China to USA Shipping: Sea Freight, Air Freight & Costs

China-USA Trade Lane Overview

China-USA is the world's most valuable trade lane by container volume. Major US import gateways are Los Angeles/Long Beach (LALB), New York/New Jersey, Seattle/Tacoma, and Savannah. Transit times and rates vary significantly by destination port.

Sea Freight: Costs and Transit Times

China West Coast ports (Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou) to Los Angeles/Long Beach: 14–18 days transit. To East Coast (New York, Savannah) via Panama Canal: 25–32 days.

Current rate ranges (fluctuate significantly): 20ft to West Coast $1,500–$4,000 | 40ft to West Coast $2,500–$6,500 | 20ft to East Coast $2,000–$5,000 | 40ft to East Coast $3,500–$8,000. LCL from China to USA: $30–$80/cbm.

Section 301 Tariffs

The most critical factor for China-USA importers: Section 301 tariffs imposed on Chinese goods. These are in addition to standard US import duties (MFN rates) and range from 7.5% to 25% on most categories, with some goods (electric vehicles, solar, semiconductors) now subject to even higher rates.

Check your HS codes against the USTR Section 301 exclusion list — some products have been granted exclusions. Use the official USTR or CBP tools to confirm your tariff liability before pricing your product.

US Customs Requirements (CBP)

Importer of Record (IOR): A US-registered entity or individual must be the importer of record. Foreign companies cannot import directly without a US IOR or using a third-party IOR service.

ISF (Importer Security Filing) "10+2": Must be filed 24 hours before vessel departure from China. Your forwarder handles this but needs your data. Late ISF filing triggers a $5,000 penalty.

FDA Prior Notice: For food, supplements, and medical devices entering the US, FDA Prior Notice is required before arrival.

CPSC compliance: Consumer products must meet US safety standards. Some products require testing and certification.

FCC certification: Electronics and wireless devices need FCC compliance documentation.

Air Freight to USA

China to USA main airports: LAX, JFK, ORD, ATL. Transit time: 5–10 days. Rates: $4–$12/kg. De minimis threshold ($800 per shipment) means low-value air shipments under $800 enter duty-free — critical for e-commerce.

Tips for China-USA Importers

• File ISF early — any delay is expensive
• Verify HS codes and Section 301 tariff liability before purchasing
• Book containers 4–6 weeks ahead during peak season (August–October)
• Consider East Coast routing to avoid West Coast port congestion
• Use a licensed US customs broker — CBP audits are common

Frequently Asked Questions