In 2025, China air freight rates to the USA average $3.10–$4.70 per kg with 3–7 days transit time to major U.S. gateways. If speed matters, request an air freight quote to compare airlines, shipping routes, and weight breaks—choose consolidated air for the lowest per-kg price or express for urgent deadlines. You can also opt for door-to-door so paperwork and last-mile door delivery are handled for you. The updated table below lists prices from Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Hong Kong (100 kg / 300 kg) so you can quickly select the cheapest route for your cargo.
Why Is Air Freight from China to the USA Growing?
In comparison, sea freight from China to the USA remains the most economical method for bulk cargo. However, its lead times can stretch into several weeks. By contrast, air cargo services offer transit times as fast as 3 to 7 days. Consequently, this makes it the preferred shipping mode for businesses needing rapid restocking or handling urgent shipments.
Even though air transportation costs are higher compared to sea routes, many importers manage expenses by optimizing packaging. They also select consolidated air services and partner with experienced freight forwarding providers. These approaches significantly enhance cost-efficiency. This is true even when working with per-kilogram rate structures.
Additionally, shipping rates for air freight fluctuate throughout the year. They are influenced by factors such as seasonal demand, fuel adjustments, and available capacity. As a result, it is essential for importers to monitor market trends. Moreover, working closely with logistics experts helps them secure favorable terms.
In this 2025 guide, we will cover key topics. These include per-kilo pricing structures, shipping methods, transit time comparisons, customs clearance procedures, and tips on selecting the right logistics partner. These insights will help streamline your shipments from China to the USA.
Why Choose Air Freight over Sea Freight?
When planning freight from China to the U.S., the choice between air shipping and ocean depends on urgency and budget. Ocean remains the most economical for bulk cargo or an entire container, but transit often takes 20–40 days and can face port congestion. By contrast, air provides stable delivery schedules and predictable lead times—ideal for smaller shipments, e-commerce orders, or urgent shipments. Many importers combine modes: move high-priority SKUs by air and the rest by sea to balance cost and speed.
Air Freight Advantages for Urgent Shipments
For companies moving high-value goods, time-sensitive cargo, or smaller shipments, air shipping remains the preferred mode. Its predictable delivery schedules are ideal for seasonal products or launch-critical items, and tracking is more granular than ocean. Compared with sea freight—where port congestion or slow customs procedures can cause delays—air cargo typically faces fewer customs delays and lower damage risk.
When Sea Freight Is Still More Cost-Effective
However, it is essential to recognize that air freight costs per kilogram are significantly higher than sea freight costs. Therefore, air shipping is most suitable when speed and reliability are more critical than pure shipping costs.
For bulk cargo, full container load (FCL), or less than container load (LCL), ocean freight remains the most cost-effective shipping option, especially for goods with lower urgency.
Combining Air and Sea Freight: A Balanced Strategy
In addition, some shippers adopt a sea and air freight combination strategy. They ship high-priority SKUs by air, while bulk cargo moves by sea. This approach helps balance both budget and transit time.
Finally, partnering with reliable freight forwarders helps importers navigate these choices effectively. This ensures the selected shipping method meets both logistics requirements and shipping cost expectations.
Air Freight Costs from China to the USA (Per Kg, Factors, Surcharges)
Most shippers first ask about shipping costs. In 2025, typical China–USA air freight charges per kg range $3.10–$4.70 depending on route, airline, season, and weight break. For smaller shipments, air cargo consolidation lowers the per-kg rate; for time-critical cargo, express freight trades higher price for speed.
Air Freight Quotes from China to the USA: What’s Included
A transparent air freight quote should specify:
Shipment methods (standard, express, or consolidation)
Route & destination airport
Weight break and chargeable weight (actual vs volumetric weight / cubic meter (CBM))
Fuel & security surcharges, terminal/handling fees
Optional door delivery / courier last-mile
For smaller shipments, consolidation reduces the per-kg rate; for hard deadlines, express freight can shorten transit time to 1–3 days.
Incoterms & Billing (EXW / FOB / CIF / DAP / DDP)
Your quote changes with Incoterms. Under EXW/FOB, the buyer covers origin handling and main carriage (air freight) from China. DAP adds destination charges. DDP includes customs duties, taxes, and door delivery. Note: CIF is an ocean term; for air shipments the equivalent is CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To).
Ask for an itemized quote covering origin/destination handling, security & screening, fuel surcharges, warehousing costs, last-mile courier service, and any customs brokerage so you can compare offers fairly.
This makes it easier to compare EXW vs FOB vs CIP/DAP/DDP on a like-for-like basis and choose the most cost-effective plan.
Last updated: September 2025
Air Freight Rates (Typical 100 kg / 300 kg)
Route | 100 kg (USD/kg) | 300 kg (USD/kg) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai → Los Angeles (LAX) | $4.50 | $3.20 | 3–5 days |
Shenzhen → Chicago (ORD) | $4.60 | $3.30 | 2–4 days |
Guangzhou → New York (JFK) | $4.55 | $3.25 | 4–6 days |
Beijing → Dallas (DFW) | $4.70 | $3.40 | 3–5 days |
Hong Kong → Los Angeles (LAX) | $4.40 | $3.10 | 3–5 days |
What affects the rate
Volumetric weight (CBM): airlines charge the greater of actual vs volumetric.
Route & airline: capacity and direct flights influence pricing and space.
Seasonality & fuel: peak weeks/holidays and fuel surcharges shift rates.
Service level: standard vs express; consolidation vs dedicated uplift.
Chargeable Weight & Dimensional Formula
Airlines bill the higher of actual weight vs volumetric weight (CBM), calculated per IATA (e.g., L×W×H/6000 in cm). Reducing empty space and carton size can materially lower your air freight charges per kg.
For businesses managing LCL shipment by ocean alongside smaller shipments by air, consolidation often delivers the cheapest air freight from China to the USA by combining consignments. Working with a reliable freight forwarder helps secure better quotes, optimize shipping goods, arrange freight insurance for high-value cargo, and ensure smooth operations—especially when handling urgent shipments that require express shipping.
Related Guides (USA)
Shipping Routes and Air Freight Transit Times from China to the USA
Choosing the right shipping routes and destination airport directly affects both cost and transit time. In general, West Coast hubs are faster and cheaper, while East Coast gateways take longer and often cost more due to distance and handling.
Top shipping routes: Shanghai (PVG) → Los Angeles (LAX), Shenzhen (SZX) → Chicago (ORD), Guangzhou (CAN) → New York (JFK).
Delivery schedules: West Coast lanes average 3–5 days; East Coast lanes (e.g., JFK/PHL) typically run 5–7 days.
USA airports: LAX, ORD, JFK, DFW receive the bulk of China air cargo, with frequent direct flights and broad domestic connections.
Domestic finish: After arrival, use a trusted courier service or trucking for nationwide door delivery.
Tip: If you don’t need everything in the same container, split the plan—use ocean (FCL/LCL) for non-urgent goods and air for priority SKUs. This hybrid approach keeps timelines predictable while controlling costs.
Cut-off Times, Peak Seasons & Capacity Planning
Air cargo space tightens around Chinese New Year, Golden Week (Oct.), and major e-commerce events (11.11 / 12.12). Confirm cut-off times for handover, screening, and direct flights to avoid rollovers. Book early for urgent shipments and consider consolidation for smaller shipments to secure more cost-effective rates during peaks.
Key Airports and Airlines for China to USA Air Freight
China is home to some of the world’s busiest air cargo airports, serving as key gateways for air freight from China to the USA. Selecting the right China airport and airline can significantly influence your air freight costs per kg, transit times, and overall supply chain efficiency.
Major Airports in China for Air Freight to the USA
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG):
This is the largest air freight hub in China. It offers daily direct flights to Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, making it ideal for express shipping from China to the USA.Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX):
Preferred for e-commerce goods and smaller shipments, it has efficient links to Dallas and Chicago. This makes it a favorite among freight forwarders.Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN):
Known for air cargo consolidation services, especially on routes to JFK, ORD, and DFW, offering cost-effective shipping options.Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK):
This is the key northern hub for air express from China, connecting directly to East Coast USA airports, including New York (JFK) and Philadelphia (PHL).
Airlines Operating Air Freight from China to the USA
Major airlines (airport-to-airport)
Air China Cargo — strong capacity to West & East Coast hubs
China Southern Cargo — competitive rates from CAN/SZX lanes
United Cargo — broad U.S. domestic feed to LAX/ORD/JFK/DFW
Integrators & last-mile (door delivery / courier service)
DHL Express — express pickup, brokerage, and door delivery options
Tip: choose airlines for cost-efficient air cargo on main lanes; use integrators for urgent shipments or when you need integrated door-to-door service.
Choosing the Right Airport and Airline for Your Cargo
The choice of airlines and China airports should be based on your shipping goods, cargo type, desired transit time, and overall shipping costs.
Working with a reliable shipping agent ensures you select the most suitable shipping mode, access direct flights, and secure the fastest shipping from China to the USA while keeping your air freight charges optimized.
Important Note:
East Coast routes, such as to New York (JFK) or Philadelphia (PHL), generally have longer flight times and higher air freight fees compared to West Coast destinations like Los Angeles (LAX). The latter continues to offer the fastest and most cost-effective lanes for air shipping from China to the USA.
Air Freight Process from China to USA Doorstep
Shipping goods by air freight from China to the USA involves several critical steps. These steps ensure on-time delivery while complying with both Chinese export regulations and USA customs clearance procedures. Understanding the air freight process allows importers to minimize risks such as customs delays, penalties, or unexpected charges while ensuring that the shipment arrives efficiently and safely.
Step-by-Step Air Freight Process:
Get an Air Freight Quote:
Collaborate with a freight forwarder to obtain an accurate air freight quote from China, covering freight insurance, customs clearance costs, and any warehousing costs. For smaller shipments, always inquire about air cargo consolidation services, which help lower air freight charges per kg.Booking and Cargo Preparation:
Confirm your booking with your air freight forwarder, ensure your shipping goods meet international packaging standards, and prepare key documents, including the commercial invoice, packing list, and air waybill.Export Customs Clearance in China:
Your freight forwarder assists with export declarations, ensuring all customs procedures are correctly followed. This reduces the risk of customs delays at the origin airport.Air Cargo Transport:
The cargo is transported via direct flights or air cargo consolidation, based on your selected shipping method and preferred shipping route, balancing freight costs and delivery schedules.USA Customs Clearance:
Upon arrival, the goods undergo USA customs clearance, where customs duties, import duties, and inspections are handled. Failure to comply may cause customs delays, extra costs, or shipment holds.Final Delivery to Doorstep:
Once cleared, your shipment is delivered via courier service, express shipping, or door to door service, depending on your preferences. Many importers choose DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) for predictable freight costs, with the logistics partner managing all duties, border clearance, and door delivery.
Key Considerations:
DDP shipping simplifies the entire process, ensuring all freight costs, customs duties, and door delivery are handled upfront.
Freight insurance is strongly recommended for high-value cargo, offering extra protection throughout the air freight process.
Choosing air cargo consolidation services is ideal for smaller shipments, providing the cheapest air freight from China to the USA while ensuring timely shipment arrivals.
In conclusion, working with a reliable freight forwarder helps importers select the most cost-effective shipping options, manage USA customs clearance, and avoid costly customs delays.
Compliance & Special Cargo (Lithium Batteries, DGR & Temperature-Controlled)
Certain goods require special handling under IATA DGR. Lithium batteries (e.g., UN 3480/3481) may need an MSDS and a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods; some lanes restrict quantities on passenger vs. freighter aircraft. Temperature-sensitive cargo (pharma, food) needs temperature-controlled / cold-chain service using thermal blankets, gel packs, or active containers. Oversized or heavy pieces may require charter flights or special handling at the destination airport. Ask your customs broker and freight forwarder to confirm packaging, labelling, and acceptance cut-offs before booking.
Customs Clearance, Duties, and DDP Shipping Explained
Every import must clear USA customs. Accurate documents and correct HS codes keep customs procedures smooth and reduce the risk of customs delays.
Required documents:
Air Waybill (AWB)
Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
Duties & taxes
Customs duties and import duties are assessed by HS code, declared value, and origin. Errors or inconsistencies may trigger inspection, storage charges, or shipment holds.
DDP & door-to-door
Many importers choose DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) so the forwarder handles customs clearance, prepays duties/taxes, and completes door-to-door hand-off. For high-value goods, add cargo / freight insurance for extra protection.
Door to Door & DDP Services
If you want a complete solution, door to door shipping covers factory pick-up, export filing, flight booking, USA customs brokerage, and final door delivery to your warehouse.
Advantages of DDP Shipping
Reduces unexpected customs delays, penalties, and hidden fees caused by paperwork issues.
Provides all-inclusive landed cost from China to the USA (freight, duties/taxes, last-mile).
Ideal for smaller shipments, e-commerce parcels, urgent shipments, or teams unfamiliar with USA customs rules.
Uses trusted courier service for fast, traceable last-mile delivery.
Using DDP shipping together with door-to-door service gives you predictable costs and simpler operations. Add insurance for high-value cargo, and work with a reliable freight forwarder to keep documentation correct, streamline customs clearance, and ensure your shipment arrives safely and on time without unnecessary costs.
How to Choose the Best Freight Forwarder from China to the USA?
Choosing the right freight forwarder can dramatically influence your air freight shipping costs, delivery speed, and overall supply chain performance. An experienced and reliable freight forwarder simplifies the shipping process, assists you in navigating USA customs clearance, and secures the most competitive freight rates, ensuring your shipping goods arrive on time and within budget.
What to Look for in the Best Freight Forwarder
Experience in China→USA air freight. Proven track record handling urgent shipments and bulk cargo, with familiarity across top shipping routes and destination airports.
Accurate, transparent quotes. Itemized air freight fees, fuel/security surcharges, handling, and any warehousing costs; clearly state weight breaks and chargeable weight (actual vs volumetric weight / CBM).
Door-to-door capability. DDP shipping, express shipping options, trusted courier service for last-mile door delivery, plus brokerage with USA customs.
Strong partnerships with airlines & integrators. Access to direct flights via Air China Cargo, China Southern Cargo, United Cargo, and collaboration with DHL Express for integrated, time-critical door-to-door moves.
Consolidation & LCL flexibility. Offer air cargo consolidation and hybrid plans (ocean LCL/FCL + air) to secure the cheapest air freight for smaller shipments and e-commerce orders.
Documentation & risk control. Expertise with Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Air Waybill (AWB), HS codes, and cargo insurance to minimize customs delays and protect high-value cargo.
Benefits of Working with a Trusted Freight Forwarder:
Professional advice on preferred shipping methods:
Receive recommendations on whether to choose standard air cargo, express freight, or air cargo consolidation services, depending on your shipment size, urgency, and budget.Comprehensive management of freight insurance and customs clearance procedures:
This helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures smooth USA customs clearance.Assistance with route optimization:
Freight forwarders help select the most cost-effective shipping routes, minimize freight costs, and avoid port congestion or shipment delays.
Whether you’re seeking affordable air freight, the cheapest shipping from China to the US, or specialized courier services for e-commerce shipments, selecting a suitable freight forwarder is key. This ensures logistics success and helps maintain a competitive edge in 2025.
Tips to Reduce Air Freight Costs (Best Practices 2025)
Compare shipping options: consolidated air for economy; express for deadlines.
Optimize packaging: cut volumetric weight (cubic meter) to lower charges.
Plan capacity: book early to avoid peak premiums.
Control warehousing costs: minimize storage at origin/destination.
Pick your lane: West Coast arrivals are often more cost-effective than East Coast.
Work with a reliable partner: better space, fewer delays, steadier pricing across the supply chain.
Quick Answer: How much to Los Angeles (LAX) per kg?
Most 100–300 kg consignments from Shanghai/Shenzhen to LAX fall between $3.10–$4.50/kg depending on week-to-week capacity, direct flights, and seasonality. Request an air freight quote for a firm offer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Freight from China to the USA
How much is air cargo to the U.S. per kg in 2025?
Most shipments fall between $2.10–$4.50/kg, varying by route, airline, and week-to-week capacity.
What’s the cheapest option for smaller shipments?
Air cargo consolidation lowers the per-kg cost compared with premium express.
How long does it take?
Typical transit is 3–7 days; express services can reach 1–3 days on priority lanes.
Do I need insurance?
Yes—use cargo insurance for high-value goods; it complements standard freight insurance.
Which are the top routes?
Shanghai → LAX, Shenzhen → ORD, Guangzhou → JFK—frequent direct flights and reliable delivery schedules.
How does LCL shipment relate to air?
Use LCL shipment for non-urgent ocean moves and air for priority items; you don’t need the same container for everything.
Conclusion: Fast, Reliable, and Cost-Effective Air Freight from China to the USA with Tonlexing
In 2025, air freight from China to the USA continues to be the fastest and most reliable shipping method for businesses prioritizing delivery speed, supply chain flexibility, and global market competitiveness. Whether you require express shipping from China to USA, air cargo consolidation services, or DDP shipping solutions, understanding air freight costs, transit times, and customs clearance procedures is crucial to avoid costly delays and optimize your overall freight costs.
Selecting the right freight forwarder is key to accessing cost-effective shipping options, efficiently managing USA customs clearance, and ensuring your shipment arrives safely and on time. By partnering with an experienced and reliable freight forwarder, you gain access to competitive air freight quotes from China, trusted airlines, direct flights, and priority courier services for urgent shipments and e-commerce goods.
At Tonlexing Logistics, we specialize in providing seamless air freight services from China to the USA, offering:
Express shipping from China to USA
Air cargo consolidation services for smaller shipments
Door to door shipping and DDP shipping solutions
Comprehensive freight insurance and customs clearance support
Our logistics experts will ensure your goods are shipped using the most cost-effective shipping routes, optimizing your freight costs, and providing you with end-to-end air freight services, including USA customs clearance, freight insurance, and door delivery.
Get your air freight quote from Tonlexing today and experience the cheapest air freight from China to USA, reliable door to door service, and expert support throughout your entire shipping process.