Sea Freight from China to USA

Overview

The United States is China's largest trading partner by sea freight volume, with millions of TEUs moving between the two countries annually. Apexsourc logistics operates regular container sailings from China's major ports (Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo) to key US gateways on the West Coast, East Coast, and Gulf Coast.

Whether you're importing consumer goods, electronics, machinery, or furniture, the China-to-USA trade lane is well-served by all major carriers. Our door-to-door service handles everything from factory pickup in China to final delivery at your US address.

Major US Ports

Port	Coast	Key Features
Los Angeles / Long Beach	West Coast	Busiest US container gateway; 13–16 days from Shanghai
New York / New Jersey	East Coast	Largest East Coast port; 25–28 days from Shanghai
Savannah	Southeast	Fastest-growing US port; 22–25 days from Shanghai
Seattle / Tacoma	Pacific Northwest	14–17 days from Shanghai; ideal for northern distribution
Houston	Gulf Coast	25–30 days from Shanghai; energy sector hub
Oakland	West Coast	Northern California gateway; 15–18 days from Shanghai

Transit Times from China

Origin Port	Destination Port	FCL Transit	LCL Transit
Shanghai	Los Angeles	13–16 days	18–22 days
Shenzhen / Yantian	Los Angeles	14–17 days	19–23 days
Shanghai	New York	25–28 days	30–35 days
Ningbo	Savannah	22–25 days	27–32 days
Shanghai	Seattle	14–17 days	19–23 days

FCL shipments are faster because there is no consolidation delay. LCL adds 3–7 days for cargo consolidation at origin and deconsolidation at destination.

Customs & Documentation

Required Documents

• Bill of Lading — issued by the carrier; confirms receipt of cargo
• Commercial Invoice — itemized list with unit values, total value, and Incoterms
• Packing List — breakdown of every package: contents, quantities, weights, dimensions
• ISF (Importer Security Filing) — must be filed at least 24 hours before vessel loading
• Customs Bond — required for all US imports valued over USD 2,500
• Certificate of Origin — may reduce duties under free trade agreements

Key Tips

• ISF penalties: USD 5,000 minimum for late or inaccurate filing. Apexsourc ensures timely ISF compliance.
• HTS Classification: US Customs requires correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes. We can assist with classification.
• FDA / EPA / CPSC: Certain products (food, electronics, children's items) require additional agency clearance.
• Duty rates: Vary by HTS code; typically 0–25% for most consumer goods.

Why Ship to the USA with Apexsourc?

• Weekly FCL and LCL sailings from Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo
• Experienced with ISF filing and full US customs compliance
• Door-to-door service to any US address — no freight forwarder handoff
• Real-time container tracking with regular status updates
• Competitive contract rates with major carriers (Maersk, MSC, COSCO)
• Licensed US customs brokers available for complex shipments

Common Questions

What is the cheapest way to ship from China to the USA?

For shipments under 15m³, LCL is more cost-effective. For larger volumes, FCL provides better per-unit economics. A 40HQ container from Shanghai to Los Angeles typically costs USD 3,000–4,500 depending on the season.

How long does customs clearance take at US ports?

Standard clearance takes 1–3 business days. If CBP selects your shipment for examination, add 3–7 business days. Proper documentation dramatically reduces the chance of inspection.

Do I need a US customs broker?

Highly recommended. Apexsourc can arrange licensed US customs brokers as part of your door-to-door package — no need to find one yourself.

Can Apexsourc handle inland delivery beyond port cities?

Yes. Our door-to-door service includes final trucking to any US address. We coordinate with regional carriers for last-mile delivery across all 50 states.