Importing from China requires careful planning, especially during peak production and transport periods. Two major seasons significantly affect freight rates, vessel availability, and delivery times.
Chinese New Year (CNY) — the most challenging period for imports from China
This is the most disruptive time of the year. Most factories and logistics companies in China suspend operations for approximately 2–4 weeks.
Chinese New Year typically falls between late January and February. In 2026, the holiday begins on February 17, with official days off from February 15–23.
The “order rush” starts as early as December. Importers compete for vessel space (bookings), which drives freight rates sharply upward and extends lead times.
How Chinese New Year affects logistics
- January 20 – February 10 — last shipping window before shutdown
- February 11 – March 1 — near-total production and inland transport paralysis
- March — gradual recovery and backlog clearance
Recommendation: orders should be placed no later than mid-December to ensure smooth export before the holiday period.
Autumn Peak Season — rising demand and higher freight costs
The second key period in Chinese logistics is linked to preparations for the retail season in Europe and the United States, including Black Friday and Christmas.
Peak Season runs from September to November and brings significantly higher demand for sea and air freight.
Golden Week — additional supply chain disruption
From October 1 to 7, China observes the Golden Week holiday marking the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Production stops for about a week, causing congestion before and after the break.
During this period, container shipping rates can increase by several dozen percent compared to summer levels.
Other periods affecting China imports
Labour Day Holiday
A short break in early May may cause minor disruptions, especially in local logistics and trucking.
Dragon Boat Festival
The June holiday leads to short production slowdowns and minor shipping delays.
