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Shipping from China to the USA

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The US bought more than $427 billion worth of products from China in 2023. The United States trades with China more than any other country. These imports come from many different areas, such as textiles, electronics, industrial items, and consumer goods. Shipping goods from China to the U.S. may seem like a labyrinth for many firms, particularly those who are new to international trading.

Hongocean is a trustworthy partner for shipping goods throughout the world. They can help you manage your budget so you don’t have to pay for things you didn’t anticipate! This guide has all the information you need to transport products from China to the United States, whether you’re sending a full container load (FCL) or a less-than-container load (LCL). It makes sure your items get to their destination securely and quickly.

Trend analysis of sea freight costs from China to the United States in August 2025:

Sea freight rates from China to the US have dropped a lot since August 2025. This change happened because there was a temporary spike in June when tariffs were lifted, which led to a rise in imports. The market is now slowly returning to normal.

By the beginning of August, the cost of shipping varied by area. It costs between $1,700 and $2,000 to ship a 40-foot container from China to the West Coast of the U.S. and between $3,200 and $3,800 to ship it to the East Coast. Prices are still higher than at the beginning of the year, but the sea freight market is becoming more balanced as shipping capacity increases and demand stabilizes.

We still do not know how freight rates will change in the future. Changes in US tariff policies and problems with other countries could have a big effect. Importers should keep a close eye on the market and change their shipping plans as needed to keep costs under control. Other things, like the number of ships available, how busy the ports are, and the cost of fuel, will also matter.

To sum up, the China-US sea freight market has been changing after a recent high point. Things have settled down, but it’s still important to keep an eye on key factors and act quickly if the market changes.

2025 US-China Tariff Timeline

  • February 1: The United States imposed a 10% tariff on fentanyl-related products imported from China.
  • February 10: China imposed a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas imported from the United States.
  • March 3: The United States raised tariffs to 20% and imposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico.
  • March 10: China imposed tariffs of 10%-15% on U.S. agricultural products and meat.
  • April 2: The United States imposed an additional 34% tariff, bringing the total tariff rate to 54% (20% + 34%).
  • April 8: The United States raised additional tariffs to 84%, bringing the total tariff rate to 104% (20% + 84%).
  • April 10: The United States raised additional tariffs to 125%, with a total tariff rate of 145% (20% + 125%) on specific goods.
  • April 10: China imposed an additional 84% tariff on U.S. goods.
  • April 13: The United States exempted tariffs of 145% on smartphones, computer monitors, and other products, effective retroactively from April 10.
  • May 2: The United States abolished the duty-free policy for packages valued at less than $800, with tariffs on small-value goods rising to 120% or $100 per item.
  • May 14: The US reduces additional tariffs from 84% to 10%, with a total tariff rate of 30% (20% + 10%), and suspends the 24% tariff for 90 days.
  • May 14: China reduces retaliatory tariffs from 84% to 10% and suspends the 24% tariff for 90 days.
  • July 28–29: The United States and China will extend the tariff suspension period by 90 days during negotiations in Sweden, with the new deadline set for November 11.
  • October 30: The United States announced a reduction in tariffs on fentanyl from China to 10% and extended the 24% reciprocal tariffs for one year.

shipping services from China to the US

Do you need to ship items to the United States, or do you require bulk transportation of goods to your partners in the Country? Hongocean has 12 years of experience in international shipping to the United States and can answer all your questions about shipping goods to the United States, such as: What are the costs associated with shipping to the United States? What documents and procedures are required? How long does it take to ship to the United States? How can I track my order？

Shipping methods from China to the US

Currently, there are two primary methods for shipping goods to the United States: air freight and sea freight. Although air freight is the fastest, it is also the most expensive: in fact, air freight costs 10 times more than sea freight. However, sea freight is the ideal choice for transporting heavy and oversized cargo internationally. Sea freight is more economical, but it is also much slower. Below, Hongocean provides a comparison table of these two methods:
Time Fast, 2-5 working days Slowest, takes 3-4 weeks
Expense Higher Much lower
Type of Goods Suitable for light, high-value goods Suitable for heavy, bulky goods sent by container
Safe High safety, low risk Higher risk due to long shipping time, goods may be damaged
Procedure Simple, fast More complicated, more paperwork required

Shipping Times from China to the U.S.

How long does it take to shipping to the USA? Hongocena is a premium freight forwarder from China to the United States. We are committed to delivering high-quality services and providing an efficient and reliable shipping experience. For shipments to the United States, we provide detailed shipping time information to help you choose the fastest, most efficient, and cost-effective solution. The time required to deliver goods to a consignee in the United States depends on many factors: the type of goods, the service, the destination, and the mode of transportation you choose. Each mode of transportation has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of delivery time and cost. Below is a table compiled by Hongocean showing the time required for various modes of transportation from China to the United States, to help you make an informed decision.
Shipping Mode Transit Time Suitability
Sea Freight (LCL and FCL) 23 to 30 days Cost-effective for large shipments
Air Freight 2 to 7 days Balance between cost and speed for high-value or time-sensitive goods
Express Shipping 1 to 3 days Quickest but most expensive option

Shipping costs from China to the US

The cost of shipping from China to the United States depends on many factors, including fuel prices, cargo weight and/or volume, shipping distance, demand, season, and shipping speed. Below is a price list compiled by Hongocean for August 2025, detailing shipping costs from China to the United States. Please note that shipping costs are subject to change without notice. For an accurate quote, please contact us.
Shipping Mode Cost Range (August 2025) Notes
Air Freight (1000+ kgs) $4.50/kg (LAX), $5.60/kg (JFK), $5.50/kg (MIA) 4–5 days transit; significant drop from July; best for urgent or high-value cargo
LCL N/A No available data for August 2025
FCL (20-foot container) $1,880 (LA/LB) to $2,650 (NY/Savannah/Norfolk) 23–30 days transit; costs reach yearly low, favoring medium-volume importers
FCL (40-foot container) $2,350 (LA/LB) to $3,150 (NY/Savannah/Norfolk) 23–30 days transit; lowest rates in 2025 for large-volume shippers

Overview of the cost of exporting from China to the United States

Things that are brought in from China are often cheaper than things that are made in the US, but there are still other costs to think about. Here are some costs that are important for you to know about:

  • Tariffs: Import taxes by the U.S. government on certain products to discourage their importation. This can be done for political or economic reasons.
  • Duties: Import duty tax rates from China to the U.S. are based on the product’s Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, which in turn is based on the international Harmonized System (HS) code.
  • Customs Bond: If your goods are worth $2,500 or more, you’ll need a customs bond in place to make duty payments to CBP once they arrive in port.
  • Port Charges: These are charged by the port of entry for tasks like handling goods.
  • Customs Clearance Fees: These are charged for processing the goods through customs at U.S. ports of entry.
In addition to costs inflicted by customs authorities and ports, you’ll also have to consider transport expenses.
 
Here are some common shipping costs that importers may encounter:
  • Freight Charges: Air freight is faster, but more expensive. Conversely, sea freight offers larger capacity at a lower cost. Transport by vessel also takes much longer.
  • Fuel Surcharges: These are applied by carriers to cover fluctuating fuel costs.
  • Container Fees: For sea shipping, container fees are charged based on the type and size of the container.
  • Insurance Costs: The cost is often a percentage of the declared value of the goods.
  • Terminal Handling Charges: These charges cover the cost of unloading cargo once it reaches the port.
  • Inland Transportation: Includes transporting the shipment to its final destination in the U.S.
  • Warehouse Storage: If goods need to be stored at the port or a warehouse before shipping or after arrival, storage fees will be applied.
  • Documentation Fees: Charges for processing necessary shipping documents, such as certificates of origin and bills of lading.

Air Freight from China to the USA

Air freight is one of the fastest ways to move things, and it is usually used for shipments that need to get there quickly and are worth a lot of money. Depending on where the package is going, delivery times usually range from one to three days.

Air Freight Costs from China to the USA

Weight (kg)Rate (USD/kg)Transit Time (Days)
+100 kg$ 6.222 – 5
+300 kg$ 5.952 – 5
+500 kg$ 5.952 – 5
+1000 kg$ 5.812 – 5
Air freight is cheaper than express shipping, but it’s a lot more expensive than ocean freight. The “chargeable weight,” which is the higher of the actual gross weight or the volumetric weight, is what the price is based on. Most of the time, the total cost of air freight includes the cost of the flight itself as well as extra fees for things like fuel, security, ground handling, and other things. Prices change a lot based on the time of year, the price of oil, and how much room there is for cargo.

 

How long does it take to ship by AIR from China to the USA?

It usually takes 3 to 5 days for an air shipment to get from China to the US, but the flight only takes one day. Most of the time is spent on handling and transportation because they are so complicated.

Sea Freight from China to the USA

If you can wait longer, shipping large or bulk goods from China to the US by sea is the cheapest way to do it. You can pick between FCL and LCL. Shipping schedules, fuel prices, and demand during peak season all affect costs.

Container options for shipping from China to the US

The most common standard dry container types include:

  • 20-foot standard container (20′ GP): has an internal capacity of about 28-30 cubic meters.
  • 40-foot standard container (40′ GP): has an internal capacity of about 58-60 cubic meters.
  • 40-foot high cube (40′ HQ): About 1 foot taller than the 40′ GP, this cube has an internal capacity of about 68-70 cubic meters and is suitable for bulky but lightweight goods.
Container TypeExternal Dimensions (L×W×H)Internal Dimensions (L×W×H)VolumeMax PayloadTare Weight
20GP6.06 m × 2.44 m × 2.59 m5.90 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m28-30 m³24,000 kg2,300 kg
40GP12.19 m × 2.44 m × 2.59 m12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m58-60m³30,480 kg3,700 kg
40HQ12.19 m × 2.44 m × 2.89 m12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.69 m68-70 m³30,480 kg4,100 kg
  • Other special container types include reefers (refrigerated containers) for transporting goods that require temperature control, open-top containers for extremely high goods, and flat rack containers for oversized or heavy goods.

 

How long does it take to ship goods by sea from China to the USA?

Transit Time (Days) Shanghai Ningbo Qingdao Shenzhen
Los Angeles (West Coast) 14-20 14-20 14-20 14-20
Long Beach (West Coast) 14-20 14-20 14-20 14-20
Oakland (West Coast) 14-20 14-20 14-20 14-20
Seattle (West Coast) 14-20 14-20 14-20 14-20
New York/Newark (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Norfolk (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Charleston (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Savannah (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Jacksonville (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Boston (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Baltimore (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Philadelphia (East Coast) 25-35 25-35 25-35 25-35
Chicago (Inland) 25-32 25-32 25-32 25-32
Dallas (Inland) 25-32 25-32 25-32 25-32
Atlanta (Inland) 25-32 25-32 25-32 25-32
Memphis (Inland) 25-32 25-32 25-32 25-32
The time it takes to ship from China to the US depends on several factors, including the ports used, the shipping schedule, the speed at which customs clears the goods, and any potential delays that may occur at the ports. Sea freight typically takes 14 to 20 days for popular routes, such as Shanghai to Los Angeles or Ningbo to Long Beach. Door-to-door transportation typically takes 25 to 35 days, including loading, unloading, customs inspections, and delivery to the final destination.

What are the LCL shipping rates from China to the USA?

CHINA – USA Transit time (port to port) Transit time (door to door) Average US dollars/kg
China – Western USA Superior 11 days 12-18 days $1.58/kg
China – Western USA Fast 12days 15-22 days $1.01/kg
China – Western USA Normal 14 days 20-30 days $0.82/kg
China – Central USA Fast 19 days 20-25 days $1.18/kg
China – Eastern USA Normal 35-40 days 40-50 days $1.14/kg

Cost of shipping 40ft Container from China to USA

Destination Port Departure Port CNTR Size port to port price
LA/LB YanTian 40FT/HQ $2,580
LA/LB NingBo/ShangHai 40FT/HQ $2,730
LA/LB QingDao 40FT/HQ $2,500
NY YanTian 40FT/HQ $3,200
NY NingBo/ShangHai 40FT/HQ $3,300
NY QingDao 40FT/HQ $3,500
CHI YanTian 40FT/HQ $3,680
CHI NingBo/ShangHai 40FT/HQ $3,240
CHI QingDao 40FT/HQ $3,450
SAV YanTian 40FT/HQ $4,100
DAL YanTian 40FT/HQ $3,300
HOU YanTian 40FT/HQ $2,880
OAK YanTian 40FT/HQ $2,680

Cost of shipping 20ft Container from China to USA

Destination PortDeparture PortCNTR Sizeport to port price
LA/LBYanTian20GP/FT2100
LA/LBNingBo/ShangHai20GP/FT2200
LA/LBQingDao20GP/FT1800
NYYanTian20GP/FT1980
NYNingBo/ShangHai20GP/FT2380
NYQingDao20GP/FT2180
CHIYanTian20GP/FT1800
CHINingBo/ShangHai20GP/FT1980
CHIQingDao20GP/FT2360
SAVYanTian20GP/FT2360
HOUYanTian20GP/FT1800
OAKYanTian20GP/FT2580

Express delivery from China to the USA

Express delivery usually refers to the door-to-door service provided by major international express delivery companies (such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.). They are responsible for picking up the goods from the sender, transporting them through their global network, and finally delivering them to the recipient, usually including basic customs clearance services. This method simplifies the process and is especially suitable for small packages and documents.

How long does it take for express delivery from China to the USA?

As mentioned, express delivery is usually the fastest option and can be delivered within 3 to 7 working days.

CourierDelivery Time (Days)TrackingTotal Cost
HK Post – e-Express6 – 8Limited$24.06
HK Post Air Mail – Tracking7 – 13Limited$26.89
SF Express – E-Parcel Registered8 – 10Basic$32.30
Quantium – Q-Sure7 – 13Basic$39.76
Quantium – International ePAC15 – 25Basic$40.14
Quantium – Q-Smart14 – 20Basic$41.48
SF Express – Economy Express5 – 7Basic$59.66
Aramex – Parcel EPX10 – 15Basic$48.39
HK Post – Speedpost6 – 8Limited$49.35
HK Post – Air Parcel PE5 – 8Limited$50.12
SF Express – Standard Express4 – 7Basic$59.66
UPS Worldwide Saver®1 – 2Excellent$65.41
UPS Worldwide Expedited®3 – 7Excellent$70.27
Aramex – Parcel7 – 10Basic$70.73

Express delivery carriers from China to the US

The major international express delivery giants all have a strong network of operations in China and the US:

  • DHL: known for its extensive international network and reliability.
  • FedEx: has a strong network in the US and reliable international services.
  • UPS:  Also has a large network in the US and around the world.
  • SF Express: A local Chinese express delivery giant whose international business is also expanding.
  • EMS: Provided by national postal systems, sometimes cheaper, but the speed and reliability may not be as good as commercial express couriers.

Guide to Customs Clearance in America

Shipping goods from China to the United States requires adherence to a complex system of customs regulations, tariffs, and compliance requirements. Violations can result in costly delays, fines, and in some cases, seizure of goods. Understanding the U.S. Customs clearance process and compliance is critical for companies looking to streamline the import process and avoid unnecessary risk.

Responsibilities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the primary authority overseeing imports into the country. Their role includes:

  • Enforcing import regulations to protect national security and economic interests
  • Collecting duties, taxes, and tariffs
  • Preventing counterfeit, hazardous, or restricted goods from entering the U.S.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the branch of the U.S. government responsible for enforcing laws relating to the movement of goods into and out of the United States. Importers must ensure that their shipments comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Failure to do so may have consequences that are more difficult to undo.

Key Customs Documents Required for U.S. Imports

Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance. The main documents are:

1. Bill of Lading (BOL)

  • A transport document issued by the carrier
  • Serves as a contract between the shipper and carrier, detailing the shipment’s route and contents

2. Commercial Invoice

  • Provides essential details about the shipment, including the value, description, and origin of goods
  • Used to assess duties and taxes

3. Packing List

  • Lists the number of packages, weight, dimensions, and contents
  • Helps customs officers verify shipments

4. Importer Security Filing (ISF or “10+2” Rule)

  • Required for ocean shipments to the U.S.
  • Must be submitted at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port

5. Certificate of Origin (if applicable)

  • Required under Free Trade Agreements (e.g., USMCA for imports from Canada/Mexico)
  • Determines eligibility for preferential tariff treatment

6. Customs Bond

  • Required for imports valued over $2,500
  • Acts as a financial guarantee that importers will comply with CBP regulations

DDP shipping from China to the USA

What is DDP shipping from China?

When it comes to DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping from China to the USA, the seller takes care of everything for you. This includes paying for customs clearance, duties, and taxes, as well as making sure your goods arrive safely at their final destination in the USA. From transportation and customs to delivery right to your door, the seller handles it all. All you need to do is collect your goods at the agreed-upon location—it’s that simple!

Why Choose DDP for Shipping from China to the USA?

When it comes to international trade, DDP offers several significant benefits that make it a popular choice among many importers.
 

Why DDP Is Great for Importers

  • Simplified Logistics and Customs Processes: With DDP, the seller handles the complexities of shipping and customs clearance, including documentation, compliance with regulations, and payment of import duties. This simplification can be particularly beneficial for businesses unfamiliar with the destination country’s import procedures.
  • Less Stress for Buyers: Since the seller handles most of the risks and responsibilities, buyers can focus on what they do best, without stressing over the details of international shipping. This means a smoother supply chain and fewer surprises along the way.
  • Clear Costs Upfront: DDP may appear more expensive initially, but it can save money over time. Because everything’s included, there are no hidden fees or surprise charges. Buyers can plan their budgets with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect.
  • Saves Time and Boosts Efficiency: DDP’s smooth process often means your goods arrive faster. Sellers are motivated to deliver on time, so everything runs more efficiently. This is especially helpful if your business depends on quick deliveries or just-in-time inventory.

DDP Air Freight from China to the USA

Advantages:

  • Fast Delivery: Air freight is the quickest mode of international transportation, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments such as samples, high-value goods, or seasonal items.
  • Hassle-Free Process: With the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) model, the seller handles all logistics, including customs clearance and delivery. Buyers don’t need to worry about paperwork or import procedures.
  • All-Inclusive Pricing:DDP air freight typically comes with a clear, upfront cost that includes shipping, duties, and taxes—helping you avoid hidden fees or unexpected charges.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher Costs: Air freight is significantly more expensive than ocean freight, particularly for large or heavy shipments.
  • Strict Cargo Restrictions: There are limitations on size, weight, and the type of goods you can ship by air (e.g., batteries, liquids, and hazardous materials often require special handling or may be prohibited).

Best For: Urgent shipments, small batches of high-value items, product samples, and lightweight e-commerce packages.

DDP Ocean Freight from China to the USA

Advantages:

  • Cost-Effective: Ocean freight is the most economical option for large, heavy, or bulk shipments.
  • Higher Volume Capacity: It accommodates a wide range of cargo types and sizes without the weight and dimensional limits associated with air freight.
  • Simplified Experience: DDP shipping by sea also removes the burden of dealing with customs and taxes, making it easier for importers, especially those new to international logistics.

Disadvantages:

  • Longer Transit Times: Ocean freight usually takes several weeks or more, depending on the shipping route and destination.
  • Potential Delays: Weather conditions, port congestion, and customs inspections can all impact delivery schedules, making them less predictable than those of air freight.

Best For: Bulk goods, furniture, machinery, regular inventory replenishment, and other items with flexible delivery timeframes.

Choosing Between DDP Air and DDP Ocean Freight

Your decision should be based on:

  • Nature of the Goods:Opt for air freight for lightweight, high-value, or time-sensitive items. Opt for sea freight for large, bulky, or non-urgent shipments.
  • Delivery Timeline:If speed is crucial, air freight is the preferred option. If you have more time, sea freight offers greater cost savings.
  • Budget Constraints: Air freight is faster but more expensive. Sea freight is slower but significantly cheaper, especially for large volumes.

Cost of door-to-door shipping from China to the USA

Door-to-door sea freight services are a great option for shipping bulk items and goods that aren’t time-sensitive, making them a budget-friendly choice. To give you an idea, sending a 20-foot container from China to the United States usually costs between $2,000 and $3,500. If you require a 40-foot container, the price typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,500. There are additional charges—such as port fees, customs clearance, and final delivery—that typically add around $300 to $500 per container. So, altogether, you can expect the total door-to-door cost for a 20-foot container to the U.S. to fall in the range of about $2,500 to $4,000.

What is DDP shipping from China?

When it comes to DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping from China to the USA, the seller takes care of everything for you. This includes paying for customs clearance, duties, and taxes, as well as making sure your goods arrive safely at their final destination in the USA. From transportation and customs to delivery right to your door, the seller handles it all. All you need to do is collect your goods at the agreed-upon location—it’s that simple

How to Find the Best Shipping Company from China to the USA

If you’re looking to ship your cargo from China to the US, here are some helpful tips to find the best carrier for your needs:

  • Compare shipping carriers and rates: Look for fair prices from reputable shipping companies that fit your budget.
  • Seek specialization: It’s a good idea to choose companies that specialize in your type of cargo. For example, if your shipment requires temperature-controlled storage, ensure that your chosen shipper offers this service.
  • Check shipping methods: Make sure the shipping provider offers the options you’re comfortable with. For instance, if you’d like a sea-air transport option, see if that’s available.
  • Robust network: It can be helpful if the company has a strong network of shipping agents, brokers, and other logistics partners to ensure your cargo moves smoothly.
  • Transparent fees: Avoid shipping companies with hidden charges or last-minute fees. It can be helpful to do a quick search on Reddit or Google to see if others have had similar experiences. If you find any red flags, consider looking for companies known for their transparent pricing.
  • Responsive customer support: Friendly and reliable customer service can make a big difference. You’ll want to be able to reach the company easily and get quick, helpful responses when you need them.

How to ship from China to the US: Brief Steps

For beginners, it is advisable to work with a professional freight forwarder. Here are the basic steps:

Step 1: Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder

Start by partnering with an experienced international freight forwarder who understands the logistics and compliance requirements for China–U.S. trade. At Hongocean, we are a Chinese freight forwarding company specializing in helping SMBs and e-commerce companies transport goods efficiently and economically.

Step 2: Select the Right Mode of Transportation

Choose a shipping method based on your cargo’s size, urgency, and budget:

  • Air Freight: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments. Delivery typically takes 2–5 days.
  • Sea Freight (FCL or LCL): Best for bulk shipments. It’s more cost-effective but slower, with a transit time of 20–45 days.
  • Express Services (FedEx, UPS, DHL): Suitable for small, high-value parcels that need fast delivery but at a higher cost.

Step 3: Arrange Pickup

Please coordinate with your freight forwarder or carrier to arrange for the pickup of the goods from your supplier, factory, or warehouse and their transportation to the designated port or airport.

Step 4: Prepare Required Export and Import Documents

Accurate documentation is key for smooth customs clearance. Common documents include:

Working with a freight forwarder that offers customs brokerage services can help reduce errors and delays during clearance.

Step 5: Calculate Duties and Taxes

Estimate applicable import duties and taxes using the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. You can check this using U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or third-party tariff lookup tools.

Step 6: Check for Additional Fees or Permits

Certain goods may require additional taxes or regulatory approvals. For example:

  • Alcohol or tobacco: Subject to excise tax
  • Food, cosmetics, or medical items may need FDA approval
  • Electronics or chemical items: May require FCC, EPA, or other permits

Step 7: Complete U.S. Customs Clearance

Customs clearance must be finalized before the goods enter the U.S. This involves submitting the entry manifest, documents, and duty payments. For shipments over $2,500, a licensed customs broker is usually required to handle the clearance process.

Step 8: Schedule Final Delivery

Once the shipment clears customs, arrange for last-mile delivery to the final destination—whether it’s a business address, warehouse, or customer location. Your freight forwarder or a local logistics provider can assist with this step.

Conclusion

Shipping from China to the US involves many steps and considerations. Understanding the different shipping methods (Express, Air Freight, Ocean Freight) and their advantages and disadvantages, as well as knowing the cost structure (especially landed costs), and utilizing the services of professional freight forwarders and customs brokers will significantly simplify the process. Careful planning, comparison, and ensuring that all documents are in order will ensure that your goods cross the Pacific Ocean to their destination more smoothly and economically.

Related FAQ

How long is the ship from China to the US?

The shipping time from China to the United States is usually 15 to 30 days, depending on the distance between the port of departure and the port of destination. For example, it usually takes 15 to 20 days to travel from eastern China to the west coast of the United States and 25 to 30 days to the east coast.

Is China allowed to ship to USA?

Yes, China is permitted to ship goods to the United States, but specific regulations and tariffs apply. As of May 2025, all goods imported from China are subject to customs duties, regardless of their value. This change follows the removal of the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed items valued under $800 to enter duty-free.

Cheapest Shipping From China to the US

Ocean Freight is the cheapest way to ship from China to the United States and is especially suitable for shipping large quantities of non-urgent goods. Although the transit time is longer, its low cost and extensive coverage make it the preferred method of international trade.

What is the Best Way to Ship from China to the United States?

The best way to ship from China to the United States depends on the size, urgency, and budget of your cargo. If you need to send a large quantity of goods in a short period, ocean freight is the most cost-effective option, especially when you require a full container. If speed is a priority, air freight is a more suitable option. It takes 2–5 days, but the cost is higher. If you need to send something small or urgent, express courier services like DHL or FedEx can deliver it to the address you specify. A professional freight forwarder can help you choose the best way to send your goods, based on what you need.

Do I have to pay duty on items shipped from China to the USA?

Yes, you will likely have to pay duty on items shipped from China to the USA. As of May 2025, the U.S. has removed the “de minimis” exemption for goods imported from China, which previously allowed items valued under $800 to enter duty-free. Now, all goods from China are subject to duties, regardless of their value.

Cheapest shipping from China to the US?

Looking for the most cost-effective way to ship from China to the United States? There are plenty of options to fit your shipment’s size, urgency, and budget. Here are some of the most affordable shipping methods for 2025: If you’re sending small items, E-packet is usually the best deal. For larger shipments, sea freight is a great option, while air freight is more suitable if you need items to arrive quickly. Don’t forget to compare quotes from different carriers to ensure you get the best price.

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