Shipping from China to the USA: Cost, Time, and Methods (2025)

Shipping from China to the USA

Fast & Reliable Sea and Air Freight Solutions – Door to Door, DDP, FCL, LCL

Shipping from China to the USA

Shipping from China to the USA plays a central role in global trade, powering the supply chains of Amazon sellers, retail importers, and manufacturers alike. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned logistics manager, finding the most reliable and cost-effective shipping solution is critical to your success. Selecting the best freight forwarder is essential, as a reliable and efficient partner can significantly impact your shipping experience from China to the USA.

Today, thousands of international shipping companies and freight forwarders in China offer services ranging from full container ocean freight to fast air freight and door-to-door DDP solutions. Choosing the right shipping company that ships from China to the US can directly impact your profit margins, delivery timelines, and customer satisfaction.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know in 2025—from freight shipping methods and customs clearance procedures to the cheapest shipping options and top Chinese ports. You’ll also find updated shipping cost comparisons, estimated transit times, and insider tips on how to avoid hidden fees, port congestion, and unnecessary delays.

At Tonlexing, we specialize in helping global businesses ship smoothly from China to the USA. Whether you’re importing electronics, apparel, or Amazon FBA goods, our expert team delivers seamless, cost-effective logistics solutions tailored to your needs.

Table of Contents

Best Shipping Methods from China to the USA

Choosing the right shipping method from China to the USA is the first step toward optimizing your supply chain. The method you select will depend on key factors like shipment size, urgency, budget, and final delivery requirements. Let’s explore the most commonly used options:

Ocean Freight: Ideal for Bulk & Cost-Effective Shipping

Ocean freight is the most popular method for large shipments due to its low cost per unit. It includes two primary modes:

FCL (Full Container Load) – You reserve the entire container for your goods.
LCL (Less than Container Load) – You share container space with other shipments, paying only for the volume you use.

Ocean freight is often considered the cheapest shipping option for large shipments due to its low cost per unit.

This method is best for non-urgent cargo like furniture, building materials, or wholesale inventory.

Shipping time: 18–35 days
Cost: $1,200–$2,400 for FCL
Ports: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao → Los Angeles, New York, Houston

Best for: High-volume, non-urgent shipments

Air Freight: Fastest for Urgent & High-Value Cargo

Air freight from China to the USA is significantly faster than sea freight. Selecting the right air freight services is crucial for efficient and timely delivery, especially for time-sensitive shipments like electronics, fashion, or product launches.

While it comes with a higher price tag, you save on warehousing costs and reduce delivery uncertainty.

Shipping time: 3–7 days
Airports: PVG (Shanghai), CAN (Guangzhou), HKG (Hong Kong) → LAX, JFK, ORD
Cost: $3.80–$4.50 per kg (100–300 kg range)

Best for: Urgent, seasonal, or high-value goods

Express Shipping: Small Parcels Delivered Fast

Express shipping is the go-to for samples, small e-commerce orders, and urgent documents. Carriers like DHL, UPS, and FedEx offer door-to-door express delivery within 2–5 days.

China Post also provides an express mail service, a fast shipping option suitable for urgent shipments with features like tracking and door-to-door delivery.

This is a premium service, but provides complete visibility, simplified clearance, and real-time tracking.

Shipping time: 2–5 days
Weight: Ideal for < 30 kg
Cost: $25–$80 depending on size & urgency

Best for: Samples, e-commerce, Amazon FBA replenishment

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) & Door-to-Door Shipping

With DDP shipping, your freight forwarder handles everything—from factory pickup in China to customs clearance and final delivery in the US. All import duties and taxes are prepaid, so you face no surprise charges.

It’s a favorite for Amazon sellers, first-time importers, and businesses that want a fully-managed experience.

Available for: Sea freight (FCL/LCL), air freight, and express
Includes: Taxes, customs clearance, local delivery
Regions Covered: USA nationwide, including residential and warehouse delivery

Best for: Hassle-free shipping, new importers, FBA sellers

Shipping Companies That Ship from China to the USA

There are three main types of shipping companies that ship from China to the USA—each serving a different role in the international logistics chain. Understanding how they work helps you choose the right partner for your business.

International Shipping Carriers (Vessel & Air Operators)

These are the companies that physically move your goods across oceans and skies. They include:

Ocean freight carriers: MSC, COSCO, CMA CGM, MAERSK, ZIM
Air freight carriers: Air China Cargo, China Southern, Lufthansa Cargo, Emirates SkyCargo, which offer competitive air cargo services with various airlines providing cost-effective shipping options.

While reliable, these international shipping companies usually only serve freight forwarders and don’t work directly with small or mid-sized importers.

Courier & Express Companies

Companies like DHL, FedEx, and UPS provide express shipping services with integrated pickup, clearance, and last-mile delivery. They’re ideal for documents, samples, and small-volume goods.

While convenient, they’re often not cost-effective for heavy or bulk freight, especially above 30 kg or 0.5 CBM.

Freight Forwarders in China (Your Logistics Partner)

Freight forwarders in China are your one-stop solution for international shipping. Choosing the best freight forwarders is crucial for better rates and services, particularly for e-commerce businesses and Amazon FBA shipments. They handle everything: carrier booking, customs documentation, consolidation, cargo insurance, and door-to-door delivery.

At Tonlexing, we’re more than just a freight middleman. We tailor shipping solutions based on:

Your cargo size and urgency
Preferred shipping mode (air, sea, express, or rail)
Final delivery location and customs requirements

Unlike large platforms or marketplaces, we offer real-time support, DDP shipping options, and customized freight cost comparison to help you choose the most efficient route.

Why Choose Tonlexing?

We combine the flexibility of a local Chinese logistics provider with international standards. Our team provides:

Fast FCL/LCL consolidation
Competitive air freight from China to the USA
Customs clearance and U.S. import compliance

Door-to-door delivery to Amazon FBA or private warehouses

Transparent, all-in pricing with no surprise fees

Whether you’re shipping 1 CBM or a full container, we ensure your cargo gets delivered smoothly, affordably, and on time.

Shipping Cost from China to the USA (May 2025)

Shipping costs from China to the USA vary depending on your shipment size, mode of transport, origin/destination, and delivery speed. Whether you’re comparing ocean freight vs air freight, calculating DDP pricing, or estimating small parcel charges, understanding the cost structure helps you choose the most cost-effective logistics plan.

Let’s break down the typical 2025 rates for freight shipping services from China to major U.S. cities.

Sea Freight (FCL & LCL)

Route (Port-to-Port)	20ft FCL	40ft FCL	LCL Rate (USD/CBM)	Transit Time
Shanghai → Los Angeles	$1,250	$2,050	$45–60	15–18 days
Shenzhen → New York	$1,350	$2,350	$50–65	25–30 days
Ningbo → Houston	$1,280	$2,100	$48–63	24–28 days
Qingdao → Savannah	$1,320	$2,200	$50–68	26–35 days

LCL is calculated based on volume (CBM) and may include terminal handling and consolidation fees.
FCL pricing offers better value for larger shipments (above 15 CBM).

FCL shipping provides increased security and faster delivery times due to dedicated cargo space, making it a cost-effective option for larger shipments.

Air Freight Rates (Standard Cargo)

Route (Airport-to-Airport)	100 kg (USD/kg)	300 kg (USD/kg)	Transit Time
Shanghai (PVG) → Los Angeles	$4.20	$3.80	3–5 days
Guangzhou (CAN) → New York	$4.30	$4.00	4–6 days
Shenzhen (SZX) → Chicago	$5.40	$5.10	3–6 days
Hong Kong (HKG) → Miami	$4.10	$3.85	4–7 days

Air freight costs are influenced by global events like the coronavirus, seasonal variations, and promotional rates offered by different airlines. Utilizing freight forwarders can help access competitive rates for air cargo shipments from China to the USA.
Charges are based on chargeable weight: whichever is greater between actual and volumetric weight.
Ideal for high-value or urgent cargo, despite higher costs.

Express Shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS)

Weight Range	Estimated Cost (USD)	Delivery Time
0.5–5 kg	$15–$60	2–4 days
5–10 kg	$60–$120	3–5 days
10–30 kg	$100–$200	3–5 days

Includes door-to-door delivery, customs clearance, and tracking.
Best for lightweight, time-sensitive shipments like samples, e-commerce orders, and Amazon replenishment.

DDP Shipping (All-Inclusive Door-to-Door)

With Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping, all costs are bundled into a single price:

Pickup from your supplier
Export declaration
Ocean or air transport
Customs clearance and import duty prepayment
Final delivery to U.S. address

Typical DDP Rates:

LCL DDP: $80–$120 per CBM (depending on destination)
Air DDP: $5.50–$7.00/kg (100–300 kg)

Need a real-time quote? Use our CBM Calculator Tool to estimate chargeable volume or request a free quote directly from our team.

Transit Time from China to the USA

One of the most common questions importers ask is: “How long does shipping take from China to the USA?” The answer depends on the shipping method, destination, and time of year. Here’s a detailed breakdown of transit times based on transport mode:

Sea Freight Transit Time (FCL & LCL)

Route	Estimated Transit Time
Shanghai → Los Angeles	15–18 days
Shenzhen → New York	25–30 days
Ningbo → Houston	24–28 days
Qingdao → Savannah	26–35 days

Shipments to West Coast ports, such as Los Angeles, typically have shorter transit times due to more direct geographical routes.

Additional time may be needed for LCL consolidation, customs clearance, or port congestion during peak seasons.

Air Freight Transit Time

Route	Estimated Transit Time
Shanghai → Los Angeles (LAX)	3–5 days
Guangzhou → New York (JFK)	4–6 days
Shenzhen → Chicago (ORD)	3–6 days
Hong Kong → Miami (MIA)	4–7 days

Air freight is ideal for time sensitive shipments, especially when product launches or seasonal sales are involved. Factors such as packing, customs clearance, and the choice between direct and indirect flights significantly influence air freight time. Always account for airport handling and customs clearance (1–2 days).

Express Shipping Transit Time (DHL, UPS, FedEx)

Origin in China	U.S. Destination	Transit Time
Any major city	Nationwide	2–5 days

Express couriers offer door-to-door delivery including customs clearance.
Service may be delayed by holidays or incorrect documentation, but is usually reliable.

DDP & Door-to-Door Delivery Time

Shipping Mode	Estimated Time
DDP by Sea	25–40 days
DDP by Air	7–12 days

DDP includes customs clearance, tax settlement, and final-mile delivery.
Time depends on the exact address, cargo volume, and destination state.

Factors That Affect Shipping Time

Several variables influence actual shipping times:

Port congestion in the U.S. or China
Weather delays or storms in ocean routes
Holidays like Chinese New Year or Golden Week
Incorrect or missing customs documentation

Proper planning and a reliable freight forwarder can help reduce unexpected delays and ensure smoother delivery.

Customs Clearance and Import Duties for USA Shipments

All shipments entering the United States must undergo customs clearance, whether they arrive by sea, air, or express courier. The process ensures your cargo complies with U.S. import laws, and that all applicable taxes and duties are properly assessed.

How Customs Clearance Works in the USA

When your shipment arrives at a U.S. port or airport, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will review your shipping documents and inspect your goods if necessary. To ensure fast clearance, you must submit:

Commercial Invoice with accurate HS code and declared value
Packing List with item quantities and weights
Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight)
Importer Security Filing (ISF) for ocean shipments
Additional permits or product certifications (if required)

How Import Duties Are Calculated

Import duties are based on your product’s HS code, declared value, and country of origin. Key points include:

De Minimis Rule: Goods valued under $800 may enter duty-free via express services
Standard Duty Rates: Typically 0–20%, depending on the product type
Additional Tariffs: Section 301 tariffs or anti-dumping duties may apply to certain Chinese goods
MPF (Merchandise Processing Fee): Common for formal entries by sea freight

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP): Simplified Clearance

Want to avoid all this complexity? With DDP shipping, your freight forwarder handles customs clearance on your behalf, including payment of duties and local taxes.

Benefits of DDP:

Zero paperwork for the importer
Prepaid duties and taxes—no surprise fees
Ideal for Amazon FBA or residential deliveries
Works with both sea and air freight

Tips to Avoid Delays at Customs

Use accurate HS codes—don’t guess
Insure your shipment to cover potential loss or damage
Ensure invoices match the physical shipment
Work with a licensed freight forwarder who knows U.S. clearance rules
Prepare all documents in advance

Step-by-Step Shipping Process from China to the USA

Shipping goods from China to the USA may seem complex, but with the right freight forwarder and a clear plan, it becomes a smooth and manageable process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how your cargo moves from factory to final destination.

Step 1: Confirm Order & Prepare Cargo

After confirming your purchase with a Chinese supplier, you must:

Ensure goods are properly packaged and labeled
Request dimensions and weight (for CBM calculation)
Determine if the shipment qualifies for FCL or LCL
Discuss Incoterms (e.g. EXW, FOB, DDP) with the supplier

Step 2: Select Shipping Mode

Choose your preferred shipment methods by categorizing various delivery options available for transporting goods, such as express shipping, sea freight, and air freight:

Sea freight for cost savings (FCL or LCL)
Air freight for urgent or high-value goods
Express shipping for small parcels
DDP for hassle-free delivery, including taxes & clearance

Step 3: Book with a Freight Forwarder

Your freight forwarder in China will:

Book the space with carriers (airlines or ocean liners)
Arrange pickup from your supplier’s warehouse
Organize documentation and freight insurance
Coordinate customs export declaration in China

Step 4: Export Customs Clearance

China customs will review your:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
HS codes & product values
Export License (if needed)

Once cleared, your shipment is released for departure.

Step 5: International Transit

Sea freight: Container loaded and shipped via major ports (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo)
Air transportation: Goods are flown from China to major U.S. airports (LAX, JFK, ORD) as part of the air freight process. This includes comprehensive logistics services such as customs clearance and distribution. Air transportation is often complemented by last-mile delivery options, such as UPS, to ensure efficient and secure delivery of goods.
Express courier: Picked up and routed through carrier’s global hub

Step 6: U.S. Customs Clearance

Upon arrival:

Customs inspects documents and goods
Import taxes and duties are calculated
Your freight forwarder or broker completes the clearance
DDP shipments clear automatically (taxes prepaid)

Step 7: Final Delivery

Once cleared, cargo is delivered to:

Warehouse or fulfillment center
Amazon FBA warehouse
Residential or business address

Options include truck freight, courier, or last-mile delivery via UPS/FedEx.

Common Shipping Challenges and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best preparation, international shipping can encounter obstacles. Knowing the most common challenges—and how to solve them—will help you reduce risks, lower costs, and protect your cargo.

Port Congestion and Carrier Delays

Major U.S. ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, and New York often experience port congestion, especially during peak seasons like Q4 or after Chinese New Year. Shipping routes and transit times for cargo arriving from China to the west coast, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, are typically faster compared to those destined for the East Coast, highlighting the geographical advantages of these routes.

Impact:

Delays of 5–15 days
Additional demurrage and storage fees

Solution:

Ship earlier during off-peak months
Use alternative ports (e.g., Houston, Savannah)
Work with a freight forwarder who can re-route shipments

Unexpected Shipping Costs

Hidden fees—such as port handling, peak season surcharges, customs storage, or last-mile charges—can inflate your budget significantly.

Solution:

Ask for all-inclusive quotes (especially for DDP)
Clarify what’s included: loading, unloading, clearance, duties
Use a shipping cost comparison or request a full breakdown

Cargo Damage or Loss

Improper packaging, rough container handling, or weather exposure may result in cargo damage, especially in LCL shipments where your cargo shares space with others.

Solution:

Follow packaging standards (palletization, waterproofing, labeling)
Purchase freight insurance for high-value goods
Avoid shipping during typhoon or winter storm seasons

Customs Delays Due to Incorrect Documentation

Missing or inaccurate invoices, wrong HS codes, or mismatched shipping info can trigger custom clearance delays or penalties.

Solution:

Double-check commercial invoices and product descriptions
Work with a customs-savvy freight forwarder
Use DDP shipping to let experts handle documentation and duties

Lack of Shipment Visibility and Updates

Without real-time tracking or clear communication, it’s easy to lose visibility over where your cargo is or when it will arrive.

Solution:

Choose forwarders with online tracking portals
Request proactive status updates at each step
Use express freight or door to door services with live tracking

Explore full 20ft & 40ft container shipping costs here

Freight Insurance and Risk Management

Freight insurance is a vital aspect of risk management in international shipping, providing protection against loss or damage to goods during transit. When shipping from China to the US, purchasing freight insurance is highly recommended to safeguard your investment against unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, natural disasters, or theft.

Freight insurance covers various risks, including damage due to rough handling, weather conditions, and other hazards that may occur during transportation. By securing freight insurance, businesses can mitigate potential financial losses and ensure that their goods are protected throughout the shipping journey.

A reliable freight forwarder can assist in navigating the process of purchasing freight insurance, ensuring that your goods are adequately covered. They can provide expert advice on the best insurance options based on the nature of your cargo and the specific risks involved in your shipping route.

Peak Seasons and Holidays

Peak seasons and holidays can significantly impact international shipping, particularly when shipping from China to the US. During these periods, there is often increased demand for shipping services, leading to higher freight costs and longer transit times. Key peak seasons include the lead-up to major holidays like Christmas and Chinese New Year, as well as back-to-school periods.

To navigate these challenges, it’s essential to plan ahead and factor in potential delays and cost increases. Working with a reliable freight forwarder can help you manage these peak periods more effectively. They can provide insights into the best times to ship, alternative shipping routes, and strategies to avoid congestion and delays.

By planning your shipments well in advance and collaborating with a knowledgeable freight forwarder, you can ensure that your goods arrive on time, even during the busiest shipping seasons.

Incoterms and Shipping Terms

Incoterms, or International Commercial Terms, are standardized terms used in international trade to define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers during the shipping process. Understanding Incoterms is crucial when shipping from China to the US, as they clarify the terms of sale and ensure that both parties are aware of their obligations.

Common Incoterms used in international shipping include:

FOB (Free on Board): The seller is responsible for delivering the goods to the port of shipment, and the buyer assumes responsibility once the goods are on board the vessel.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): The seller covers the cost of goods, insurance, and freight to the destination port, but the risk transfers to the buyer once the goods are on board the vessel.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): The seller is responsible for all costs and risks, including import duties and taxes, until the goods are delivered to the buyer’s location.

A reliable freight forwarder can help you understand and correctly use these Incoterms, ensuring that your shipping process is smooth and compliant with international trade regulations.

Warehousing and Storage Options

Warehousing and storage options are essential components of international shipping, providing safe and secure storage for goods until they are ready to be shipped. When shipping from China to the US, businesses can choose from various warehousing options, including bonded warehouses, container freight stations, and distribution centers.

Bonded warehouses allow goods to be stored without paying import duties until they are ready for distribution. Container freight stations are used for consolidating and deconsolidating shipments, making them ideal for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments. Distribution centers are strategically located facilities that facilitate the efficient distribution of goods to their final destinations.

A reliable freight forwarder can help you select the best warehousing and storage options based on your specific needs. They can also offer value-added services such as cargo insurance, customs clearance, and freight tracking, ensuring that your goods are stored and shipped efficiently and securely.

By following this structured approach, the new sections will seamlessly integrate with the existing content, providing comprehensive and reader-friendly information on shipping from China to the USA.

Learn more about air freight product rules and battery restrictions.
Check our cheapest air shipping options for urgent deliveries.

Tonlexing – Reliable Freight Forwarder from China to the USA

At Tonlexing, we specialize in helping global businesses simplify their logistics by offering reliable freight forwarding services from every major Chinese city to any U.S. destination. Whether you’re shipping one pallet or an entire container, we tailor every shipment to match your speed, budget, and delivery goals.

We are not a platform. We are your hands-on shipping agent in China, managing every step of your supply chain—from factory pickup to final delivery.

Why Choose Tonlexing?

Door-to-Door SolutionsWe provide a complete door to door delivery shipping service, including pickup from Chinese factories, export clearance, freight transit, U.S. customs processing, and last-mile delivery. Our efficient and reliable shipping service ensures timely delivery and effective communication for businesses importing goods from China to the United States.

Flexible Freight ModesWe offer air, sea, express, and DDP shipping options. Whether you need to move small parcels or bulk shipments, we ensure on-time delivery with competitive pricing.

Customs ExpertiseOur team understands the complex import procedures and customs clearance requirements of the U.S. market. We help you reduce risk and avoid delays.

Real-Time Support & TrackingUnlike large platforms, we offer dedicated account managers, instant updates, and full shipment visibility.

Experience Across All IndustriesWe’ve handled cargo for Amazon FBA sellers, industrial manufacturers, apparel brands, electronics distributors, and more.

Our Service Highlights:

Service Type	Description
FCL / LCL Sea Freight	Fast weekly sailings from major Chinese ports
Air Freight	3–7 day delivery via PVG, CAN, SZX, HKG
DDP Shipping	All-inclusive pricing—duties, taxes, and delivery
Amazon FBA Prep	Labeling, palletizing, direct FBA delivery
Customs Support	Expert HS code classification & duty estimation
Freight Insurance	Coverage for valuable or fragile goods

Talk to Our Experts

Looking for cost-effective shipping from China to the USA?
Need help choosing between FCL, air freight, or DDP?
Want to avoid customs headaches or port delays?

Let Tonlexing be your trusted logistics partner. Contact us now to get a personalized quote and free logistics consultation.

FAQ: Shipping from China to the USA – Costs, Time, Methods

How long does shipping take from China to the USA?

Shipping time varies by method:

Ocean freight (FCL): 15–35 days
Air freight: 3–7 days
Express shipping: 2–5 days
DDP by sea: 25–40 days
DDP by air: 7–12 days

Why is shipping from China taking so long lately?
Delays are often caused by port congestion, customs checks, or seasonal surges. Planning ahead or choosing air freight helps reduce delays.

What’s the cheapest air freight option from China to the USA?

The cheapest air freight from China to the USA typically applies to bulk shipments in the 100–300 kg range via consolidated air cargo services. Prices can be as low as $3.80–$4.30 per kg.

For smaller parcels, express freight may be cheaper overall due to fewer handling fees.

What is the cheapest way to ship cargo to the USA?

For larger shipments over 2 CBM, LCL sea freight or DDP by sea is the cheapest. For smaller or urgent cargo, express services like DHL or FedEx may offer lower total cost depending on destination.

How much does it cost to ship a container from China to the US?

Typical FCL rates in 2025:

20ft container: $1,250–$1,450
40ft container: $2,050–$2,400
LCL (per CBM): $45–$65 depending on route

What documents do I need to import from China?

You’ll need:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
HS Code declaration
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
ISF (for sea freight)
Import permits (if applicable)

Which is better: air freight or sea freight?

Air freight is faster (3–7 days) and better for time-sensitive shipments, while sea freight is more affordable for bulk cargo. The best choice depends on urgency, budget, and cargo volume.

Who are the best freight forwarders in China?

Top freight forwarders offer:

Full-service logistics (air, sea, DDP)
Transparent pricing
Real-time support and tracking
Experience with U.S. import laws

Tonlexing is a leading choice for businesses seeking reliable freight forwarders in China.

Read the Amazon FBA shipping guide to ensure compliance and delivery accuracy.