Navigating Shipping Costs from China to US: Your Ultimate Guide
Shipping from China to the US can be costly and complicated. A clear understanding of costs helps businesses make better logistics decisions and deliver goods on time. Whether you manage freight for eCommerce, manufacturing, or wholesale distribution, this guide explains the main shipping options, pricing, and transit times.
Shipping Cost from China to the US
Shipping costs depend on the transport mode, cargo size, weight, and pickup and delivery locations. Rates also change based on fuel prices, demand, and seasonal surcharges. Here’s a quick look at typical costs:
Average Shipping Costs from China to the USA in 2025
| Shipping Method | Estimated Cost | Best For | Transit Time |
| Air Freight | $3 – $7 per kg | Time-sensitive shipments | 5–10 days |
| Express Shipping | $6 – $12 per kg | Small parcels | 3–7 days |
| LCL Ocean Freight | $150 – $250 per CBM | Smaller commercial cargo | 25–40 days |
| FCL Ocean Freight | $2,500 – $6,000 per container | Large-volume shipments | 20–35 days |
Costs are typically lowest during off-peak seasons and highest before Chinese New Year and the US holiday season.
Main Shipping Methods from China to the US
Businesses generally choose one of three methods based on urgency and shipment size: Ocean Freight (FCL/LCL), Air Freight, or Express Shipping.
Ocean Freight from China to the US
Sea freight is the most economical method for large and non-urgent shipments. It supports high cargo volumes at a low cost per unit.
There are two common container options:
Full Container Load (FCL)
FCL is best when cargo fills most of a container, offering exclusive use and more control over handling.
FCL Pricing China to USA
| Container Type | Estimated Cost | Example Route | Transit Time |
| 20 ft Container | $2,500 – $4,500 | Shanghai → Los Angeles | 15–25 days |
| 40 ft Container | $3,500 – $6,000 | Shenzhen → New York | 30–35 days |
Pros:
- Cost-efficient for large volumes
- Faster than LCL due to no consolidation
- Less risk of damage or delays
If your shipment is 15–18 CBM or more, FCL is usually cheaper than LCL.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
LCL is ideal for smaller cargo that doesn’t fill an entire container.
LCL Pricing China to USA
| Pricing Unit | Estimated Cost | Best Volume | Transit Time |
| Per CBM | $150 – $250 | 2–15 CBM | 25–40 days |
Pros:
- You only pay for the space you use
- Good for low-volume or test shipments
LCL requires consolidation and deconsolidation, adding extra days.
Popular Sea Freight Routes
| Route | Why It’s Popular | Time Estimate |
| Shanghai → Los Angeles | High volume = competitive cost | 15–20 days |
| Shenzhen → Long Beach | Fastest Trans-Pacific route | 14–18 days |
| Ningbo → New York | Strong East Coast distribution | 30–35 days |
Port selection impacts pricing and delivery speed.
Air Freight from China to the US
Air freight offers predictable and fast delivery. It’s great for high-value and urgent cargo.
Air Freight Costs China to USA
| Type | Estimated Cost | Transit Time | Best For |
| Standard Air Freight | $3 – $7 per kg | 5–10 days | Electronics, fashion, replenishments |
| Express Air (Courier) | $6 – $12 per kg | 3–7 days | Small and urgent loads |
Chargeable weight may apply if shipment is bulky but lightweight.
Chargeable Weight Formula:
(Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 6000
Major Air Cargo Routes
| Origin | Destination | Common Use Case |
| Shanghai (PVG) | Los Angeles/Chicago | Consumer electronics |
| Shenzhen (SZX) | San Francisco/Dallas | eCommerce deliveries |
| Guangzhou (CAN) | New York | Retail goods |
Choose air freight when delivery timing impacts revenue.
Express Shipping from China to the USA
Express shipping offers door-to-door transportation and simplified customs handling. It works well for smaller parcels up to 150 kg.
Express Pricing Overview
| Shipment Weight | Estimated Cost | Transit Time |
| 1–99 kg | $6 – $12 per kg | 3–7 days |
| 100–150 kg | $5 – $10 per kg | 4–10 days |
Best option for samples, urgent parts, and small inventory moves.
Major providers include DHL, UPS, FedEx, and SF Express.
Shipping Transit Times from China to the USA
Timelines vary by route, season, and customs clearance, but these averages help with planning:
Transit Times by Mode
| Mode | Transit Time | Best For |
| Express | 3–7 days | Small parcels |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | High-value shipments |
| Ocean FCL | 20–35 days | Large volumes |
| Ocean LCL | 25–40 days | Medium shipments |
East vs West Coast Transit Time
| Destination | Typical Route | Transit Time |
| West Coast (LA/Long Beach) | South China → California | 15–25 days |
| East Coast (NY/Savannah) | Via Panama Canal | 30–35 days |
Peak seasons may add delays.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
Use this quick reference to pick the most suitable option:
| Shipment Type | Recommended Method |
| Small + urgent | Express |
| Medium + time-sensitive | Air freight |
| Large + cost-focused | Ocean freight |
| Trial shipments | LCL |
| Regular large loads | FCL |
Think in terms of speed vs. cost vs. volume.
Final Word
Shipping from China to the US doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding freight costs, transit times, and shipment options, businesses can plan better and improve cost efficiency. Choosing the right shipping method at the right time ensures your supply chain stays predictable and competitive.
FAQs
How Long Does Sea Freight Take from China to the US?
Sea freight transit times vary based on the specific ports and shipping routes used. On average, it can take between 20 to 35 days for a container to reach the US from China. This depends on whether you are shipping to the West Coast (faster) or the East Coast (longer). Shipping to ports like Los Angeles typically takes around 15 to 25 days, while ports on the East Coast, like New York or Savannah, might take 30 to 35 days. Delays due to port congestion, customs procedures, or weather conditions can extend these times.
What are the Best Sea Freight Companies in China?
Some of the most reliable and well-established freight companies for shipping from China to the US include:
- Maersk Line: Known for its global network and extensive service offerings.
- CMA CGM: Offers a range of solutions, including direct and feeder services.
- COSCO: One of the largest shipping companies in China, renowned for its competitive pricing and reliable services. Other notable players include Hapag-Lloyd and Evergreen. These companies offer both FCL and LCL services and have a track record for reliability and efficiency.
How to Ship from China to the US?
Shipping from China to the US requires a few critical steps:
- Choose the right shipping method (Air Freight, Ocean Freight, LCL, FCL).
- Work with a reputable freight forwarder who will help you navigate customs regulations and documentation.
- Ensure all documentation is in order, including the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List.
- If shipping by ocean, consider your port options; West Coast ports are typically faster, but East Coast ports can be more cost-effective depending on your location.
- Once your cargo arrives, your freight forwarder will help with customs clearance before it reaches its final destination.
For more specific and up-to-date shipping rates, it’s advisable to contact freight forwarders or use tools such as GoComet’s Freight Calculator to get precise quotes.
