Freight Cost Trend in December 2024
US shipping rates have rapidly dropped in recent weeks, particularly on the West Coast, with some container prices falling below $2,000, while major shipping companies are offering rates around $2,400 to $2,500 with these prices valid until December 14th.
While the immediate future is uncertain, the traditional fourth-quarter slowdown and lack of external stimuli suggest that West Coast shipping rates are likely to remain under pressure in the coming month and into 2025.
Overview of Shipping from China to the USA
| Transport Mode | Transit Time | Price Range | Advantages / Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 1-3 days | $5 – $15 per kg | Best for urgent and high-value goods, quick delivery |
| Express Freight | 1-5 days | $15.5 per kg | Ideal for time-sensitive deliveries with door-to-door service |
| Sea Freight | 20-30days | $1,000 – $2,000 per container | Most economical for bulk shipments, suitable for non-urgent goods |
Shipping Methods
When you’re considering shipping goods, you have a variety of options to choose from, each with its own benefits based on your budget, cargo type, and urgency.
Let’s explore the most common way to ship from China to the US to see which is available to you.
Sea Freight: FCL and LCL
Sea freight is the long-distance shipping option for cargo by ship. As ocean-going vessels can carry large volumes of goods, sea freight is well-suited for transporting bulkier or heavier cargo in containers or as break bulk over long distances.
There are two ways to transport sea freight: FCL and LCL.
Full Container Load (FCL) from China to the United States offers you an exclusive container for your goods, an optimal choice when you have enough cargo to fill an entire container.
Less Than Container Load (LCL) is ideal when your cargo is not sufficient to fill a container; here, you share the container space with other shippers, which can be more economical for smaller shipments.
Air Freight: Cargo and Express
For faster delivery, Air Freight is available in two key forms: Cargo and Express shipping.
Standard Air Cargo services are generally more affordable and suitable for larger shipments that don’t require the speed of express services. On the other hand, Express Freight provides a swift solution for urgent or time-sensitive shipments, though it typically comes at a higher cost.
Courier Services
If you’re shipping small parcels or documents, Courier Services is a convenient option. We can offer door to door delivery with tracking and are typically faster than ocean freight. Courier services are known for their reliability and speed, making them a frequently chosen method for small-scale shipping needs.
Specialized Freight Services
For shipments requiring special handling or conditions, Specialized Freight Services are your go-to. Whether you need refrigerated containers for perishable items or have oversized equipment that needs extra attention, there are freight services tailored to your unique requirements. With these services, extra care is taken to ensure your goods arrive safely and in compliance with all relevant regulations.
Shipping Time From China to the US
Delivery Time
| Port to Port (days) | Door to Door (days) | |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight FCL | 13-40 | 15-25 |
| Sea Freight LCL | 13-40 | 15-25 |
| Air freight | 1-5 | 7-15 |
| Express | / | 3-6 |
Factors Affecting Shipping Time between China and the US
Shipping time estimates are general guidelines and can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Type of Vessel: Larger ships carry more cargo but are slower than specialized vessels, affecting arrival times.
- Weather Conditions: Storms can delay ships by forcing course changes or waiting out bad weather.
- Port Congestion: Busy or inefficient ports can increase wait times for loading and unloading.
- Route Schedule: Delays at earlier stops can impact the entire journey due to fixed schedules.
- Cargo Inspections: Customs checks for security and compliance can slow down clearance at some ports.
- Seasonality: Peak seasons can lead to higher shipping rates due to increased demand.
Shipping Cost
When shipping goods from China to US, freight charges can vary considerably, and shipping rates are influenced by multiple factors including the mode of transport and the total weight or volume of your shipment.
Shipping By the Sea
Shipping by the sea is the cheapest option for larger shipments. It is cheaper than air freight. If you are not in a hurry to ship your goods, choosing sea shipping is a good choice.
| Route | LCL(USD) | FCL(USD) | ||
| Container 20’ | Container 40’ | CBM (1-3 CBM) | CBM (3-9 CBM) | |
| Ningbo – Los Angeles | 1200 | 1300 | 30 | 40 |
| Ningbo – New York | 1800 | 2300 | 50 | 75 |
| Ningbo – Miami | 2200 | 2600 | 70 | 95 |
| Shanghai – Los Angeles | 1200 | 1500 | 30 | 40 |
| Shanghai – New York | 2000 | 2500 | 50 | 75 |
| Shanghai – Miami | 2400 | 3000 | 70 | 90 |
| Shenzhen – Los Angeles | 1350 | 1500 | 30 | 40 |
| Shenzhen – New York | 2100 | 2500 | 35 | 45 |
| Shenzhen – Miami | 2100 | 2600 | 40 | 45 |
Shipping By Air
| Shipping Route | Weight Category | Price Per KG ($USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai – Los Angeles (LAX) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.0 |
| Shanghai – New York (JFK) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.5 |
| Shanghai – Miami (MIA) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 5.6 |
| Shanghai – Chicago (ORD) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.6 |
| Guangzhou – Los Angeles (LAX) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.6 |
| Guangzhou – New York (JFK) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.9 |
| Guangzhou – Miami (MIA) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 5.5 |
| Guangzhou – Chicago (ORD) | 100KGS – 299KGS | 4.9 |
| Shanghai – Los Angeles (LAX) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.0 |
| Shanghai – New York (JFK) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.5 |
| Shanghai – Miami (MIA) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 5.6 |
| Shanghai – Chicago (ORD) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.6 |
| Guangzhou – Los Angeles (LAX) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.5 |
| Guangzhou – New York (JFK) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.9 |
| Guangzhou – Miami (MIA) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 5.5 |
| Guangzhou – Chicago (ORD) | 300KGS – 1000KGS | 4.9 |
| Shanghai – Los Angeles (LAX) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.0 |
| Shanghai – New York (JFK) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.5 |
| Shanghai – Miami (MIA) | Over 1000 KGS | 5.6 |
| Shanghai – Chicago (ORD) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.6 |
| Guangzhou – Los Angeles (LAX) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.2 |
| Guangzhou – New York (JFK) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.6 |
| Guangzhou – Miami (MIA) | Over 1000 KGS | 5.0 |
| Guangzhou – Chicago (ORD) | Over 1000 KGS | 4.6 |
Please note that the rates shown are only estimates to provide an indication of pricing. Actual quotes will vary depending on the specific details of the shipment, such as the goods, weight, dimensions, delivery timeline, and other requirements. We work with each customer individually to develop customized shipping solutions tailored to your needs and budget. You can expect competitive pricing that aims to deliver great value.
Please contact your freight forwarder to discuss your shipping needs and the final freight cost– Luckystar looks forward to putting together an unexpected price for you. We will offer you the cheapest way to ship your goods, we are your most trustworthy shipping company.
Tax and Fees
When you import goods from China to the US, you’ll encounter the taxes and fees.
Here are the steps to inquire about and understand U.S. tariffs:
- Confirm the product name and HS code.
- Visit the U.S. import tariff rate inquiry website.
- Enter the first six digits of the HS code in the search bar.
- Find the corresponding product name and check the basic tariff rate listed.
The tariff amount is calculated as follows:
[Tariff Amount] = [Tariff Rate] x [Declared Import Value]
Current Tax
As of November 2024, President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods imported into the United States starting on his first day in office, January 20, 2025.
Furthermore, there are discussions suggesting that tariffs could escalate to nearly 40% on imports from China as early as 2025.
| Product Category | Current Tariff Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics (e.g., smartphones, computers) | 25% | Increased tariffs on tech products since 2018. |
| Machinery and Equipment | 25% | Includes industrial machinery and parts. |
| Textiles and Apparel | 20% | Tariffs on clothing and fabric products. |
| Steel and Aluminum | 25% | Tariffs imposed under national security claims. |
| Consumer Goods (e.g., toys, furniture) | 10% | General tariff applied to a broad range of goods. |
| Automotive Parts | 25% | Includes parts for vehicles and machinery. |
| Chemicals | 10% | Varies by specific chemical product. |
| Agricultural Products | 10% – 25% | Tariffs vary significantly by product type. |
Prohibited and Restricted Items
| Item Category | Prohibited or Restricted | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Illegal drugs | Prohibited | Health and safety, prevent drug trafficking |
| Counterfeit goods | Prohibited | Protect trademarks and intellectual property |
| Unsafe products | Prohibited | Protect consumers from dangerous items |
| Bushmeat | Prohibited | Prevent the spread of disease |
| Unapproved food/supplements | Prohibited | Ensure safety standards are met |
| Explosives and hazardous materials | Prohibited | Public and environmental safety |
| Fruits, vegetables, plants | Restricted | Prevent the introduction of pests and disease |
| Meat, dairy, eggs | Restricted | Prevent the spread of foreign animal disease |
| Medicines | Restricted | Safety, prevent unauthorized distribution |
| Wildlife products | Restricted | Conservation, ensure sustainable trade |
| Artifacts | Restricted | Protect cultural heritage, prevent theft/trafficking |
Regulatory Factors When Shippping From China to the US
Necessary Legal Documents
A set of specific documents is necessary for every shipment entering the US:
- Commercial Invoice: Details the transaction between the exporter and importer.
- Bill of Lading: A contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier.
- Arrival Notice: Issued by the carrier to inform you of your shipment’s arrival.
- Customs Bond: Required for shipments valued over $2,500, or commodities subject to other government agencies’ regulations..
Incoterms Used When Shipping From China to the USA
- EXW (Ex Works): You are responsible for the entire shipping process from the seller’s location to the USA.
- FOB (Free On Board): The seller is responsible until your goods are on board the ship.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): The seller pays costs and assumes liability until the goods reach the port of destination.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): It indicates the seller is responsible for delivery of goods to the named place in the country of the buyer, and pays all costs in bringing the goods to the destination including import duties, taxes and terminal handling charges.
Why Choose Us? Luckystar Logistic
Founded in 2022, Luckystar is a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) offering the best shipping service. With over 20 years of experience, our team provides superior international freight service from China to US and Canada.
Why Choose Luckystar?
- Accuracy: We ensure timely deliveries, crucial for businesses needing swift customer service.
- Global Reach: Our extensive network covers the globe, expanding your business reach.
- Live Tracking: Track your shipment’s progress every step of the way for complete peace of mind.
- Personalized Service: Dedicated team members oversee your shipment from start to finish, keeping you informed throughout the process.
- Hazardous Materials Expertise: We handle hazardous materials safely and efficiently.
Contact us today for the most affordable international shipping rates.