Iraq’s reconstruction and consumer demand keep imports high, and its customs system is unusually simple: a flat duty rate for most goods. But market entry splits between the federal market (Baghdad, Basra, Umm Qasr) and the Kurdistan Region (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah), which clear separately. Here is how shipping from China to Iraq works in 2026.
Rate Overview
| Mode | Typical Cost (2026) | Door-to-Door Transit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea to Umm Qasr | 20′ ≈ $1,800–3,500 | 30–40 days | Volume cargo, machinery, materials |
| TIR road (via Iran / Caspian) | LCL from 1 CBM; FTL per truck | 20–28 days | General cargo, faster inland flow |
| Air freight (BGW / EBL) | ≈ $5–9/kg | 6–10 days | Urgent parts, electronics, medical |
Sea to Umm Qasr
Containers from Shanghai, Ningbo or Shenzhen reach Umm Qasr in about 25–35 days port-to-port, plus inland trucking to Baghdad, Basra or Najaf — 30–40 days door to door overall, with 20′ rates in the $1,800–3,500 band.
TIR Road & Air
Truck freight transits Iran (Bandar Abbas/Basra crossings) or the Central Asia–Caspian axis, delivering in 20–28 days. KRG destinations (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Duhok) are commonly served via Turkey or Iran corridors with separate KRG clearance. Air freight reaches Baghdad (BGW) and Erbil (EBL) in 6–10 days via Gulf hubs at roughly $5–9/kg.
Customs: Simple but Strict
- Flat duty: most goods clear at 5% of CIF — one of the simplest tariff systems around.
- No VAT: Iraq has no value-added tax; port handling and inspection fees apply instead.
- Standards & approvals: telecoms, medical and food products need prior approvals; dual-use items are restricted.
Under DDP shipping from China, we manage the full chain — export clearance, transit, federal or KRG import clearance, duties and fees, and delivery to Baghdad, Basra, Erbil or elsewhere — under one all-in rate. Our dangerous goods service covers compliant DG shipments where required.
How long does shipping from China to Iraq take?
Sea to Umm Qasr 30–40 days door to door, TIR road 20–28 days, air 6–10 days.
What does Iraqi customs charge?
A flat 5% duty on CIF value for most goods, plus port and inspection fees — there is no VAT.
Can you deliver to Erbil and the Kurdistan Region?
Yes — KRG cities clear through separate regional procedures, typically via Turkey or Iran corridors; DDP terms cover both regimes.
Related Materials
- Shipping from China to Iraq — Country Page
- العراق (العربية)
- Sea Freight | Land Transport | Customs Clearance
- FAQ | Contact Us
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