Shipping from China to New York

Are you looking to master the process of shipping from China to New York but feeling overwhelmed by options, costs, and procedures? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about sea freight, air freight, express shipping, and door-to-door logistics. Get insights on shipping routes, costs, import taxes, delivery times, and how to find a reliable shipping agent for your needs. Let’s simplify your next shipment!

Sea freight from China to New York

Sea freight is the most commonly chosen method for shipping large volumes of goods from China to New York. It is well-suited for international businesses, importers, and exporters looking for a cost-effective logistics solution. This method accommodates both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, making it flexible for different cargo sizes and budgets.

Related Reading: For a broader overview, see Shipping from China to USA.

Main Ports and Routes

The key departure ports in China include Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Qingdao, and Xiamen. Most shipments arrive at Port of New York and New Jersey, which is one of the busiest and most efficient ports on the US East Coast.

Popular sea freight routes from China to New York typically pass through the Panama Canal or, less commonly, the Suez Canal, depending on the origin port and specific shipping line arrangements.

Dantful.US International Logistics offers direct and transshipment routes, helping clients select the most suitable schedule according to cargo urgency and budget.

Departure Port	Main Route	Typical Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Panama Canal	26–30
Shenzhen	Panama Canal	27–32
Ningbo	Panama Canal	27–31
Qingdao	Panama Canal/Suez Canal	29–34
Guangzhou	Panama Canal	27–32
Xiamen	Panama Canal	28–33

Container Options and Capacity

• 20ft Container (20’GP): ~28 CBM, suitable for small to medium-sized shipments.

• 40ft Container (40’GP): ~56 CBM, ideal for larger cargo volumes.

• 40ft High Cube (40’HQ): ~68 CBM, for bulkier goods that need extra height.

• 45ft High Cube (45’HQ): ~78 CBM, offers maximum container space.

Advantages of Sea Freight

• Cost-Effective for Bulk Shipments: The per-unit shipping cost decreases as the cargo volume increases.

• Wide Cargo Acceptance: Suitable for general cargo, machinery, textiles, chemicals, and oversized equipment.

• Flexible Shipping Schedules: Multiple sailings per week from major Chinese ports to New York.

Key Considerations

• Transit Time: Sea freight is slower than air or express; plan for 26–34 days port-to-port, plus additional time for customs clearance and inland delivery.

• Customs and Documentation: Proper paperwork is critical. Our team at Dantful.US International Logistics can assist with shipping documents, customs clearance, and insurance.

Further info: For LCL, FCL, and out-of-gauge cargo, you might also find Sea Freight Forwarder From China useful.

LCL vs FCL Comparison

Mode	Suitable For	Space Utilization	Cost	Handling Risk
LCL	Small shipments (<15 CBM)	Shared container	Lower overall, but higher per CBM	Slightly higher (more handling)
FCL	Large shipments (15 CBM or more)	Full container	More cost-effective per CBM	Lower (less handling)

Air freight from China to New York

Air freight is the preferred choice for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive shipments from China to New York. This transport mode is suitable for electronics, fashion, samples, perishable goods, and other items where speed is critical.

Major Airports and Routes

Common origin airports in China include Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Capital (PEK), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX), and Hong Kong International (HKG). The destination is typically John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New York.

Dantful.US International Logistics maintains partnerships with major airlines to provide both direct and indirect flight options, balancing cost and transit time.

Origin Airport	Destination Airport	Transit Time (Direct Flight)	Transit Time (Indirect/Consolidated)
PVG	JFK	2–3 days	3–6 days
PEK	JFK	2–3 days	3–6 days
CAN	JFK	2–3 days	3–6 days
HKG	JFK	2–3 days	3–5 days

Note: Above times are airport-to-airport; allow extra time for pick-up, customs clearance, and delivery.

Air Freight Options

• Standard Air Freight: Best balance between cost and speed, suitable for most business shipments.

• Express Air Freight: For urgent cargo, offers quickest transit but at a premium.

• Consolidated Air Freight: Share cargo space with others to lower costs, suitable for smaller shipments.

Advantages of Air Freight

• Fastest transit time: Shipments typically arrive within 2–5 days.

• High security and reliability: Lower risk of damage or theft, controlled environment.

• Frequent departures: Multiple daily flights from major Chinese cities to New York.

Key Considerations

• Cost: Air freight rates are calculated per kilogram and can be significantly higher than sea freight, especially during peak seasons.

• Cargo Restrictions: Some dangerous goods or oversized cargo may not be suitable for air transportation due to airline regulations.

• Weight/Volume Calculations: Airlines charge based on actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is greater.

Weight Class	Typical Rate (USD/kg)	Best Use Case
<45 kg	$7–$11	Samples, urgent documents
45–100 kg	$6–$9	High-value electronics
>100 kg	$5–$8	Bulk, time-sensitive goods

Rates vary by route, airline, and seasonal demand; contact Dantful.US International Logistics for the latest quotation.

You may also be interested in: Air freight from China to USA

Both sea and air freight services are vital for cross-border business between China and New York. At Dantful.US International Logistics, we tailor solutions to meet your timeline, budget, and cargo requirements, delivering reliable shipping backed by professional expertise. Contact us for a free consultation and competitive quote.

Express from China to New York

Express shipping provides the fastest and most flexible solution for sending goods from China to New York. It is ideal for urgent shipments, small parcels, samples, documents, e-commerce orders, and time-sensitive goods. Major global express providers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT operate extensive networks between China and the United States, ensuring rapid door-to-door transit.

Key Features of Express Shipping

• Speed: Express shipments from China to New York typically take 2 to 5 business days. Some services offer guaranteed delivery within 48–72 hours.

• Tracking & Visibility: Real-time shipment tracking is standard, providing clear status updates from pickup in China to delivery in New York.

• Customs Clearance: Express providers handle customs procedures, often pre-clearing shipments to minimize delays.

• Door-to-Door Service: Pickup can be arranged from any address in China, and parcels are delivered directly to the recipient’s address in New York.

• Weight & Size Limits: Express is best suited for shipments under 300 kg. Heavier or larger shipments may incur higher costs.

Express Shipping Providers: Key Comparison

Provider	Typical Transit Time	Strengths	Limitations
DHL	2–4 business days	Strong global network, reliable tracking	High cost for heavy shipments
FedEx	2–5 business days	Competitive rates, excellent customer service	Remote area surcharges may apply
UPS	3–5 business days	Broad US network, flexible options	Slightly slower for some routes
TNT	3–6 business days	Good for European connections, stable rates	Fewer drop-off points in rural China

Typical Express Costs

Costs for express shipping depend on the package weight, dimensions, and delivery speed. As of 2025, rates for a standard 5 kg parcel from China to New York range between $60 and $120, depending on the service level and provider. For frequent shippers or high-volume e-commerce sellers, negotiating discounted rates or using a freight forwarder like Dantful.US International Logistics can be highly cost-effective.

Related: For full process and service, visit Door to Door Shipping.

When to Choose Express Shipping

• Launching new products or sending urgent samples

• Small, high-value shipments where speed is critical

• E-commerce parcels requiring fast US delivery

• Sensitive documents or time-limited materials

As a one-stop international logistics service provider, Dantful.US International Logistics offers competitive express shipping solutions from China to New York, combining reliability, speed, and professional support for both businesses and individuals. Our team ensures smooth customs clearance and proactive communication throughout your shipment.

Door to Door Shipping from China to New York

Door to door shipping is a comprehensive logistics solution where the entire shipping process—from the supplier’s location in China to the recipient’s address in New York—is handled seamlessly by a single service provider. This is the most convenient shipping option, relieving importers of the complexities of international transport, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery.

Discover more about our service: Door to Door Shipping from China to USA

How Door to Door Shipping Works

The process typically includes:

1. Pickup: Your cargo is collected directly from your supplier’s warehouse or factory in China.

2. Export Procedures: All export documentation and customs clearance in China are managed by the freight forwarder.

3. International Transport: Goods are shipped via sea freight, air freight, or express—depending on your timeline and budget.

4. Import Customs Clearance: The forwarder completes all necessary customs entries and pays any duties or taxes in the United States.

5. Final Delivery: Cargo is delivered to the specified address in New York—whether it’s a commercial warehouse, Amazon FBA center, or residential location.

Advantages of Door to Door Shipping

• Simplified Process: One provider manages the entire logistics chain, reducing coordination and paperwork.

• Time & Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the need to work with multiple agents or carriers.

• Customs Expertise: Forwarder ensures compliance with US import regulations, minimizing clearance delays.

• All-Inclusive Pricing: Transparent rates, often inclusive of pickup, main carriage, customs clearance, and delivery.

• Flexible Modes: Available for LCL, FCL, air freight, and express shipments.

Popular Door to Door Solutions: Comparison

Mode	Typical Transit Time	Best For	Cost Range (per CBM/kg)	Notes
Sea Freight	25–40 days	Bulk cargo, cost-sensitive	$200–$350/CBM	Most economical for large shipments
Air Freight	5–10 days	Urgent, higher-value goods	$6–$12/kg	Faster, higher cost than sea freight
Express	2–5 days	Samples, e-commerce	$12–$20/kg	Fastest, best for smaller shipments

By choosing door to door shipping, you minimize risk, save time, and benefit from a hassle-free logistics experience. For a customized quote or consultation, please contact our team at Dantful.US International Logistics—your trusted partner for all shipments from China to New York.

Main shipping routes from China to New York

When shipping from China to New York, understanding the primary shipping routes helps optimize both cost and transit time. The main logistics channels used by international shippers include sea freight, air freight, and express courier services.

1. Sea Freight Routes

Most sea freight from China to the United States East Coast—including New York—starts at major Chinese ports such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Xiamen. Cargo is shipped across the Pacific Ocean, typically transits through the Panama Canal or the Suez Canal (less common), before arriving at prominent East Coast ports like the Port of New York and New Jersey.

Origin Port (China)	Destination Port (USA)	Typical Route	Estimated Transit Time (Days)
Shanghai	Port of New York and New Jersey	Pacific Ocean – Panama Canal – Atlantic Ocean	28-35
Shenzhen	Port of New York and New Jersey	Pacific Ocean – Panama Canal – Atlantic Ocean	30-38
Ningbo	Port of New York and New Jersey	Pacific Ocean – Panama Canal – Atlantic Ocean	28-36
Qingdao	Port of New York and New Jersey	Pacific Ocean – Panama Canal – Atlantic Ocean	30-40
Xiamen	Port of New York and New Jersey	Pacific Ocean – Panama Canal – Atlantic Ocean	31-39

Note: Transit times are port-to-port and do not include customs clearance or inland delivery.

2. Air Freight Routes

Air freight is ideal for time-sensitive shipments. Major Chinese airports—including Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN), and Beijing Capital (PEK)—offer direct or connecting flights to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New York.

Origin Airport (China)	Destination Airport (New York, USA)	Direct/Transit	Typical Transit Time (Days)
PVG (Shanghai)	JFK / EWR	Direct / 1 stop	2-5
CAN (Guangzhou)	JFK / EWR	1 stop	3-6
PEK (Beijing)	JFK / EWR	1 stop	3-6

3. Express Courier Routes

For small parcels or urgent documents, international express couriers (like DHL, FedEx, UPS) offer door-to-door services from any address in China to any address in New York. The major hubs in Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzhen connect directly with US gateways and distribution centers.

Shipping cost from China to New York

Shipping costs depend on several factors: transportation mode, cargo volume/weight, incoterms, and surcharges (fuel, peak season, etc.). Below, I’ve outlined the main cost components for each shipping method.

Cost of shipping 20ft container from China to New York

Rates for a 20ft container (standard FCL, 28 CBM capacity) fluctuate based on market demand, fuel prices, and carrier schedules. As of early 2025, these are typical all-in sea freight rates (port-to-port):

Route	Estimated Cost (USD)	Notes
Shanghai to New York	$3,200 – $4,500	Rates vary by season and carrier
Shenzhen to New York	$3,300 – $4,700	Includes basic ocean freight & surcharges
Ningbo to New York	$3,400 – $4,600	Excludes customs, delivery, insurance

Additional costs: local charges at origin/destination, customs clearance, insurance, and inland trucking if needed.

Cost of shipping 40ft container from China to New York

A 40ft container (standard FCL, 56 CBM capacity) offers better per-cubic-meter value for larger shipments.

Route	Estimated Cost (USD)	Notes
Shanghai to New York	$5,800 – $7,000	Larger volume, better unit cost
Shenzhen to New York	$5,900 – $7,200	All-in, port-to-port
Ningbo to New York	$6,000 – $7,300	Excludes DTHC, customs, insurance

Tip: For high-volume shipments, a 40ft High Cube (HQ) container (up to 68 CBM) increases capacity with only a slight cost increment.

Air freight cost from China to New York per KG

Air freight pricing is based on chargeable weight (whichever is greater: gross or volumetric weight).

Weight Bracket (KG)	General Rate per KG (USD)	Service Features	Transit Time (Days)
45 – 100	$5.80 – $8.50	Airport to airport	2-5
100 – 300	$5.10 – $7.90	Priority space, faster release	2-5
300+	$4.80 – $7.50	Suitable for bulk air cargo	2-5

Rates are indicative as of 2025. Actual costs depend on airline, route, fuel surcharges, and market fluctuations.

See also: Shipping Cost from China to USA

Express cost from China to New York

Express courier costs are ideal for small parcels (below 100kg). Rates depend on weight, dimensions, and urgency. Here is a sample rate table for reference:

Weight	Estimated Cost (USD)	Transit Time (Days)	Carrier	Services Included
0.5 kg	$32 – $45	2-5	DHL/FedEx/UPS	Door-to-door, customs clearance
5 kg	$85 – $120	2-5	DHL/FedEx/UPS	Door-to-door, tracking
21 kg	$220 – $260	2-5	DHL/FedEx/UPS	Door-to-door, tracking
50 kg	$470 – $630	2-5	DHL/FedEx/UPS	Door-to-door, tracking

Note: Express rates change frequently and may be affected by peak season surcharges.

You might also want to explore: Shipping from China to Canada for North America regional logistics comparison.

Import tax and duties in USA

When shipping goods from China to New York, understanding import tax and duties in the USA is essential for calculating your total landed cost and ensuring a smooth customs clearance process.

Types of Import Taxes and Duties

1. Customs Duty: This is the primary tariff applied to imported goods, calculated based on the product’s HS (Harmonized System) code, value, and country of origin. The rate varies, generally from 0% to over 25% depending on the product category.

2. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF):

   • For formal entries (goods valued over $2,500): 0.3464% of the entered value (minimum $29.66, maximum $575.35 per entry, as of 2025).

   • For informal entries: flat fee, usually $2 to $9 per shipment.

3. Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF):

   • Applies to ocean shipments only and is 0.125% of the cargo value.

4. Excise Tax:

   • Imposed on specific items (alcohol, tobacco, some vehicles).

5. Section 301/232/201 Tariffs:

   • Additional tariffs may apply to certain goods from China due to trade actions, sometimes up to 25% extra.

Duty Calculation Example

Product Category	HS Code	Duty Rate	Additional Tariffs	Total Duty (Sample)
Electronics	8541	2.6%	None	2.6%
Furniture	9403	1%	Section 301 (25%)	26%
Apparel	6203	16%	None	16%

Always verify the latest rates for your specific product via the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) or consult your customs broker.

How to Calculate Import Duties

1. Identify the correct HS Code for your goods.

2. Determine the customs value (usually the FOB value from the China supplier).

3. Apply the standard duty rate and any special tariffs.

4. Add MPF and HMF if applicable.

Who is Responsible?

The importer of record (often the buyer or consignee) is responsible for paying duties and taxes upon entry of goods into the USA. Working with a reliable customs broker or a professional freight forwarder—such as Dantful.US International Logistics—ensures proper classification, minimizes compliance risks, and streamlines the clearance process.

How Dantful.US International Logistics Can Help

As an experienced, one-stop logistics provider, we offer:

• Customs clearance services

• HS Code classification support

• Duty and tax estimation

• Compliance consulting

This helps you avoid unnecessary delays, penalties, or unexpected costs when shipping from China to New York.

How long does it take to ship from China to New York

Transit time is a critical consideration when planning your shipment from China to New York. The duration varies significantly depending on your chosen shipping method: sea freight, air freight, or express.

Sea Freight Transit Times

Port of Loading (China)	Port of Discharge (NY/NJ)	FCL Transit Time	LCL Transit Time
Shanghai	New York/New Jersey	28-35 days	32-40 days
Shenzhen	New York/New Jersey	32-38 days	35-42 days
Ningbo	New York/New Jersey	28-36 days	32-41 days
Qingdao	New York/New Jersey	32-40 days	36-44 days

Note: LCL shipments are typically slower due to consolidation and deconsolidation processes at both ends.

Air Freight Transit Times

Airport in China	Airport in New York (JFK/EWR)	Direct Flight	Standard Air (with consolidation/customs)
Shanghai (PVG)	JFK/EWR	2-3 days	4-7 days
Guangzhou (CAN)	JFK/EWR	2-3 days	4-7 days
Beijing (PEK)	JFK/EWR	2-3 days	4-7 days

Standard air freight includes time for handling, security screening, and customs processes.

Express Shipping Transit Times

Major couriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer express service from China to New York typically within 2-5 days (door-to-door), depending on pickup location and customs clearance speed.

Factors Affecting Transit Time

• Shipping season and port congestion

• Customs inspection delays

• Weather conditions

• Type of shipping service (FCL, LCL, Express, Air)

• Holidays in either country

For global reference, check out: Shipping from China to Mexico if you also have business in Latin America.

Import procedure from China to New York

Shipping goods from China to New York involves a series of carefully coordinated steps. Understanding the import procedure is essential for minimizing risks, ensuring compliance, and optimizing lead time. Below, I lay out a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that aligns with current industry best practices and ensures smooth customs clearance for all types of importers—from SMEs to seasoned supply chain professionals.

Step 1: Supplier and Export Preparation

• Confirm Product Compliance: Ensure your products comply with US regulations (such as FDA, FCC, EPA) and obtain necessary certifications.

• Commercial Documents: Secure accurate commercial invoice, packing list, and sales contract from the supplier.

• Export License: If required, confirm your supplier holds the appropriate export license from the Chinese authorities.

Step 2: Booking Freight and Pre-shipment Arrangements

• Choose Freight Forwarder: Select a reliable freight forwarder (such as Dantful.US International Logistics) offering sea freight, air freight, or express according to your timeline and budget.

• Book Shipment: Reserve vessel or flight space, and confirm the shipping schedule and route.

• Cargo Insurance: Arrange for shipment insurance to safeguard your goods during transit.

Step 3: Origin Customs Clearance in China

• Customs Declaration: The supplier or their agent files a customs declaration (using the packing list and invoice) with Chinese Customs.

• Export Clearance: Once approved, the shipment receives customs clearance and is released for loading.

Step 4: International Transportation

• Shipping: Your cargo is shipped via sea, air, or express from a major port or airport in China (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Guangzhou) to New York (Port of New York and New Jersey, JFK International Airport).

• Tracking: Use digital tracking services to monitor cargo status in real time.

Step 5: Arrival and Import Customs in the USA

• Arrival Notification: The consignee or their customs broker is notified when the cargo arrives at the destination port or airport.

• ISF Filing: For ocean shipments, file the Importer Security Filing (ISF) at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto the vessel in China.

• Customs Entry Filing: Submit the necessary documents to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These include:

  • Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Arrival Notice

  • Applicable certificates or licenses

• Duties & Taxes: Pay any applicable import duties, tariffs, and customs fees. Refer to the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for correct classification and rates.

Step 6: Customs Inspection & Release

• Inspection: CBP may inspect the shipment for compliance, accuracy, and security.

• Release: Upon passing inspection and payment of duties, the shipment is cleared and released for delivery.

Step 7: Last Mile Delivery

• Pickup/Delivery: Arrange for local trucking or door-to-door delivery to your warehouse, fulfillment center, or final destination.

• Warehouse & Fulfillment: If needed, utilize local warehousing or Amazon FBA services.

Document Checklist

Document Name	Description	Required For
Commercial Invoice	Itemized list of goods and value	All shipments
Packing List	Details of packaging and contents	All shipments
Bill of Lading / AWB	Transport contract with carrier	Sea/Air shipments
ISF Filing	Security info filed to US customs	Ocean shipments
Import Licenses	Special permits for regulated goods	If applicable
Insurance Certificate	Evidence of cargo insurance	Recommended

Following these steps helps to ensure that your goods are shipped smoothly from China to New York, minimizing delays and avoiding costly compliance errors.

Shipping agent from China to New York

Choosing the right shipping agent is critical for a hassle-free and cost-effective shipping experience between China and New York. As an experienced freight forwarder, I know that a professional partner can significantly streamline the entire process, from booking cargo space to final delivery.

See also: freight forwarder China to US

Why Use a Shipping Agent?

• Expertise in Multimodal Logistics: Professional agents manage sea freight, air freight, express, and door-to-door shipping options, adapting to the unique needs of each shipment.

• Customs Compliance: Knowledgeable agents ensure full compliance with both Chinese and US customs regulations, reducing clearance risks.

• Cost Optimization: They consolidate shipments, negotiate rates, and provide transparent cost structures, helping you save on transportation and handling fees.

• Real-Time Tracking & Support: Reliable agents provide full visibility over your cargo and offer prompt support in case of issues or changes.

Dantful.US International Logistics – Your Trusted Freight Forwarder

At Dantful.US International Logistics, we pride ourselves on being a highly professional, cost-effective, and high-quality one-stop international logistics service provider for global traders. Here’s what sets us apart:

Service Type	Dantful.US Strengths	Benefits to You
Sea Freight	FCL, LCL, OOG, Breakbulk, Consolidated Freight	Best rates, flexible options
Air Freight	Fast, reliable, global network	Short transit time, urgent cargo
Rail & Road Freight	Cross-border & domestic trucking	End-to-end transport solutions
Amazon FBA Logistics	Direct from China to FBA centers in the US	Smooth FBA prep and delivery
Warehouse & Fulfillment	Bonded, non-bonded, value-added services	Inventory management, consolidation
Customs Clearance	In-house customs experts in both China & US	Fast, compliant, seamless clearance
Cargo Insurance	Comprehensive coverage options	Peace of mind, risk mitigation
Door-to-Door	Complete pickup to delivery service	Hassle-free, one-stop solution

How to Select the Best Shipping Agent?

When evaluating a shipping agent for your China to New York shipments, consider the following criteria:

• Experience and Reputation: Look for proven track records and verified customer feedback.

• Service Portfolio: Ensure they offer all major logistics services, including sea freight, air freight, door to door, customs and warehousing.

• Transparent Pricing: Clear, detailed quotations with no hidden charges.

• Communication: Responsive customer service and proactive updates.

• Global Network: Strong presence in both China and New York, including partnerships with major carriers (Maersk, COSCO, CMA CGM, FedEx, DHL).

If you’re looking to ship goods from China to New York, contact us at Dantful.US International Logistics. We are committed to delivering professional, efficient, and worry-free international freight forwarding for your business.