Table of Contents
For e-commerce sellers, shipping directly to Amazon FBA from China is a proven way to save costs, shorten delivery times, and scale efficiently. However, challenges like customs delays, incorrect labeling, or high freight charges can make the process complicated. This guide covers methods, costs, customs documents, and insider tips to simplify your FBA supply chain.
What Does Shipping Directly to Amazon FBA from China Mean?
When suppliers ship your inventory straight to Amazon warehouses in the U.S., Europe, or Asia, it eliminates the need for a middleman. Instead of first receiving goods at your own warehouse, you cut costs and speed up restocking.
Advantages include:
- Faster delivery schedules.
- Lower storage and handling fees.
- Streamlined customs clearance with experienced forwarders.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Directly to Amazon FBA?
| Shipping Method | Estimated Cost | Transit Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | $6 – $9 per kg | 5–10 days | Fast, reliable | Expensive for bulk cargo |
| Express Courier | $8 – $12 per kg | 3–5 days | Door-to-door, fast | Very costly for heavy goods |
| Sea Freight FCL (20ft) | $2,000 – $2,800 | 25–35 days | Cost-effective for large shipments | Slower transit |
| Sea Freight LCL (per CBM) | $120 – $160 per CBM | 28–38 days | Flexible for smaller loads | Shared containers risk delays |
What Are the Main Shipping Options for Amazon FBA?
Air Freight
Best for high-value items or restocking quickly.
Sea Freight
Ideal for bulk shipments with lower per-unit cost.
Express Courier
Perfect for small packages or sample orders.
Rail Freight (to Europe)
Balanced option for cost and transit time when shipping to EU marketplaces.
Which Amazon FBA Destinations Can You Ship to from China?
| Region | Main FBA Warehouses | Average Transit Time (Sea) | Average Transit Time (Air) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Los Angeles, New Jersey, Dallas | 25–35 days | 5–9 days |
| Europe | Germany, UK, France, Italy | 30–40 days | 6–10 days |
| Middle East | UAE, Saudi Arabia | 20–28 days | 4–6 days |
What Documents Are Needed for Shipping Directly to Amazon FBA from China?
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Lists item value for customs |
| Packing List | Shows shipment details |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Transport contract |
| Importer of Record (IOR) | Needed for customs entry |
| FBA Label & Carton Labels | Ensures Amazon receives correctly routed goods |
| Certificate of Origin | Provides manufacturing country proof |
Why Work with a Freight Forwarder for FBA Shipments?
A freight forwarder ensures:
- Compliance with Amazon FBA labeling rules.
- Consolidation of cargo to save costs.
- Customs brokerage and duty calculation.
- On-time delivery to FBA warehouses across regions.
How Do You Reduce the Cost of Shipping Directly to Amazon FBA from China?
- Consolidate shipments instead of sending partial loads.
- Use FCL shipping for cargo over 15 CBM.
- Book early during peak shipping seasons.
- Work with experienced Amazon freight forwarders familiar with labeling and delivery appointments.
- Compare U.S. FBA warehouse destinations to minimize inland trucking fees.
Pros and Cons of Each Shipping Method
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | Cheapest for large shipments, reliable | Slow, requires advanced planning |
| Air Freight | Fast, secure, reliable | Higher costs |
| Express Courier | Very fast, simplified customs | Unsuitable for heavy shipments |
| Rail Freight | Balanced cost and speed (EU only) | Not available for U.S. |
How Long Does Shipping Directly to Amazon FBA from China Take?
- Sea Freight: 25–40 days depending on origin and destination.
- Air Freight: 5–10 days including customs clearance.
- Express Courier: 3–5 days door-to-door.
- Rail Freight (China–Europe): 15–22 days.
How to Avoid Common FBA Shipping Mistakes
- Incorrect FNSKU or carton labels often lead to Amazon rejecting deliveries.
- Missing Importer of Record results in customs delays.
- Not booking delivery appointments at Amazon warehouses may cause late delivery penalties.
- Using the wrong shipping method can increase costs and reduce margins.
Conclusion
Choosing the right method for shipping directly to Amazon FBA from China depends on your budget, delivery urgency, and cargo size. Sea freight is best for large shipments, air freight ensures faster restocking, and courier services are perfect for small urgent packages. By planning ahead, preparing proper documentation, and partnering with experienced freight forwarders, you can reduce risks and maximize profits.
Request a Quote
To simplify your logistics, our team provides professional services for shipping directly to Amazon FBA from China. Get transparent pricing, accurate labeling, and timely delivery to FBA warehouses worldwide. Contact us today for a customized quote.
Q1: Can I ship directly from Chinese suppliers to Amazon FBA?
Yes, suppliers can send goods straight to Amazon warehouses if they follow FBA packaging, labeling, and customs rules.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to ship to Amazon FBA from China?
Sea freight (FCL) is the cheapest for shipments over 15 CBM. For smaller shipments, LCL is more affordable.
Q3: How do I handle customs when shipping to Amazon FBA?
You need an Importer of Record (IOR), commercial invoice, and proper customs clearance. Using a freight forwarder is recommended.
Q4: What labels are required for Amazon FBA shipments?
Every carton and pallet must have an FBA carton label and FNSKU to match Amazon’s warehouse system.
Q5: How long does sea freight take to the U.S. Amazon FBA warehouse?
It typically takes 25–35 days from major Chinese ports like Shenzhen or Ningbo to Los Angeles or New York.