If you have a package that needs to be shipped to the United States, you need to consider how to transport it. Factors that affect the choice of shipping method include the nature, weight, and volume of the goods, time requirements, and cost budget. So, how should you choose the best shipping method that suits you?
This guide will explore the close relationship between shipping costs, shipping time, and shipping companies to help readers make informed decisions.

The main methods of shipping to the USA
1. Air Freight
Air Freight is the fastest shipping method to the United States, usually taking only 3-7 working days to arrive. It is ideal for urgent shipments, small but high-value items or goods that must be on the shelves quickly. However, Air Freight is relatively expensive and is suitable for those with a generous budget or a clear requirement for timeliness.
2. Sea Freight
Sea Freight is a very economical option if the goods are bulky or heavy and time is not of the essence. Shipping goods to the US by sea can take 20-30 days, depending on the distance between the port of departure and the port of destination. It is suitable for exporters or wholesalers shipping large quantities of goods to reduce unit shipping costs.
3. International Express
International Express (such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS) is ideal for handling small goods or parcels. These services offer efficient door-to-door delivery, usually within 3-10 working days, but at a relatively high cost. They are suitable for e-commerce sellers or small businesses sending samples.
4. Postal parcel
Postal parcels are a cost-effective option for light, small parcels, especially for individuals sending items. Although the transit time is longer (usually 10-30 days), the cost is low, making them suitable for items that are not urgently needed.

How long does a package take to ship in the US?
Service | Shipping Time | Mail or Package |
Priority Mail® | 1–3 Days5 | Packages |
USPS Ground Advantage® | 2–5 Days6 | Packages |
Media Mail® | 2–8 Days | Packages |
Shipping time to the USA
The duration of freight shipping is influenced by various factors, including the distance travelled, the mode of transportation employed, the selected route, and the current season. To provide a general estimation, express shipping can take as little as one to three days, air freight typically requires five to ten days, and sea shipping can range from 20 to 45 days or more.
Related content: How Long Does Shipping from China to the US Really Take?
Costs of shipping to the USA
Shipping costs to the United States are usually affected by shipping methods, routes, and holidays. We will illustrate the example of shipping from China to the USA.
Shipping Mode | Cost Range | Suitability |
LCL (Less than Container Load) | $50 to $85 per cubic meter | Cost-effective for volumes that don’t require a full container |
FCL (20-foot container) | $3,800 to $5,100 | Economical for larger shipments |
FCL (40-foot container) | $4,700 to $6,200 | Economical for larger shipments |
Express Shipping | Varies widely (hundreds to several thousand dollars) | Most expensive option, offers speed and convenience |
Air Freight | $4.90 to $7.00 per kilogram | Middle ground between speed and cost for urgent shipments |
Related content: Shipping costs from China to the USA explained
How to choose the best shipping method?
To select the optimal shipping method, it is essential to consider the following factors:
1. Nature of the goods
If the goods are fragile, valuable, or special (such as dangerous goods or perishable goods), a safe and professional transportation method, such as air freight or international express, needs to be selected. These methods can provide a more stable transportation environment and professional cargo protection.
2. Weight and volume
The weight and volume of the goods directly affect the transportation cost and method selection. International express delivery or postal parcels are more economical options for small or lightweight items. At the same time, Sea Freight better transport large or high-volume goods to reduce unit transport costs.
3. Time requirements
If your package needs to be delivered quickly, Air Freight and international express delivery are ideal options, and they can usually be delivered within a few days. If time is not a concern, you can choose Sea Freight or postal services, which have lower costs but take longer to deliver.
4. Budget
The costs of shipping methods vary widely, from efficient but expensive international express delivery to affordable but time-consuming sea freight or postal services. When choosing, you need to weigh the cost against your needs. Sea Freight is the most cost-effective option if you have a limited budget but are not time-sensitive.
If you need a more detailed shipping quote, please contact us for the best price.
5. Customs clearance and policy requirements
The United States has strict customs clearance regulations for imported goods. Choosing a logistics company or service familiar with the customs clearance process can reduce the risk of goods being held and ensure that the package is delivered smoothly.
You may want to know: Mastering Custom Clearance Document: Essential You Need for Smooth Shipping
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