Going abroad for the first time? What to bring from China and what to buy after arrival? A pre-departure consolidation checklist verified by thousands of international students to help you pack rationally and consolidate scientifically.
Must-bring list (cheaper to buy in China)
Chinese textbooks and reference books
Overseas Chinese books cost 3-5 times more, and many are unavailable. Professional reference books can also be bought from Taobao/JD in English originals at 1/3 of the overseas price.
Bedding (sheet sets + duvet + pillows)
Dormitory-provided ones are often unsuitable. Domestic silk/cotton bedding sets are high quality and low price; ship viaSea Freightship in advance
Condiments and snacks
Lao Gan Ma, hot pot base, Luosifen — these are the "spiritual food" for overseas students, but overseas Chinese supermarkets charge double.
Domestic skincare products
If you're used to domestic brands like Baiqueyan or Proya, they're basically unavailable abroad. Bring a half-year supply.
Electronic accessories
Chargers, cables, travel adapters, etc., are so cheap domestically that shipping costs are negligible.
Not recommended for consolidation (easier to buy locally)
Diapers/toilet paper and other consumables
Large volume means high shipping costs; buy at local supermarkets anytime.
Large furniture
Shipping costs may exceed the furniture's price; IKEA is global.
Liquid toiletries like laundry detergent/shampoo
Heavy and classified as sensitive items; easier to buy locally.
Appliances requiring warranty
No overseas warranty; buy locally for protection.
Consolidation steps
- Register for ImagineShip for free, get the Shenzhen warehouse receiving address
- Shop on Taobao/JD/Pinduoduo, fill in the ImagineShip warehouse address as the shipping address
- Inspect packages upon arrival at warehouse, free photo confirmation of product condition
- Choose shipping method, urgent items viaAir Freight(7-15 days), large items via sea (25-45 days)
- Pay shipping online, track the shipment, and wait for delivery
Shipping cost reference
| Shipping method | Reference Shipping Costs | Estimated Delivery Time | Suitable scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Air Freight | ¥45-80/kg | 7-15 days | Urgent, lightweight items |
| 🚢 Sea Freight | ¥12-30/kg | 25-45 days | Large, bulk, non-urgent items |
For specific costs, please use theshipping calculatorOnline inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are shipping fees calculated?
Charged based on the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight (length × width × height ÷ 5000). Consolidating multiple items can save 20%-40% on shipping costs.
How long does it take?
Air freight usually takes 7-15 business days, sea freight 25-45 days. Specific transit times depend on the destination country and season.
Do I need to pay customs duties?
Depends on the destination country's duty-free allowance and the declared value of the package. For details, please checkCountry-specific Tariff Policies.
Ready to get started?Register for freeImagineShip, start your consolidation journey!
