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Shipping from the United States to China
Latest Updated in Oct 2024
Overview of Shipping from United States to China
The shipping route between the United States and China is crucial for international trade. This route connects business and consumers, making it an important and dynamic aspect of global trade. United States is a key logistics and shipping hub in Asia, while the China is a significant consumer market.
Businesses and individuals seeking efficient and reliable transportation of goods across the popular trade route from the United States to China have to understand its intricacies.
Shipping Options from United States to China : How to choose
When shipping from United States to the China, there are three modes of transportation available: air freight, sea freight, and courier services. Each mode has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on various factors such as the size and weight of the shipment, delivery time, and cost.
Some key factors to consider when shipping from United States to China include:
Size & weight of shipment: Courier is suitable for small shipments; FCL shipping is better for bulk shipping, while LCL shipping is more appropriate for smaller packages.
Costs: Air freight is generally more expensive than sea freight, but it is faster. Fuel costs for air freight are also higher than those for sea freight.
Weather conditions: Incidents such as storms and hurricanes could alter the shipping route.
For help finding the best shipping mode for your shipment, use our Instant Quote.
Air Freight from United States to China
Air freight is faster than sea freight, with goods reaching their destination in a matter of days instead of several weeks or months. It is ideal for urgent shipments or perishable goods that require fast delivery. Air shipping involves minimal handling of items, making it one of the safest shipping options. However, it is more expensive than shipping by sea. The mode chosen for shipment depends on its size and weight, as well as the required delivery time. Learn more about Air Freight services.
Sea Freight from United States to China
Sea freight is the most cost-effective mode of shipping, but it can also be the slowest. It is suitable for bulk shipping and is divided into two categories: LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load). The choice between FCL and LCL shipping methods depends on the size of the shipment, the urgency of delivery, and the characteristics of the goods. Learn more about Sea Freight services.
FCL Sea Freight from United States to China
FCL sea freight offers the advantage of being cost-effective, faster transit time, and lower potential for damage compared to LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping. FCL means your goods fill an entire container, either 20’ or 40’ long. If you are shipping at a high volume, you’ll save time and money by shipping FCL. Pricing for FCL is done as a flat rate, regardless of whether or not your container is completely full.
LCL Sea Freight from United States to China
LCL sea freight is a shipping method suitable for smaller shipments that do not fill an entire container and will be shipped along with other parcels or pallets. However, LCL shipping has some disadvantages, such as longer transit times, higher costs per unit, and a higher chance of damage due to the need for consolidation and deconsolidation of goods at the origin and destination ports.
Courier from United States to China
Courier services are ideal for sending small to medium-sized packages quickly from United States to the U.S. They typically take 3 to 5 days, making them perfect for urgent shipments. Some courier services even offer door-to-door delivery, which is very convenient for customers. Learn more about Courier services.
Post Service from United States to China
Post services are suitable for sending documents or small-sized packages that are not time-sensitive from United States to the U.S.. Postal services are generally Chinaed to send documents, gifts, and merchandise. Learn more about Post Service.
Want to compare the best Express, Air Freight, Sea Freight, Rail Freight & Trucking rates so as to have better control on cost?
Shipping Cost & Delivery Time from United States to China
Shipping costs from United States to the U.S. are influenced by various factors, including the mode of transportation, shipment size and weight, port of arrival, handling requirements, fuel costs, and market demand. By considering these factors, shippers can make informed decisions to manage and optimize shipping costs.
Transit time is impacted by the shipment’s specific location, size, and seasonal factors. The shipping mode you choose can significantly impact transit time. Air transport is generally faster than ocean transport, with delivery times ranging from 6 to 10 days. In contrast, ocean freight can take between 40 and 44 days, depending on the destination and load type.
Gain real-time information on the status of your shipment with our real-time Track & Trace.
Air Freight from United States to China
Air freight shipping costs from United States to the U.S. are Chinaually calculated per kilogram. In some cases, the chargeable weight is determined by the volumetric weight instead of the actual weight.
The most cost-effective option for air freight from United States to the China is typically for shipments weighing between 150 kg and 500 kg, with delivery times ranging from 6 to 10 days.
For the latest air freight offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
Sea Freight from United States to China
Shipping cost of sea freight is typically calculated based on the volumetic weight of the shipment. Once a shipment weighs more than around 500 kg, shipping by sea generally becomes the more cost-effective option due to economies of scale. The typical transit time for sea freight is between 40 to 44 days, with LCL shipment is generally a few days longer than FCL shipment.
LCL Shipping Rates from United States to China
For the latest LCL shipping offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
FCL Shipping Rates from United States to China
For the latest FCL shipping offers, check out FreightAmigo Special Offers.
Express from United States to China
Small packages are often most suitable for courier services due to their lower weight and size, which can make them more cost-effective to ship. Additionally, many courier services offer specific pricing and services tailored to small packages, making them a convenient and efficient option for shipping smaller items internationally. The typical transit time for courier services is between 3 to 5 days.
Get the best international freight rates from China to the United States to save your cost with FreightAmigo
Duties & Taxes for Shipping from United States to China
The China operates with an open economic system and relatively straightforward cross-border trade terms. The China Customers and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for assessing and collecting these duties.
There are 3 types of duties and taxes imposed on imported goods into China:
- Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty: imported to China from WTO member countries; Goods originating from China
- Tariff Rate Quota duty: Apply to Wheat, Corn, Rice, Sugar, Wool, Cotton, Fertiliser
- Value-Added Tax (VAT): Applicable to all imported goods
Duties Threshold and Exemption
The duties threshold for goods imported from United States into the China is set at CNY 300. This de minimis value determines that goods with declared cargo value below CNY 300 are generally exempt from duties and taxes. However, goods exceeding this threshold are subject to applicable duties and taxes upon importation.
Common Goods Shipped from United States to China
United States and the China have a wide range of common goods that are frequently traded between the two regions. These goods encompass various industries, including electronics, consumer goods, textiles, machinery, and pharmaceuticals, among others. Despite ongoing efforts to maintain a favorable trade environment, challenges related to shipping from United States to the U.S. persist. Leveraging platform services can greatly simplify the logistics process. These platforms connect business with a wide network of reliable logistics services providers, streamlining the transportation of goods across borders.
Some common goods shipped from United States to China are:
United States has been a prominent hub for toy manufacturing for several decades. Navigating the import and export market for toys between China and the U.S. requires a good understanding of regulations, standards, and industry trends. Working with experienced shipping professionals can help ensure compliance and smooth transactions in this market.
Shipping electronics from United States to the China has thrived due toChina’s position as a major export hub, facilitating the smooth flow of goods and trade activities. However, evolving trade factors have introduced new challenges and considerations for businesses involved in this shipping route.
China is a key hub for importing and exporting food and beverage products. Its strategic location and strong trade links with the US make it an ideal location for businesses to take advantage of US’s logistics expertise and reputation for quality, benefiting from the trade between these two places.
The car battery market in shipping from the US to China is experiencing a significant surge due to the increased import of lithium-ion batteries. The shipping landscape between the US and China is being influenced by this rapid expansion in the car battery market, particularly for EVs.
The import and export market for Super Cars between the US and China is thriving. US’s logistics expertise and China’s demand for luxury vehicles make it an ideal route for shipping these super cars. Businesses can leverage US’s logistics capabilities and Chinese market’s affinity for exceptional automobiles to maximize opportunities in this sector.
Prohibited & Restricted Items for shipping United States to China
China does publish a list of items prohibited from import, but it pays to read the regulations carefully as some of these prohibited items may be sent across the border if specific requirements are met or licenses are obtained. The list of prohibited items includes:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Cultural Artifacts and Cultural Property
- Firearms
- Fish and Wildlife
- Food Products (Raw & Prepared)
- Plants & Seeds
Before you book a parcel delivery to the U.S. from HK, please also ensure you are complied with the rules and regulations listed. This will help to avoid any risk of your packages being delayed or returned, any unforeseen complications or extra charge. Learn more here.
For the latest information, please refer to the China Customs website.
Top shipping routes United States to China
There are various sea port in China; while in the U.S., there are several ports you can direct your shipment to, but it is best to use a port that is closest to your final destination. While there are many possible routes, here are some commonly used shipping lanes are:
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Shipping from China to Long Beach (USLGB)
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Shipping from China to Los Angeles (USLAX)
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Shipping from China to New York (USNYC)
There are additional shipping routes available depending on your specific needs and the destination within the U.S. FreightAmigo can provide you with real-time rates and options for these and other shipping routes to help you make informed decisions for your shipments from China to the U.S.
How much to ship to China?
When sending goods from the United States to China , the overall cost can differ based on various factors such as the size and weight of the shipment, chosen shipping method, delivery timeframe, courier selection, and any extra charges. With FreightAmigo, we provide assistance in comparing shipping modes and couriers to identify the most cost-effective shipping solution that aligns with your requirements.
What are the top couriers to ship to the China?
- FedEx
- UPS
- DHL
- USPS
Useful Information for shipping from United States to China
As a business center, the U.S. prioritizes facilitating business transactions to the maximum extent possible. As a result, the majority of small, letter-sized shipments are exempt from any tariffs and smoothly clear the border of the United States. This significantly simplifies the process of sending paperwork, proposals, and other business correspondence from China to the US.
However, for packages, complete customs forms and accurate declarations are required, although such procedures can be conveniently carried out through document digitization during the booking process with FreightAmigo.
There are different options for cargo transportation. If you want to choose the most convenient and suitable solution, it is best to have the full support of logistics experts!
Shipping to China in 3 Steps
- Register for free then login FreightAmigo platform, input cargo details, including origin, destination, cargo volume, services (i.e., Air/Sea or Container)
- FreightAmigo will list out the transparent prices and transit time from different courier service providers according to the info you entered. Select your favorite quote and click “Book”.
- After filling the related info, i.e. pick-up date + time, you can select the payment method and place the order instantly.
Don’t forget! You can track your shipment through the Track and Trace platform.
Commercial Shipping Services from United States to Vietnam
Whether you are an online store owner or need large-scale commercial logistics services, FreightAmigo can plan the most suitable logistics solution for you.
AmiGo Post offers shipping rates that are on average 30% cheaper than the market, saving you up to 80% on shipping costs.
The considerations and restrictions for personal and commercial shipments to China are generally similar, but it is important to note that China has strict regulations on import and export goods. Some dairy products require an import permit from the Department of Agriculture and must be imported according to the annual tariff quota. However, if you do not have an import permit, you can still import under a different tariff rate. Generally, products imported into China do not require an import permit. For more details, you can consult a FreightAmigo specialist.
Simple Booking Steps for Shipping from United States to China
SF Express Shipping to China Guide
Step 1: Register for free and log in to the FreightAmigo platform. On the instant quote page, enter the departure location and destination (select China ), choose the type “parcel,” then enter other parcel details and click “search.”
Step 2: Based on the parcel details you entered, FreightAmigo will immediately list the shipping options to China from different international courier companies. You can select SF Express.
Step 3: Fill in the relevant parcel details, such as the pickup date and time, then choose a payment method to book the shipment online.
Step 4: Relax at home and wait for a specialist to come and pick up your parcel.
SF Express Shipping to the China – Important Notes
SF Express reserves the right to refuse and/or suspend the shipment of items under the following conditions:
- Any parcels that do not provide detailed contact information for the sender and recipient.
- Items that, from SF Express’s perspective, are unsuitable for shipment or are not properly described, classified, packaged, and labeled with the necessary documentation for shipment.
- Items that, due to their nature or packaging characteristics, SF Express deems may endanger the safety of transportation vehicles and personnel.
- Items that SF Express considers unshippable from an economic or operational perspective.
SF Express Shipping to China – Common Item Acceptance Standards
Common item types | Company items (the recipient and sender must be companies) | Personal items (the sender is a company/individual and the recipient is an individual) |
clothing | -- Available for delivery | -- Available for delivery |
Battery | --Conditional receipt and delivery | --Conditional receipt and delivery |
cell phone | -- Not accepted for delivery | -- Not accepted for delivery |
tea | -- Conditional acceptance and delivery | -- Conditional acceptance and delivery |
books | --Conditional receipt and delivery -- Items that are pirated, contain pornography, reactionary, superstitious, violent, or involve state secrets or other illegal content cannot be accepted or sent. | --Conditional acceptance |
snack gift pack | --Conditional receipt and delivery -- Company documents need to provide the following information: 2) Before shipment, you need to log in to the official website of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fill in the PN pre-declaration | -- Conditional receipt and delivery --The recipient is an individual and needs to meet the following conditions: |
How to Choose Shipping Boxes
- Box size: Measure the item and choose a box slightly larger.
- Box material: Cardboard boxes are the most common and affordable option. Choose a strong cardboard box that can hold your item.
FreightAmigo offers two box sizes for relocation services:
- Standard carton: 43 x 39 x 39 cm (weight limit 15 kg)
- Extra large carton: 61 x 41 x 41 cm (weight limit 22 kg)
43 x 39 x 39cm (Max 15 kg) | 61 x 41 x 41cm (Max 22 kg) |
Books, documents Small household items like kitchenware, décor, small electronics Clothing, linens, and personal belongings Small office supplies and electronics | Small appliances (e.g. coffee maker, blender) Larger books, photo albums, or files Bigger décor items (e.g. framed wall art, vases) Pots, pans, and heavier kitchen items |
Learn more about Relocation services.
How to pack your boxes in 3 effortless steps
When packing your furniture into the boxes, follow these techniques to maximize space and minimize movement:
- Organise your possessions and place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to maintain stability.
- Fill any empty spaces with packing material and protect your items by padding or wrapping.
- Print and stick shipping labels on boxes for easy collection.
- Final check before collection. Ensure that each box is not overfilled or underfilled.
Learn more to pack your cargo safely.
Packing Tips When Shipping from the United States to China
Use High-Quality Packing Materials
It is best to avoid using containers that may be easily damaged and instead opt for robust cardboard boxes specifically designed for international shipping. Additionally, reinforce the bottom of the boxes using durable parcel tape before packing to provide extra strength and security.
Secure Contents with Ample Cushioning
Wrap each item individually using bubble wrap and secure it with tape. Fill any empty spaces between items using crumpled newspaper or towels to prevent movement during transit. Finally, seal the boxes securely by applying multiple layers of parcel tape.
Maintain a Detailed Inventory
Keep a thorough record of your shipment by documenting the contents of each box in your online shipping account as you pack. Ensure clear labeling on each box, including your name, box number, job number, and destination details.
Prepare Boxes for Collection
Before the courier arrives for collection, make sure to weigh each box to ensure it falls within the allowed weight limit. Have all your packed boxes, bags, and suitcases prepared and waiting at the building entrance for convenient pickup by the courier.
Protection for Fragile or Delicate Items
Consider using inner packaging materials such as foam inserts or air-filled cushions to provide additional protection for fragile or delicate items during transit. These materials can help absorb shocks and prevent damage caused by impact.
At FreightAmigo, we are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive logistics solution that makes arranging international shipping a breeze. With five different transportation modes to choose from, we have all your shipping needs covered!
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping from United States to China
How to choose air or sea freight for shipping from China to the United States?
The difference between air and sea freight for shipping from China to the U.S. lies in the transit time, cost, and suitability for different types of shipments. The choice between air and sea freight depends on the size, weight, and urgency of the shipment. Air freight is recommended for smaller, time-sensitive shipments, while sea freight is more cost-effective for larger shipments. Find the best solutions with our Instant Quote.
Do I need cargo insurance for shipping from China to the United States?
It is advisable to consider insurance coverage to protect your goods in case of damage or loss during transit. On FreightAmigo platform, you can easily insure your goods in just one click when arranging your shipment. Learn more about our Cargo Insurance services.
What are the import requirements and documentation for shipping from China to the United States?
When importing goods from China to the United States, the customs process involves completing customs clearance procedures, providing supporting documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and filling in an accurate import declaration. Consult with our expert to simplify the shipping process and ensure compliance to avoid any additional charges. Learn more about our Customs Clearance services.
How to ship to Amazon FBA?
Cost and timing are important factors when considering shipping to Amazon FBA in the United States. It is important to work with a reliable service provider to ensure a smooth sailing. Learn more about our Amazon FBA services.
What are the Incoterms for shipping from China to the United States?
Incoterms affect freight prices from China to the United States by specifying the level of service the freight forwarder offers and the responsibilities of both the seller and buyer. Learn more about the Incoterms here.
Useful Topics for shipping from United States to China
Shipping Discounts 2024 | Unlock HK$ 6800 for Businesses
New Member Enjoy HK$ 20 Welcome Discount
What to do after placing courier order? Stick shipping documents!
Essential tips for sending dangerous goods i.e. parcel with battery, liquid
* All final charges are based on FreightAmigo Services Limited’s online system.
