Table of contents
    the United States

    Website customs the United States
    Government website
    Website chamber of commerce
    Country Alpha-2 code: US
    Country Alpha-3 code:
    USA
    Country numeric code:
    840
    GDP:
    USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
    Currency:
    US Dollar
    Inhabitants:
    335893238
    Language:
    English

    Freight forwarders in the United States
    Seaports in the United States
    Anacortes
    Ashtabula
    Baltimore
    Baton Rouge
    Beaumont
    Boston
    Charleston
    Chicago
    Airports in the United States
    Scappoose Industrial Airpark
    Deland Municipal Sidney H Taylor Field
    Indianola Municipal Airport
    Bend Municipal Airport
    Baldwin County Regional Airport
    Jesup Wayne County Airport
    Branch County Memorial Airport
    Coolidge Municipal Airport

    Shipping between the United States and China

    Table of contents

      Discover the essentials of shipping between the United States and China with our comprehensive guide. Covering pre-import considerations, customs clearance, costs, and logistics, this article offers valuable insights for businesses seeking reliable information and competitive shipping quotes.

      Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.

      Pre-import considerations

      First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.

      If you are importing from the United States to China , check the Customs Tariff from China. If you are importing from China to the United States, check the Customs Tariff from the United States.

      Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.

      Customs Clearance Process:

      From the United States to China:

      1. Documentation: Essential documents include the Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin.
      2. Customs Declaration: Submit a customs declaration to the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), detailing the shipment's contents and value.
      3. Duties and Taxes: Calculate and pay applicable duties and Value Added Tax (VAT). China’s Customs Tariff provides detailed duty rates.
      4. Inspection: GACC may inspect the shipment to ensure compliance with regulations.
      5. Release: Once cleared, goods are released for delivery.

      From China to the United States:

      1. Documentation: Required documents include the Commercial Invoice, Air Waybill/Bill of Lading, and Packing List.
      2. Customs Declaration: Submit an entry declaration to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) via the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
      3. Duties and Taxes: Pay applicable duties and tariffs based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Refer to CBP guidelines for detailed information.
      4. Inspection: CBP may conduct inspections to verify compliance.
      5. Release: After clearance, goods are released for final delivery.

      Efficient customs clearance requires accurate documentation and adherence to regulatory requirements to avoid delays and additional costs. For more detailed guidelines, refer to the official websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the General Administration of Customs of China.

      Costs to consider

      Shipping between the United States and China involves various costs that need careful consideration:

      1. Freight Charges: The cost of transporting goods by sea or air. Sea freight is generally cheaper but slower, while air freight is faster but more expensive. Major carriers like DHL and FedEx offer rate calculators to estimate costs.
      2. Customs Duties and Taxes: Both countries impose duties and taxes on imported goods. The U.S. applies tariffs based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). China imposes Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties. For details, visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection and China Customs.
      3. Insurance: Shipping insurance covers potential losses or damages during transit. Costs depend on the value of the goods and the level of coverage. Providers like AIG offer quotes and coverage options.
      4. Handling and Processing Fees: Costs for handling, storage, and processing at ports and airports. Fees vary based on the carrier and port of entry.
      5. Documentation Fees: Costs for preparing and processing essential shipping documents, such as the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List.
      6. Logistics and Transportation: Additional costs for inland transportation from ports to final destinations, which can be arranged through freight forwarders.

      By understanding these cost components, businesses can budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. For more information, refer to the official guidelines provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and China Customs.

      Saving on Shipping Costs

      Saving on shipping costs requires strategic planning and comparing quotes from multiple carriers. Here are key strategies:

      1. Compare Quotes: Use platforms like Zendeq to compare quotes from reliable shipping companies, ensuring you get the best rates.
      2. Optimize Packaging: Use efficient packaging to reduce weight and volume, lowering freight costs. UPS offers guidelines on optimal packaging.
      3. Consolidate Shipments: Combine smaller shipments into one larger shipment to benefit from bulk rates. DHL explains consolidation benefits.
      4. Flexible Timing: Use slower shipping methods like sea freight for non-urgent shipments to save costs.
      5. Negotiate Rates: Regularly shipping large volumes can provide leverage to negotiate better rates with carriers.
      6. Use Freight Forwarders: Partner with freight forwarders who can offer better rates and handle logistics efficiently.

      By implementing these strategies and using Zendeq to find competitive quotes, businesses can significantly reduce shipping costs and improve their bottom line. For more detailed tips, refer to FedEx and UPS.

      Sending Your Package: The USA to China and Vice Versa

      For Businesses:

      1. Choosing a Carrier: Major carriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and USPS offer reliable services for shipping packages between the U.S. and China. Each carrier provides various shipping options, from express delivery to standard shipping, catering to different business needs.
      2. Packaging and Documentation: Securely package your items to protect them during transit. Essential documents include a Commercial Invoice, Air Waybill, and Packing List. Ensure compliance with both countries' import/export regulations. Refer to DHL’s guidelines for detailed packaging and documentation instructions.
      3. Booking and Tracking: Utilize online tools provided by carriers to book shipments, track packages, and manage shipping preferences. FedEx and UPS offer robust tracking systems and online booking platforms.

      For Individuals:

      1. Selecting a Service: Individuals can use services from USPS, China Post, FedEx, DHL, or UPS. These carriers offer various options, from express to standard delivery, based on urgency and budget.
      2. Packing and Documentation: Ensure your package is securely packed. Required documentation typically includes a Customs Declaration Form and an Air Waybill. Both USPS and China Post provide detailed packing and documentation guidelines on their websites.
      3. Sending and Tracking: Drop off your package at the nearest post office or schedule a pickup with carriers like DHL or FedEx. Utilize their tracking systems to monitor the package’s journey until delivery.

      Carriers Overview:

      • DHL: Known for international express delivery and comprehensive tracking. DHL
      • FedEx: Offers various international shipping services with reliable delivery times and tracking. FedEx
      • UPS: Provides a range of international shipping options and advanced tracking tools. UPS
      • USPS: Cost-effective options for both business and individual shipments. USPS
      • China Post: Reliable and affordable international shipping for individuals. China Post

      By selecting the right carrier and service, both businesses and individuals can efficiently send packages between the United States and China.

      Great Online Resources for USA-China Shipping

      • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Offers comprehensive guidelines on customs procedures, duties, and taxes for goods imported into the U.S.
      • General Administration of Customs of China: Provides detailed information on import regulations, tariffs, and required documentation for shipments entering China.
      • DHL: A major international carrier with extensive resources on international shipping, documentation, and customs clearance.
      • FedEx: Provides information on international shipping services, rates, and requirements.
      • UPS: Offers tools and resources for international shipping, including rate calculators, documentation guides, and customs information.
      • USPS: Provides information on cost-effective shipping options and guidelines for both business and individual shipments.
      • China Post: Offers reliable and affordable international shipping services for individuals and businesses.
      • World Trade Organization (WTO): Provides reports and data on international trade regulations and practices.
      • International Chamber of Commerce (ICC): Offers resources on international trade, including Incoterms and best practices for global shipping.
      • Export.gov: Provides resources and guides for U.S. businesses exporting goods, including market insights and regulatory information.
      Knowledge base
      China

      Website customs
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: CN
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      CHN
      Country numeric code:
      156
      GDP:
      USD 17.963 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      Yuan Renminbi
      Inhabitants:
      1409670000
      Language:
      Standard Chinese

      Freight forwarders in China

      China has no freight forwarders

      Seaports in the United States
      Dalian
      Fuzhou
      Guangzhou
      Haikou
      Lianyungang
      Nantong
      Ningbo
      Tianjin
      Airports in China
      Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport
      Diqing Airport
      Dongji Aiport
      Dongshan Airport
      Qingyang Airport
      Quzhou Airport
      Lindu Airport
      Nanyang Jiangying Airport
      China

      Website customs
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: CN
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      CHN
      Country numeric code:
      156
      GDP:
      USD 17.963 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      Yuan Renminbi
      Inhabitants:
      1409670000
      Language:
      Standard Chinese

      Freight forwarders in China

      China has no freight forwarders

      Seaports in the United States
      Dalian
      Fuzhou
      Guangzhou
      Haikou
      Lianyungang
      Nantong
      Ningbo
      Tianjin
      Airports in China
      Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport
      Diqing Airport
      Dongji Aiport
      Dongshan Airport
      Qingyang Airport
      Quzhou Airport
      Lindu Airport
      Nanyang Jiangying Airport
      the United States

      Website customs the United States
      Government website
      Website chamber of commerce
      Country Alpha-2 code: US
      Country Alpha-3 code:
      USA
      Country numeric code:
      840
      GDP:
      USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
      Currency:
      US Dollar
      Inhabitants:
      335893238
      Language:
      English

      Freight forwarders in the United States
      Seaports in the United States
      Anacortes
      Ashtabula
      Baltimore
      Baton Rouge
      Beaumont
      Boston
      Charleston
      Chicago
      Airports in the United States
      Scappoose Industrial Airpark
      Deland Municipal Sidney H Taylor Field
      Indianola Municipal Airport
      Bend Municipal Airport
      Baldwin County Regional Airport
      Jesup Wayne County Airport
      Branch County Memorial Airport
      Coolidge Municipal Airport
      Knowledge base
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