Shipping to China from the USA
Relocating to Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen or elsewhere in China? Ship your household goods from the USA by sea or air. Compare up to 5 free quotes from international movers.
- Region
- Asia
- Main sea ports
- Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Tianjin
- Main airports
- Beijing, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou
- Sea transit
- Typically about 4 to 8 weeks port to port
- Shipments
- Household goods, cars, boxes and barrels, commercial freight
Container shipping to China
Most household moves to China go by sea container. You can book a container just for your goods (FCL) or share one with other customers (LCL).
| Option | Space (approx.) | Usually fits |
|---|---|---|
| Shared container (LCL) | Pay per cubic metre or foot | A few rooms, up to about 15 m³ (530 ft³) |
| 20ft container (FCL) | About 33 m³ (1,170 ft³) | 1 to 2 bedroom home |
| 40ft container (FCL) | About 67 m³ (2,390 ft³) | 3 to 4 bedroom home, or household goods plus a car |
Not sure how much you have? Use our moving size calculator.
Air cargo to China
Air cargo (air freight) is the fastest way to ship to China. It is ideal for clothes, documents, electronics and things you need as soon as you arrive. Prices are based on the "chargeable weight": the actual weight or the volume weight, whichever is higher, so air cargo is best for smaller, lighter shipments.
Air shipments to China usually arrive at Beijing, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou.
Car shipping to China
Importing a personal used car to China is very difficult and rarely worthwhile. Most expats buy locally.
- RoRo: the car is driven onto the ship. Often the cheapest option, but you can't pack belongings in the car.
- Container: more protection, and you can combine the car with household goods.
- To export a car from the USA you need the original title, and the documents must be given to U.S. Customs before the car is loaded.
Shipping boxes and barrels to China
Only sending a few things? Shipping boxes, barrels or excess baggage to China is much cheaper than a full move. Many companies collect from your home and deliver door to door.
Commercial freight to China
Shipping goods for your business? Compare quotes for FCL and LCL freight, pallets and air freight to China, including customs clearance.
How much does shipping to China cost?
Every shipment is different, so prices vary a lot between companies. Your price depends on:
- The volume or weight of your goods
- Shared container, full container or air cargo
- Your pickup location in the USA and the destination city in China
- Packing, insurance, storage and door delivery
- Destination charges such as port fees and customs clearance
- Season and current freight rates
Ask each company what is included, especially destination charges. Compare up to 5 free quotes to find the best price.
How long does shipping to China take?
Sea freight from the USA to China typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Customs and documents for China
- You usually need your residence permit before household goods can be cleared, so the shipment may wait in storage until you have it.
- China has strict limits on printed and recorded media and some electronics; ask your mover before you pack.
Rules change, so always confirm with your shipping company. See also our guide to prohibited items and how to pack.
Shipping companies to China
We are adding verified shipping companies for China. Send one request and up to 5 companies that serve your route will contact you with quotes.
Frequently asked questions about shipping to China
How much does it cost to ship to China from the USA?
The cost depends on how much you ship (volume or weight), the method (shared container, full container or air cargo), your pickup location in the USA, the destination city in China, and extra services like packing, insurance and door delivery. Compare written quotes to know your real price: Movers World gets you up to 5 free quotes with one request.
How long does shipping to China take?
Sea freight from the USA to China typically takes about 4 to 8 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Can I ship a car to China?
Importing a personal used car to China is very difficult and rarely worthwhile. Most expats buy locally.
What documents do I need to ship to China?
Usually your passport, a detailed packing list and proof of your move such as a visa or residence permit. For a car you also need the title and bill of sale. Your shipping company will confirm the exact list for China.
Is air cargo or sea freight better for shipping to China?
Sea freight is much cheaper for furniture and large shipments, but slower. Air cargo is faster and best for small, urgent or valuable items. Many people combine both: a small air shipment for essentials and the rest by sea.