How long does sea freight take from China to the USA?
Ocean freight typically takes 25–35 days depending on the port pair and service type (FCL or LCL).
Learn More →Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before shipping from China.
Shipping Cost & Quote
Q1.How much does shipping from China cost?
A:
The shipping cost depends on several factors, including destination, cargo type, weight, volume (CBM), shipping method, and current market rates.
Simply send us your cargo details, and we'll provide a free quotation within 30 minutes during business hours, or within 12 hours at the latest.
Q2.How quickly can I receive a quotation?
A:
Our logistics specialists usually reply within 30 minutes during business hours.
For inquiries received outside business hours, you'll receive a quotation within 12 hours.
Q3.Are there any additional charges?
A:
No hidden charges.
Your quotation clearly lists freight costs, customs-related charges (if applicable), insurance (optional), and destination services before shipment.
Shipping Methods
Q4.Which shipping method should I choose?
A:
It depends on your cargo type, budget and delivery deadline. Use the comparison below to find the best fit for your shipment.
| Method | Transit Time | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier | 3–7 days | $$$ | Urgent samples & small parcels |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | $$ | High-value & time-sensitive cargo |
| Ocean Freight | 25–40 days | $ | Bulk & cost-sensitive shipments |
| Railway | 18–28 days | $$ | Europe-bound cargo |
Q5.What's the difference between FCL and LCL?
A:
FCL (Full Container Load) is suitable when you have enough cargo to fill an entire container.
LCL (Less than Container Load) allows multiple customers to share one container, reducing shipping costs for smaller shipments.
Q6.Do you ship worldwide?
A:
Yes.
We provide logistics services from China to North America, Europe, the UK, Australia, the Middle East, Africa and South America, with customized solutions based on your destination.
Customs Clearance & DDP
Q7.Do you provide customs clearance?
A:
Yes.
Our experienced customs team assists with import and export customs clearance in most destination countries.
Q8.Can you provide DDP (Duty Paid) shipping?
A:
Yes.
We offer DDP Door-to-Door services for many countries, including customs clearance and duty handling where applicable.
Q9.Do I need an Importer of Record (IOR)?
A:
Requirements vary by destination country and product type.
Our team will advise you whether an IOR is required before shipment.
Cargo Safety & Insurance
Q10.Is my cargo insured?
A:
Cargo insurance is optional but highly recommended for valuable shipments.
Q11.What happens if my cargo is damaged?
A:
If cargo is damaged during transportation, our team will assist you throughout the claims process according to the insurance terms.
Q12.How do you protect fragile cargo?
A:
We use reinforced packaging, palletization, wooden crates (when required), and careful handling procedures to reduce transportation risks.
Tracking & Delivery
Q13.How can I track my shipment?
A:
You can track your shipment anytime through our Tracking page or via the carrier's official tracking system.
Q14.Will I receive shipment updates?
A:
Yes.
Our team provides shipment updates at major milestones, including departure, customs clearance, arrival, and final delivery.
Documents & Compliance
Q15.What documents do I need for shipping?
A:
Common shipping documents include:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin (if required)
- MSDS (for certain products)
Q16.Can you help prepare export documents?
A:
Yes.
We assist customers with export documentation and customs compliance requirements.
Industries & Cargo
Q17.Can you ship lighting products?
A:
Yes.
We have extensive experience shipping LED lighting, commercial lighting, and decorative lighting products worldwide.
Q18.Can you ship batteries or sensitive cargo?
A:
Yes.
Depending on battery type and destination, we'll recommend the appropriate shipping solution and documentation requirements.
Q19.Can you handle oversized machinery?
A:
Yes.
We provide project logistics solutions for oversized equipment, industrial machinery, and special cargo.
Payment & Terms
Q20.Which payment methods do you accept?
A:
We accept:
- USD Wire Transfer (T/T)
- RMB Bank Transfer
- Other payment methods upon request
Q21.Do you require payment before shipping?
A:
Payment terms depend on the shipping solution and cooperation history.
Our sales team will confirm payment arrangements before shipment.
Customers Also Asked
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Get expert advice and a competitive quote for your next shipment from China.