Door-to-door Shipping from China to the USA: Sea & Air Freight

One-stop door to door shipping from China to the US by sea and air In the arena of global commerce, the robust trade and economic cooperation between China and the United States stand as a testament to a mutually beneficial relationship. As the world's top two largest economies, this partnership fosters growth and prosperity for companies and individuals in both nations. It's decidedly not a zero-sum game, but a win-win scenario. Regardless of ongoing trade discussions, the facts remain clear: China is a significant goods export market for the United States, ranking third after Canada and Mexico. Moreover, when it comes to imports, China is the USA's largest trading partner.

As a premier freight forwarder specializing in shipping from China to the USA, UCS presents this essential guide. Our aim is to address all your inquiries regarding shipping from China to the USA. We'll delve into shipping methods, transit times, costs, and provide insights on selecting the optimal approach for your cargo. Furthermore, we'll outline what you can expect from a reputable China freight forwarder when managing your China-USA shipment.

For China-USA shipments, two primary shipping methods are available: sea freight and air freight.

Sea Freight from China to the USA: The Cornerstone of Global Logistics

Sea freight reigns as the most favored method for shipping from China to the United States. Annually, approximately 90% of global shipments are facilitated via sea freight. This underscores its critical role in international logistics and global transport.
Shipping via container ships or bulk cargo vessels from China to the USA typically takes around one month for arrival. Opt for sea freight if your cargo is not time-sensitive.
Budget constraints in your supply chain? Shipping by sea is the most cost-effective solution, a primary reason for its widespread adoption by exporters and importers globally.
For exceptionally large or heavy cargo originating from China, sea shipping emerges as the most practical choice. Air shipping may be unfeasible or prohibitively expensive for oversized shipments.
UCS Logistics offers diverse sea freight options:

FCL (Full Container Load): For clients with sufficient cargo to fill an entire container, FCL shipping provides exclusive use of a container for your goods from China to the USA. We commonly offer FCL services to The USA utilizing 20ft containers and 40ft containers (including 20GP, 40GP, and 40HQ types). FCL container shipping is generally the most cost-efficient option for larger shipments.
LCL (Less than Container Load): If your cargo volume is less than a full container, our LCL shipping service from China to The USA is readily available. LCL allows you to share container space with other clients shipping cargo to the same destination, at the same time. While LCL offers flexibility for smaller businesses, it's important to note that due to the additional processes involved (consolidation, deconsolidation, warehousing, and documentation), the per-unit cost is typically higher than FCL, and transit times are slightly longer. LCL shipping is an excellent starting point for small to medium-sized enterprises.

Beyond standard FCL and LCL services, UCS excels in large & heavy cargo shipping from China. We provide specialized sea freight solutions from China to The USA to accommodate diverse cargo needs:

Flat Rack and Open Top Containers: Ideal for OOG (out-of-gauge) cargo, as well as oversized and heavy cargo shipping, these specialized containers offer flexibility for non-standard dimensions.
Reefer Containers: Temperature-controlled reefer containers are essential for shipping temperature-sensitive products, ensuring the integrity of your goods throughout the journey.
Breakbulk Shipping: For large and bulky shipments that do not fit into containers, breakbulk shipping provides a solution for transporting goods as individual pieces.
RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off): RO-RO shipping is designed for vehicles and wheeled cargo, allowing them to be easily rolled on and off the vessel, streamlining the transport process.

Our extensive sea freight forwarding network from China to the USA encompasses all major Chinese ports, including Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Qingdao, Tianjin, and Dalian, reaching all US ports and inland intermodal terminals. No matter your origin or destination, UCS Logistics ensures a hassle-free door-to-door shipping service from China to the USA.
Are you looking to ship containers or explore other sea shipments from China to the USA? UCS Logistics provides a comprehensive, one-stop sea freight shipping solution. Contact us today and GET A SEA SHIPPING COST estimate for your shipments from China to the USA.

Main Ports of the United States: Gateways for Sea Freight

Below is an introduction to key US seaports, vital for shipping from China to the USA.

Los Angeles: The largest port in the USA and a primary US gateway. It boasts the highest freight traffic and trade value among all US ports, with a container throughput of 8.63 million TEU in 2023. Notably, 20% of all cargo entering the United States passes through the Port of Los Angeles, solidifying its position in China-USA logistics.
Long Beach: Los Angeles' twin port and the second-largest in the US. In 2023, Long Beach achieved a record throughput of 8.07 million TEU. Together with Los Angeles, it handles 40% of the nation's containerized shipments, making this area a crucial hub for shipments from China.
Seattle: The busiest container port in the US Pacific Northwest. Seattle serves as a convenient port catering to businesses in the Northwest, facilitating efficient cargo transport.
Tacoma: In partnership with Seattle, Tacoma forms the NWSA (Northwest Seaport Alliance). Together, they constitute the 4th largest container gateway in the USA, a significant point for shipping across the Pacific.
Oakland: Located on San Francisco Bay, the Port of Oakland is a major container port on the West Coast. It plays a key role in handling cargo for Northern California and beyond, contributing to the robust freight forwarding network.
New York & New Jersey: The Port of New York & New Jersey stands as the largest and busiest port on the East Coast, ranking 3rd in the US overall. It acts as the gateway to North America's most concentrated consumer markets, a critical entry point for shipments from China. Port of New York and New Jersey Container Throughput in 2023: 7.76 million TEUs
Savannah: Ascending to the 3rd Busiest Port in the USA: The Port of Savannah has experienced phenomenal growth, now ranking as the 3rd busiest seaport in the United States (as of 2023), up from 4th in 2021. This dynamic port is home to the largest single-terminal container facility in North America, offering unparalleled efficiency. Savannah's strategic advantage is further enhanced by its exceptional railway connectivity, providing seamless access to major population centers such as Atlanta, Birmingham, Charlotte, Memphis, and Orlando. This robust intermodal infrastructure makes Savannah a vital gateway for cargo destined for the southeastern United States and beyond, playing an increasingly critical role in China-USA logistics and supply chains.
Charleston: The Port of Charleston is now ranked as the 7th largest US port for container throughput (2023), rising from 8th in recent years. A premier maritime hub with six terminals, Charleston is known for efficient cargo handling, including significant China-USA trade. Its modern facilities ensure high capacity and fast turnaround, making it a vital gateway for shipping to the southeastern US.
Miami: World-renowned as the "Cruise Capital of the World," the Port of Miami is also a significant cargo port in southeastern US. It boasts the deepest shipping channel among southeastern ports and is uniquely equipped to handle neo-Panamax vessels.
Wilmington: The Port of Wilmington, Delaware, is a niche port specializing in perishable cargo, particularly fruit and produce. Its strategic location serves major East Coast markets.
Houston: A Major Gulf Coast Port, Now Ranked 7th Nationally: Located on the Gulf Coast, the Port of Houston remains a vital port serving the vast Houston metropolitan area and the state of Texas. While now ranked as the 7th largest port in the US for container throughput (based on 2023 rankings), it is still a powerhouse on the Gulf Coast and a crucial gateway for shipping to the southern United States. Port Houston handles substantial volumes, playing a key role in China-USA cargo flows and serving as a critical link for trade in the region.
Norfolk: The Port of Norfolk is known for its deep-water harbors and efficient operations. It's a major East Coast port capable of handling large volumes of cargo and serving inland markets via intermodal connections.
Tampa: The Port Tampa Bay is Florida's largest port and a diverse cargo hub. It handles containers, bulk, and breakbulk cargo, serving Central Florida and beyond.
Jacksonville: Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) in Florida is a major vehicle handling port and also manages container and bulk cargo. Its location in Northeast Florida provides access to the Southeast US market.
Baltimore: The Port of Baltimore is strategically located in the Mid-Atlantic region. It’s known for its roll-on/roll-off cargo facilities and handles a diverse range of shipments, serving the US Northeast and Midwest.
Philadelphia: The Port of Philadelphia handles a variety of cargo types, including containers, breakbulk, and specialized cargo like perishable goods and project cargo. It serves the Philadelphia metropolitan area and surrounding regions.
Boston: The Port of Boston, while smaller than some major hubs, plays an important role in serving New England. It handles containers and bulk cargo and is focused on regional logistics.
Mobile: The Port of Mobile in Alabama is a growing port on the Gulf Coast. It handles containers, bulk, and breakbulk cargo and is expanding its infrastructure to accommodate increased shipping volumes.
New Orleans: The Port of New Orleans is a major port on the Mississippi River, critical for bulk cargo and container shipping. It serves as a vital link for agricultural exports and imports, connecting to the US heartland via inland waterways.

UCS Logistics offers comprehensive sea freight services covering all US seaports. We extend our reach inland through intermodal transport. Regardless of your destination, we provide seamless, one-stop door to door shipping from China to the USA, ensuring timely and secure cargo delivery.

US Intermodal Terminals: Extending Reach Inland

Beyond seaports, US intermodal terminals are critical for inland logistics, facilitating the efficient movement of cargo across the country. Here are key intermodal terminals: Shipping containers from China to Atlanta

Shipping containers from China to Atlanta

Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia, boasts a major intermodal hub due to its central location in the Southeast. Terminals here connect rail and truck transport, distributing cargo throughout the region and beyond, vital for China-USA logistics distribution.
Chicago: Chicago, Illinois, is a central intermodal gateway in the US Midwest. Its terminals are among the busiest in the world, handling massive volumes of containers transferred between rail, road, and air, crucial for national cargo transport.
Columbus: Columbus, Ohio, serves as a significant intermodal point in the Ohio Valley. Terminals here facilitate the efficient transfer of goods between rail and truck, supporting regional and national distribution networks.
Cleveland: Cleveland, Ohio, is an important intermodal center in Northeast Ohio. Its terminals handle cargo moving between rail and truck, serving regional manufacturing and distribution needs, and connecting to major ports.
Cincinnati: Cincinnati, Ohio, is strategically located on the Ohio River and serves as a key intermodal hub. Terminals here facilitate the transfer of goods between river barges, rail, and truck, vital for Midwest cargo movement.
Charlotte: Charlotte, North Carolina, is a major intermodal center in the Carolinas. Terminals support the region's growing economy by efficiently transferring cargo between rail and truck, connecting to ports like Charleston and Savannah.
Dallas: Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, is a critical intermodal hub in the Southwest. Terminals here handle vast quantities of cargo moving by rail and truck, serving Texas and surrounding states, essential for China-USA freight forwarding.
Denver: Denver, Colorado, serves as a major intermodal point in the Mountain West. Terminals here facilitate cargo transfer between rail and truck, connecting western markets and supporting resource industries.
Detroit: Detroit, Michigan, is a key intermodal hub in the automotive and manufacturing heartland. Terminals efficiently transfer cargo between rail and truck, supporting the auto industry and regional commerce.
Santa Teresa: Santa Teresa, New Mexico, is a growing intermodal port of entry on the US-Mexico border. It handles increasing volumes of cargo moving between the US and Mexico by rail and truck, representing a strategic location for North American logistics.
Indianapolis: Indianapolis, Indiana, is a significant intermodal hub in the Midwest, known as a major distribution center. Terminals here efficiently handle cargo transfer between rail and truck, serving nationwide distribution networks.
Kansas City: Kansas City, Missouri, is a major rail hub and intermodal center in the central US. Its terminals handle substantial volumes of cargo, acting as a crucial link in the national rail network, especially for agricultural and industrial goods.
Louisville: Louisville, Kentucky, is an emerging intermodal hub, boosted by its strategic location and the UPS Worldport air hub. Terminals here are expanding to handle growing cargo volumes transferred between air, rail, and truck.
Memphis: Memphis, Tennessee, is a crucial intermodal and logistics hub, home to the FedEx World Hub. Terminals efficiently manage massive cargo flows transferred between air, rail, and truck, integral to national and global supply chains.
Minneapolis: Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, is a major intermodal center in the Upper Midwest. Terminals handle cargo moving between rail and truck, serving the region's economy and connecting to Canadian and US markets.
Nashville: Nashville, Tennessee, is a growing intermodal hub in the Southeast. Terminals here are expanding to accommodate increased cargo volumes transferred between rail and truck, supporting the region's economic growth.
Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serves as an intermodal center in the Mid-Atlantic region. Terminals facilitate cargo transfer between rail, truck, and river barges, supporting regional industries and connecting to major East Coast ports.
San Antonio: San Antonio, Texas, is a significant intermodal point in South Texas. Terminals handle cargo moving between rail and truck, serving regional distribution and trade with Mexico.
St. Louis: St. Louis, Missouri, is a historically important transportation hub on the Mississippi River. Its intermodal terminals manage cargo transferred between river barges, rail, and truck, vital for Midwest logistics and commodity flows.

Air Freight from China to the USA: Speed and Security for Time-Sensitive Cargo

If your budget for shipping from China to the USA is more flexible and your supply chain demands rapid delivery, air freight becomes the optimal choice. While more expensive than sea freight, air freight is the fastest shipping method. Typically, air shipping from China to the USA takes 3-7 days, contingent on the specific service and route chosen.
Air freight is typically employed for time-critical shipments, such as medical supplies, urgent orders with tight deadlines, or perishable goods. Often, cargo destined for air shipment from China comprises high-value products where importers prioritize speed over the month-long transit of sea freight.
Beyond speed, air freight offers enhanced security. The shorter transit times reduce the risk of damage or loss, accelerate cash flow, and boost turnover.
In summary, air freight is a rapid and secure method for shipping cargo from China to the US. It's ideally suited when delivery within approximately 10 days is crucial and you have allocated budget for faster transport.
Contact UCS for your next China-USA air shipment.
Get an air shipping quote from us.

Main Airports in the US: Air Cargo Hubs

Here are some of the primary airports in the US, crucial for air cargo from China: Shipping from China to Los Angeles LAX airport by air

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): The 5th busiest airport globally in 2021 and a prime destination for air cargo from China destined for the western United States. China is the largest source of imports via LAX. Direct passenger and cargo flights are readily available between China and Los Angeles, facilitating swift shipments.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): The busiest airport in the world for overall passenger traffic in 2023. It has consistently held this top spot for many years. remains a major air cargo hub and a critical distribution point for the Southeast and beyond. While its cargo ranking might fluctuate slightly year to year within the US, its overall cargo volume is enormous, making it a hugely important airport for air freight.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): DFW is intensely focused on air cargo. Cargo volume at Dallas Fort Worth reached a record 1 million tons in April 2022, demonstrating its growing importance in freight forwarding. In 2023, DFW was ranked around 3rd busiest airport in the world for overall passenger traffic.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Chicago: Consistently ranked among the top 3 airports for cargo in the USA. An impressive 25% of total air cargo arriving at ORD originates from China. ORD handled over 2 million tons of cargo in 2021, signifying its massive capacity for China-USA air freight.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York: While previously 6th busiest in the US, it's now often ranked around 9th or 10th busiest in the US for overall passenger traffic. JFK remains a world-leading international air cargo center. Despite passenger ranking shifts, JFK's importance as a cargo gateway, especially for international freight and trade with Europe and Asia (including China), remains very strong. Direct passenger and cargo flights between China and New York are still prevalent.
Miami International Airport (MIA): Also known as MIA, Miami International Airport handles over 2 million tons of cargo annually and remains a significant cargo gateway for Latin America and the southern US, with strong connections to those regions. The point about no direct flights from Chinese airports at the time of the original writing may still be true or require verification for the very latest schedules, but transshipment routes via MIA for China cargo to Latin America/Southern US remain relevant.

How Long Does it Take to Ship from China to the US?

Generally, shipping time from China to the United States varies widely, 12-50 days by sea and 3-7 days by air. This timeframe is influenced by factors including shipping method, supplier and delivery addresses, service and route, weather conditions, and port congestion.

China-USA Sea Freight Transit Time:

Shipping by sea from China to the US West Coast, such as Los Angeles, takes a minimum of 12 days. To reach the East Coast via the Panama Canal, shipping time can extend to 30-50 days.
The table below provides estimated sea container shipping transit times from major China ports to key US ports (Los Angeles, New York, Savannah, and Charleston):

POL (Port of Loading)	POD (Port of Discharge)	Transit Time
Shanghai	Los Angeles	14 days
Shanghai	New York	30 days
Shanghai	Savannah	32 days
Shanghai	Charleston	32 days
Shenzhen	Los Angeles	14 days
Shenzhen	New York	30 days
Shenzhen	Savannah	34 days
Shenzhen	Charleston	37 days
Qingdao	Los Angeles	17 days
Qingdao	New York	35 days
Qingdao	Savannah	37 days
Qingdao	Charleston	34 days

FYI: Shanghai in East China, Shenzhen South China, and Qingdao North China

Data from these three ports provides a representative overview of sea shipping times from China to the USA. Remember, port-to-port transit time is affected by the specific origin and destination ports, service route, sailing schedule, and carrier selection. The transit times shown are for full container load shipping, port to port, not door to door. For LCL shipping time estimates, add approximately 7-10 days.

For sea freight shipping to US East Coast ports, the all-water route via the Panama Canal takes over a month. For time-sensitive shipments to the East Coast, consider MLB (mini land bridge) freight solutions, which combine sea and railway transport via the West Coast, potentially saving 10-15 days compared to the all-water route.

China-USA Air Shipping Transit Time:

Air shipping from China to the US typically ranges from 1 to 7 days, depending on departure and destination airports and the chosen service route.
Generally, air cargo from Chinese airports can reach most US airports within 5-7 days. More remote destinations may take longer. However, with direct passenger and cargo flights operating between several Chinese airports and major US hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), and Chicago (ORD), air cargo shipping between China and the United States can be expedited to as little as 1 day. With advance planning and a skilled China freight forwarder, door-to-door air freight delivery can even be accomplished in as little as 2 days, significantly faster than standard courier services like DHL and UPS.
Get a shipping solution and quote for your time-sensitive shipment from China to the US.

Landed Cost of Imports from China to the US: Understanding the Final Price

Beyond just the shipping cost from China to the US, importers are primarily concerned with the final per-unit cost, encompassing all expenses, to accurately determine resale pricing or project contract values. This "landed cost" is the total expense.

What is Landed Cost?

Landed cost is the complete cost of a product, including the original product price, all associated shipping and logistics expenses to deliver the goods to their final destination, plus insurance and import duties paid.
The simplified formula is: Product Cost + Shipping Cost + Insurance + Import Duty.

Understanding the Shipping Cost from China to the USA

Historically, shipping a 40ft container from China to US ports costs between $1500-5000, with peak rates exceeding 10K. Freight rates are dynamic, providing a generic cost estimate for shipping from China to the US is challenging. Additionally, global events and geopolitical tensions, for example, the Red Sea crisis can also trigger supply chain disruptions, leading to increased rates and fluctuations. Similar volatility has impacted air freight markets as well.
Understanding shipping costs is crucial for importers and exporters. Shipping expenses are a significant component of the final landed cost of imported goods. Some elements influencing shipping costs:

Shipment Specifics: Each shipment has unique requirements and client needs.
Market Fluctuations: Sea and air freight rates are dynamic, influenced by seasonal demands, carrier strategies, and market supply and demand. Prices can change rapidly.
Timing Requirements: Faster delivery typically equates to higher shipping costs.

While historical shipping costs have undergone substantial changes, especially in recent times, UCS Logistics offers transparent and current cost information. For a precise and up-to-date freight quote tailored to your China-USA shipping needs, contact UCS Logistics today.

Here’s an example of cost structure of shipping a 40ft container from China to the US (for illustration purpose only)
You may also want to understand how to calculate import duty on Chinese goods entering the USA.

Best Way to Ship from China to the USA: Tailoring Solutions to Your Needs

There's no single "best way" to ship from China to the USA. The optimal method depends on various factors and the rapidly evolving shipping market. The most effective approach involves consulting an experienced freight forwarder for their expertise and tailored advice. We consider the following factors to determine the best shipping strategy:

Type and Value of Goods: Airlines may restrict certain commodities (batteries, magnets, flammables, liquids, powders, etc.). Conversely, for high-value equipment, clients often prefer air shipping.
Delivery Timeframe: Generally, faster delivery equates to higher costs. Both air freight and sea freight offer varied service speeds at differing rates.
Cargo Load (Size, Weight, Quantity):
- For smaller shipments (e.g., 2 CBM, 500KG), LCL is often recommended.
- For larger volumes (e.g., 65 CBM), a 40ft container is more suitable.
- For heavy loads, a 20ft container may be preferable to a 40ft container.
Supplier and Delivery Addresses (Origin/Destination Ports/Airports): Door-to-door service is frequently preferred by US importers. Providing supplier and delivery addresses enables us to optimize departure and destination ports/airports for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Goods Ready Time: Freight rates fluctuate; knowing your goods ready time is essential for timely vessel and flight bookings, securing optimal schedules and space availability.

Regardless of your shipment specifics or preferred method, partnering with a reliable, experienced freight forwarder is the best way to manage your China-USA shipments.

China-USA Freight Forwarder: Your Logistics Partner

Shipping from China to the USA can be complex and demanding. Engaging a freight forwarder simplifies and accelerates your shipments from China.
A freight forwarder is a specialist company managing all shipping logistics on behalf of clients. They possess expertise in international logistics, prepare required documentation, and leverage shipping networks to execute shipments efficiently.
Moreover, China-USA door-to-door shipping solutions are facilitated by freight forwarding services. Freight forwarders extend the shipping process beyond ports and airports to deliver goods directly to your specified address.

Door to Door Shipping from China to the USA: Simplified Logistics

UCS Logistics delivers straightforward, one-stop door to door shipping solutions from China to the USA. We cater to all shipment types, shipping preferences, and importer categories – companies, individuals, commercial addresses, private residences, or FBA warehouses.
Our dedicated professional team manages every logistics aspect from origin to destination: documentation, supervision, consolidation, loading, unloading, customs brokerage, and final delivery. We streamline each step, keeping you informed and ensuring a hassle-free, efficient door-to-door cargo shipping experience from China to the US, tailored to your individual needs and budget.

For further insights into shipping to the United States, explore our comprehensive guide: “all you need to know about shipping to the United States from China" covering topics such as customs bonds, ISF, AMS, and POA, etc.

How to Ship from China to the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Contact a Freight Forwarder: A China-based freight forwarder is generally preferred due to their origin expertise. While US-based forwarders exist, they often rely on Chinese agents. Origin complexities are typically greater than destination complexities in international cargo shipping. (Learn more: "Why you should work with a local China freight forwarder")
Step 2: Provide Shipment Details & Obtain a Shipping Solution and Quote
Step 3: Connect Freight Forwarder with Supplier: Let your freight forwarder manage coordination.
Step 4: Secure Cargo Insurance (Optional but Recommended)
Step 5: Arrange Customs Clearance

Alternatively, simplify the process by selecting a freight forwarder offering one-stop door to door shipping service from China to the USA.

Why Choose UCS Logistics for Importing and Shipping from China to the US?

UCS Logistics is a China-based freight forwarder, specializing in international logistics for import and export businesses. We handle hundreds of air & sea shipments from China to the US monthly. For US importers, we offer compelling advantages:

Quick Response & High Efficiency
Clear & Proactive Communication
Professionalism, Agility, & Accuracy
Extensive Logistics Expertise & Global Network
Cost-Saving Solutions
Personalized Attention & Tailored Shipping
Dedicated & Focused Service

Focus your time and energy on your core business. Let UCS Logistics handle your international logistics – our area of expertise.
Learn more: Why us when importing and shipping from China to the USA.

China’s position as the United States’ largest trading partner is firmly established and projected to continue.
As a leading China-based freight forwarder dedicated to China-USA cargo shipping, UCS Logistics possesses the logistics knowledge, expertise, local connections, and global networks to ensure a superior cargo shipping experience. We facilitate business connections between both countries, enhancing supply chain efficiency through our international freight forwarding services.
To initiate your next shipment from China to the USA with UCS, request a shipping solution and quote from China today. To learn more about UCS Logistics, please contact us.

Hassle-free Shipping from China to the USA: Sea & Air Freight - UCS