How to Ship from China to USA: A Practical Importer Guide

Bottom line: Choose the shipping method only after confirming your Incoterm, cargo readiness, destination, customs party, and delivery deadline. For most importers, the reliable sequence is supplier handover, export documents, freight booking, US entry preparation, and final delivery.

1. Define the shipment before requesting quotes

Share the product description, HS code if known, carton count, dimensions, gross weight, pickup city, destination ZIP code, and required delivery date. State whether the shipment contains batteries, food, cosmetics, liquids, branded goods, or other regulated products.

2. Match the transport mode to the shipment

• Express: for small, urgent parcels.
• Air freight: for time-sensitive commercial cargo.
• LCL: for sea freight that does not fill a container.
• FCL: for cargo large enough to justify a dedicated container.

Compare the full landed logistics scope, not only the freight line: pickup, export handling, origin charges, freight, destination handling, customs clearance, duties, and final delivery all matter.

3. Set responsibilities in writing

Confirm the applicable Incoterm, who is importer of record, who files the customs entry, and who pays duties and taxes. Incoterms allocate delivery obligations; they do not replace a sales contract or customs compliance plan. See the ICC Incoterms guidance.

4. Prepare documents before cargo departs

A commercial invoice and packing list are core documents. Depending on the product and transaction, carriers or authorities may also require a bill of lading or air waybill, certificates, permits, or product-specific records. US importers should review CBP importer guidance before shipping.

5. Keep one operational owner

Ask for a written routing, milestone contacts, document cut-off, and exception process. A forwarder should coordinate the handoffs, while the importer remains responsible for accurate declarations and regulatory obligations.

Related HuaHang services

Air freight from China, ocean freight from China, and door-to-door shipping can be scoped from the same shipment brief.

FAQ

What is the first detail a forwarder needs?

The product, dimensions, weight, pickup city, destination, and delivery deadline. These determine whether air, LCL, FCL, or express is appropriate.

Can a supplier handle US customs?

A supplier can arrange transport, but the importer of record and customs responsibilities must be agreed in writing before departure.