How to Import Aluminum Cans from China: A Step-by-Step Guide
By Christine Wong | Aluminum Can & Easy Open End Manufacturer
February 20, 2026 | Export & Trade | 10 min read
Importing aluminum cans from China can reduce packaging costs significantly, but the process involves supplier selection, certifications, sampling, production timelines, and customs documentation. This guide is designed for beverage brands, co-packers, and procurement teams placing their first factory-direct order.
Quick Answer: Importing aluminum cans from China requires defining your specifications, verifying supplier certifications (ISO 9001, FSSC 22000, FDA), sampling before bulk production, planning 30–45 days of manufacturing, and preparing customs documents. Start with a 40HQ container MOQ for plain cans and request samples before committing to volume.
Step 1: Define Your Requirements
Before contacting any supplier, be clear on: can size and type (standard/sleek/slim), volume per order (MOQ: Plain/Blank aluminum cans 1×40HQ per SKU; Printed cans: 300,000 pcs/SKU; EOE: 200,000 pieces), print specifications (plain/custom print), and end use (beer, soda, juice).
Step 2: Verify Supplier Credentials
A reliable Chinese aluminum can exporter should hold:
ISO 9001:2015 quality management certification
FSSC 22000 food safety system certification
FDA food contact compliance documentation
EU food contact material compliance (EC 1935/2004)
BRC packaging standard certification (for UK market buyers)
Step 3: Sampling and Testing
Always request physical samples (typically 50–200 pcs per size) before placing a bulk order. Sample production takes 7–10 days. This step is critical for confirming can end fit, print quality, and internal coating compatibility with your beverage.
Step 4: Production and Delivery Timeline
Standard production lead time is 30–45 days after artwork and order confirmation. Shipping time varies by destination:
Europe/USA: 15–25 days sea freight
Southeast Asia: 10–18 days sea freight
South America: 35–40 days sea freight
Step 5: Shipping and Customs
Empty aluminum can bodies are typically shipped nested in trays/sleeves inside 40'HQ containers only—body pallets are single-stacked to prevent denting, so 20'GP is not used for empty cans. Can ends/lids are compact and rigid, so they can ship in 20'GP or 40'HQ containers. A 40HQ container is the standard MOQ unit for plain/blank cans. Prepare your commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, MSDS, and food-contact certificates for smooth customs clearance. HS code 7612.90 is commonly used for aluminum cans.
Get 2026 Pricing, Lead Times & Container-Loading Plans
For 2026 pricing, lead times, and container-loading plans, request a quote at aluminum-can.com/get-quote.html.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for importing aluminum cans from China?
Standard MOQs vary by decoration type. Plain/blank aluminum cans typically require one 40HQ container per SKU. Printed aluminum cans usually require 300,000 pieces per SKU, while easy open ends (EOE) require around 200,000 pieces per SKU.
What certifications should a Chinese aluminum can supplier have?
A reliable supplier should hold ISO 9001:2015 quality management certification, FSSC 22000 food safety certification, FDA food contact compliance, EU food contact material compliance (EC 1935/2004), and BRC packaging certification for UK buyers.
How long does it take to produce and ship aluminum cans from China?
Standard production lead time is 30–45 days after artwork and order confirmation. Sea freight shipping takes 10–18 days to Southeast Asia, 15–25 days to Europe or the USA, and 35–40 days to South America.
What documents are needed for customs clearance when importing aluminum cans?
Required documents typically include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, material safety data sheet (MSDS), and food contact compliance certificates. HS code 7612.90 is commonly used for aluminum cans. See our HS codes for aluminum beverage cans guide for details.
What documents are needed to import aluminum cans from China?
Typical documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, material safety data sheet (MSDS), and food-contact compliance certificates. HS code 7612.90 is commonly used for aluminum cans.
How long does shipping from China take?
Sea freight to major ports usually takes 15–40 days depending on the destination, plus customs clearance time at the arrival port.