When it comes to shipping goods from China to the US, Amazon FBA, or other countries, choosing the right shipping method can be a daunting task. However, with the help of this new guide, readers will learn how to select the best shipping methods based on their budget, shipping time, and goods’ weight. This guide will cover the top 3 things about freight transportation to assist readers in the shipping process.
The guide will explore various topics, including the cheapest shipping methods from China to the US, weight calculation, and who can help manage the shipping process. Additionally, readers will learn how to make a shipping quote, review their shipment, and choose the cheapest international shipping method. By the end of this guide, readers will have a clear understanding of how to ship goods from China to the US, Amazon FBA, or any other country they desire.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to choose the best shipping methods based on your budget, shipping time, and goods’ weight.
- Explore various topics, including weight calculation, who can help manage the shipping process, and how to make a shipping quote.
- By the end of this guide, readers will have a clear understanding of how to ship goods from China to the US, Amazon FBA, or any other country they desire.
What is the Cheapest Shipping from China to USA?
When it comes to shipping from China to the USA, sea freight is the most cost-effective option. If you’re looking for low-cost shipping, sea freight is the way to go. However, if you need your products to arrive quickly, express shipping is the fastest option. It’s important to ask your suppliers if they have a special shipping method available for you.
To reduce shipping costs, there are three ways you can consider. Firstly, choose the right shipping method based on the weight and size of your products. Secondly, ensure that your products are packaged reasonably to avoid additional fees. Lastly, consider using a shipping agent to help you save on costs.
Average Time to Ship from China to US?
The average shipping time from China to the USA depends on the shipping method you choose. If you opt for air express, your products should arrive within 3-10 business days. However, if you choose air freight, it will take 20-45 days for your products to arrive. For sea freight, the shipping time is longer, ranging from 30 to 60 days.
Best Way to Ship Samples from China?
For items weighing less than or equal to 200 lbs, air shipping is the best option. The average air shipping cost from China to the USA is between $6 and $15 per pound. For items weighing more than 200 lbs, both air and sea freight can be used. However, this method can be complicated and cost-effective.
One suggestion for saving on sample shipping costs is to search for the product on AliExpress, where you may find it with cheap or even free shipping.
Shipping from China Weight Calculation: Dimensional Weight vs Actual Weight
When shipping products from China, it is important to consider the weight of the package as it will determine the shipping cost. There are two types of weight concepts to consider: actual weight and dimensional weight. Actual weight refers to the weight of the product and its packaging, while dimensional weight takes into account the volume of the package.
For sea freight, the dimensional weight is calculated by dividing the package volume by 6000, while for air freight, the dimensional weight is calculated by dividing the package volume by 5000. The billable weight is the greater of the two weights, and it is used to calculate the final shipping rate.
To save on shipping costs, it is recommended to package goods in a way that minimizes package volume. Communication with the supplier is key, and ongoing shipments should have packaging options discussed to cut freight costs.
Considering both actual and dimensional weight is crucial in determining the shipping cost for products from China. By understanding these weight concepts, businesses can make informed decisions to minimize costs and optimize their shipping process.
Who Can Help You Manage to Ship from China to US, by Yourself, or by an Agent?
There are various options available to manage shipping from China to the US. Inexperienced importers often let the supplier manage the shipping, which is a simple process of instructing the supplier to ship the cargo as CIF or DAP. However, this may result in paying more than necessary.
Another option is to manage the shipping internally for full control. However, this may not be a viable option for small and medium enterprises as it requires specialized departments and professional crews.
Working with a freight forwarder in the importer’s country is perhaps the most convenient option. However, most forwarders do not have their own office in China and add their margin on top of the local agent’s fee, making it an expensive and inefficient option.
The fourth option is to work with a freight forwarder based in China. This option has become increasingly popular due to its speed and efficiency. The forwarder can maintain close communication with the supplier and promptly resolve any issues that may arise.
The following table summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of each option:
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Letting the Supplier Manage the Shipping | Simple process | May pay more than necessary |
| Do it All Internally | Full control | Not viable for small and medium enterprises |
| Work with a Freight Forwarder in Your Country | Convenient | Expensive and inefficient |
| Work with a Freight Forwarder Based in China | Speed and efficiency | Requires trust in a foreign partner |
In conclusion, choosing the right option to manage shipping from China to the US depends on the importer’s specific needs and circumstances. Working with a freight forwarder based in China may offer the best balance of speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Details about Common 4 Shipping Methods from China to USA Ways
1. Regular Post
Regular Post is a cost-effective shipping method for small shipments like samples and parcels. This method is offered by China Post or Hong Kong Post, and it may take up to 15-35 days to arrive. Although it is the cheapest option, it is not recommended as it is unsafe, and lost packages are hard to find. However, this method is suitable for drop shipping. Tracking and tracing online are available, but the information may not be updated in time.
2. Air Express
Air Express is the most suitable transportation method for most people starting out. Courier companies like DHL, UPS, and FedEx are widely used in China. With this method, fast delivery times and an online tracking facility are provided. Most courier shipments take just 3-5 business days to arrive anywhere around the globe. The advantage of choosing an express courier is that you can get seamless delivery. All you have to do is sign for the package when it arrives. In most cases, delivery is quick and reliable. However, the disadvantage is that the price is much higher than the postal service.
3. Airfreight
If the weight of sourced products is too large for couriers, for example, 100kg, air shipment might be the best bet. With air freight, costs will be significantly lower than with courier companies. This method is suitable for cargo with medium weight, and there are tight deadlines or tighter control on the security. Transit time varies based on the schedule of airlines, but in general, it ranges between 8-10 days, which is not bad. It is worthy to mention here that air freight usually has a minimum requirement of the shipping weight. The average cost for air express is about $5 to $10/kg, and the shipping time is about 3 to 5 business days, while the average cost for air freight is $4 to $8/kg, and the shipping time is about 5 to 10 business days.
4. Sea Freight/Ocean Freight
Sea Freight/Ocean Freight is a popular and widely used mode in logistics. Despite the lengthy delivery time, if planned ahead, and have enough time to wait, sea freight will be the top choice. Depending on where you’re located, it will be in the vicinity of 30-60 days. There are two types of ocean shipping, FCL, and LCL, both of which have to do with the costs of shipping and the size of the container used.
FCL = Full Container Load
LCL = Less (than) Container Load
For ocean freight, there are two ways usually, Expedited or normal ocean shipping method. Usually, expedited shipping from China to the US will be 3-10 days faster than the normal one.
Typically, there are different size options when it comes to shipping containers, which can be chosen based on needs. Depending on the amount you are purchasing from your Chinese supplier, you may fill an entire shipping container or only part of one. When using an entire container, you are shipping FCL (full container load). Typically, shipping FCL is cheaper by volumetric unit and weight unit. But, many importers aren’t purchasing enough goods to ship FCL. In this case, LCL (less than container load) is the ideal solution. When shipping LCL, your items share containers with other people’s items. In other words, cargo from multiple buyers ends up in the same container.
FCL is safer because your items will not be mixed with other shipments. There will be less risk of your cargo being damaged or getting lost since fewer people will be handling it. FCL can be processed faster because your shipment will be the only one that will be loaded into a container. Under LCL, the shipment will be consolidated with others first. Ultimately, your choice of FCL or LCL will hinge upon how much you’re shipping.
To save on Alibaba shipping costs, if your cargo size is 1cbm-8cbm, choose LCL. If 8cbm-15cbm, choose FCL or LCL based on the practical situation. If over 15cbm, choose FCL without any hesitation.
The table below shows a detailed comparison example of the shipping cost of air freight and air express when shipping from China to the United Kingdom:
| Shipping Method | Shipping Time | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Express | 3-5 business days | $5 to $10/kg |
| Air Freight | 5-10 business days | $4 to $8/kg |
How to Choose Cheapest International Shipping from China to US?
Shipping Options from China to USA Compare:
After confirming an order, choosing the best shipping method is crucial for delivery. There are several ways for goods shipping from China to the USA, including the following methods:
Express Shipping
This method is the fastest and provides door-to-door service, ensuring safety. However, it has limitations on product category and cbm and is relatively expensive, costing between $5-$15.
Air Freight
Air freight is a fast delivery option that is 20% cheaper than courier services. It also has an extensive global reach and increased goods safety. However, it has limitations on size and weight, and weather conditions can cause delays. The delivery time ranges from 1-5 days for door-to-door service and 4-11 days for port-to-port service. The cost ranges from $4-$8.
Sea Freight (LCL)
Sea freight is the cheapest option for bulk goods above 500kg with big volume. It has no limit on the size and weight of the goods and is eco-friendly. However, it is time-consuming, and server delays may occur during peak seasons. The delivery time ranges from 14-42 days for port-to-port service and 19-47 days for door-to-door service. The cost ranges from $2-$2.5.
Sea Freight (FCL)
This method is similar to sea freight (LCL) but is more economical for a large shipping weight. The delivery time ranges from 14-42 days for port-to-port service and 22-50 days for door-to-door service. The cost ranges from $3,000-$5,000.
Expedited Ocean Freight (LCL)
This method is a faster version of sea freight (LCL) and is suitable for time-sensitive shipments. The delivery time ranges from 14-20 days for port-to-port service and 15-35 days for door-to-door service. The cost ranges from $2.2-$2.8.
Air express services like DHL, UPS, FedEx, and EMS are the best choice for small packages (.0.5 to 50kg) shipping from China to the USA. It is the fastest shipping method from China to the USA.
When choosing a shipping method, it is essential to consider the goods’ weight, volume, and expected delivery time. The table below compares the cost of each freight shipping from China to the USA, showing five different shipments, each with different weights and times. The green squares indicate the cheapest mode for each shipment.
Note: This table is for illustrative purposes only, and the figures are roughly correlated with current China freight costs.
Some merchants use a strategy to save shipping costs, especially start-up Amazon sellers. They ship a small portion of their cargo, say 5% to 10%, via air freight, and the rest is shipped by sea. This way, they can have a small volume available in their Amazon FBA stores for sale to make money while the rest of the items are in transit.
In conclusion, choosing the cheapest international shipping from China to the US requires careful consideration of the goods’ weight, volume, and expected delivery time. By comparing the different shipping options, merchants can select the most cost-effective method for their business needs.
How to Ship Goods from China to USA?
When it comes to shipping goods from China to the USA, there are several steps that one must follow to ensure the process is smooth and cost-effective. Here are the six steps that one can follow to ship goods from China to the USA.
Do Optimize Packaging
Optimizing the packaging of goods is a crucial step in the shipping process. Shipping costs are usually calculated based on the weight or volume of the goods. Therefore, reducing the package volume can help save money. One can optimize the packaging by removing any unnecessary space in the package.
Combine Shipment Consolidation
Consolidating shipments is another way to save money when shipping goods from China to the USA. By combining smaller quantities of goods, one can produce a more considerable amount, leading to lower prices. Supplyia China warehouse offers consolidation services to help buyers consolidate international orders.
Find The Right Shipping Agent
Choosing the right shipping agent is crucial in ensuring a smooth shipping process. Name brand global freight forwarders have the ability to secure preferential freight rates and preferential treatment from large air and ocean carriers. However, smaller freight forwarders may have more time to spend on smaller shipments and work with smaller customers, but they may have less attractive pricing. Therefore, one must choose the right shipping agent based on their specific needs.
Route Planning And Optimization
Route planning and optimization is the process of analyzing the most efficient route and mode of transportation. This step is crucial in saving time and money. One must figure out the most economical shipping methods to save money and time.
Use The Online Shipping Calculator
Using an online shipping calculator is an easy way to evaluate shipping costs. Depending on the needs and shipment requirements, these tools can evaluate shipping costs. Freight shipping quotes can also be obtained from Supplyia.
Compare Shipping Costs
Comparing shipping costs is essential in making informed decisions. However, making decisions based on price alone can be a flawed strategy. Some freight forwarders may discount the first shipment to win the sale, but give it back in subsequent shipments. Additionally, some freight forwarders may hide fees in their terms and conditions to make their offers seem more attractive than those from more honest competitors. Therefore, one must be careful when choosing a shipping agent based on price alone.
In conclusion, following these six steps can help ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping process when shipping goods from China to the USA.
How to Get a Quote Price of Shipping from China to US/Amazon FBA/ Other Countries.
When it comes to getting a shipping quote from China to the US or other countries, it is essential to familiarize oneself with shipping incoterms. These are international trade terms that determine when and where cargo will be transferred. It is crucial to inform the supplier or freight forwarder of the desired incoterm, such as FOB Shanghai, to avoid unexpected costs.
Before obtaining a freight quote, freight forwarders typically require specific information, including the shipping method, total cargo volume or weight, freight term, pick-up and delivery address, and insurance. It is essential to note that freight quotes do not include duty and tax.
Shipping From China to the US Documents You May Need?
Once a quotation has been obtained and a freight forwarder has been selected, the focus shifts to preparing the necessary shipping documents. These may include a commercial invoice, packing list, certification, and other optional documents for customs, as well as a bill of lading for the carrier or airway bill.
It is important to note the difference between a bill of lading and an airway bill. The former is issued by an ocean carrier to acknowledge the receipt of cargo for shipment, while the latter is issued by an airline. If payment has not been made in full to the supplier, the bill of lading may be withheld, preventing the clearance of goods.
How Much is Duty Tax from China to US?
Customs clearance is a complex process when shipping from China to the US. To minimize interruptions, an import duty and custom duty calculator can be used. It is typically the responsibility of the forwarder to obtain customs clearance, with the importer paying a fee for the service.
To avoid issues, the correct information must be provided, including an invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, payment terms, bill of shipment, and POA. It is recommended to consult with a China freight forwarder to avoid potential pitfalls.
Shipping from China to US/Amazon FBA/ Other Countries Insurance
When importing goods from China, it is strongly recommended to purchase appropriate insurance. Cargo insurance is a popular option, with typical costs ranging from US$50 to US$100. Shipping insurance covers the value of the cargo in case of transportation damage, but not lost sales or product development costs.
The cost of shipping insurance is calculated based on the value of goods, the type of cargo, and the transport route. Importers can ask their freight forwarder for insurance options or estimate the cost using the following equation: Shipping Insurance ≅ Value of Goods * 1.1* 0.1% ~ 0.3%. It is best to confirm all details with the freight forwarder before making a final decision.
How Can You Review Your Shipment to Avoid Problems?
When receiving a shipment from China, it is important to review the products to ensure that they meet your expectations. By taking a few key steps, you can avoid problems and improve your future orders.
Firstly, check the quality of the product. Use the product for some time and see how long it lasts. If it does not meet your expectations, it is important to know that this is the best that the supplier has delivered and that the quality may stay the same or decrease in future orders.
Secondly, check the packaging. The packaging should be sufficient to also ship further to your customers. If everything is lumped into only one box and you will need to buy more boxes, the items should be properly boxed in future orders.
Thirdly, check for instructions. Ensure that there are any instructions present in the box. If there are no instructions mentioned, you should create some or borrow them to include them with your items.
Lastly, check for the “made in China” logo on the box. The box should have this mark anywhere on it. If it is not marked, request it for future orders.
After reviewing the products, it is important to inform the supplier via email that you have received the products but have not had the chance to review them yet. Let them know that you will hopefully place a new order. It is best not to rush and to play with a good strategy. By following these steps, you can ensure that your future orders meet your expectations and avoid any potential problems.
Final Checklist for Shipping from China
Packaging
When shipping from China, it is important to ensure that your goods are tightly and carefully packed to prevent damage during transit. This not only saves on costs but also ensures that your cargo arrives safely. Additionally, using smaller packaging can help reduce freight costs.
Incoterms
Incoterms are a set of rules that regulate where the shipping responsibility is transferred from the seller to the buyer, as per the sales contract. It is important to understand the different Incoterms such as FOB and EXW to determine your responsibilities and liabilities during shipping.
Cargo Insurance
Comprehensive cargo insurance is essential when shipping from China as most carrier liability only covers a small percentage of your cargo’s value. Insisting on comprehensive cargo insurance can help protect your shipment in case of any unforeseen events.
Documents
To request accurate quotes, it is important to have all the necessary documents from your supplier such as the Commercial Invoice and Packing List. These documents contain vital information required for requesting quotes.
Details
Having all the necessary details such as the origin, destination, import mode, size of goods, and value can make requesting quotes easier. It also helps to confine communications and ensure that all parties have the same understanding of the shipment.
Shortlists
Based on referrals or past experience, it is important to decide which forwarders to request quotes from. This can help ensure that you work with reliable and experienced forwarders.
Request
Requesting quotes from forwarders is a crucial step in shipping from China. You can either request quotes directly from forwarders or use Alibaba Freight to instantly compare quotes.
Review
Before accepting a quote, it is important to review it carefully to ensure that all the necessary details are included. Some forwarders may forget certain aspects such as trucking or customs, so it is important to double-check.
Accept
Choosing a forwarder based solely on price is not recommended. It is important to consider other factors such as reliability, experience, and customer service when accepting a quote.
Instruction
Once you have accepted a quote, it is time to send the necessary documentation such as SLI to your new forwarder. This ensures that they have all the required information to handle your shipment.
Next Steps
Booking your shipment is just the beginning. It is important to stay in communication with your forwarder and track your shipment to ensure that it arrives safely and on time.
Shipping from China to US FAQ:
How to Ship Goods from China to US for the First Time?
For those who are shipping goods from China to the US for the first time, it is recommended to ask the supplier to arrange shipping and add the invoice cost. If the goods are being shipped via air, the supplier will likely use shipping methods such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL. All that is needed is to inform the supplier about the address. If the goods’ cost is below $800 and they are being shipped to America, no duty will be charged.
Why is Shipping from China So Expensive?
Shipping from China can be expensive due to two reasons. The first reason is the long distance. The heavier the goods, the more expensive the shipping cost. The second reason is the quantity of goods being shipped. If the order quantity is low, the shipping cost per unit can be very high. However, if the order is around 500-1000 units, the shipping cost per unit is not as expensive.
What is the Average Shipping Time from China to US?
The average shipping time from China to the US varies depending on the shipment mode. Regular post can take between 15-35 days, air express takes up to 5 days, airfreight takes up to 15 days, expedited ocean shipment may take up to 20 days, and regular ocean freight can take up to 40 days.
The Fastest Way to Ship from China to the USA.
For those who want the fastest shipping option, international courier services such as DHL and UPS are ideal. These express shipping options are reliable and ideal for small items. Products weighing up to 100 KG are ideal for shipping through express shipping. However, unregistered customers may need to pay a higher fee, so it is important to be careful.
Shipping from China Conclusion:
Shipping from China to the US can be a complex process that requires attention to detail to avoid fraudulent shipping companies. To ensure a smooth and reliable shipping experience, it is recommended to work with a trustworthy China sourcing agent or freight forwarder. Seeking insights from them ahead of time can help you make informed decisions.
One way to gauge the level of customer service provided by a good freight forwarder is to observe how quickly they respond to your request for a quote. If it takes more than a week, it may indicate a lack of regular and transparent communication during the shipment process.
In conclusion, while shipping from China to the US may seem like a straightforward process, it is important to take necessary precautions to avoid scams and ensure a successful delivery. By partnering with a reliable China sourcing agent or freight forwarder and keeping communication lines open, you can minimize risks and enjoy a hassle-free shipping experience. If you have any further questions or need product sourcing services in China, don’t hesitate to submit a ticket for assistance.