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Selling on Amazon offers huge growth potential, but moving inventory from China to Amazon FBA warehouses can be challenging. Complex customs, labeling rules, and strict delivery windows make it easy to run into costly delays.
By partnering with a trusted freight forwarder from China to Amazon, you can streamline the entire process, cut costs, and keep your stock flowing smoothly.
Why Use a Freight Forwarder for China–Amazon Shipping?
Handling Amazon shipments requires specialized expertise. A forwarder will:
- Book ocean or air freight from Chinese suppliers
- Manage export documents and customs clearance
- Prepare and label shipments to Amazon FBA standards
- Deliver cargo directly to Amazon fulfillment centers
- Provide tracking and inventory visibility
Top China Forwarder has extensive experience shipping directly to Amazon FBA warehouses in the US, UK, EU, and Australia, ensuring compliance and on-time delivery.
What Are the Typical Shipping Costs from China to Amazon?
Costs vary based on weight, size, mode, and final Amazon warehouse location. Below are example rates:
| Mode | Route | Weight/Volume | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea FCL | Shenzhen → Amazon US FC | 20ft container | $2,200–$2,800 |
| Sea LCL | Ningbo → Amazon UK FC | 1 CBM | $80–$120 |
| Air Freight | Shanghai → Amazon DE FC | 100 kg | $7–$9/kg |
| Express Courier | Guangzhou → Amazon AU FC | <20 kg | $9–$15/kg |
Negotiating rates and planning during low season can further reduce costs.
How Long Does Shipping from China to Amazon Take?
Delivery time depends on the chosen mode:
| Mode | Transit Time | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sea FCL | 25–35 days | Large bulk shipments |
| Sea LCL | 30–40 days | Small pallets or mixed goods |
| Air Freight | 6–10 days | Urgent, medium volumes |
| Express Courier | 3–6 days | Small parcels or samples |
Top China Forwarder helps sellers align shipping timelines with Amazon inventory planning to avoid stockouts or overstock penalties.
How to Ensure Amazon FBA Compliance When Shipping?
Amazon has strict requirements for packaging, labeling, and delivery appointments. Key rules include:
- FNSKU labels must be applied to each unit
- Carton and pallet labels must match Amazon shipment IDs
- Pre-booked delivery appointments are required at Amazon FCs
- No mixed SKUs in a single carton
Our team manages all prep and labeling to ensure zero rejections or delays at Amazon warehouses.
What Documents Are Needed for Amazon Shipments?
Having accurate paperwork avoids customs holds and Amazon delays:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares product value and details |
| Packing List | Shows weight, dimensions, quantities |
| Bill of Lading / AWB | Proof of shipment |
| FBA Shipment Plan | Created in Amazon Seller Central |
| Importer of Record Info | Needed for customs clearance |
Top China Forwarder prepares all documents, including Amazon shipment IDs and carton labels.
Sea vs. Air vs. Express: Which Mode Should You Choose?
| Mode | Cost | Speed | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | Low | Slow (25–40 days) | Cheapest for bulk | Longer lead time |
| Air Freight | High | Fast (6–10 days) | Balance cost/speed | Limited space |
| Express Courier | Very High | Very Fast (3–6 days) | Easy customs, small batches | High cost |
We can also offer sea-air hybrid solutions to shorten delivery time at a lower cost than full air freight.
How to Reduce Freight Costs to Amazon Warehouses
You can cut costs by:
- Consolidating shipments from multiple suppliers
- Booking earlier to secure better rates
- Shipping during off-peak seasons
- Using nearby Amazon FCs to minimize trucking
- Combining customs + prep services to save fees
We apply these cost-saving strategies to every shipment for our clients.
What Are the Common Mistakes When Shipping to Amazon?
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Missing or incorrect FNSKU/barcode labels
- Sending mixed SKUs in one box
- Not booking delivery appointments
- Under-declaring value on invoices
- Choosing the lowest quote without checking reliability
Top China Forwarder ensures full Amazon compliance and smooth delivery every time.
Why Choose Top China Forwarder for Amazon Shipments?
We specialize in end-to-end FBA logistics, offering:
- Amazon-compliant labeling and packaging
- Fast customs clearance and delivery booking
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Warehousing, consolidation, and insurance
- Sea, air, and express options at competitive rates
With our expertise, your inventory reaches Amazon quickly, safely, and cost-effectively.
Conclusion
Shipping inventory from China to Amazon can be complicated, but a reliable freight forwarder from China to Amazon makes it simple. By partnering with Top China Forwarder, you gain access to expert FBA handling, competitive shipping rates, and on-time delivery.
Need a quote?
Ready to get started? Contact us now to request a free shipping quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I split my shipment to multiple Amazon FCs?
Yes, forwarders can create multiple FBA shipment plans and distribute cartons accordingly.
What if Amazon changes my assigned FC after shipping starts?
You can request shipment plan edits or arrange cross-docking via a 3PL in the destination country.
Are DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms available?
Yes, many forwarders offer DDP shipping that covers all duties, taxes, and customs fees.
Can I ship from different Chinese suppliers in one FBA shipment?
Yes, forwarders can consolidate products from multiple factories before export.
How do I prevent Amazon from rejecting my cartons?
Ensure correct labels, dimensions, and weight limits—your forwarder can verify before dispatch.