Looking for the cost of shipping from China to the USA in 2025? This guide gives you real market rates for FCL/LCL sea freight, air freight cost per kg, express, and DDP door-to-door services, plus transit times, customs, and practical ways to reduce your total landed cost. Whether you ship a few cartons or a full container, here you can compare China to USA shipping price options and choose the most cost-effective plan.
Shipping Costs at a Glance (2025)
Shipping Method | Typical Rate (USD) | When to Use | Avg. Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Sea Freight – FCL (20GP / 40GP) | $1,550–$1,650 / $2,550–$2,700 | Bulk cargo, best cost per unit | 16–32 days |
Sea Freight – LCL (per CBM) | $45–$100 per CBM (min 1 CBM) | Small/medium shipments | 20–35 days |
Air Freight (economy) | 100 kg: $4.4–$4.9/kg · 300 kg: $3.2–$3.6/kg | Time-sensitive, higher value goods | 3–7 days |
Express Courier (DHL/UPS/FedEx) | $6.0–$9.5/kg (all-inclusive) | Samples, urgent small parcels | 2–5 days |
DDP Air (Door-to-Door) | $4.8–$7.8/kg (duty & tax included) | Amazon FBA & first-time importers | 8–12 days |
DDP Sea (Door-to-Door) | $400–$800 per CBM (all-in) | Cost-focused door delivery | 25–35 days |
Note: Rates vary by origin/destination pair, seasonality, and space availability. Always request a tailored quote for accurate China to USA shipping costs.
Sea Freight Costs from China to the USA (FCL & LCL)
Sea freight is the most popular method for international logistics because it offers the lowest shipping cost from China to the USA. Importers with large shipments usually choose FCL (Full Container Load), while smaller shipments use LCL (Less than Container Load) to share space in a container. Below are the updated China to USA shipping rates in 2025.
FCL Shipping Costs (20ft & 40ft Container)
Route (China → USA) | 20GP | 40GP | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai → Los Angeles | $1,550 | $2,600 | Fastest West Coast route |
Shenzhen → New York | $1,600 | $2,650 | Longer distance, higher port fees |
Ningbo → Houston | $1,650 | $2,700 | Popular route for bulk shipments |
Qingdao → Miami | $1,600 | $2,600 | Good option for East Coast delivery |
Guangzhou → Los Angeles | $1,550 | $2,550 | High volume, frequent sailings |
Xiamen → Seattle | $1,580 | $2,580 | Cost-effective for Pacific Northwest |
Tianjin → Chicago (via West Coast) | $1,620 | $2,620 | Requires inland rail to Midwest |
Dalian → Los Angeles | $1,630 | $2,630 | Reliable North China export hub |
Zhongshan → New York | $1,590 | $2,590 | Suited for mixed consumer goods |
Fuzhou → Savannah | $1,610 | $2,610 | East Coast route with moderate cost |
Tip: The average 40ft container cost to the USA in 2025 ranges from $2,500 to $2,700, depending on port and carrier. Booking early secures lower freight rates.
LCL Shipping Costs (Less than Container Load)
For smaller shipments under 15 CBM, LCL shipping from China to the USA is often the best option. Costs are charged per cubic meter (CBM).
Route | Cost per CBM | Minimum Volume | Avg. Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai → Los Angeles | $45–$90 | 1 CBM | 20–25 days |
Shenzhen → New York | $45–$100 | 1 CBM | 28–32 days |
Ningbo → Chicago | $50–$100 | 1 CBM | 25–30 days |
Guangzhou → Houston | $45–$90 | 1 CBM | 26–30 days |
Note: The shipping cost per CBM from China to the USA typically falls between $45 and $100, making LCL an affordable option for eCommerce sellers or smaller importers.
For LCL shipping, charges are calculated per CBM (cubic meter).
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × Number of packages
Example: 1 carton = 1.2 m × 1.0 m × 1.0 m × 5 = 6.0 CBM.
Even if your cargo is light, you will pay according to CBM.
Air Freight Costs from China to the USA
If you need faster delivery, air freight from China to the USA is the preferred option. It is widely used for high-value, time-sensitive, or light-weight cargo, such as electronics, apparel, and seasonal products. Although the air freight cost per kg is higher than ocean freight, it offers unmatched speed and reliability.
Average Air Freight Rates (2025)
Route (China → USA) | 100 kg | 300 kg | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai (PVG) → Los Angeles (LAX) | $4.5/kg | $3.3/kg | 3–5 days |
Shenzhen (SZX) → New York (JFK) | $4.6/kg | $3.4/kg | 4–7 days |
Guangzhou (CAN) → Chicago (ORD) | $4.7/kg | $3.5/kg | 4–6 days |
Beijing (PEK) → Dallas (DFW) | $4.8/kg | $3.6/kg | 4–6 days |
Hong Kong (HKG) → Miami (MIA) | $4.4/kg | $3.2/kg | 3–5 days |
Chengdu (CTU) → San Francisco (SFO) | $4.6/kg | $3.4/kg | 4–6 days |
Zhengzhou (CGO) → Houston (IAH) | $4.6/kg | $3.4/kg | 4–6 days |
Tip: The average China to USA air freight rates in 2025 range between $4.4–$4.9/kg (100 kg loads) and $3.2–$3.6/kg (300 kg loads). By booking in advance and using economy service, you can often secure cheap air freight compared to express couriers.
When shipping by air, the chargeable weight is based on the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight.
Volumetric weight (kg) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
Chargeable weight = max(actual weight, volumetric weight)
Example: A carton measures 100 × 80 × 60 cm = 480,000 cm³.
480,000 ÷ 6000 = 80 kg volumetric weight.
If the actual weight is 65 kg, you will be charged at 80 kg.
When to Choose Air Freight?
Best for shipments between 100–500 kg
Time-sensitive cargo where delivery within a week is essential
High-value goods where reliability is more important than saving on freight charges
Compared with sea freight, shipping cargo by air drastically reduces transit time from 25–35 days down to just 3–7 days, ensuring timely delivery to U.S. buyers.
Express Shipping from China to the USA (Courier Services)
For small parcels, urgent samples, or eCommerce orders, express shipping from China to the USA is the fastest solution. Major couriers such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer reliable door-to-door delivery with customs clearance and tracking included. While the courier cost per kg is higher than standard air freight, it is often the most convenient method for shipments under 100 kg.
Express Courier Rates (2025)
Carrier | Rate per kg (USD) | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
DHL China to USA | $6.5 – $9.0 | 2–4 days |
FedEx China shipping | $6.0 – $8.5 | 3–5 days |
UPS Express Delivery | $6.2 – $8.8 | 3–5 days |
Besides the major international couriers, many importers also use SF Express and other global couriers for smaller parcels. While the couriers’ price may vary depending on route and package weight, SF Express can sometimes provide more competitive rates for eCommerce shipments within 30–50 kg.
Tip: For shipments under 50 kg, express shipping can sometimes be cheaper than economy air freight, because the rates are all-inclusive (fuel, customs clearance, and documentation).
When to Use Express Shipping?
Urgent deliveries where 2–5 days is required
Small eCommerce parcels shipped directly to U.S. customers
Samples and prototypes that need fast arrival for testing or approval
Amazon FBA restock when inventory is running low
Compared with ocean or standard air freight, express shipping from China to the USA offers unmatched speed and convenience, making it ideal for high-priority cargo.
DDP & Door-to-Door Shipping Costs from China to the USA
Many importers choose DDP shipping from China to the USA because it eliminates hidden charges and simplifies logistics. Under Delivered Duty Paid (DDP), your freight forwarder handles everything: freight, import duties, customs clearance, and final delivery to your door or Amazon FBA warehouse. This door to door shipping option is especially popular among eCommerce sellers and first-time importers who want cost certainty and convenience.
DDP Air Freight (2025)
Service | Rate (USD) | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
DDP Air Freight | $1.8 – $2.8 per kg (all-inclusive) | 8–12 days | Duties & taxes included, fastest door-to-door solution |
Best for: Amazon FBA sellers, small to medium shipments (100–500 kg), and businesses needing fast customs-cleared delivery.
DDP Sea Freight (2025)
Service | Rate (USD) | Transit Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
DDP Sea Freight | $800 – $1,500 per CBM (all-inclusive) | 25–35 days | Best for large shipments, cheapest door delivery option |
Best for: Bulk cargo, importers who prioritize lower cost over speed, and first-time buyers who want simple delivery without managing customs.
Why Choose DDP Door-to-Door?
All-inclusive shipping cost: Freight, customs clearance, duties, and last-mile delivery are included.
No hidden fees: Avoid unexpected customs charges and port handling fees.
Time-saving: Freight forwarder manages every step from factory pickup to final delivery.
Peace of mind: Especially useful for first-time importers unfamiliar with U.S. customs.
In 2025, door to door shipping from China to the USA via DDP remains one of the most practical, predictable, and hassle-free logistics solutions.
Transit Time from China to the USA
One of the most common questions importers ask is: “How long does shipping from China to the USA take?”
In 2025, the China to USA transit time depends on the transport mode, route, and season. Delivery can be as fast as 2 days with express courier or as long as 35 days with sea freight.
Sea Freight Transit Time
Origin Port | Destination Port | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
Shanghai → Los Angeles (West Coast) | 16 – 20 days | |
Shenzhen → New York (East Coast) | 25 – 30 days | |
Ningbo → Houston (Gulf Coast) | 22 – 28 days | |
Qingdao → Miami (East Coast) | 26 – 32 days | |
Guangzhou → Seattle (West Coast) | 18 – 22 days | |
Tianjin → Chicago (via West Coast rail) | 28 – 32 days |
Tip: West Coast ports (Los Angeles, Long Beach, Seattle) are faster and cheaper, while East Coast ports (New York, Miami, Savannah) take longer but may reduce inland trucking costs.
Air Freight Delivery Time
Origin Airport | Destination Airport | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
Guangzhou (CAN) → Los Angeles (LAX) | 3 – 5 days | |
Shanghai (PVG) → Chicago (ORD) | 4 – 6 days | |
Shenzhen (SZX) → New York (JFK) | 4 – 7 days | |
Beijing (PEK) → Dallas (DFW) | 4 – 6 days | |
Hong Kong (HKG) → Miami (MIA) | 3 – 5 days |
Note: Standard air freight delivery time is usually 3–7 days, making it the best option when your business requires faster restocking.
Express Courier Shipping Time
Carrier | Transit Time |
|---|---|
DHL | 2 – 4 days |
FedEx | 3 – 5 days |
UPS | 2 – 5 days |
Express courier shipping time is the fastest, often 2–4 days door-to-door, including customs clearance.
DDP Door-to-Door Transit Time
Service | Transit Time |
|---|---|
DDP Air Freight | 8 – 12 days |
DDP Sea Freight | 25 – 35 days |
With DDP, transit time already includes customs clearance and last-mile delivery, so importers don’t need to handle any extra steps.
Explore more shipping guides:
- Shipping Cost from China to Canada
- Shipping Cost from China to Mexico
- Shipping Cost from China to Chile
- Shipping Cost from China to Honduras
- Shipping Cost from China to Costa Rica
Customs Clearance from China to the USA
When shipping goods internationally, one of the most critical steps is customs clearance from China to the USA. Whether you choose sea freight, air freight, or DDP, all shipments must pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Understanding the US customs clearance process helps importers avoid costly delays and unexpected charges.
Required Documents for US Customs
To ensure smooth entry, you need the following paperwork:
Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
Declares product description, value, HS Code, and Incoterms | |
Lists dimensions, weight, and number of cartons/packages | |
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | Official proof of shipment (ocean or air) |
Mandatory for all ocean freight shipments | |
Certificate of Origin | Required for specific products or trade agreements |
HS Code (Harmonized System Code) | Determines duty rate and product classification |
Tip: Submitting accurate documents is essential. Missing or incorrect HS codes may cause shipment delays or penalties.
Import Duties from China to the USA
Most goods imported from China are subject to import duties and taxes based on product type, declared value, and HS Code.
Average import tax: 5% – 25% (depending on category and Section 301 tariffs)
Additional fees: Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) and Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)
CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) is the basis for duty calculation
Example: If your goods have a CIF value of $10,000 and duty rate is 10%, your import duty from China to USA will be $1,000, plus MPF and HMF.
Common Customs Mistakes to Avoid
Using vague product descriptions (“parts” instead of “electrical motor parts”)
Incorrect HS Code classification
Under-declaring value to reduce duties (high risk of fines)
Missing FDA, USDA, or FCC approval for regulated products
Forgetting to file ISF 24 hours before vessel departure
Easier Option: DDP Shipping
If you prefer not to handle customs at all, choose DDP shipping from China to the USA. With DDP, your freight forwarder or supplier manages:
Duty and tax calculation
Document filing and ISF submission
Customs communication and clearance
Final delivery to your warehouse or Amazon FBA
This option is increasingly popular for eCommerce sellers and first-time importers.
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from China to the USA
The China to USA shipping rates you pay are influenced by more than just distance. To plan an accurate logistics budget, importers need to understand the factors affecting shipping cost. Knowing these variables helps you choose the most cost effective shipping solution and avoid surprise charges.
Shipping Method and Speed
Different transport modes come with very different costs and transit times:
Method | Cost Level | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Sea Freight (FCL) | Lowest | 25–35 days | Bulk shipments, pallets |
LCL (Consolidated) | Low/Medium | 28–40 days | Small/medium cargo |
Air Freight | High | 3–7 days | Time-sensitive goods |
Express Courier | Highest | 2–5 days | Small parcels, urgent orders |
DDP (Air/Sea) | Medium/High | 8–35 days | All-in door-to-door, beginners |
Cargo Volume, Weight & Dimensions
Air freight: Charged by actual weight or volumetric weight (L×W×H ÷ 6000).
Sea freight: Charged per container (FCL) or per CBM (LCL).
Bulky or irregular packaging increases freight charges.
Optimizing packaging reduces volumetric charges and lowers overall freight rates China to USA.
Port, Route, and Distance
Shipping from Shanghai to Los Angeles is faster and cheaper than Qingdao to New York.
Factors: port congestion, inland trucking, carrier surcharges.
East Coast delivery = longer distance, higher port fees but lower inland costs for buyers based in the East.
Seasonal Demand
Peak seasons: Chinese New Year, Golden Week, Black Friday & Christmas.
Expect higher rates, space shortages, and possible rollovers.
Off-peak booking can save 10–20%.
Customs Duties and Documentation Fees
Import taxes, tariffs, and compliance requirements add to total cost.
Incorrect HS Code or missing paperwork can trigger delays and fines.
Incoterms (Trade Terms)
Your chosen Incoterm determines who pays what:
FOB (Free on Board): Buyer pays from port of loading onward.
EXW (Ex Works): Buyer bears costs from supplier’s factory.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Seller/freight forwarder covers all costs until delivery.
Choosing the right Incoterm helps avoid disputes and manage expectations.
How to Reduce Shipping Costs from China to the USA
With freight rates fluctuating in recent years, importers are eager to find the cheapest way to ship from China to USA. While you can’t control global market changes, you can apply smart strategies to reduce shipping costs from China and keep your supply chain competitive.
Compare Multiple Shipping Methods
Don’t assume one method is always cheaper. The best option depends on shipment size, urgency, and route.
Method | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Sea Freight (FCL) | Lowest per unit | Large volumes, stable orders |
LCL Shipping | Medium | Small to medium shipments |
Air Freight | High | Urgent but not small parcels |
Economy Air Freight | Lower than express | Mid-size eCommerce shipments |
Express Courier | Highest | Samples & urgent orders |
Sometimes economy air freight is more cost effective than LCL once customs handling is included.
Consolidate Shipments
Combine multiple small orders into one larger container.
Example: 5 CBM shipped weekly via LCL may cost 20–30% more than one monthly 25 CBM FCL container.
Consolidated shipping reduces handling fees and avoids repeated customs clearance charges.
Avoid Peak Season Surcharges
Book 3–4 weeks in advance during busy seasons (before Chinese New Year or Black Friday).
Off-peak shipping can cut costs by 10–15%.
Optimize Packaging
Use compact cartons and pallets to reduce volumetric weight for air freight.
For sea freight, avoid half-empty boxes that waste CBM.
Choose DDP for All-Inclusive Shipping
Although DDP may look more expensive upfront, it often reduces total landed cost by:
Covering duties, taxes, and customs clearance
Avoiding hidden port charges
Saving time and administrative expenses
Partner with a Trusted Freight Forwarder
Experienced forwarders negotiate better China to USA shipping rates.
They help avoid hidden documentation fees, unnecessary insurance, or incorrect HS codes.
A reliable partner ensures smooth and cost effective shipping.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping from China to the USA
How much is shipping from China to the USA in 2025?
Sea Freight (FCL): $1,500 – $2,700 per container
LCL: $45 – $100 per CBM
Air Freight: $4.4 – $4.9/kg (100 kg loads), $3.2 – $3.6/kg (300 kg loads)
Express Courier: $6.0 – $9.5/kg (all-inclusive)
DDP Air Freight: $4.8 – $7.8/kg (duty & tax included)
DDP Sea Freight: $400 – $800 per CBM
What is the cheapest way to ship from China to the USA?
The cheapest option is usually FCL sea freight if you can fill a container.
For smaller loads, LCL or DDP sea shipping offers cost savings while including customs clearance.
How long does shipping take from China to the USA?
Sea Freight: 16–32 days (West Coast faster, East Coast longer)
Air Freight: 3–7 days
Express Courier: 2–5 days
DDP Air Freight: 8–12 days
DDP Sea Freight: 25–35 days
Do I need to pay import duty from China to the USA?
Yes. Import duties average 5%–25%, depending on product HS Code and Section 301 tariffs.
You will also pay MPF (Merchandise Processing Fee) and HMF (Harbor Maintenance Fee).
If you use DDP shipping, your forwarder includes duties and taxes in the price.
What is the best shipping method for Amazon FBA sellers?
Most Amazon sellers choose DDP door-to-door shipping (air or sea).
It covers:
Export declaration
International transport
Customs clearance and duties
Final delivery to the Amazon warehouse
Should I use a freight forwarder or arrange shipping myself?
Using a freight forwarder with China–USA experience is highly recommended:
They negotiate better freight rates
Handle all customs paperwork
Offer real-time tracking and support
Reduce risk of hidden costs and delays
Can I use a shipping rate calculator to estimate costs from China to the USA?
Yes. A shipping rate calculator is a helpful tool to quickly estimate freight charges based on package weight, parcel dimensions, and destination port.
For air freight, calculators apply the dimensional weight formula to determine the chargeable weight.
For LCL sea freight, calculators use the CBM formula to calculate the cost per cubic meter.
Remember: A calculator only provides just an estimate. The final price may vary depending on customs value, port congestion, and new tariffs. For an accurate quote and to calculate your full landed cost (including duties, customs clearance, and delivery charges), it’s best to work with professional freight forwarders or trusted shipping experts.
Final Thoughts: Optimize Your Shipping Strategy in 2025
Understanding the shipping cost from China to the USA is more than comparing rates — it’s about choosing the right method, planning ahead, and working with a reliable freight forwarder.
Here’s a quick recap:
Shipping Mode | Cost Efficiency | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Sea Freight (FCL) | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | Large or bulky shipments |
Air Freight | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Urgent or valuable goods |
Express Courier | ★☆☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | Small parcels, samples |
DDP (Air/Sea) | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Hassle-free, door delivery |
At Tonlexing, we specialize in door-to-door, sea freight, air freight, and DDP shipping from China to the USA. Our team ensures smooth customs clearance, competitive China to USA shipping rates, and reliable delivery tailored to your needs.
Ready to cut costs and simplify your logistics?
Contact Tonlexing today for a free, customized shipping quote.
Tonlexing Shipping Case Studies (China → USA)
Case 1: Door-to-Door Sea Freight – Excavator Shipment from Qingdao to the USA
Cargo: Excavator (1 wooden crate, HS Code 8429521200)
Volume & Weight: 5.256 CBM · 1,100 kg
Service: Sea Freight – Door-to-Door DDP
Transit Time: 30–35 days
Result: Delivered directly to client’s warehouse in the USA. By using flat rack/containerized shipping, the client avoided oversized cargo surcharges and enjoyed a seamless DDP delivery.
Case 2: Door-to-Door Sea Freight – Pad Mounted Transformers from Ningbo to the USA
Cargo: 2 wooden crates, Pad Mounted Transformers (HS Code 8504210000)
Volume & Weight: 3.91 CBM · 1,900 kg
Service: Sea Freight (Door-to-Door, DDP)
Transit Time: 30–35 days
Result: The shipment was delivered to the client’s location in the USA with duties prepaid. No hidden charges, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Case 3: Door-to-Door Sea Freight – Valves Shipment from Tianjin to Houston, USA
Cargo: Industrial Valves (9 wooden crates, HS Code 8481804090)
Volume & Weight: 7.38 CBM · 5,965 kg
Service: Sea Freight (Door-to-Door, DDP)
Transit Time: 30–35 days
Result: Delivered to the client’s warehouse in Houston with duties prepaid. By consolidating multiple crates under DDP service, the client saved on customs clearance handling and avoided unexpected port charges.
Related Project: We also handled Mini Excavator Shipping from China to Houston, Texas, ensuring smooth customs clearance and cost-effective delivery for oversized equipment.