With global trade continuing to grow, understanding shipping logistics from China to the USA is essential for businesses and individuals alike. This guide covers the main shipping methods — sea freight, air freight, and express courier — including their features, costs, transit times, and the latest policy changes. It will help you choose the most suitable shipping solution, reduce costs, and improve delivery times.
1. Main Shipping Methods
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the preferred choice for large-volume shipments and is suitable for full container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL).
- Transit Time: Usually 15 to 35 days, depending on origin and destination ports.
- Costs: Charged by container or volume, affected by seasonality, fuel prices, and port congestion.
- Advantages: Low cost, ideal for bulk shipments.
- Disadvantages: Longer transit times and subject to delays caused by weather or port operations.
Air Freight
Air freight suits urgent, high-value, or lightweight shipments.
- Transit Time: Typically 2 to 10 days.
- Costs: Charged by weight or volume; generally more expensive than sea freight.
- Advantages: Fast and secure.
- Disadvantages: Higher cost and subject to flight schedules and weather conditions.
Express Courier
Express services are best for small, lightweight, and urgent parcels.
- Transit Time: Usually 1 to 5 days.
- Costs: Charged by weight; the most expensive shipping option.
- Advantages: Fastest delivery and wide coverage.
- Disadvantages: High cost; best for small, urgent shipments.
2. Cost and Transit Time Estimates
| Shipping Method | Cost Range (USD/kg) | Transit Time | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | $1.50 – $5.00 | 15-35 days | Bulk cargo, FCL & LCL |
| Air Freight | $3.00 – $15.00 | 2-10 days | Urgent or smaller shipments |
| Express Courier | $8.00 – $20.00 | 1-5 days | Small parcels, urgent goods |
Costs are indicative and may vary with cargo specifics and market conditions.
3. Major Ports and Airports
- Sea Ports: Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Tianjin, etc.
- Airports: Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Capital (PEK), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), etc.
- Express Hubs: Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing.
4. Recent Policy Updates
As of August 29, 2025, the US has eliminated the “de minimis exemption” for imports valued under $800. This means all packages from China to the US, regardless of value, are subject to customs duties. Tax rates depend on the product category and value, with rates up to 30%. This policy significantly affects cross-border e-commerce and small parcel shipments. Importers should prepare for increased customs costs.
Meanwhile, due to these policy shifts and market conditions, sea freight rates from Asia to the US are trending downward. However, air freight and express courier prices may fluctuate due to capacity tightening.
5. How to Choose the Right Shipping Method
- Cargo Type: Perishables and high-value goods are better suited for air freight or express; bulk goods for sea freight.
- Urgency: Use air freight or express for urgent shipments; sea freight for non-urgent cargo.
- Budget: Sea freight is the most economical option; air and express offer faster delivery at higher costs.
- Destination Factors: Different ports and airports have varying processing capabilities, impacting transit times.
6. Contact Us
For more detailed shipping solutions and competitive quotes from China to the USA, contact our professional logistics team. We tailor shipping plans to your needs, ensuring your cargo arrives safely and on time.
How long does shipping from China to the USA take?
Sea freight: 15-35 days; Air freight: 2-10 days; Express courier: 1-5 days.
How are shipping costs calculated?
Costs depend on cargo weight, volume, shipping method, and destination.
How can I minimize customs duties?
Stay updated on policy changes and declare cargo values accurately.
Can I track my shipment in real time?
Most freight forwarders and courier services provide full online tracking.
What happens if my shipment misses a flight or sailing?
Freight forwarders will arrange the next available shipment and keep you informed.