, and pays duties/VAT. | REACH compliance statement required; check PFAS ban status. |
| 6 Pickup & Delivery | After clearance, cargo is picked up and delivered to the consignee's address. | Delivery within 24‑48 hours after clearance in Paris area. |
LCL Ocean Freight for Non‑DG Chemicals to France
For smaller shipments (1‑15 CBM), Less‑than‑Container‑Load (LCL) is cost‑effective. Cargo moves by truck from Chongqing to Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen ports, then LCL ocean freight to Le Havre or Fos, France.
Route & Transit
- Origin: Chongqing warehouse pickup → truck to Shanghai/Ningbo (~2‑3 days).
- Destination: Le Havre (FRLEH) or Fos (FRFOS).
- Transit: via Mediterranean or Cape of Good Hope routes, total ~25‑35 days.
- Minimum: 1 CBM; weekly sailings.
LCL Services
- Dedicated chemical consolidation to avoid contamination.
- Full documentation package, including French pre‑clearance.
- Insurance covering leakage, damage, and transit delays.
- De‑consolidation at Le Havre/Fos and nationwide delivery.
FCL Ocean Freight for Non‑DG Chemicals to France
For larger volumes (≥20 CBM), Full Container Load (FCL) offers stable space and lower per‑unit costs. Cargo moves by truck from Chongqing to Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen, then FCL to Le Havre or Fos.
Container Types
- 20GP – ~28 CBM, ideal for drums and bagged chemicals.
- 40GP – ~58 CBM for larger orders.
- 40HQ – ~68 CBM for high‑volume shipments.
Transit Time
- Shanghai/Ningbo → Le Havre: ~28‑35 days.
- Shenzhen → Fos: ~30‑38 days.
- Weekly sailings with flexible cut‑off times.
FCL Value‑Added Services
- Stuffing at our warehouse with chemical‑grade bracing, palletising, and shrink‑wrapping.
- Certificate of Origin (CO) to leverage EU‑China preferential tariffs.
- Dedicated French customs broker for large‑scale declarations.
- Direct trucking from port to factory (no de‑consolidation).
- DDU / DDP door‑to‑door options available.
Required Documentation & Compliance for Non‑DG Chemical Shipping
To export Non‑DG chemicals to France, the following documents and credentials are essential:
| Document / Credential | Description | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MSDS (English + French) | 16‑section safety data sheet covering composition, hazards, first‑aid, and transport information. | If Section 14 shows no DG classification, the cargo is considered Non‑DG. Mandatory for French customs. |
| Commercial Invoice | Product name, HS code, quantity, unit value, total value, incoterms (FOB/CIF). | Must match customs declaration; avoid under/over‑valuation. |
| Packing List | Detailed quantity, gross/net weight, and dimensions per package. | Essential for customs and carrier documentation. |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Issued by the carrier, confirming shipment details. | Original or telex release depending on trade terms. |
| Certificate of Origin (CO) | Issued by CCPIT, enables EU‑China tariff preference. | Recommended to reduce import duties. |
| REACH Compliance Statement | Confirms the product meets EU REACH requirements. | For imports >1 ton/year, registration is required; for ≤1 ton, a statement is sufficient. |
| French EORI Number | Economic Operator Registration and Identification number for the French importer. | Mandatory for all imports into France. |
| Transport Identification Report | Issued by an accredited lab, confirming Non‑DG status. | Some carriers may require this for booking. |
Compliance Export Operating Guide for Non‑DG Chemicals to France
Follow these 6 steps to ensure full compliance when exporting Non‑DG chemicals from Chongqing to France:
Step 1 – Pre‑Shipment Compliance Check
Confirm the HS code and check France import duties. Verify the product is not on the French prohibited list (e.g., PFAS ban). Prepare a complete MSDS and composition analysis report.
Step 2 – Documentation Preparation
Compile all required documents: commercial invoice, packing list, MSDS, CO, REACH compliance statement, and transport identification report (if required). Ensure consistency across all documents.
Step 3 – Export Declaration in Chongqing
Submit to Chinese Customs via the Single Window. Provide accurate product description, HS code, and value. Chemical exports must comply with China's export control requirements.
Step 4 – International Shipping
Choose air freight, LCL, or FCL based on volume and urgency. For rail, consider the China‑Europe Railway Express (Chongqing to France ~17‑19 days).
Step 5 – France Import Clearance
Our local broker submits documents to French Customs. Chemicals require MSDS and REACH compliance verification. Pay import duties and VAT (based on CIF value).
Step 6 – Delivery & Sign‑Off
After clearance, arrange trucking to the final warehouse or factory. Provide proof of delivery and completion report.
France Import FAQ
Success Stories – Chongqing to France Chemical Shipments
Product: Acrylic resin (Non‑DG)
Volume: 1×40HQ
Route: Chongqing → Shanghai → Le Havre
Transit: 35 days
Highlight: Full door‑to‑door service including Chongqing pickup, export declaration, ocean booking, French import clearance, and delivery to Paris. The client saved 15% on freight costs compared to their previous forwarder.
Product: Natural flavour extracts (Non‑DG)
Volume: 50 kg
Route: CKG → CDG (Paris)
Transit: 5 business days
Highlight: Urgent sample order for a French perfume house. We prepared MSDS and commercial invoice, used our chemical air freight channel, and delivered to the client's lab in Grasse within 5 days.
Product: Plant growth regulators (Non‑DG)
Volume: 8 CBM
Route: Chongqing → Ningbo → Fos
Transit: 32 days
Highlight: We assisted with REACH compliance documentation and French import clearance. The client has since placed 5 repeat orders.
Product: Plasticiser compounds (Non‑DG)
Volume: 2×20GP (container on rail)
Route: Chongqing → Alashankou → Poland → France
Transit: 19 days
Highlight: The client needed a balance between cost and speed. Rail freight was 40% cheaper than air and 20% faster than ocean. Excellent for mid‑range volume shipments.
Why Choose Goodhope Freight for Your Chemical Shipping Needs?
Chemical‑Savvy Team
Years of experience with Non‑DG chemical exports. We handle MSDS review, REACH compliance, and PFAS verification to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Chongqing Local Presence
We offer door‑to‑door pickup in Chongqing, expert packaging, and export declaration—all from our local service network.
Multi‑Modal Solutions
Air, ocean (LCL/FCL), and rail options. We tailor the best solution based on your volume, urgency, and budget.
France Clearance Network
Long‑term partnerships with French customs brokers in Le Havre, Fos, and Paris, ensuring fast and compliant import clearance.
Real‑Time Tracking
End‑to‑end shipment visibility from Chongqing pickup to final delivery in France—full transparency at every step.
Regulatory Risk Management
We monitor changes in French and EU chemical regulations (PFAS ban, REACH updates) to help you stay compliant and avoid costly delays.
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