Shipping Furniture from China to USA

Shipping furniture from China to USA is one of the most in-demand logistics services in today’s global trade market. In recent years, large-scale retailers, e-commerce entrepreneurs, and interior designers across the U.S. have increasingly turned to Chinese furniture manufacturers to meet the booming demand for cost-effective, high-quality furnishings.

China’s furniture industry is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, innovative designs, and competitive pricing. Whether you’re sourcing wooden bedroom furniture, high-end living room sets, or minimalist office chairs, Chinese suppliers offer a wide variety of furniture styles that suit every aesthetic and budget. Major cities like Foshan, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou have long been the global hubs for furniture manufacturing, attracting buyers from the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

However, importing furniture isn’t just about picking the right product—it’s about navigating a complex process that includes international logistics, customs clearance, shipping costs, freight forwarding, and compliance with U.S. import regulations. Many first-time buyers underestimate how detailed this process can be, from preparing the right documentation and packaging to selecting the most suitable shipping method and calculating the correct import duty.

This comprehensive 2025 guide will help you:

• Understand the best shipping methods for furniture (including ocean freight and air freight)
• Get familiar with U.S. import regulations for furniture
• Estimate shipping costs and delivery times
• Prepare required documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and HS codes
• Work with reliable freight forwarders and customs brokers
• Avoid costly delays or compliance issues

Whether you’re importing for resale, personal use, or a commercial project, understanding the furniture import process from China to the USA is key to ensuring a smooth delivery and maintaining your profit margins. Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know.

Benefits of Sourcing Furniture from China

Importing furniture from China is not just about getting lower prices—it’s about accessing a mature, innovative, and highly efficient supply chain that has evolved to serve global markets. Whether you’re a large furniture retailer in the United States or a boutique designer seeking custom pieces, working with Chinese furniture manufacturers brings multiple advantages.

Competitive Pricing Without Compromising Quality

One of the main reasons buyers look to China is its competitive pricing. Thanks to economies of scale, low production costs, and optimized furniture manufacturing processes, Chinese suppliers are able to offer attractive prices without sacrificing quality. In most cases, you’ll find similar products at a fraction of the cost compared to domestic or European suppliers.

Wide Range of Furniture Styles and Types

From modern minimalist pieces to traditional Chinese furniture, the variety of furniture styles available is unmatched. Whether you’re looking for wooden bedroom furniture, outdoor patio sets, or industrial-style office desks, China offers it all. Suppliers often maintain catalogs covering hundreds of SKUs, and many even offer customized design services based on your drawings or specifications.

Proven Manufacturing Capabilities

China is home to some of the world’s largest furniture manufacturing clusters—particularly in Guangdong province (Foshan, Dongguan, Shenzhen), Zhejiang (Anji), and Shandong. These regions house thousands of furniture suppliers, manufacturers, and workshops that specialize in everything from upholstered sofas to solid wood cabinetry.

Most of these factories use advanced CNC machines, UV coating lines, and environmentally friendly materials to ensure consistency and scalability.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Innovative Designs

Over the years, many Chinese furniture manufacturers have invested in R&D and design innovation. Whether it’s embracing innovative designs for the European market or crafting exquisite craftsmanship for high-end U.S. buyers, Chinese factories today are not just low-cost producers—they are becoming creative partners.

Some manufacturers collaborate with international designers or maintain in-house design teams that follow global trends and material innovations.

Strong Quality Control and Export Experience

Export-ready manufacturers in China often implement strict quality control systems, including multi-stage inspection, stress testing, moisture content analysis (especially for wood products), and proper export packaging for long-distance sea travel.

Many suppliers already serve clients in the U.S., the European Union, Australia, and the Middle East, and understand destination market standards—including certifications like CARB, TSCA Title VI, and formaldehyde limits.

Types of Furniture Commonly Shipped from China to the USA

When planning a furniture shipment from China to the United States, it’s important to know which product categories are most commonly exported and how they align with your logistics and customs strategy. Whether you are importing for commercial resale or personal use, understanding popular furniture types helps you choose the right shipping method, estimate costs, and ensure compliance.

Living Room Furniture

• Sofas and sectionals (fabric or leather)
• Coffee tables, end tables (often with glass tops)
• TV stands, media consoles
• Bookcases and storage units

These items are typically bulky but not always heavy, making them suitable for LCL (Less than Container Load) sea freight if you’re not buying in large volumes.

Bedroom Furniture

• Wooden bedroom furniture like bed frames, nightstands, dressers
• Bunk beds and children’s bedroom sets
• Memory foam and spring mattresses

Many American retailers source full bedroom sets from Chinese suppliers due to their cost-effective production and attractive designs.

Office Furniture

• Ergonomic office chairs
• Work desks and cubicle systems
• Storage cabinets and filing drawers

Due to their modular nature, office furniture is usually packed flat and can be container-loaded efficiently, reducing shipping costs.

Dining Room and Kitchen Furniture

• Dining tables (wood or glass tops)
• Dining chairs (wood, metal, or upholstered)
• Kitchen islands and carts

These are often shipped in knock-down (KD) format to save space and are suitable for FCL (Full Container Load) shipments.

Outdoor and Garden Furniture

• Patio sets (rattan, metal, or teak)
• Loungers and hammocks
• Weather-resistant umbrellas and pergolas

Outdoor furniture is commonly ordered in bulk and may require special protective wrapping for moisture or UV damage during transit.

Customized and High-End Pieces

Some U.S. importers work with Chinese furniture manufacturers to create customized furniture tailored to specific markets or clients. This includes:

• Boutique hotel furnishings
• Restaurant interior setups
• Custom cabinetry or built-ins

Though often smaller in quantity, these products still fall under standard furniture imports and must meet U.S. quality control and safety regulations.

Personal Household Furniture

Individual importers or small businesses may also ship personal items like:

• Antique or traditional Chinese furniture
• Designer accent chairs
• One-off pieces for interior design projects

These are often shipped via LCL or air freight depending on urgency and volume.

How to Find Reliable Furniture Suppliers in China

Finding a trustworthy furniture supplier in China is one of the most critical steps in ensuring a successful and cost-effective import process. With thousands of Chinese suppliers available both online and offline, buyers must carefully vet their partners to avoid quality issues, shipping delays, or compliance problems.

Here are the most common methods for sourcing furniture from China:

Use Trusted Online Platforms

Many U.S. importers start their journey by buying furniture through reputable online platforms:

• Alibaba.com – Ideal for wholesale B2B orders with a wide selection of furniture manufacturers
• Made-in-China.com – Great for industrial and commercial furniture
• 1688.com – Popular for local Chinese wholesale pricing (requires a sourcing agent or Chinese language skills)
• Global Sources – Focuses on verified manufacturers and export-ready factories

When using these platforms, look for Gold Suppliers, factories with long transaction history, verified certifications, and a responsive sales team.

Visit China’s Furniture Manufacturing Hubs

To ensure product quality and factory reliability, many serious buyers travel to China to meet furniture suppliers face to face. The most prominent production areas include:

• Foshan (Lecong) – Known as the “Furniture Capital of China,” famous for modern and luxury styles
• Dongguan – Specializes in upholstery and wooden furniture
• Anji – Focuses on ergonomic chairs and bamboo products
• Bazhou and Langfang (Hebei) – Budget-friendly office and home furniture

Visiting suppliers allows you to verify their furniture manufacturing capabilities, inspect production lines, and assess their quality control standards directly.

Attend International Furniture Trade Fairs

Trade shows are another excellent way to meet qualified Chinese manufacturers. The top events include:

• CIFF (China International Furniture Fair) – Held in Guangzhou and Shanghai
• Canton Fair (Furniture Section) – Great for bulk sourcing and networking
• IFFS (International Furniture Fair Singapore) – Features Chinese exhibitors

These events gather hundreds of suppliers across all furniture types, offering you hands-on product previews and live negotiations.

Work with Sourcing Agents or Buying Offices

If you’re new to importing, working with a China-based sourcing agent can help bridge the gap between language, logistics, and negotiation. These professionals help:

• Identify and verify suppliers
• Negotiate better pricing and terms
• Monitor production and pre-shipment inspections

This is especially useful when sourcing furniture with customization, specific material requirements, or tight shipping schedules.

Understanding the Furniture Import Process to the USA

Importing furniture from China to the USA involves more than just placing an order—it’s a regulated process governed by U.S. law and managed by agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and other relevant bodies. Understanding each step in the import process will help you avoid delays, fines, or seizure of goods.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:

Prepare Required Import Documents

Before your furniture can be cleared by US customs, you’ll need to prepare and submit several critical documents. These include:

• Commercial Invoice – Lists the product description, quantity, value, supplier and buyer info
• Packing List – Details packaging type, gross and net weight, and container information
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill – Issued by the carrier, proving the goods were shipped
• HS Code (Harmonized System Code) – Used to classify the furniture for tariff and regulation purposes
• Import Permits (if applicable) – Required for some types of wood or upholstered furniture

Each document must be accurate, consistent, and compliant with both Chinese export laws and U.S. import regulations.

Classify Your Furniture Using HS Codes

Every type of furniture falls under a specific HS code (Harmonized System), which determines:

• Applicable import duties
• Required product regulations (e.g. for wood or fabric treatment)
• Whether special licensing is required

Common HS codes include:

• 9403.30 – Wooden furniture of a kind used in offices
• 9401.61 – Upholstered seats with wooden frames
• 9403.20 – Metal furniture
• 9403.60 – Bedroom furniture

Correct classification is essential to avoid underpayment or overpayment of tariffs and ensure a smooth customs clearance.

Ensure Regulatory Compliance

Imported furniture must comply with U.S. safety and labeling standards, including:

• CPSC Requirements – Flame retardant limits, lead content in paint/finish, and labeling
• TSCA Title VI (EPA) – For formaldehyde emissions in composite wood products
• Lacey Act / USDA APHIS – For wood furniture containing endangered species or untreated wood

Failing to meet these standards can lead to your shipment being detained or rejected by border protection.

Submit Entry via the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE)

Your licensed customs broker will file your entry using the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system, which allows for electronic interaction with U.S. Customs and other government agencies. The process includes:

• Submitting all required documents
• Declaring shipment value and HS codes
• Paying duties, taxes, and any port fees
• Scheduling examination (if flagged)

Most importers rely on their freight forwarders or brokers to handle this part of the customs clearance process.

Pay Import Duties and Fees

The applicable import duty for furniture generally ranges from 0% to 10%, depending on the furniture type and material. Additional fees may apply:

• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)
• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)
• Anti-dumping Duties (on some Chinese furniture lines)

Knowing the exact tariff classification and tax obligations in advance can help you price your products accurately and avoid surprises.

Shipping Methods for Furniture from China

Choosing the right shipping method is one of the most important decisions when shipping furniture from China to the USA. The type, quantity, dimensions, and urgency of your shipment will directly impact cost, delivery time, and risk of damage.

Let’s explore the three most common shipping options:

Sea Freight – Best for Bulk and Large Furniture

Sea freight is the most popular method for transporting furniture because it offers the best balance of cost and volume. It’s ideal for heavy, bulky items such as sofas, tables, or bedroom sets.

You can choose between:

FCL (Full Container Load)

• You book an entire 20ft or 40ft container for your goods only.
• Recommended for importers with large orders or consolidated shipments from multiple factories.
• Reduces handling and damage risk.

LCL (Less than Container Load)

• You share a container with other importers.
• Ideal for small businesses or mixed product types.
• Lower cost entry, but slightly longer transit time due to consolidation.

Estimated Transit Times:

Destination Ports in USA:
Los Angeles, Long Beach, Houston, Savannah, New York/Newark

Key Benefits of Ocean Freight:

• Lowest shipping costs per CBM
• Can handle high-volume and oversized furniture
• Flexible container load options

Air Freight – Fast But Expensive

If you’re shipping furniture urgently, or transporting high-end or lightweight items (like chairs or disassembled components), air freight may be a viable option.

When to choose air freight:

• Urgent showroom orders or sample deliveries
• Limited production deadlines
• Light, high-value items where volume is low

Estimated Transit Time: 3–7 days
Cost: $5–$10/kg depending on weight, volume, and route

Common Departure Airports in China:
Guangzhou (CAN), Shanghai (PVG), Shenzhen (SZX), Beijing (PEK)

Arrival Airports in USA:
LAX, JFK, ORD, ATL, DFW

Note: Air freight charges are based on chargeable weight, which is calculated by comparing actual vs. volumetric weight. Use a CBM calculator to estimate before booking.

Door-to-Door Shipping Service – Hassle-Free Solution

For many first-time importers or small business owners, door-to-door shipping is the simplest and most stress-free option. In this model, your freight forwarder handles:

• Pickup from factory or warehouse in China
• Export declaration
• Ocean freight or air freight
• Customs clearance in the USA
• Final delivery to your warehouse, store, or home

This option may include DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms, which means you don’t have to deal with customs yourself.

Benefits:

• Fixed, all-inclusive shipping costs
• No need to hire a separate customs broker
• Ideal for those unfamiliar with international shipping

Explore more shipping guides:

• How to Import and Ship Lawn Mowers from China
• How to Import and Ship Bicycles from China
• How to Import and Ship Packaging Machines from China
• How to Import and Ship Freezers from China
• How to Import and Ship Container Houses from China

Freight Costs: How Much Does It Cost to Ship Furniture from China to the USA

Understanding the shipping costs involved in furniture imports is essential for budgeting, pricing, and profit margin planning. The total cost to ship furniture from China to the USA depends on several factors, including:

• Shipping method (sea vs. air)
• Shipment size and weight (CBM, kg)
• Origin and destination country
• Port or airport handling fees
• Import duty, taxes, and additional fees

Below is a breakdown of average freight charges by shipping mode:

Sea Freight Furniture Shipping Costs (2025 Estimates)

FCL rates vary based on shipping line, container type, peak season, and fuel surcharges. LCL pricing may include origin consolidation and destination charges.

Air Freight Furniture Shipping Costs (Lightweight or Urgent)

Remember, air freight is calculated by chargeable weight = max(actual weight, volume weight), where:

Volumetric Weight (kg)=Length × Width × Height (cm)6000\text{Volumetric Weight (kg)} = \frac{\text{Length × Width × Height (cm)}}{6000}Volumetric Weight (kg)=6000Length × Width × Height (cm)​

Use our CBM calculator to estimate before booking.

Additional Costs to Consider

Aside from the main transport cost, be prepared for the following:

If you’re working with freight forwarders, they may offer bundled services that include many of these costs in a single quote—especially for door-to-door shipments.

Tips to Reduce Furniture Shipping Costs

• Consolidate shipments into FCL when possible
• Optimize packaging to reduce CBM
• Book in advance to avoid peak season surcharges
• Compare multiple freight forwarders for the best rates
• Confirm whether the quote is FOB, CIF, or DDP (Incoterms matter!)

Customs Duties and Taxes When Importing Furniture

Importing furniture from China into the United States involves not only shipping costs, but also various customs duties and taxes that are enforced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Understanding these charges ahead of time is crucial to avoid delays, penalties, or unexpected expenses.

Understanding Furniture Import Duties

Each piece of furniture is classified using an HS code (Harmonized System code), a global customs system used to determine tariffs, documentation requirements, and import restrictions. The applicable import duty rate is based on this classification.

Here are common HS codes for furniture and their respective duty rates:

Note: Some HS codes may be subject to additional Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports, typically ranging from 7.5% to 25%, depending on current trade policies.

Taxes and Additional Fees

In addition to basic customs duties, you may need to pay:

If you choose a DDP shipping option, your freight forwarder may include these in your all-inclusive quote, making the import process easier.

When Are Furniture Imports Duty-Free?

Some furniture shipments may qualify for zero tariff under these circumstances:

• Items valued under $800 (Section 321 de minimis rule, personal use only)
• Products made in tariff-exempt countries (not applicable to most Chinese manufacturers)
• Furniture for official government or diplomatic use (requires exemption documentation)

However, most furniture imports from China will be dutiable, so proper classification and declaration are key.

How to Pay Tariffs and Declare Correctly

• Provide the correct HS code and product description on your commercial invoice
• Declare the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)
• Pay duties and taxes via your customs broker through the ACE system
• Retain all entry records for future audits

Failing to comply may result in customs holds, penalties, or seizure of your imported goods.

Packaging and Labeling Requirements for Furniture Imports

Proper packaging and labeling play a critical role in ensuring that your furniture shipment from China arrives safely, complies with U.S. import regulations, and avoids unnecessary delays or damage during transit.

Failure to meet quality standards and documentation protocols can lead to goods being held at customs or damaged in transit.

Export Packaging Standards in China

Chinese manufacturers typically follow international packaging guidelines, but you should always confirm the details with your furniture supplier. Key considerations include:

• Material: Export-grade cartons, bubble wrap, foam, corner protectors, and shrink wrap for surface protection.
• Wood Crates or Pallets: If used, must comply with ISPM-15 (heat-treated or fumigated) and bear the IPPC stamp.
• Moisture Protection: Especially for wooden bedroom furniture and particle board items—use silica gel or waterproof wrap.
• KD Format (Knock Down): Flat-packed furniture reduces CBM, optimizing container space and lowering shipping costs.

For fragile pieces like glass tops or mirrors, additional cushioning and plywood enclosures may be required.

Proper Labeling for Customs and Warehouse Handling

Each package should include:

• Item name & SKU
• Country of origin (e.g., “Made in China”)
• Gross weight & net weight
• Dimensions (in cm or inches)
• Handling symbols (e.g., Fragile, Keep Dry, This Side Up)

Labeling must match your commercial invoice and packing list to avoid discrepancies during customs clearance.

Required Documentation for Packaging

These crucial documents must accompany the shipment and reflect accurate packaging info:

Each detailed description in your documents should correspond precisely to what is physically packed.

Labeling Compliance for U.S. Market

In addition to shipping labels, furniture destined for the U.S. must comply with market-specific labeling regulations, such as:

• Upholstery Tags – “Do not remove under penalty of law…” for mattresses and sofas
• Flammability Labels – Required under CPSC standards for certain materials
• Formaldehyde Emission Labels – For wood products under TSCA Title VI

Ensure your Chinese manufacturer is familiar with the quality standards and labeling protocols required by U.S. law. This will also make things easier for your freight forwarder and customs broker.

Working with a Freight Forwarder for Furniture Shipping

Navigating the complex world of furniture shipping from China to the USA can be overwhelming—especially for first-time importers. That’s why working with experienced freight forwarders is critical. A trusted forwarder acts as your logistics partner, helping you manage everything from pickup at the factory to customs clearance and final delivery.

What Does a Freight Forwarder Do?

A professional freight forwarder coordinates all the moving parts of international shipping, including:

• Factory pickup in China
• Booking shipping services (by sea freight or air freight)
• Export declaration and documentation
• Container consolidation (for LCL shipments)
• Customs entry filing and duty payment in the USA
• Arranging last-mile delivery to your warehouse or client

They work closely with customs brokers, trucking companies, warehouses, and ocean/air carriers to ensure smooth logistics and customs clearance.

Benefits of Using a Freight Forwarder for Furniture Imports

• Experience with bulky cargo like sofas, bed frames, dining sets
• Ability to recommend the most suitable shipping method
• Help with accurate HS code classification and documentation
• Consolidation services from multiple Chinese suppliers
• Support for DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and door-to-door shipping
• Real-time tracking and shipment status updates

Many freight forwarders have specialized experience in furniture imports, including repacking, inspecting, and even white-glove delivery in the USA.

How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder

When selecting a forwarder, look for:

Also consider working with a freight forwarder based in China, who can communicate directly with your furniture supplier, inspect the goods pre-shipment, and handle Chinese export procedures smoothly.

Tonlexing: Your Furniture Shipping Partner

At Tonlexing, we specialize in shipping furniture from China to the USA, offering full-service logistics including:

• Sea & air freight options (FCL/LCL)
• Door-to-door DDP shipping
• Customs brokerage and documentation
• Warehouse consolidation from multiple Chinese suppliers
• Dedicated account managers for full support

Whether you’re a U.S. retailer, e-commerce brand, or interior designer, we ensure your furniture arrives on time, within budget, and in perfect condition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Furniture

Even seasoned importers can run into trouble when handling a furniture shipment from China to the USA. From documentation issues to poor packaging, small mistakes can lead to costly delays, customs rejections, or damaged goods.

Here are the most frequent mistakes—and how to avoid them:

Inaccurate HS Code Classification

Choosing the wrong HS code can cause overpayment of duties or, worse, customs holds and reclassification penalties. Each type of furniture—wooden, metal, upholstered—has a specific classification. If you’re unsure, consult your freight forwarder or customs broker before declaring.

Underestimating CBM and Shipping Costs

Furniture is often large and awkwardly shaped, so it quickly adds up in volume (CBM). Many importers calculate based on weight alone, ignoring volumetric cost formulas.

Poor Packaging and Inadequate Protection

Fragile or high-end pieces (especially with glass tops or wood veneer) require robust, moisture-resistant packaging. Some suppliers try to cut costs with low-quality cartons, increasing risk during ocean freight transit.

Missing or Inconsistent Documentation

If your packing list, commercial invoice, and shipment labels don’t match, U.S. customs clearance will be delayed. Missing key details like country of origin, quantity, or material can trigger inspection or rejection.

Not Vetting the Supplier

Many issues stem from working with unverified or inexperienced Chinese furniture manufacturers. This includes delayed lead times, non-compliant materials, or low-quality builds.

Choosing the Wrong Freight Method

Shipping a few pallets via FCL instead of LCL (or vice versa) can inflate costs unnecessarily. Similarly, choosing air freight for heavy goods can blow your budget.

Ignoring U.S. Import Regulations

Failing to comply with import regulations—such as CPSC flammability rules or EPA formaldehyde limits—can result in your shipment being denied entry.

Case Study: How We Helped a US Furniture Store Import 3×40HQ from Foshan

At Tonlexing, we specialize in helping clients simplify complex international logistics. Here’s a real example of how we supported a U.S.-based furniture store in importing three full containers of furniture from Foshan, China—one of the largest furniture manufacturing hubs in the world.

Client Profile

• Business Type: Mid-sized furniture retail chain in Texas
• Product Category: Living room and bedroom furniture (wood + upholstered)
• Volume: 3×40HQ containers (FCL – Full Container Load)
• Route: Foshan → Yantian Port → Houston Port
• Shipping Method: Ocean freight with door-to-door DDP service
• Timeline: 28 days from warehouse pickup to final delivery

Step-by-Step Shipping Process

Supplier Coordination in Foshan

We coordinated with 4 different furniture suppliers to consolidate goods into our warehouse in Foshan. Each supplier provided packing lists and commercial invoices in advance.

Pre-Shipment Inspection & Documentation

Before loading, our team:

• Verified carton markings
• Checked product quality and quantities
• Collected export-ready documents: Packing list, Commercial invoice, Fumigation certificate

Container Loading & Ocean Freight

• Loaded three 40HQ containers with optimized CBM planning
• Used corner protectors and desiccants to protect wooden furniture
• Shipped via COSCO line from Yantian to Houston

U.S. Customs Clearance

• HS Codes correctly declared (9403.50, 9401.61)
• Customs broker handled clearance through ACE
• Paid applicable import duties and MPF

Final Delivery to Texas

• Arranged inland trucking from Houston Port to Dallas warehouse
• No damage or delays—delivered within 4 days of port arrival

Key Benefits for the Client

Cost Efficiency
Consolidating in Foshan + FCL shipment saved over $1,200 compared to separate LCL shipments.

Compliance and Accuracy
No customs issues due to complete documentation and correct HS code classification.

Time-Saving
With door-to-door service, the client didn’t need to manage customs or inland logistics.

Peace of Mind
We provided real-time updates, photos of container loading, and 24/7 customer support.

“Thanks to Tonlexing, we had zero issues with this complex shipment. The goods arrived on time, fully compliant, and ready for retail. We’ll continue to source from China with their help.”
— Operations Manager, U.S. Furniture Store

FAQs: Shipping Furniture from China to USA

How long does it take to ship furniture from China to the USA?

The transit time depends on your chosen shipping method:

• Sea freight (FCL): 20–35 days depending on the route
• Sea freight (LCL): 30–40 days (longer due to consolidation)
• Air freight: 3–7 days for lightweight or urgent shipments
• Door-to-door DDP service: 30–40 days total, including clearance

What is the cheapest way to ship furniture from China?

Using FCL ocean freight is usually the most cost-effective for bulk furniture imports. If you’re shipping less than 15 CBM, LCL is a good alternative. Avoid air freight unless speed is essential and volume is low.

Do I need a license to import furniture into the U.S.?

Generally, no import license is required for furniture from China. However, your furniture must comply with U.S. import regulations, including EPA (formaldehyde) and CPSC (flammability) standards. You also need a U.S. customs broker or a freight forwarder who can file entries on your behalf.

What are the import duties on furniture?

Duties vary based on material and HS code:

• Wooden furniture: 0%–1%
• Upholstered furniture: up to 5%
• Plastic or metal furniture: up to 5%
• Some items may be subject to Section 301 tariffs (7.5%–25%) on top of base duty

Can I buy from multiple Chinese suppliers and ship together?

Yes. You can consolidate furniture from several Chinese suppliers into one shipment. Your freight forwarder can help collect from each factory, re-pack, and load into a single full container load or LCL shipment.

What documents are needed for customs clearance?

Essential paperwork includes:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
• HS Code & product description
• Certificate of Origin (sometimes requested)
• Fumigation Certificate (for wood packaging)

Your freight forwarder or customs broker can assist in reviewing these documents.

Is air freight a good option for furniture?

Not usually. Air freight is expensive and best suited for:

• Sample shipments
• Lightweight chairs or accessories
• Urgent orders for events or showrooms

For larger shipments, ocean freight is more economical—even when factoring in longer transit time.

Why is China so dominant in the furniture industry?

China’s furniture industry benefits from:

• Massive manufacturing hubs (Foshan, Dongguan, Ningbo)
• Affordable labor and raw materials
• Diverse furniture styles and product range
• Export-ready factories with global certifications

That’s why thousands of U.S. retailers, wholesalers, and designers source their furniture from China every year.