Typical transit times by corridor
The Northern corridor (China–Kazakhstan–Russia–Europe) typically takes 14–18 days for a full truckload from eastern China to Western Europe. The Middle corridor (China–Kazakhstan–Caspian–Caucasus–Turkey–Europe) averages 18–25 days depending on the Caspian ferry schedule. The Southern corridor via Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan adds 2–4 extra days due to additional border crossings. Shipments originating from western China (Urumqi, Lanzhou) save 3–5 days compared to coastal origins like Shanghai or Guangzhou.
Factors that affect transit time
Border crossing efficiency is the single biggest variable. The Khorgos (CN–KZ) crossing can add 1–3 days during peak season. Truck availability in China also matters — during the Chinese New Year (January–February) and Golden Week (October), capacity tightens and rates rise. Weather conditions along mountain passes in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan can cause delays in winter months. Finally, document accuracy is critical: a single mismatch between your commercial invoice and packing list can add 1–2 days at any border.
Seasonal variations and peak periods
Transit times are shortest in March–May and September–November when borders operate smoothly and truck supply is stable. The summer peak (June–August) brings higher cargo volumes and longer border queues, adding 2–5 days on average. Winter (December–February) combines holiday shutdowns with harsh weather on the Kazakhstan steppe, potentially adding 3–7 days. Planning shipments to avoid Chinese holidays and scheduling border arrivals mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) can shave 1–2 days off total transit.
Tips for faster delivery
Work with a forwarder who pre-clears documents before the truck arrives at each border. Use Urumqi as a consolidation hub — goods from multiple Chinese cities can be combined here, reducing individual transit legs. Choose the corridor that best matches your delivery deadline: the Northern route for speed to Moscow/Europe, the Middle corridor for Turkey and the Caucasus. Always have HS codes verified before departure, and keep digital copies of all documents accessible to your driver and customs broker.