Shipping From China to USA Reliable Freight Forwarder
EFANDA Logistics provides professional shipping solutions from China to the United States, including sea freight, air freight, rail-intermodal, and door-to-door services.
We support shipments to Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York, Savannah, Houston, Chicago, and other major U.S. ports, airports, and inland destinations, offering stable transit times, experienced U.S. customs clearance support, and competitive freight rates.
From commercial cargo and eCommerce shipments to oversized and project cargo, we tailor cost-effective logistics solutions to meet your U.S. import requirements and supply chain needs. Get Your Personalized Shipping Quote Today!
Sea Freight to USA
Air Freight to USA
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Our Shipping Services from China to USA
Sea Freight, Air Freight & Door-to-Door Solutions for USA Importers
Sea Freight from China to USA
Cost-effective ocean freight for bulk and commercial shipments to USA. FCL & LCL available.
- Transit time: 30–45 days
- FCL & LCL available
- Support for USA import clearance
Competitive sea freight rates – request a quote
Air Freight from China to USA
Fast and secure air cargo solutions for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments to USA.
- Transit time: 3–7 days
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Express customs clearance
Fast air freight with transparent pricing
Door-to-Door Shipping from China to USA
Complete door-to-door logistics from pickup to delivery in USA.
- Export documentation & coordination
- Customs clearance support in USA
- Delivery to warehouse or final address
No hidden charges
Why Choose EFANDA Logistics for China–USA Shipping
Specialized freight forwarding solutions with proven experience in USA customs, ports, and delivery networks.
Competitive Rates
Direct contracts with carriers and optimized routing via major China ports help reduce shipping costs without hidden fees.
Fast Transit
Optimized sea and air schedules with reliable ETD/ETA, minimizing delays caused by transshipment or port congestion.
Customs Expertise
Deep understanding of USA import regulations, HS codes, and documentation requirements to reduce clearance risks.
24/7 Dedicated Support
Dedicated customer support team available 24/7, providing timely assistance and reliable support for all your logistics needs.
Table of Contents
Shipping from China to USA is one of the most active and strategically important global trade routes, supporting industries such as eCommerce, manufacturing, retail, automotive, and industrial equipment. Every year, millions of containers move from major Chinese production hubs to U.S. ports, making efficient logistics planning essential for importers and businesses.
For companies importing goods from China, choosing the right shipping method—whether sea freight, air freight, or door-to-door shipping from China to USA—directly impacts cost control, transit time, and supply chain stability. Factors such as shipping cost from China to USA, transit time, cargo volume, Incoterms, and U.S. customs compliance all play a critical role in successful international shipping.
This guide provides a clear, practical overview of sea freight, air freight, and door-to-door shipping from China to USA, including shipping options, key ports and routes, and how professional freight forwarders like EFANDA Logistics help businesses reduce risks, avoid delays, and optimize total landed costs.
Sea Freight From China to USA
Sea freight from China to USA is the most widely used shipping method for international trade due to its cost efficiency, scalability, and suitability for large or heavy cargo. Whether you are shipping full containers, consolidated cargo, or oversized equipment, ocean freight offers flexible solutions for different business needs.
Compared with air freight, sea shipping from China to USA provides significantly lower shipping costs, making it ideal for bulk goods, non-urgent cargo, and long-term supply chain planning.
When to Choose Sea Freight
Sea freight is the best option when:
You are shipping large volumes or heavy cargo
Cost control is more important than speed
Your goods are not time-sensitive
You require FCL or LCL shipping from China to USA
You want stable and predictable shipping rates
Typical products shipped by sea include furniture, machinery, building materials, electronics, automotive parts, and consumer goods.
Sea freight from China to USA is especially suitable for businesses seeking the cheapest shipping solution while maintaining reliable transit schedules.
Comparison: Sea Freight vs Air Freight
| Factor | Sea Freight | Air Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping cost | Lower | Higher |
| Transit time | Longer | Faster |
| Cargo volume | Large & bulk | Limited |
| Best for | Cost-sensitive shipments | Urgent shipments |
Key Ports and Routes
Sea shipping routes from China to the USA are highly developed, connecting major Chinese export ports with key U.S. gateways on the West Coast, East Coast, and Gulf Coast.
Main China Ports:
Shanghai
Ningbo
Shenzhen
Guangzhou
Qingdao
Main USA Ports:
Los Angeles
Long Beach
Oakland
New York / New Jersey
Savannah
Houston
The most common route is China to West Coast USA (Los Angeles / Long Beach), offering faster transit times, while China to East Coast USA routes typically transit via the Panama Canal and are suitable for inland distribution across the eastern United States.
Types of Sea Freight Services
There are three primary sea freight services from China to USA, each designed for different cargo types and shipment sizes.
Full Container Load (FCL)
FCL shipping from China to USA means your cargo occupies an entire container (20ft, 40ft, or 40HQ). This option is ideal for large shipments and provides better security, faster handling, and lower cost per unit.
Best for:
Large-volume shipments
High-value goods
Stable supply chains
Advantages of FCL:
Lower risk of cargo damage
Faster port handling
More predictable shipping time
Less than Container Load (LCL)
LCL shipping from China to USA allows multiple shippers to share one container. It is a cost-effective solution for small and medium-sized shipments that do not require a full container.
Best for:
Small shipments
Startups and SMEs
Flexible inventory planning
Things to consider:
Longer transit time due to consolidation
Additional handling at origin and destination
Roll-on/Roll-off Ship (RoRo Ship)
RoRo shipping from China to USA is specifically designed for vehicles and wheeled cargo, such as cars, trucks, buses, construction machinery, and agricultural equipment.
Cargo is driven directly onto the vessel and secured without containers.
Best for:
Vehicles
Heavy machinery
Oversized rolling equipment
Key benefits:
No container required
Lower loading costs for vehicles
Reduced risk of loading damage
By selecting the right sea freight service from China to USA, importers can significantly reduce shipping costs, improve transit reliability, and ensure smooth customs clearance. Working with an experienced freight forwarder like EFANDA Logistics helps businesses choose the most efficient shipping solution based on cargo type, budget, and delivery timeline.
Air Freight From China to USA
Air freight from China to USA is the fastest international shipping solution and is widely used by businesses that prioritize speed, reliability, and supply chain continuity. Compared with sea freight, air shipping significantly reduces transit time, making it ideal for high-value, urgent, or time-sensitive cargo.
For importers facing tight delivery deadlines, inventory shortages, or seasonal demand spikes, air freight shipping from China to USA ensures predictable transit times and efficient customs processing at major U.S. airports.
When to Choose Air Freight?
Air freight is the best option when:
Your cargo is urgent or time-critical
You are shipping high-value or fragile goods
Product launch deadlines or seasonal demand must be met
You need the fastest shipping from China to USA
Inventory turnover speed is a priority
Common air-freighted products include electronics, medical devices, fashion items, spare parts, and eCommerce orders.
Sea Freight vs Air Freight – Decision Guide
| Factor | Air Freight | Sea Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Transit time | 3–7 days | 25–45 days |
| Shipping cost | Higher | Lower |
| Cargo value | High | Low to medium |
| Urgency | Critical | Non-urgent |
Key Airports and Routes
Air cargo routes between China and the United States are highly developed, with daily direct and transit flights operated by major international airlines.
Main China Air Cargo Airports:
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX)
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Main USA Air Cargo Airports:
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
New York JFK International Airport (JFK)
Miami International Airport (MIA)
These routes support direct air freight from China to USA as well as cost-effective transit options, ensuring flexible scheduling and stable cargo capacity.
Types of Air Freight Services
Different air freight services from China to USA are available depending on urgency, budget, and cargo characteristics.
Main Air Freight Options:
| Air Freight Type | Best For | 특징 |
|---|---|---|
| Express Air Freight | Extremely urgent cargo | Fastest delivery |
| Standard Air Freight | Balanced cost & speed | Most common option |
| Consolidated Air Freight | Small shipments | Lower cost |
| Charter Flight | Oversized or urgent bulk cargo | Full aircraft |
Choosing the right air freight service helps businesses balance shipping cost from China to USA with transit reliability.
Door to Door Shipping from China to USA
Door to door shipping from China to USA is a complete logistics solution where the freight forwarder manages the entire shipping process—from factory pickup in China to final delivery at the consignee’s address in the United States.
This service is ideal for importers who want maximum convenience, cost transparency, and reduced operational risk, especially for first-time importers or fast-growing businesses.
What Does Door-to-Door Shipping Include?
A professional door-to-door shipping service from China to USA typically covers:
Pickup from supplier or factory in China
Export customs clearance in China
International transportation (air or sea)
Import customs clearance in the USA
Duties, taxes, and compliance management (DDP if required)
Final delivery to warehouse, store, or fulfillment center
Door-to-Door vs Port-to-Port Shipping
| Service Type | Responsibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Door to Door | Forwarder handles all steps | Hassle-free importing |
| Port to Port | Importer handles customs & delivery | Experienced importers |
Benefits of Door-to-Door Shipping
One point of contact for the entire shipment
Reduced risk of customs delays and compliance errors
Clear and predictable total shipping cost
Flexible Incoterms options (DDP / DDU)
Ideal for eCommerce, Amazon FBA, and SMEs
With door to door shipping from China to USA, businesses can focus on sales and growth while experienced freight forwarders like EFANDA Logistics manage logistics, customs, and delivery efficiently.
Shipping Costs From China to USA
Understanding the shipping cost from China to USA is one of the most important factors for importers and businesses planning international logistics. Shipping rates vary depending on multiple variables, including shipping method, cargo volume, weight, seasonality, Incoterms, fuel surcharges, and port congestion.
Choosing the right freight solution—whether sea freight or air freight from China to USA—can significantly reduce total landed costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
Sea Freight Cost From China to USA
Sea freight cost from China to USA is generally the most economical option for shipping large volumes, heavy cargo, or non-urgent goods. Costs are typically calculated per container (FCL) or per cubic meter (LCL).
Main factors affecting sea freight rates:
Container type (20ft, 40ft, 40HQ)
Shipping route and destination port
Seasonal demand and market conditions
Fuel and port surcharges
FCL vs LCL shipping
Estimated Sea Freight Costs (Reference Range):
| Shipping Type | Route | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft FCL | China → West Coast USA | 1,800 – 3,500 |
| 40ft FCL | China → West Coast USA | 2,800 – 5,500 |
| 40HQ FCL | China → East Coast USA | 4,000 – 7,500 |
| LCL | China → USA | 80 – 150 / CBM |
Note: Sea shipping rates from China to USA fluctuate frequently. Working with an experienced freight forwarder like EFANDA Logistics helps secure stable and competitive pricing.
Air Freight Cost From China to USA
Air freight cost from China to USA is higher than sea freight but offers unmatched speed and reliability. Air shipping costs are calculated based on chargeable weight, which considers both actual weight and volumetric weight.
Key cost drivers for air freight:
Chargeable weight (kg)
Airline capacity and route availability
Fuel surcharges
Cargo type and handling requirements
Estimated Air Freight Costs:
| Air Freight Type | Transit Time | Estimated Cost (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Air Freight | 5–7 days | 4 – 8 |
| Express Air Freight | 3–5 days | 6 – 12 |
| Consolidated Air Freight | 7–10 days | 3.5 – 6 |
Air freight from China to USA is best suited for high-value, time-sensitive shipments where speed outweighs cost considerations.
Shipping Time From China to USA
The shipping time from China to USA depends largely on the chosen transportation method, route, and destination. Accurate transit time planning helps businesses manage inventory, avoid stockouts, and meet customer delivery expectations.
Sea Shipping Time From China to USA
Sea shipping time from China to USA varies depending on whether the destination is on the West Coast or East Coast.
Estimated Sea Freight Transit Time:
| Route | Transit Time |
|---|---|
| China → West Coast USA (Los Angeles / Long Beach) | 20–30 days |
| China → East Coast USA (New York / Savannah) | 30–45 days |
| China → Gulf Coast USA | 35–45 days |
Sea freight is ideal for planned shipments, long-term inventory replenishment, and cost-focused supply chains.
Air Shipping Time From China to USA
Air shipping time from China to USA is significantly shorter and more predictable compared to ocean freight.
Estimated Air Freight Transit Time:
| Air Freight Service | Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Express Air Freight | 3–5 days |
| Standard Air Freight | 5–7 days |
| Consolidated Air Freight | 7–10 days |
Air freight is the preferred choice when delivery speed, reliability, and time-to-market are critical.
By balancing shipping cost from China to USA with shipping time, importers can choose the most efficient logistics strategy. EFANDA Logistics provides customized shipping solutions—helping businesses optimize costs, reduce transit risks, and maintain reliable supply chains.
Customs Clearance & Documents Required
Successful shipping from China to USA depends heavily on smooth customs clearance. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces strict import regulations, and missing or inaccurate documentation is one of the most common causes of shipment delays, inspections, and penalties.
Working with an experienced freight forwarder ensures compliance with U.S. import laws and speeds up the customs clearance process.
Key Documents Required for Shipping From China to USA
Below are the essential shipping documents required for both sea freight and air freight from China to USA:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares shipment value, HS code, and buyer/seller details |
| Packing List | Shows cargo quantity, weight, and packaging details |
| Bill of Lading (Sea) / Air Waybill (Air) | Proof of shipment and transport contract |
| Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2) | Mandatory for ocean shipments to USA |
| Certificate of Origin | Confirms manufacturing origin (if required) |
| Customs Bond | Required for all U.S. importers |
| FDA / FCC / USDA Documents | Required for regulated goods |
Customs Clearance Process in the USA
The typical customs clearance process for shipping from China to USA includes:
Document submission and ISF filing
Cargo arrival and customs review
Duties, taxes, and fees payment
Cargo inspection (if selected)
Release for final delivery
Tip: Errors in HS codes, declared value, or consignee details can trigger customs holds. EFANDA Logistics provides end-to-end customs support to reduce risks and ensure compliance.
Common Mistakes When Shipping From China to USA
Despite growing demand for international shipping from China to USA, many importers—especially first-time buyers—make avoidable mistakes that lead to delays, higher costs, and legal risks.
Top Mistakes to Avoid
| Common Mistake | Impact |
|---|---|
| Incorrect HS Code | Customs delays, penalties, incorrect duties |
| Under-declared cargo value | Fines, audits, shipment seizure |
| Missing ISF filing | USD 5,000+ penalties per shipment |
| Choosing wrong shipping method | Higher costs or missed deadlines |
| Ignoring U.S. import regulations | Shipment rejection or destruction |
| No customs bond | Cargo cannot be released |
| Poor communication with forwarder | Delays and misrouting |
How to Avoid These Issues
To ensure smooth shipping from China to USA, importers should:
Verify HS codes and product compliance before shipping
Choose the correct freight method (sea vs air freight)
Prepare all customs documents in advance
Work with a licensed and experienced freight forwarder
Understand total landed costs, not just shipping rates
EFANDA Logistics helps businesses avoid these risks by providing professional documentation review, customs clearance support, and real-time shipment tracking.
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder
Choosing the right freight forwarder is a critical decision for businesses involved in shipping from China to USA. A professional logistics partner not only controls shipping costs but also ensures compliance, minimizes risks, and improves supply chain efficiency.
An experienced freight forwarder acts as a bridge between suppliers, carriers, customs authorities, and final delivery points—especially for complex international shipping routes between China and the United States.
Key Criteria When Selecting a Forwarder
When comparing freight forwarders for China–USA shipping, importers should evaluate the following core factors:
| Selection Criteria | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Experience in China–USA Trade Lane | Familiarity with U.S. customs, ports, and regulations |
| Range of Shipping Services | Sea freight, air freight, door-to-door, DDP/DDU |
| Customs Clearance Expertise | Reduces delays, inspections, and penalties |
| Transparent Pricing | Avoids hidden fees and unexpected surcharges |
| Global & Local Network | Strong carrier and port connections in both countries |
| Cargo Tracking & Communication | Real-time updates and proactive problem-solving |
| Compliance & Certifications | Licensed, bonded, and legally compliant forwarder |
Additional Factors to Consider
Ability to handle FCL, LCL, and air freight from China to USA
Support for Amazon FBA, eCommerce, and B2B shipments
Knowledge of ISF filing, customs bonds, and HS codes
Proven track record with real client cases and reviews
Insight: The cheapest quote is not always the best choice. Reliable shipping from China to USA depends on expertise, service quality, and accountability—not price alone.
Why Work With EFANDA Logistics
EFANDA Logistics is a trusted international freight forwarder specializing in shipping from China to USA, offering end-to-end logistics solutions tailored for importers, wholesalers, and global brands.
What Sets EFANDA Apart
| EFANDA Advantage | Customer Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dedicated China–USA Shipping Specialists | Faster response and accurate solutions |
| Full-Service Logistics | Sea freight, air freight, door-to-door shipping |
| Strong Carrier Partnerships | Competitive rates and stable space |
| In-House Customs Clearance Support | Smooth U.S. customs processing |
| Transparent Quotation System | No hidden fees, clear landed costs |
| One-to-One Account Management | Personalized service and proactive updates |
End-to-End Shipping Solutions
With EFANDA Logistics, you benefit from:
Sea freight and air freight from China to USA
Door-to-door shipping including customs clearance
DDP and DDU shipping options
Cargo insurance and compliance consulting
Real-time shipment tracking
EFANDA’s proven expertise, operational transparency, and customer-first approach help businesses reduce risks, control costs, and scale their imports confidently.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to the most common questions about shipping from China to USA
The best shipping method depends on your cargo volume, budget, and delivery time.
- Sea freight (FCL/LCL) is the most cost-effective option for bulk shipments.
- Air freight is ideal for urgent or high-value cargo.
- Door-to-door shipping offers a hassle-free solution with customs clearance and final delivery included.
EFANDA helps you choose the most suitable option based on your specific needs.
Transit times vary by shipping mode and destination:
- Sea freight: 20–35 days (to West Coast), 30–45 days (to East Coast)
- Air freight: 3–7 days
- Door-to-door: 25–45 days depending on route and customs clearance
Actual transit time may vary due to port congestion, peak seasons, and customs inspections.
Shipping costs depend on cargo weight, volume, shipping method, origin, destination, and fuel surcharges.
There is no fixed price per kg or container.
EFANDA provides transparent, all-inclusive quotes with no hidden fees—contact us for a customized rate.
Yes. EFANDA offers door-to-door shipping services from China to the USA, including:
- Pickup from factory or supplier
- Export customs clearance in China
- International transportation
- Import customs clearance in the USA
- Final delivery to warehouse, FBA, or business address
This service is ideal for importers, Amazon FBA sellers, and first-time shippers.
Yes. We work with experienced licensed U.S. customs brokers to support:
- Import customs clearance
- Duty & tax calculation
- HS code classification
- FDA, FCC, or other regulatory compliance (if required)
This reduces delays and avoids unnecessary penalties.
Absolutely. EFANDA provides Amazon FBA shipping from China to the USA, including:
- FBA labeling and carton requirements
- Delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers
- DDP and DDU shipping options
We help sellers optimize costs while meeting Amazon compliance standards.
EFANDA offers:
- Competitive freight rates
- Multiple shipping options (sea, air, door-to-door)
- Strong U.S. customs clearance support
- Reliable transit times and tracking
- Dedicated customer service team
We focus on safe, efficient, and cost-effective shipping solutions for U.S. importers.
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