If you are an interior designer, a furniture retailer, or a homeowner in Melbourne, you probably know that Shenzhen (and nearby Foshan) is the furniture capital of the world. The styles are diverse, and the prices are unbeatable.

However, the biggest challenge isn't buying the furniture—it's getting it to your doorstep in Melbourne safely and legally.

Shipping bulky items like sofas, dining tables, or bed frames involves complex customs rules, especially with Australia’s strict biosecurity laws. That’s why DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping is the most popular choice for our clients.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about DDP shipping rates from Shenzhen to Melbourne for furniture.

What is DDP Shipping and Why is it Best for Furniture?

DDP stands for Delivered Duty Paid. In simple terms, it means "Door-to-Door, All-Inclusive."

When you choose DDP shipping with us, we handle:

• Pick up from your supplier’s factory in Shenzhen/Foshan.
• Export customs in China.
• Sea freight to the Port of Melbourne.
• Import customs clearance in Australia.
• Payment of Australian Duty and GST.
• Final truck delivery to your home or warehouse in Melbourne.

Why choose DDP for furniture?
Most furniture buyers don't have their own import license or knowledge of how to pay Australian taxes. DDP removes the headache. You pay one final price, and we handle the paperwork.

Factors Influencing DDP Shipping Rates

Clients often ask, "What is the price per kg?" For furniture, weight isn't usually the deciding factor—Volume (CBM - Cubic Meter) is.

1. Volume (CBM)

Furniture is bulky. We calculate the cost based on how much space your cargo takes up in the container.

• LCL (Less than Container Load): If you are shipping a few sofas or a dining set (e.g., 2-10 CBM), we consolidate your goods with others.
• FCL (Full Container Load): If you are furnishing a whole house or stocking a shop (e.g., 28 CBM+), booking a 20ft or 40ft container is more cost-effective.

2. Fumigation (Critical for Australia!)

Australia has some of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world. Any solid wood must be fumigated before entering Australia. Additionally, during the BMSB Season (September 1st to April 30th), high-risk goods like furniture face stricter requirements.

Estimated Cost Breakdown & References

While sea freight rates fluctuate weekly based on fuel costs and demand, a typical DDP quote includes Ocean Freight, Port Charges, Customs Brokerage, Duties, GST, and Trucking.

Check Current Rates: To get a better understanding of the current market trends and container prices, you can check our sea freight rates reference here.

Real Customer Case Study: Luxury Sofa Set to South Yarra

We don't just talk about shipping; we deliver results. Here is a recent shipment we handled for a client sourcing furniture from a manufacturer in Foshan, shipped via Shenzhen.

• Cargo: 1x 3-Seater Leather Sofa, 2x Armchairs, 1x Coffee Table.
• Volume: 4.5 CBM (LCL).
• Challenge: The coffee table had a marble top requiring a wooden crate, and the shipment took place during BMSB season.

Outcome:
We arranged professional wooden crating and fumigation in Shenzhen. The goods sailed to Melbourne in approx. 14 days. We pre-cleared customs 3 days before arrival. The client received the furniture at their curbside in South Yarra 4 days after the ship docked. No hidden fees, no customs delays.

How to Get Started

1. Contact your Supplier: Ask for the estimated packing dimensions (Length x Width x Height) and Weight.
2. Contact Us: Send us these details along with your Melbourne postcode.
3. Get a Quote: We will provide a transparent DDP quote.