Best Time to Order from China to Avoid Delays
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- 来源：OrientDeck
If you're running an e-commerce store or sourcing products in bulk, timing your orders from China can make or break your supply chain. As someone who's helped over 200 businesses streamline their imports, I’ve seen how a few well-planned moves can save weeks — and thousands of dollars.
Why Timing Matters When Ordering from China
China dominates global manufacturing, accounting for 30% of the world’s total output. But high demand, factory holidays, and shipping bottlenecks mean delays are common — especially if you order at the wrong time.
The key? Avoid peak congestion periods and align with China’s production calendar. Let me break it down.
Top Times to Place Your Order (and When to Avoid)
Based on 5 years of shipment data and carrier performance reports, here’s the optimal ordering window:
| Order Period | Expected Delivery Time | Risk Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – Early February | 45–60 days | High | Avoid — Lunar New Year shutdowns |
| March – April | 25–35 days | Low | Best window — post-holiday recovery |
| May – June | 30–40 days | Medium | Good for summer launches |
| July – August | 35–50 days | Medium-High | Port congestion peaks |
| September – October | 40–55 days | High | Only if prepping for holidays — best shipping from China routes get crowded |
Pro Tips to Stay Ahead
- Start early: If you need stock by Black Friday, place orders by late July.
- Use air freight selectively: For urgent items, air shipping cuts time to 7–12 days — but costs 3x more.
- Build relationships with suppliers: Factories prioritize repeat buyers during busy seasons.
One client delayed ordering Halloween stock until June — and received it in May. That’s the power of timing.
Shipping Methods Compared
Not all logistics are equal. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Transit Time | Cost (per kg) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 30–50 days | $1.80 | Bulk goods, non-urgent shipments |
| Rail (China-Europe) | 18–22 days | $3.50 | Mid-volume, balanced cost/speed |
| Air Freight | 7–12 days | $6.00 | Urgent or high-value items |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx) | 3–7 days | $12.00 | Samples, documents, small batches |
Final Thoughts
The best time to order from China is March to April — low delays, high availability. Avoid January–February and September–October unless you’re prepared for hiccups.
Plan ahead, choose the right shipping method, and stay in touch with your supplier. A little foresight goes a long way in global sourcing.