For businesses shipping from China to the USA, choosing the right logistics solution is critical. Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or flexibility, understanding the available options—air, sea, or trucking services—can help you optimize your supply chain. Below, we break down the key methods and how they align with different industries and shipping needs.

1. Air Express & Air Consolidation

Best for: Time-sensitive goods, high-value products, and urgent restocking.

• Shenzhen (Nanshan/Bao’an) – Electronics & Tech

  • Route: SZX/PEK → LAX/ORD

  • Service: Air express for samples, small batches; air consolidation for larger orders

  • Transit Time: 5–10 days

  • Handling: ESD-safe packaging, real-time tracking, pre-cleared customs

• Guangzhou (Huadu) – Cosmetics & Beauty Products

  • Route: CAN → JFK/LAX

  • Service: Temperature-controlled air freight with FDA compliance support

  • Transit Time: 7–12 days

  • Handling: Hazardous material documentation (if applicable), secure sealing

2. Sea Freight: FCL & LCL

Best for: Large-volume shipments, low-urgency cargo, and cost-sensitive operations.

• Dongguan (Industrial Manufacturing) – Furniture & Home Goods

  • Route: Yantian → Long Beach (FCL)

  • Service: Full container load with crating/palletizing

  • Transit Time: 25–35 days

  • Handling: On-site loading inspection, roll-back container options

• Foshan (Lighting & Hardware) – Bulky or Heavy Items

  • Route: Shekou → Newark (LCL)

  • Service: Less-than-container load combined with regional trucking

  • Transit Time: 30–40 days

  • Handling: Cargo insurance, destination port unpacking & inspection

3. Integrated Sea-Air & Trucking Solutions

Best for: Balancing cost and speed for mid-urgency shipments.

• Zhongshan (Lighting & Fixtures)

  • Route: Hong Kong → LAX (Sea-Air) → Dallas (Truck)

  • Service: Sea-air consolidation + final-mile trucking

  • Transit Time: 18–25 days

  • Handling: Customs bond filing, floor-loaded protection

• Hangzhou (E-commerce & Apparel)

  • Route: Shanghai → Seattle (Sea) → Chicago (Truck)

  • Service: LCL sea freight + dedicated truckload service

  • Transit Time: 28–38 days

  • Handling: Barcode labeling, Amazon FBA prep, POD confirmation

4. Key Factors When Choosing a USA Shipping Line

A. Transit Time vs. Cost

• Air: Highest cost, fastest delivery (days)

• Sea-Air: Mid-cost, mid-speed (2–4 weeks)

• Sea: Lowest cost, slowest delivery (4–6 weeks)

B. Cargo Type & Handling Needs

• Fragile/High-Value: Air or FCL with custom crating

• Non-Urgent Bulk: LCL or FCL sea freight

• E-Commerce Goods: LCL sea + trucking with FBA prep

C. Compliance & Customs

• Ensure your provider assists with:

  • HS code classification

  • FDA, FCC, or DOT compliance (if applicable)

  • Importer Security Filing (ISF) and ACE documentation

5. How to Avoid Common Shipping Delays

• Plan Documentation Early: Have commercial invoice, packing list, and origin certificates ready before departure.

• Monitor Surcharges: Confirm if quotes include BAF, PSS, or drayage fees.

• Track in Real-Time: Use a platform that updates vessel/airline status and customs clearance progress.

• Pre-Arrange Last-Mile Trucking: Avoid demurrage by coordinating pickup as soon as cargo clears port.

  

Next Steps

If you’re looking for a dedicated USA shipping line from China, we provide tailored air, sea, and trucking solutions—including specialized handling for electronics, furniture, and e-commerce cargo.

Request a customized quote: Share your shipment details (origin city, cargo type, volume, and destination), and we’ll recommend the most efficient and cost-effective route for you.