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Amazon sellers face a major challenge when managing shipments from China — balancing cost, speed, and compliance. Understanding Amazon logistics China to USA is key to maintaining smooth supply chains and ensuring on-time delivery to FBA centers. With support from Top China Forwarder, importers can simplify customs, manage inventory efficiently, and cut logistics costs while staying fully Amazon-compliant.
What Is Amazon Logistics from China to USA?
Amazon logistics from China to the USA refers to end-to-end freight and fulfillment services that move inventory from Chinese suppliers to Amazon fulfillment centers in the U.S. It combines international shipping, customs clearance, and domestic FBA distribution.
This process typically includes:
- Freight booking (air or sea)
- Export documentation and customs declaration
- U.S. import clearance
- Delivery to Amazon warehouses (FBA centers)
👉 Looking for a simplified FBA shipping process? Send Inquiry
Shipping Methods for Amazon Logistics China to USA
| Mode | Transit Time | Average Cost | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–40 days | $1,200–$2,800/40HQ | Bulk or high-volume stock | Low cost, stable | Longer transit |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | $5–$9/kg | Fast restock | Fast, reliable | High cost |
| Express Freight | 3–7 days | $7–$12/kg | Small, urgent stock | Door-to-door, tracked | Costly |
| Rail Freight | 18–22 days | $3–$5/kg | EU re-exports | Moderate cost/speed | Indirect route |
For large and stable shipments, use Sea Freight. For restocking or high-demand SKUs, Air Freight or express channels ensure faster delivery.
How Does the Amazon FBA Shipping Process Work?
The end-to-end Amazon logistics China to USA process typically follows these stages:
- Supplier Coordination – Confirm FBA labeling and carton details.
- Freight Booking – Choose between sea, air, or express based on urgency and budget.
- Export Customs – Prepare the commercial invoice, packing list, and export declaration.
- International Transit – Shipping to the U.S. via the selected mode.
- Import Clearance – Managed by licensed brokers to ensure compliance.
- Final Delivery – Trucking or express delivery to Amazon FBA warehouses.
💡 Tip: With Door To Door service, every step is handled by one provider — no need for multiple intermediaries.
Transit Time: China to Amazon FBA USA
| Origin Port | Destination | Shipping Method | Estimated Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shenzhen | Los Angeles (FBA ONT8) | Sea Freight | 20–25 days |
| Ningbo | Chicago (FBA MDW2) | Rail + Truck | 22–28 days |
| Shanghai | Dallas (FBA DFW7) | Sea + Truck | 25–30 days |
| Guangzhou | New York (FBA JFK8) | Air Freight | 6–9 days |
| Hong Kong | San Francisco (FBA SFO5) | Express | 3–6 days |
Seasonal demand and port congestion can slightly alter delivery schedules.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship from China to Amazon USA?
| Cargo Type | Shipping Mode | Typical Cost (USD) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100kg small goods | Air Freight | $750–$900 | Includes handling |
| 500kg general cargo | Air Freight | $2,400–$3,000 | Priority delivery |
| 1CBM LCL cargo | Sea Freight | $60–$90 | Consolidated service |
| 20FT Container | Sea Freight | $1,100–$1,700 | Full container |
| 40HQ Container | Sea Freight | $1,800–$2,400 | Economical for volume |
Shipping cost varies by season, Incoterm, and destination warehouse. Bundling with Warehouse and consolidation services reduces total expenses.
Required Documents for Amazon Shipments
| Document | Purpose | Required By |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares goods’ value | Customs |
| Packing List | Describes packaging | Export & Import |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Proof of shipment | Carrier |
| Certificate of Origin | Validates source | Customs |
| FBA Label & Carton ID | Tracks shipments | Amazon |
| Importer Security Filing (ISF) | U.S. customs regulation | CBP |
Professional Customs Brokerage ensures these documents are submitted correctly, avoiding Amazon delays.
Amazon FBA Shipping: Air vs Sea Freight
| Factor | Air Freight | Sea Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Transit Time | 5–10 days | 25–35 days |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Cargo Type | Lightweight | Heavy, bulky |
| Risk | Lower | Moderate |
| Ideal For | Fast restock | Large inventory |
Hybrid freight options combine both modes — ship part of your inventory via air for immediate stock and the rest by sea for cost efficiency.
Common FBA Warehouse Destinations in the USA
| Amazon Fulfillment Center | Location | Closest Port |
|---|---|---|
| ONT8 | Eastvale, CA | Los Angeles |
| SDF8 | Shepherdsville, KY | New York |
| DFW7 | Dallas, TX | Houston |
| MDW2 | Joliet, IL | Chicago |
| ATL6 | Union City, GA | Savannah |
Using strategic fulfillment centers allows sellers to reduce delivery time and lower last-mile costs.
How to Choose the Right Amazon Freight Forwarder
When selecting a logistics partner for Amazon logistics China to USA, evaluate these key factors:
- Amazon FBA Experience – Familiarity with Amazon’s strict label, packaging, and booking standards.
- Integrated Customs Service – Smooth export/import clearance.
- Warehouse Network – Storage and consolidation near ports and Amazon hubs.
- Transparent Pricing – All-inclusive rates without hidden fees.
- Real-Time Tracking – Full visibility for all shipments.
Top China Forwarder offers one-stop coordination with Import Service, ensuring total compliance and stress-free delivery.
👉 Simplify your FBA operations today → Send Inquiry
Example Case: FBA Shipment from Shenzhen to Los Angeles
Client Type: Amazon home décor seller
Mode: Sea Freight (FCL 40HQ)
Volume: 25 CBM
Transit Time: 23 days
Result: Goods cleared in 48 hours and delivered to ONT8 FBA warehouse.
Savings: 22% lower total cost through consolidation and efficient customs filing.
This case demonstrates how optimized Amazon logistics China to USA solutions reduce costs while meeting FBA timelines.
Conclusion:
Efficient Amazon logistics China to USA solutions combine cost control, compliance, and speed — critical for any successful Amazon seller. By leveraging professional freight forwarders, importers can achieve seamless delivery, accurate customs handling, and competitive pricing for FBA shipments. Partnering with Top China Forwarder ensures your cargo reaches Amazon fulfillment centers on schedule, every time.
Ask For a Quote
Get your custom Amazon logistics China to USA quote in under 24 hours. Access exclusive freight discounts, rapid customs clearance, and full FBA compliance for your products. Trusted by 5,000+ Amazon sellers worldwide, we make your logistics easy and cost-effective.
FAQ
Q1: How long does shipping take from China to Amazon USA?
Sea freight takes 25–35 days, while air freight averages 5–10 days depending on the route and destination.
Q2: What documents are needed for Amazon FBA shipping?
Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and FBA labels.
Q3: Which port is best for FBA shipments?
Los Angeles and Long Beach are preferred for fast customs clearance and lower inland transport costs.
Q4: How can I avoid FBA shipment delays?
Ensure all labeling follows Amazon’s barcode standards and file customs documents in advance.
Q5: Is cargo insurance necessary?
Yes. It protects your shipment from loss, damage, or delays during transit.
Q6: Can Top China Forwarder deliver directly to Amazon warehouses?
Yes. We provide full Door To Door FBA delivery, including customs and trucking to all major U.S. fulfillment centers.