Moving from UAE to China (2026): Visas, Costs & The "Red Channel" Rule
MoveConnector Asia-Pacific Team
Relocation Expert
Introduction: Your Move to the Middle Kingdom
Moving from the UAE to China is a logistical challenge defined by one rule: Bureaucracy comes first. Whether you are relocating to Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen, you cannot simply ship your goods and hope for the best.
This guide is based on real relocations handled by MoveConnector partner movers delivering into major Chinese ports. We cover the essential steps for 2026, from the Z-Visa to the critical Airport Declaration.
Who This Guide Is For
- Corporate Expats moving on Z-Visas.
- Teachers relocating to international schools.
- Returning Chinese Nationals (who have lived abroad >1 year).
This guide is NOT for:
- Tourists or Business Visa (M) holders (You cannot import household goods).
- Shipping food or large quantities of cosmetics.
Part 1: Ship from Dubai or Buy in China?
China is the "World's Factory," so buying locally is easy. However, quality varies.
The Decision Matrix: What to Pack
| Item Type | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Mattresses | ✅ Ship It | Chinese mattresses are traditionally very firm. If you like soft/plush beds, bring yours. |
| Western Furniture | ✅ Ship It | Large, comfortable sofas are expensive in China. UAE furniture is worth bringing. |
| Appliances | ⚠️ Caution | Used appliances (even old toasters) are often taxed at ~20%. Only ship if high-end. |
| Baby Formula/Food | ❌ Do Not Ship | Food clearance is extremely difficult. Buy imported brands locally. |
| Books/Maps | ⚠️ Filter | Check every map/globe. If Taiwan/Tibet borders are "incorrect," they will be seized. |
Part 2: How Much Does It Cost to Move from UAE to China? (2026)
Shipments usually arrive at Shanghai, Tianjin (for Beijing), or Shenzhen.
Estimated Sea Freight Costs
| Home Size | Shipment Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed | LCL (Shared Container) | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| 2-3 Bed Home | 20ft Container (FCL) | 16,000 – 24,000 |
| Large Villa (4+ Bed) | 40ft Container (FCL) | 25,000 – 35,000 |
In summary: Most full household moves from the UAE to China cost between AED 8,000 and AED 24,000 door-to-door.
What These Costs Typically Include
Included:
- Export packing in UAE
- Sea freight to Chinese Port
- Standard customs clearance (with valid Residence Permit)
- Delivery to residence (ground floor/elevator)
Not Included:
- Insurance (approx. 3%)
- Customs Duty: ~20% on electrical appliances.
- Inspection Fees: If Customs decides to X-ray or physically search the container (Random selection).
Part 3: Visas & The "Green Channel" Trap
You cannot start the shipping process until your visa is sorted.
1. The Z-Visa (Entry)
You enter China on this visa. It is not your final permit.
2. The Baggage Declaration Form (Crucial Step)
When you land in China:
- Do NOT walk through the "Green Channel" (Nothing to Declare).
- You MUST go to the "Red Channel" (Goods to Declare).
- Ask for the Baggage Declaration Form.
- Tick "Unaccompanied Baggage" and get the form Stamped by the officer. > Warning: If you lose this stamped form, or forget to get it, you cannot import your shipment. Customs is extremely strict on this.
3. The Residence Permit
Within 30 days of arrival, you convert your Z-Visa to a Residence Permit at the PSB. You need the physical Residence Permit card to clear your shipment.
Part 4: Customs & The "Appliance Tax"
China Customs does not follow the standard "used goods are free" rule strictly.
1. The Appliance Duty
While clothes, books, and furniture are usually duty-free, electrical appliances are often deemed taxable.
- Rate: Typically 20% of the assessed value.
- Items: TVs, air purifiers, coffee machines, cameras, computers.
- Assessment: Customs uses their own value list, not your receipt value.
2. The "One Shipment" Rule
Foreigners are generally allowed one sea shipment and one air shipment during their first residence period. Do not try to bring multiple sea containers over several months.
3. Censorship & Prohibited Items
China scans shipments for "cultural security."
- Maps/Globes: Check that Taiwan is shown as a province of China. If shown as a country, the item is confiscated.
- Books: Books on sensitive history or politics may be seized.
- Storage Media: Hard drives and CDs are often inspected.
Part 5: China Pre-Shipping Checklist
Before booking your move, ensure you have ticked these critical boxes:
- Work Permit: Notification Letter received.
- Arrival Plan: You know to use the "Red Channel" at the airport.
- Residence Permit: You know you need the final permit (takes ~3-4 weeks) before the ship arrives to avoid storage.
- Map Check: All globes/atlases checked for "Taiwan" labeling.
- Food: Removed all food/spices/liquids from the shipment.
Typical UAE → China Timeline
- Week 1–4: Work Permit & Z-Visa processing.
- Week 5: Fly to China & get Baggage Form stamped.
- Week 6: Apply for Residence Permit (takes ~15 working days).
- Week 7: Ship goods from UAE (Timing is key to avoid port storage).
- Week 10: Customs clearance in Shanghai/Beijing.
- Week 11: Delivery.
Conclusion: A Move That Demands Precision
Relocating to China is an incredible opportunity, but it demands obedience to the process. The key to success is the Red Channel Stamp at the airport and timing your shipment to arrive after your Residence Permit is issued.
This guide is regularly referenced by HR mobility teams and international movers handling UAE–China transfers.
Don't miss the Red Channel. Compare quotes from movers experienced with China's Baggage Declaration process and appliance duties.