Best Options to Ship from the US to China

Both traditional techniques of commerce and eCommerce have seen significant growth in China. There is a large market for American goods in China and vice versa, in addition to the country’s predominance in manufacturing and the global economy. But how can you equip your eCommerce business to export to China? Shipping to China from the US may be time-consuming, error-prone, and expensive, especially if you’re a smaller or mid-sized eCommerce business, due to the country’s stricter guidelines and rules than most other nations.

Although shipping to China has gotten a little bit simpler as a result of numerous Chinese and foreign shipping firms, there are multiple problems you might face. Learn about the delivery alternatives, restrictions, delivery timelines, and services that can assist you in growing your e-commerce business in China in this guide on shipping from the US to China.

Basics of Shipping from the US to China

Depending on the shipping carrier chosen, the origin, and the delivery address, international shipments from the US to China take varying amounts of time to arrive at their destination. Your shipments should arrive within one to twelve business days, nevertheless.

The cost of shipping a product from the US to China is also dependent on a number of factors. These factors consist of the following: Delivery timeline, Shipment weight, and dimensions. If you choose a cheaper method of shipping to China, you should assume a lengthier commute time for your package and if you want expedited shipping you might have to pay a bit more.

Customs Clearance and Documentation for China

Above all, before sending anything to China, a tariff code is necessary. Next, based on the item’s worth and the exportation’s purpose, the duty and taxes you must pay are calculated. With the exception of papers or documentation, duty and tax are applied to all products that pass through customs. The recipient often must pay customs fees upon entrance, and the local customs authorities will typically contact the recipient to arrange payment.

A customs invoice including a detail of the contents, the place of manufacturing, the specific value of each item, and the purpose for export is required to clear your package through customs. 20–30% of the cost of the items being shipped may be charged in customs. If the products in your package are less than 500 Yuan in value, they will be exempted from customs and taxes. 

 – A Custom Registration (CR) code needs to be listed on the invoice for each product you export to China.

– Each type of product has a unique customs number called the HS (Harmonized System) code, which defines the regulations, certificates, and customs charges.

– Products including fabrics, beauty products, toys, furniture, and food that must pass safety testing are covered by the GB standard (Chinese national standard).

– Certain products have quality certificates issued by the Chinese government. Among them are items like toys, latex items, medical instruments, electronics, and telecommunications products.

– Most products are subject to a 17 percent VAT.

– It’s crucial to know that the total amount of your package cannot surpass 1,000 Chinese Yen. If this is the case, the receiver must register with the customs authorities.

Prohibited or Restricted Items

In comparison to other major countries, China has more restrictions on products imported from other countries. As a result, based on processing times and customs clearance, your products’ delivery could be delayed by a few days or weeks.

The following items are forbidden from being shipped to China:

– Beverages containing alcohol

– United States-produced beef and beef-related products

– Machine components, equipment, and electronic products (requires certification)

– Wood

– Bamboo

– Rattan

– Cane

– Food items

– Pets and animals

– Fur

– Dairy products

– Fragrances

– Tobacco

– Seeds and plants

– Cash

Best Options to Ship from the US to China

In order to meet the shipping requirements of just about every customer, FedEx, DHL, UPS, and USPS provide a range of international shipping options from the US to China. The available shipping services are listed below:

FedEx

Services: FedEx International Priority, FedEx International Economy
Delivery Time: 2–5 business days
Best For: Commercial shipments and high-value goods

DHL

UPS

UPS offers fast and reliable international shipping with comprehensive tracking and delivery assurance. It’s a preferred choice for businesses looking for secure and timely delivery of their goods.

Services: UPS Worldwide Saver, UPS Worldwide Expedited, UPS Worldwide Express
Delivery Time: 2–5 business days
Best For: Businesses needing quick, secure delivery

USPS

USPS is one of the most affordable options for shipping small and lightweight parcels to China. While delivery may take longer than express couriers, it’s ideal for personal or low-cost eCommerce shipments.

Services: Priority Mail International, First-Class Package International, Priority Mail Express International
Typical Delivery Time: 6–10 business days
Best For: Low-cost, non-urgent shipments

Customs and Import Regulations When Shipping to China

Shipping from the US to China requires compliance with Chinese customs regulations to ensure your packages clear smoothly and reach the recipient on time. Understanding the required documents, taxes, and restrictions is crucial for both personal and commercial shipments.

1. Required Documents

To ship from the US to China, the following documents are typically required:

• Commercial Invoice: Lists the items being shipped, their value, quantity, and purpose (sale, gift, sample, etc.).

• Packing List: Details the contents of each package, including weight and dimensions.

• Customs Declaration: Submitted to Chinese customs to describe the shipment and its value.

2. Import Taxes and VAT

China applies import duties and taxes based on the type and value of the goods:

• Customs Duty: Varies depending on the product’s HS code.

• Value Added Tax (VAT): Generally applied to most imported items.

• Consumption Tax: Applicable to certain categories like alcohol or luxury goods.

3. Restricted and Prohibited Items

Some items cannot be shipped to China, while others require special permits:

• Prohibited Items: Firearms, explosives, narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain chemicals.

• Restricted Items: Food products, electronics with lithium batteries, cosmetics, and medical devices may require certificates or permits.

4. Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance

To avoid delays or fines when shipping from the US to China:

• Accurate Labeling: Include full recipient information and a clear product description.

• Correct HS Codes: Use the correct Harmonized System codes for your goods.

• Proper Documentation: Ensure invoices and packing lists match the actual shipment.

• Value Declaration: Declare the actual value of goods honestly; under-declaring can lead to fines.

• Use Trusted Carriers: DHL, FedEx, UPS, and USPS have experience navigating Chinese customs.

How to Ship from the US to China with ReachShip?

Creating a shipping plan that enables eCommerce companies to effectively explain their delivery alternatives to buyers is vital. ReachShip has made international shipping easier and more streamlined than ever before. When you sign up with ReachShip, you can get real-time pricing from all four primary carriers, including FedEx, UPS, USPS, and DHL. From a single location, you can compare the rates, services, and delivery timelines for all shipping options offered for US to China shipping. Every stage of the shipping process can be automated using ReachShip, including buying postage, printing shipping labels, creating packages, scheduling pickups, and tracking shipments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chinese customers continue to be enthusiastic and keen on buying international products. It’s understandable that cross-border eCommerce businesses seek to discover the best shipping options to China as their spending power grows and online shopping becomes more popular.  While exporting goods to China is still difficult, finding a reliable local logistics partner, like ReachShip, that can help with everything from shipping to customs and tracking can be an excellent starting point. We hope this article has given you a detailed idea about shipping from the US to China. If you have any questions regarding the US to China shipping options, please let us know in the comments section below.

FAQs

1. Can I ship perishable goods from the US to China?

Yes, perishable goods can be shipped from the US to China, but you must use refrigerated packaging and choose carriers that support cold-chain shipping. DHL, FedEx, and specialized freight forwarders provide services for food and medical supplies.

2. Do I need shipping insurance for US to China shipments?

While not mandatory, shipping insurance is highly recommended for US to China shipments, especially for high-value items. Most carriers, including UPS, FedEx, and DHL, offer insurance options to protect against loss or damage.

3.Can I ship electronics from the US to China?

Yes, electronics can be shipped from the US to China, but they must comply with Chinese customs regulations. Certain items may require certifications or permits, such as lithium batteries or wireless devices.

4.Can I ship gifts from the US to China?

Yes, gifts can be shipped from the US to China. However, ensure they comply with customs restrictions, are properly declared, and the value does not exceed gift exemptions if applicable.

5. Is it possible to ship from the US to China without a commercial invoice?

No. A commercial invoice is required for all shipments from the US to China, whether personal or commercial, to clear customs. It includes details like item description, quantity, value, and HS code.

Further Reading

5 Best Options to Ship from the US to Canada

5 Best Options to Ship from the US to Mexico

Best Alternative Options for UPS, FedEx, and DHL: Explained