Shipping From China To USA - 2023 Guide (Air/Sea/Express) (2024)

If you’re shipping from china to usa, this is your guide.It provides all the information you need to consider when shipping from china to usa, helping you choose the best freight forwarder, best China supplier, and more.Our articles focus on international logistics between China and the US: mode of transport (sea or air), regulations (customs clearance, prohibited products, required licenses…). Our experience in the Chinese market enables us to provide the most reliable technical solutions for your logistics needs.

Whether you are a savvy exporter/importer or new to the field, planning a one-time import/export to/from the US or regular business, our team will strive to provide you with the best service! Weilong Logistics provides a unique freight forwarding service that makes importing shipping from china term hassle-free. Our online freight forwarding platform provides comprehensive shipping solutions and access to a wide range of global supply chain facilities.

Shipping From China To USA - 2023 Guide (Air/Sea/Express) (1)

Also check out this video if you want to save time and learn about shipping from china to usa

Shipping From China To USA

  • shipping from china to usa
    • sea shipping from china to usa
      • Shipping Routes Ship From China To USA
        • Sea Freight from China to USA : (LCL)
        • Sea Freight from China to USA : (FCL)
      • How long does it take from China to USA by sea?
      • Major cities and seaports in the USA
      • Major cities and seaports in the China
    • Air Shipping From China To USA
      • Air Shipping From China To USA Cost
      • How long does it take from China to USA by air?
      • Main Airports in China
      • Main Airports in USA
    • Express Shipping From China To USA
      • FedEx Shipping from China to the USA
      • DHL Shipping from china to usa
      • UPS SHIPPING FROM CHINA TO THE USA
      • Who Offers the Best Express Rates?
    • Door To Door Shipping From China To USA
      • WHAT IS A DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE?
    • shipping from china to usa : Customs Clearance
      • Necessary documents
      • U.S. Import Duties and Taxes
    • Shatian Dongguan Shipping To USA
    • Dongguan To USA Shipping Time
    • Shenzhen Shipping To USA
      • How Long To Ship From Shenzhen To USA
    • Guangzhou Cn To USA
    • Foshan Cn To USA
    • Shipping to China from USA
      • General Rules and Prohibited Items When Shipping to China
      • Strategies to Sell to Customers in China
      • Choosing the Right Carrier
        • USPS Shipping to China
        • UPS Shipping to China
        • FedEx Shipping to China
        • DHL Shipping to China
      • Cost Considerations: How Much Does it Cost to Ship to China?
      • Taxes, Tariffs, and Customs Fees
      • Shipping Duration: How Long Does it Take to Ship to China?
      • Shipping to Hong Kong vs. China: Key Differences
    • Conclusion

There are many manufacturers out there. According to one source, China actually has more than 2.8 trillion factories of all sizes. Not surprisingly, you can have your items made there at a lower cost.Now that your products are manufactured, your next question is how to get themshipping from china to usa. Of course, there are many ways to do this. What you need to know is the most effective and cost-effective method.

If your suppliers are located in the southern part of China, such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, Shanan, Dongguan and other areas, in this article you will learn about the options available to you so you can find the one that will get you the most out of your money and effort Methods

sea shipping from china to usa

ocean shipping is the cheapest way to ship from China to the USA.It usually provides a lot of flexibility in shipping different types of products.This is especially true for buyers who ship large quantities of goods.Despite its slow speed, sea shipping is still the most popular shipping method for U.S. importers.Our experienced freight professionals will help you determine the best option for your shipping needs based on the size and weight of your load and your delivery service:

Shipping Routes Ship From China To USA

China-US West Coast route

West coast routes generally start from Chinese ports (Yantian, Hong Kong, Xiamen, Ningbo, Shanghai, etc.) and arrive at ports in the western United States via the Pacific Ocean.

China-US East Coast route

There are two routes for east coast flight routes. One is westbound, passing through the Strait of Malacca, then through the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean Sea, and finally through the Atlantic Ocean to the east of the United StatesThe other is eastbound, through the Pacific Ocean, then through the Panama Canal to the Atlantic Ocean and then to the eastern port of the United States

Large container ships can only go through the Suez Canal. The water level of the Suez Canal is deep, and there is no need to raise the water level. In theory, a cargo ship with a maximum capacity of 250,000 tons can pass, and the maximum draft is 20 meters. And with 50% OFF, the toll is cheaper, making more boats choose this route

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Sea Freight from China to USA : (LCL)

Best for loading up to 20m³ and over 500kg (approx), your cargo will be combined with other cargo in one container, meaning you won’t have to wait for a full container. However, LCLs typically take 5-7 days to arrive at the port of delivery, and they tend to clear customs more frequently due to split/merge requirements.If you plan to export a shipment weighing less than 35kg, you may not find a carrier to handle it. It is impossible to ship such a small amount with freight logs. Instead, contact an international courier company that will ship your shipment by air at affordable rates.

Ocean freight will be the best deal for you if :

  1. Your suppliers are located near a major Chinese port
  2. Your goods are bigger than 2 CBM
  3. You’re not in a hurry to receive them

Sea Freight from China to USA : (FCL)

Your shipment will be shipped in standard 20 or 40 foot containers.
IncotermsShipping costs are also affected by your choice of door-to-door, port-to-door, door-to-port or port-to-port delivery service.Many other factors will affect your final cost and delivery time, including duties and taxes, insurance, etc., but the biggest factor is the origin and destination of the shipment, which will determine the port of loading and unloading.

Still, there are some general guidelines to help you compare the costs of different shipping methods.For example, if you can fill a container, the FCL service will save you the most on shipping as the cost per unit is lower than LCL. This is because LCL shipping is calculated using the dimensional weight formula. In contrast, FCL is a flat rate per container.

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

Sea shipping is by far the slowest option you have: you should allow around 30-40 days to ship by sea from any country. These transit times are not only due to advance preparation, but also because shipping lines are now operating at slower speeds to save fuel. Also, keep in mind that many unexpected events can happen: bad weather, port congestion, etc.

These are obviously not fixed and depend on variables such as weather conditions, port congestion and cargo size. If you plan to use other methods that require shipping to and from seaports, you must take this into account for shipping times and the time it takes for your cargo to clear and clear customs. Correct documentation from a knowledgeable carrier can reduce the time spent managing the process.

Port of Origin in ChinaDestination Port in USAEst. Transit Time
DalianLong Beach24 Days
NingboCharleston29 Days
NingboSeattle17 Days
NingboSavannah27 Days
NingboOakland19 Days
NingboLong Beach15 Days
NingboLos Angeles20 Days
QingdaoSavannah29 Days
QingdaoTacoma21 Days
QingdaoOakland26 Days
QingdaoLong Beach19 Days
QingdaoLos Angeles19 Days
ShanghaiCharleston29 Days
ShanghaiLos Angeles18 Days
ShanghaiLong Beach17 Days
ShanghaiSavannah26 Days
ShanghaiOakland22 Days
ShanghaiSeattle13 Days
ShanghaiBoston30 Days
ShanghaiTacoma12 Days
XiamenNew York28 Days

Major cities and seaports in the USA

Port of Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, California, West coast USA
UN/LOCODE: USLAX
Annual Container Volume: > 9million TEU
Website: www.portoflosangeles.org

Port of Long Beach
Location: Long Beach, California, West coast USA
UN/LOCODE: USLGB
Annual Container Volume: > 8.0million TEU
Website: www.polb.com

Port of Savannah
Location: Savannah, Georgia , East coast, USA
UN/LOCODE: USSAV
Annual Container Volume: > 4.0million TEU
Website: www.gaports.com

Port of Seattle
Location: Seattle, Washington State, North West coast, USA
UN/LOCODE: USSEA
Annual Container Volume: > 3.5million TEU
Website: www.portseattle.org

Port of Miami
Location: Miami, Florida, South East coast, USA
UN/LOCODE: USMIA
Annual Container Volume: > 1million TEU
Website: www.miamidade.gov

Other Major cities

  • New York – USNYC
  • Houston – USHOU
  • San Francisco – USSFO
  • Oakland – USOAK
  • New Orleans – USMSY
  • Boston – USBOS
  • Baltimore – USBAL
  • Atlanta – USATL
  • Charleston – USCHS
  • Norfolk – USORF
  • Tacoma – USTIW
  • Port Everglades – USPEF

Major cities and seaports in the China

Port of Shanghai
Location: Shanghai Municipality, East Coast China
UN/LOCODE: CNSHA.
Annual Container Volume: 42million TEU
Website: www.portshanghai.com.

Port of YanTian
Location: Guangdong Province, South Coast China
UN/LOCODE:CNSZX
Annual Container Volume: 27.7million TEU
Website: www.szport.net

Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan
Location: Zhejiang Province, East Coast China
UN/LOCODE: CNNGB
Annual Container Volume: 26.3million TEU
Website: www.nbport.com.cn

Port of Guangzhou
Location: Guangdong Province, South Coast China
UN/LOCODE: CNCAN
Annual Container Volume: 21.8million TEU
Website: www.gzport.gov.cn

Port of Qingdao
Location: Shangdong Province, North East Coast China
UN/LOCODE: CNTAO
Annual Container Volume: 18.2million TEU
Website: www.qingdaoport.net

Port of Tianjin
Location: Tianjin Municipality, North Coast China
UN/LOCODE:CNXIG
Annual Container Volume: 17.3million TEU
Website: www.tianjinportdev.com

Port of Dalian
Location: Liaoning Province, North Coast China
UN/LOCODE: CNDLC
Annual Container Volume: 11.1 million TEU
Website: www.portdalian.com

Port of Xiamen
Location: Fujian Province, South Coast
UN/LOCODE: CNXMN
Annual Container Volume: 10million TEU
Website: www.portxiamen.gov.cn

Port of Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong, Kowloon Peninsula, China
UN/LOCODE: HKHKG
Annual Container Volume: 19.6million TEU
Website: www.hkmpb.gov.hk/en/port.html

Air Shipping From China To USA

If you don’t want to wait weeks for your shipment to cross the ocean from China to the US, air freight can reduce the transit time to a few days, although the shipping costs are much higher.Air freight is only economical if the package is not too large and most importantly not too heavy. Cost is based on a combination of volume (dimensions) and weight (volumetric weight).

Shipping less than 0.5m3 or less than 150kg may be worth air freight, but depending on the value, security requirements, type of cargo (perishable or sensitive) or urgency, you may need a larger air parcel despite the cost. In general, if air freight costs less than 20% of your total freight value, this may be a viable option.Weilong Logistics can provide competitive ocean or air freight quotations and can get all the relevant resources needed for air or ocean freight.

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Air Shipping From China To USA Cost

Standard air freight is the cheapest option if your shipment weight is about 150 kg to 500 kg. Only a small shipment is charged for dimensional weight instead of actual weight. They may charge as little as $6 per kilo. Airfreight is the fastest way for shipment. Express air freight is more expensive than air freight. Prices change regularly, so try to stay updated.

How long does it take from China to USA by air?

This table shows some air freight lanes from airports in China to the USA. Transit times are estimates and include only the airport-to-airport times. Customs clearing and transport to and from either domestic airport should be taken into account. Air freight usually takes up to a week to arrive at the final destination but it may arrive in only a few days.

  • Guangzhou to Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago – 5 days
  • Guangzhou to Miami – 6 days
  • Zhengzhou or Beijing to Los Angeles – 5 days
  • Chengdu to Los Angeles – 12 days
  • Beijing to Boston, New York or Atlanta – 6 days
  • Beijing to Chicago or Cincinnati – 4 days
  • Beijing to San Francisco, Dallas or Houston – 7 days
  • Shanghai to Atlanta – 3 days
  • Shanghai to Dallas, Boston or Cincinnati – 7 days
  • Shanghai to Chicago, Miami, New York, or Los Angeles – 5 days
  • Shanghai to Sacramento, Detroit or Houston – 6 days
  • Shenzhen to Atlanta, Miami, or Dallas – 6 days
  • Shenzhen to Chicago or Los Angeles – 5 days
  • Shenzhen to Denver – 7 days
  • Shenzhen to Houston – 2 days
  • Qingdao to New York, Houston or Chicago – 8 days
  • Qingdao to Seattle or Los Angeles – 5 days
  • Wuhan to New York – 8 days
  • Xiamen to Atlanta or New York – 4 days
  • Xiamen to Detroit or Houston – 7 days
  • Xiamen to Los Angeles – 8 days

Main Airports in China

Guangzhou
Airport Information:
Guangzhou is the third busiest cargo airport in China and the seventeenth busiest in the world.
In 2018, Guangzhou’s cargo throughput exceeded 1.8 million tons.
It is the main airport in Guangdong Province.
The facility includes two terminals and three runways.
China Southern operates some passenger and cargo routes between Guangzhou and U.S. airports, as well as cargo services to Chicago and Los Angeles.

Qingdao
Airport Information:
It is 31 kilometers away from the center of Qingdao, Shandong Province.
Surrounded by urban development, the existing airport has no room for expansion.
The existing airport will soon be replaced by the larger Qingdao Jiaodong Airport, which has been under construction since 2013 and is scheduled to open by the end of 2019.
Airports served in the United States: Los Angeles, San Francisco.

Wuhan
Airport Information:
Wuhan Tianhe connects central China with freight destinations around the world.
The busiest airport in the entire Central China region.
The hotel is 26 km from the city centre of Wuhan, Hubei Province.
Consists of two runways and a terminal, the second is under construction.
Kalitta Air offers all-cargo flights from Wuhan to Anchorage and Chicago.
China Southern Airlines carries passengers and cargo to San Francisco and New York.
Over 220,000 tons of cargo are handled each year.

OTHER AIRPORTS IN CHINA

The Beijing capital international airport in Beijing
Chengdu shuangilu international airport in Sichuan, Chengdu
Shanghai Pudong international airport located in Shanghai
Shenzhen Baoan international airport in Guangdong, Shenzhen
Kunming Changshui international airport in Yunnan
Shanghai Hongqiao international airport in Shanghai
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport in Shaanxi, Xi’an
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport in Chongqing
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport in Hangzhou, Zhejiang
Nanjing Lukou International Airport Jiangsu, Nanjing
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport in Fujian, Xiamen
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport Henan, Zhengzhou
Changsha Huanghua International Airport in Hunan, Changsha
Qingdao Liuting International Airport in Shandong, Qingdao

Main Airports in USA

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Los Angeles
In 2020, more than 2 million tons of cargo passed through LAX’s terminals. More than half of the cargo passing through LAX is carried in the cargo hold of passenger aircraft.
About 1,000 flights arrive or depart from Los Angeles Airport each day with cargo on board.
Most imports into the U.S. through LAX come from China.
One of the five busiest passenger and cargo airports in the United States.
Located 30 kilometers southwest of downtown Los Angeles.
Affiliated airports in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Zhengzhou.

Freight carriers from China to Los Angeles: AirBridge Cargo Airlines, China Cargo, China Cargo Airlines, China Southern Cargo, National Airlines, Qantas Freight.

Miami
Miami International Airport handles more than 2 million tons of cargo annually.
Additionally, Miami handles more international cargo than LAX and all other U.S. airports.
Ranked 15th busiest cargo airport in the world in 2018.
Provides connections to more than 160 cities on four continents.
There are no direct flights from Chinese airports.
Affiliated airports in China: None.

chicago
Chicago O’Hare Airport can unload up to 15 wide-body freighters at the same time.
The cargo terminal covers an area of ​​about 185,000 square meters.
A full quarter of the goods arriving here come from China.
No. 3 cargo airport in the United States.
In 2018, more than 1.8 million tons of cargo were handled.
It can accommodate 15 wide-body freighters.
You can ship your cargo here via one of seven international airlines.
Five all-cargo airlines operate flights from Chinese airports to Chicago.
Affiliated airports in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Zhengzhou.

China to Chicago freight line operators: Air China Cargo, Rwanda Cargo, China Southern Cargo, Qantas Cargo, Yangtze River Express.

New York
In terms of cargo value, U.S. airports are number one.
The sixth busiest airport in the country.
Located 16 miles southeast of Manhattan.
It covers an area of ​​21 square kilometers and has 4 runways.
Provides a number of direct passenger and cargo flights from Chinese airports.
Korean Air Cargo, Air China Cargo and Qantas Cargo operate cargo-only flights from China.
The third largest U.S. gateway by cargo handling value, only the Los Angeles and New York seaports have higher cargo handling value.
Affiliated airports in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Chengdu.

Cargo operators from China to New York: Korean Air Cargo, Air China Cargo, Qantas Cargo.

Dallas/Fort Worth
In the United States, the flight distance from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is less than 4 hours.
It offers a storage capacity of 1.8 million square meters.
American Airlines and other carriers fly between Dallas and about 190 U.S. destinations.
In the freight business, nearly 2,000 tons have been shipped per day.
The central hub for American Airlines, the national airline.
The airport serves more than 190 cities in the United States.
Affiliated airports in China: Beijing, Shanghai.

Cargo operators from China to Dallas: Air China Cargo, China Airlines Cargo, Qantas Cargo.

Other US Air Freight Destinations
By air freighting your imports from China to LAX, MIA, JFK, ORD or DFW, you should be able to add them to your inventory quickly, although not as economical as sea freight. However, these are not the only international airports available for your cargo. You can also ship your imports from China to the following destinations in the United States:

  • Atlanta
  • Charlotte
  • Denver
  • El Paso
  • Houston
  • Philadelphia
  • Seattle
  • Cleveland
  • Cincinnati
  • San Diego
  • San Francisco
  • Boston
  • Detroit
  • Sacramento

Express Shipping From China To USA

Courier services involve the transfer of messages, packages and mail from one destination to another. While this service is a bit expensive, it offers importers a number of advantages. These include: Speed, Security, Tracking Services, and Specialization.If you are importing Shipping from china to usa, express shipping is best only if your shipment is small and you value fast shipping. Note that China has established standard shipping services.

These include China Post offering security, tracking services, and affordable prices. China Post takes at least 7 business days to deliver packages being sent from china On the other hand, China Post takes 10-20 days for delivery.Compared to express delivery, it is a bit slower.

Express shipping companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL offer faster shipping. Their average shipping time is only 5-8 days.You can look for a Chinese freight forwarder to serve you as they can offer express shipping with discounts

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FedEx Shipping from China to the USA

If you frequently ship goods/packages to different destinations, you may be familiar with FedEx. It is a US-based courier service that has rapidly grown to become the world’s leading courier service.FedEx is headquartered in the United States. It also has regional offices in other parts of the world including China. The company’s business in China began in Shanghai in 1984.

Today, FedEx has more than 80 offices in China with nearly 10,000 employees. Note that FedEx is one of the few non-Chinese couriers with a domestic shipping license. Therefore, if you need to move urgently, you will need to ship the package within China. FedEx would be a good choice.

Fedex China Tracking:https://www.fedex.com/zh-cn/home.html

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DHL Shipping from china to usa

DHL is a world-renowned and respected courier company. It offers tailor-made 24/7 shipping services alongside online transactions.DHL was founded in Germany in 1969. It is headquartered in Bonn, Germany, and has regional headquarters in several other countries, including China.It has to be said that DHL’s market in China has been well established. It beat thousands of other companies working in the same field to ship goods shipping from china to usa

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UPS SHIPPING FROM CHINA TO THE USA

UPS is an acronym for United Parcel Service, founded in Seattle, Washington in 1907. It is historically the oldest courier service in the world. UPS is currently headquartered in Sanding Springs, Georgia.It has regional offices in several countries around the world, including China, Canada, Germany, and more. You might be interested to know that UPS first started doing business in China with China Express.

UPS China ,That was in 2001. It wasn’t until 2005 that it started operating solely to and from China. Today, the company opened a regional office in Shanghai. In addition, it has two other branches in Beijing and Guangzhou.Like FedEx, UPS has a license to carry out domestic shipments in China.So if FedEx isn’t right for you, you can choose UPS to ship packages in and around China.

UPS China Tracking:https://www.ups.com/cn/zh/Home.page

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Who Offers the Best Express Rates?

Shipping is usually calculated based on volume and weight. The cost of air freight used by courier companies is based on quantity.This means the more you ship, the less you will spend per kg/lb. Note, however, that the three are not much different in terms of shipping costs.

The best thing you can do is find ways to reduce shipping costs.

  • One of the options is to use the standard express service instead of the overnight express service. The latter are usually very expensive.
  • You can also try looking for shipping companies that offer discounted packages.

Why?

Well, most freight forwarders contract with major couriers like FedEx, DHL, and UPS. These freight forwarder thousands of customers to the courier service, which gives them huge discounts.So if you work with such a freight forwarder, some of the discount they get from your shipment will be passed on to you.

Door To Door Shipping From China To USA

WHAT IS A DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE?

Door-to-door service is an end-to-end logistics service that allows your goods to be transported from your warehouse/factory/home to the agreed final destination.Also known as “turnkey” shipping solutions, these services allow each customer to entrust their cargo to professionals for successful and efficient shipping.

As part of these services, you can choose a pickup location and a delivery location.The staff responsible for your shipment will take care of your shipment from start to finish based on your requirements and recommendations:Pickup location of your choice: Supplier factory, warehouse, port or international airport,You choose the final delivery location: your warehouse, your customer, your home…

These services cover all the complex administrative procedures you need to follow (customs clearance, etc.)​​ to deliver your goods with peace of mind.

Door-to-door shipping is a one-stop solution for importing goods from China to the United States.

In this case, the service is just what it sounds like: the carrier collects the cargo from the supplier and arranges for the shipment to be delivered to the selected importer at the destination. You don’t have to do anything. Well, other than figuring out what to import and hiring a carrier.From here, the carrier takes care of everything related to the shipment until it reaches your final destination.
From here, the trucking company you hired will ask you to provide details of your shipment.

Please note that the cost depends on the size, type and other factors of the shipment. Once you agree to the shipping terms, the shipping service will collect your shipment from the supplier’s yard.They deliver the goods to the warehouse and pack them in the safest and most efficient way possible. Packaging is designed to keep items safe during transport.

Here, also check for loss or damage insurance for goods in transit. After the packing is complete, the freight forwarder delivers the goods to the port of shipment. Here, the cargo is loaded into a container, which is then transported to its destination by a ship.

Door-to-Door shipping is fairly extensive

Therefore, when your cargo arrives at the port of destination, your carrier will assist with customs clearance. After that, he arranges the transportation of the goods from the port of destination to your designated final destination.One of them is that you can save time and money.Second, it allows you to track your shipments very easily.

shipping from china to usa : Customs Clearance

Customs clearance Only after fulfilling various obligations and going through customs declaration, inspection, taxation, release and other procedures, the goods can be released, and the owner or Customs Broker can pick up the goods.Before your international shipment can be delivered to customers, it must clear customs. Customs clearance is simply the process of getting goods into the country through customs.

Each country imposes import duties and taxes on cross-border goods. This helps generate income and protect the economy, the environment and citizens.

Regarding the issue of customs clearance, you can refer to our article 《CUSTOMS CLEARANCE PROCESS: 6 MUST-HAVE DOCUMENTS

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Necessary documents

Waybill
This is the most important shipping document as it is used to identify the shipping company, seller, buyer, type of shipment, volume, Incoterms applicable to the shipment, etc.

1 = Shipper
2 = recipient
3 = Notify participant
4 = Ship number
5 = Loading port
6 = Receipt Location/Delivery Location
7 = container number
8 = Product Description
9 = net weight
10 = size/volume

According to the payment terms agreed by both parties, the bill of lading can be used as a document:

Confirm release of letter of credit (L/C)
Or as proof of postage, prompt the buyer to wire the balance to pay.
*The second option is common when paying by wire transfer (T/T).

commercial invoice
This invoice will be used for customs clearance and to calculate duties and other charges such as GST.

packing list
Certificate of Origin/Form A
A document indicating the origin of the goods. This document can also be used to determine tariffs (as some countries benefit from exemptions or preferential tariffs), as well as statistics and embargo enforcement.

Import permit
In most cases, an import license is not required when importing into the United States.

However, here are some exceptions:

Drug
certain types of chemicals
animals and plants
food product

U.S. Import Duties and Taxes

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When entering U.S. territory, goods are not officially considered imported until they have been approved and cleared by CBP (Customs and Border Protection).

Products must be declared within 15 days before arriving in the country or leaving the bonded warehouse. As an importer, you must declare the transaction value of your products, and CBP can calculate duties.

Some products are exempt from tax. Even if your product is not taxed, you still need to declare it as above. Let’s take a closer look at the specific rules that apply to certain types of products.

You must ensure that all import documents are in order. Properly filed documents help ensure smooth passage of shipments through Chinese and U.S. customs.

It also helps assess duties, taxes and duties on your shipments. Now we know that all of this can be nerve-wracking, especially filing paperwork, customs clearance, and more.

So you need to work with the right carrier. The right agent can assist you during your import process from China to the United States.

When shipping from China, you need to be familiar with two types of import regulations.

There are Incoterms and the Flat Tariff Program (from the US)

Incoterms are a set of logistics terms used in international shipping.

Harmonized tariffs are a global classification system that applies a specific code to each import. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) maintains these codes for shipments entering the United States. Before purchasing certain products, it is important to understand the tax rates for importing certain products into the United States.

Shatian Dongguan Shipping To USA

Shatian City is affiliated to Dongguan City, Guangdong Province and is located in the southwest of Dongguan City. Its center is approximately 113°9′ east longitude and 23°8′ north latitude. It faces the Milky Way to the east and borders Houjie City.

“Dongguan Shatin to the United States” refers to the cargo ship service departing from Dongguan, China to the United States. It is a cost-effective method of international transportation and is typically used for shipments in large quantities and whose weight exceeds air freight restrictions.

The most common types of goods shipped from Dongguan to the United States include electronic products, furniture, clothing, machinery and equipment, plastic products, etc. These goods are my country’s main export products and occupy an important position in the international trade market.

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Dongguan To USA Shipping Time

Shipping time from Dongguan to the United States usually takes about 15-30 days for sea shipping, 5-7 days for air shipping, and 3-5 days for express delivery. The specific time depends on various factors such as the volume and weight of the goods and the specific location of the destination. . Therefore, you should plan ahead when using ocean shipping to ensure that your goods reach their destination in the required time

Shenzhen Shipping To USA

When it comes to shipping goods fromShenzhento the USA, there are several options available that can ensure a smooth and efficient delivery process. Shenzhen, being one of the major ports in China, serves as a gateway for international trade, and shipping to the USA is a common route for many businesses. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and global trade, reliable and cost-effective shipping services from Shenzhen to the USA have become essential for businesses to meet their customers’ demands.

There are various modes of shipping available for transporting goods from Shenzhen to the USA. One common method is ocean freight, which is typically used for large shipments that are not time-sensitive. Ocean freight offers a cost-effective solution and is suitable for bulk cargo or goods that do not require immediate delivery. Shenzhen’s proximity to major seaports enables efficient transportation by sea, making it a preferred choice for businesses looking to ship their products to the USA.

Another popular shipping method is air freight, which is ideal for time-sensitive or high-value goods. Shenzhen has a well-developed air cargo infrastructure, with several international airports that offer direct flights to major cities in the USA. Air freight provides faster transit times compared to ocean freight and allows businesses to meet tight deadlines and customer expectations. However, it is usually more expensive than ocean freight and may not be suitable for all types of shipments.

To ensure a successful shipping process from Shenzhen to the USA, it is crucial to work with a reliable freight forwarder or shipping agent. They can help navigate the complex logistics involved in international shipping, including customs clearance, documentation, and transportation arrangements. Additionally, they can provide valuable insights into choosing the most appropriate shipping method based on the nature of the goods, budget constraints, and delivery requirements.

How Long To Ship From Shenzhen To USA

Shipping time from Shenzhen to the United States The types of shipping can be divided into two channels: fast ship and slow ship. Fast ship, as the name suggests, is mainly for faster timeliness. Fast ship’s cargo time is shorter and more efficient, but the goods that can be transported are quite different. It is less expensive than the slow boat and the fare is higher.

Slow ship freight takes a long time and has low efficiency, but it is suitable for large-volume and long-term transportation. The freight needs to be transferred to achieve the highest economic benefits and the transportation cost is low. For domestic shipments to the United States, fast ships arrive in about 3-4 weeks, while slow ships usually take 35-40 days to arrive this way.

Guangzhou Cn To USA

When it comes to traveling fromGuangzhou, China to the United States, there are several options available. Guangzhou is a bustling city located in southern China and serves as a major transportation hub. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, there are multiple routes and airlines that can take you from Guangzhou to various destinations in the United States.

One of the most common ways to travel from Guangzhou to the United States is by air. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is one of the busiest airports in China and offers numerous flights to major cities in the United States. Airlines such as China Southern, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines operate regular flights between Guangzhou and various cities in the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago. These flights provide convenient connections for travelers looking to explore different parts of the United States.

Another option for traveling from Guangzhou to the United States is by sea. Guangzhou Port is one of the largest ports in China and offers regular cargo and passenger services to destinations worldwide. While there are no direct passenger ferries from Guangzhou to the United States, travelers can consider taking a cruise ship from Guangzhou to other Asian cities such as Hong Kong or Singapore, and then catch a flight to the United States from there.

Foshan Cn To USA

Foshan, located in China, is a bustling city known for its rich history and thriving manufacturing industry. With its strategic location in the Pearl River Delta and its well-developed transportation infrastructure, Foshan serves as an important gateway for businesses looking to expand their operations globally. One of the key destinations for trade and commerce is the United States. Foshan has established strong trade ties with the US, making it a popular choice for businesses looking to export their products to the American market.

The journey from Foshan, CN to the US involves various modes of transportation, depending on the nature of the goods being transported. For larger shipments, sea freight is often preferred due to its cost-effectiveness and capacity to handle bulky goods. Foshan’s proximity to major ports such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen makes it convenient for goods to be transported by sea to the US. Shipping containers are loaded with products at these ports and then transported by cargo ships across the Pacific Ocean to various ports in the US.

For smaller shipments or time-sensitive goods, air freight is a popular choice. Foshan is well-connected to major international airports, such as Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, which offers numerous flights to destinations in the US. Air freight provides faster transit times and allows businesses to meet tight deadlines for delivering goods to their US customers. Additionally, air freight offers greater flexibility in terms of the types of goods that can be transported, including perishable items or high-value products.

Shipping to China from USA

Logistics is two-way. Not only can goods be shipped from China to the USA, but also goods can be shipped from the USA to China. In 2022, despite the challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic, China’s e-commerce market experienced an impressive growth rate of 14 percent, reaching a staggering value of about $2.64 trillion U.S. dollars.

This upward trajectory is projected to continue, with the market estimated to be worth around $4 trillion U.S. dollars by 20261. For e-commerce sellers looking to tap into this lucrative market, understanding how to ship to China is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the rules and regulations, strategies to target Chinese consumers, and the best carriers for shipping to China from the USA.

Shipping From China To USA - 2023 Guide (Air/Sea/Express) (12)

General Rules and Prohibited Items When Shipping to China

Shipping to China involves navigating through strict regulations and ensuring compliance with the country’s import requirements. To avoid clearance delays and ensure a smooth shipping process, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the general rules and prohibited items for shipping to China.

When shipping to China, you will need to provide a commercial invoice, an air waybill, and a detailed packing list. These documents must be legible, written in English, and accurate. It is crucial to ensure consistency between the items listed on the commercial invoice, packing list, and air waybill. Any missing or inconsistent documents can lead to clearance delays at Chinese customs.

China also has a list of prohibited imports, which includes counterfeit currency, printed matter, magnetic media, politically detrimental films or photographs, foods and medicines from disease-ridden areas, used or old garments, and food items containing certain food colorings or additives.

Strategies to Sell to Customers in China

Selling to Chinese consumers requires customizing your approach to meet their specific needs and preferences. Despite certain government restrictions, it is not impossible to succeed in the Chinese market. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Website Localization: Make your website more accessible to Chinese consumers by translating it into Chinese. This simple step can greatly enhance the user experience and increase your chances of attracting Chinese customers.
  2. Utilize Chinese Marketplaces: Leverage popular Chinese marketplaces like Alibaba to put your products directly in front of Chinese consumers. These platforms have a wide reach and can significantly expand your customer base.
  3. Advertise on Chinese Social Platforms: Instead of relying on traditional social media platforms, focus your advertising efforts on Chinese social platforms such as WeChat and Weibo. These platforms have a massive user base in China and can help you effectively target your desired audience.

Choosing the Right Carrier

Selecting the right carrier is crucial for successful shipping to China. Here are some popular carrier options to consider:

USPS Shipping to China

If you are looking for a cost-effective shipping solution, USPS is a great option. USPS offers various services, including USPS Priority Mail International, which provides expedited shipping options. USPS is particularly suitable for packages weighing less than 70 pounds and measuring less than 108″ in width.

UPS Shipping to China

For large and heavy shipments, UPS International shipping is a reliable choice. UPS can handle packages weighing up to 150 pounds and measuring up to 165″ in width. With UPS Paperless through Shippo, you can streamline the customs clearance process by eliminating the need for a physical customs invoice.

FedEx Shipping to China

As a leading international shipping provider, FedEx offers a range of services to China. FedEx International accepts packages weighing up to 150 pounds and dimensions up to 108″ in length and 130″ in girth and length. Additionally, FedEx can assist with customs clearance, making the shipping process seamless.

DHL Shipping to China

DHL specializes in international shipping and provides fast and reliable service to China. With DHL, you can ship packages weighing up to 150 pounds and measuring up to 118″ in width.

When comparing the cost of shipping to China, it is crucial to consider the specific dimensions and weight of your package. Each carrier may have different rates and services, so evaluating all options based on your specific needs is essential.

Cost Considerations: How Much Does it Cost to Ship to China?

Offering competitive shipping rates is vital for attracting customers and remaining competitive in the market. The cost of shipping to China can vary depending on the carrier, package dimensions, and weight. To illustrate this, let’s consider an example:

Imagine shipping a parcel measuring 6″ x 6″ x 4″ and weighing 3 lbs from New York, NY (zip code 10001) to the Pudong district of Shanghai (zip code 200120). Here are some cost-effective options:

  1. USPS First Class Package International: This option is the most affordable, although it may take approximately 15 days to reach its destination.
  2. UPS Worldwide Expedited®: For a slightly higher cost, UPS offers expedited shipping, with a delivery time of around 4 days.
  3. UPS Worldwide Express®: This option provides the fastest delivery, reaching its destination in just 1 day, albeit at a higher cost.

It is crucial to evaluate the total cost of shipping to China on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as package size, weight, and desired delivery time.

Taxes, Tariffs, and Customs Fees

When shipping to China, it is essential to consider taxes, tariffs, and customs fees. All packages entering China are subject to a Value Added Tax (VAT) ranging from 13 to 17 percent. Chinese customs also apply customs duty charges based on the value of the goods, packing costs, freight charges, insurance, and any applicable seller commission. This total value is referred to as the CIF value.

To ensure a smooth shipping process and avoid unexpected fees, you can either account for these charges in your pricing or pass them on to your customers. Clear communication with your customers regarding potential additional fees is crucial to maintain transparency and avoid any surprises upon delivery.

Shipping Duration: How Long Does it Take to Ship to China?

The shipping duration to China can vary depending on the carrier, service level, and the accuracy of your documentation. On average, customs clearance takes approximately 24 hours, assuming all necessary paperwork is in order.

When shipping to China, you have the option to deliver your package either as Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) or Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). With DDU, the recipient is responsible for paying taxes, tariffs, and customs fees before delivery. On the other hand, with DDP, you, as the shipper, are responsible for these fees, resulting in a faster clearance process.

Additionally, it is essential to consider Chinese holidays, as they can impact shipping times. China has seven major holidays, including New Year’s, Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, Labor Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day. During these holidays, delays in shipping should be expected.

Shipping to Hong Kong vs. China: Key Differences

Shipping to Hong Kong differs from shipping to mainland China in several aspects. Hong Kong is a free port, meaning that imports into the country are not subject to tariffs, taxes, or customs fees. This distinction makes shipping to Hong Kong generally less expensive than shipping to China.

Moreover, Hong Kong customs regulations are considerably more relaxed compared to mainland China. The only prohibited items for import into Hong Kong are drugs, antibiotics, controlled chemicals, and fireworks.

Conclusion

Importing goods from China to the US can be very profitable for your business.You need to do good research and use a reputable freight forwarder. Provide you with the service of shipping from china to usa

Relying on just one or two suppliers can be difficult. This is because these suppliers sometimes manage to provide the highest quality products and sometimes they don’t.Companies and individuals who are familiar with the ins and outs of Sino-US import and export business. With that in mind, I hope this guide helps you get started and take action to ship from China.Feel free to share with your friends or business associates.

Shipping From China To USA - 2023 Guide (Air/Sea/Express) (2024)
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