Shipping from Xiamen to USA

Are you searching for the most efficient solutions for shipping from Xiamen to USA? Navigating the complexities of ocean freight, air freight, and customs clearance can be challenging for any business. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the primary shipping routes, cost factors, transit times, and everything you need to know to ensure smooth and cost-effective Xiamen-USA shipping.

shipping from Xiamen to USA

Primary Shipping Routes from Xiamen to the USA

Shipping from Xiamen to the USA relies on well-established international logistics channels. As a major port city in southeastern China, Xiamen Port is a strategic starting point for ocean and air freight destined for various United States locations.

Main Sea Routes

The most common primary shipping routes for ocean freight from Xiamen connect with key US West Coast ports, such as Los Angeles (Port of Los Angeles) and Long Beach, as well as East Coast ports like New York/New Jersey and Savannah. These routes are part of global shipping lanes used by major shipping lines, ensuring reliability and frequency.
For a broader view of US maritime infrastructure, you can also explore an overview of the biggest ports in the US.

Typical Ocean Freight Routes:

Route

Major US Destination Ports

Estimated Transit Time (Days)

Xiamen – Los Angeles/Long Beach

Los Angeles, Long Beach

15 – 22

Xiamen – Seattle/Tacoma

Seattle, Tacoma

18 – 24

Xiamen – New York/New Jersey

New York/New Jersey

27 – 35

Xiamen – Savannah

Savannah

28 – 36

Main Air Freight Routes

For time-sensitive shipments, air freight directly links Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) to major American airports. Most flights transit through major Asian hubs (such as Hong Kong or Shanghai) before arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

If you are interested in shipping by air on other popular lanes, check out typical transit times for air freight from China to USA.

Typical Air Freight Routes:

Route

Major US Destination Airports

Estimated Transit Time

Xiamen – Los Angeles

LAX

3 – 5 Days

Xiamen – Chicago

ORD

4 – 6 Days

Xiamen – New York

JFK

5 – 7 Days

By leveraging these primary shipping lanes, Dantful International Logistics ensures regular, secure, and cost-effective deliveries when shipping from Xiamen to the USA.

Ocean Freight from Xiamen to the USA

Ocean freight is the most common and economical method for shipping large volumes of goods from Xiamen to the United States. It is ideal for businesses that prioritize cost-effectiveness over transit time.

For a comprehensive look at shipping by sea from China to the USA, including tips and best practices, see Sea Freight From China to United States.

Types of Ocean Freight Services

There are two major options when considering ocean freight:

  1. Full Container Load (FCL):

    • Suitable for large shipments that fill a standard 20-foot or 40-foot shipping container.

    • Offers enhanced security and faster processing at both origin and destination ports.

  2. Less than Container Load (LCL):

    • Ideal for smaller shipments that do not require a full container.

    • Goods are consolidated with other shippers’ cargo, which helps to save costs.

Dantful International Logistics provides both FCL and LCL solutions, ensuring flexibility based on your shipment size and budget.

Advantages of Ocean Freight

  • Cost-Effective: Ocean shipping remains the most affordable option for heavy or bulk cargo.

  • Scalable: Handles everything from small pallets to oversized project cargo.

  • Eco-Friendly: Lower carbon footprint per unit compared to air freight.

Ocean Freight Transit Times

Transit times can vary depending on the route, carrier, and port congestion. Here is an overview:

Destination Port

FCL Transit Time (Days)

LCL Transit Time (Days)

Los Angeles

15 – 22

18 – 25

Seattle

18 – 24

20 – 27

New York

27 – 35

30 – 38

Savannah

28 – 36

31 – 39

Note: LCL shipments may take slightly longer due to additional consolidation and deconsolidation processes.

Typical Ocean Freight Process

  1. Booking: Confirm space with a shipping line or freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics.

  2. Cargo Pickup: Arrange for goods to be collected from your supplier in Xiamen.

  3. Export Customs Clearance: Handle all necessary paperwork and customs declarations.

  4. Port Handling: Cargo is loaded onto a vessel at Xiamen Port.

  5. Transit: Vessel sails to the chosen US port.

  6. Arrival & Import Customs Clearance: Goods are unloaded, cleared through US customs, and delivered to the final destination.

Air Freight from Xiamen to the USA

Air Freight is the fastest shipping method from Xiamen, China to the USA. It is especially suitable for time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable cargo. Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) serves as the main cargo hub in Xiamen, offering frequent direct and indirect flights to major airports in the United States such as Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), New York (JFK), and Dallas (DFW).

If you are comparing with other Asian shipping origins, you might also be interested in learning about shipping cost from China to USA Amazon FBA.

Key Benefits of Air Freight from Xiamen to USA:

  • Speed: Transit times are typically 3–7 days, depending on the chosen service level. Express shipments may arrive within 2–3 days.

  • Reliability: Air carriers maintain strict schedules, reducing the risk of delays.

  • Security: Air cargo is handled with high security standards, reducing the risk of damage or theft.

  • Tracking: Most air freight shipments offer real-time tracking, providing transparency.

Typical Air Freight Options

Service Level

Transit Time (Xiamen to US Major Airports)

Suitable For

Estimated Cost (per kg)

Standard Air Freight

5–7 days

General cargo, non-urgent

$4.50–$7.00 (as of Q3 2025)

Express Air Freight

2–4 days

Urgent, high-value goods

$7.50–$11.00 (as of Q3 2025)

Please note: Costs are indicative, subject to fluctuations due to fuel surcharges, seasonality, and space availability. For a precise quote, contact a trusted forwarder like Dantful International Logistics.

Types of Cargo Suitable for Air Freight

  • Electronic products

  • Fashion and apparel

  • Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

  • Automotive parts

  • Perishables (flowers, seafood, etc.)

Air Freight Process Overview

  1. Cargo Booking: Reserve space with an airline through your freight forwarder.

  2. Documentation Preparation: Includes Airway Bill, commercial invoice, packing list, and any required certificates.

  3. Cargo Pickup and Delivery: Goods are transported to Xiamen airport for export clearance.

  4. Customs Clearance: Both at export in China and import in the US.

  5. Final Delivery: From US airport to consignee’s address (if required).

Dantful International Logistics leverages strong partnerships with major airlines to offer competitive rates, flexible solutions, and end-to-end tracking for air freight shipments from Xiamen to the USA. Our experienced team simplifies the documentation and customs clearance processes, ensuring your cargo arrives safely and on time.

Door-to-Door Shipping from Xiamen to the USA

Door-to-door shipping is a comprehensive logistics solution for businesses and individuals importing from Xiamen to the USA. This service covers every step: picking up goods from the supplier’s location in China, international transit (by air or ocean), customs clearance, and final delivery to the consignee’s address in the United States.

For more on all-inclusive logistics solutions, see door to door shipping from China to United States.

What Is Included in Door-to-Door Shipping?

  • Pickup: Collection from supplier/warehouse in Xiamen.

  • Export Customs Clearance: All required export procedures and documentation in China.

  • International Shipping: By ocean freight (FCL/LCL) or air freight.

  • Import Customs Clearance: Handling all necessary import documentation and duties in the USA.

  • Final Delivery: Trucking to the recipient’s warehouse, Amazon FBA center, or business location.

Benefits of Door-to-Door Shipping

  • Convenience: One-stop solution; the freight forwarder manages the entire logistics chain.

  • Cost Transparency: All costs are combined into a single invoice, avoiding hidden charges.

  • Reduced Risk: Fewer handovers, minimizing the chance of loss or delay.

  • End-to-End Tracking: Monitors your cargo from the supplier in Xiamen to your doorstep in the USA.

Comparison Table: Door-to-Door vs. Port-to-Port Shipping

Service Type

Who Handles Customs?

Who Arranges Local Delivery?

Suitable For

Complexity for Importer

Door-to-Door

Freight forwarder

Freight forwarder

New importers, e-commerce

Very low

Port-to-Port

Importer

Importer

Experienced importers

Medium to high

Customs & Compliance

A reliable freight partner like Dantful International Logistics ensures compliance with both Chinese export regulations and US import regulations, handling documentation such as:

  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • ISF (Importer Security Filing for the USA)

  • Other certificates (if required, e.g., FDA, FCC)

Whether you are shipping full containers, less-than-container loads, or urgent air freight, Dantful International Logistics ensures a hassle-free and smooth shipping experience from Xiamen to the USA.

Shipping costs from Xiamen to USA

Shipping costs from Xiamen to USA are influenced by the type of freight, destination port or airport, cargo volume, and seasonal fluctuations. Understanding the average rates and their structure helps importers make informed decisions.

If you want to compare with similar Asian origins, you may also view up-to-date shipping rates from China to USA.

Overview of Shipping Costs

Below is a comparative table of estimated shipping rates from Xiamen to key USA ports, based on recent 2025 market data. Rates are for reference only and may vary depending on carrier, cargo specifics, and market changes. For precise quotes, always contact a reliable freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics.

Service Type

Destination Port/Airport

Container/Weight

Estimated Cost (USD)

Transit Time

Ocean Freight (FCL)

Los Angeles Port

20’ GP Container

$2,200 – $3,000

18-22 days

Ocean Freight (FCL)

New York Port

40’ HQ Container

$4,000 – $6,200

28-33 days

Ocean Freight (LCL)

Houston Port

1 CBM

$120 – $180/CBM

22-28 days

Air Freight (Standard)

Los Angeles (LAX)

100 kg

$5.20 – $7.50/kg

2-5 days

Air Freight (Express)

Chicago (ORD)

45 kg

$7.50 – $10.00/kg

1-3 days

Door-to-Door

Amazon FBA Warehouse (LA)

1 CBM

$650 – $900

20-28 days

  • FCL (Full Container Load) rates offer cost efficiency for large shipments.

  • LCL (Less than Container Load) is suitable for smaller volumes.

  • Air Freight is ideal for urgent and high-value goods, albeit at a higher rate.

  • Door-to-Door services, including customs, inland delivery, and last mile, are increasingly popular for e-commerce and Amazon FBA shipments.

For the most competitive and tailored shipping solutions, Dantful International Logistics provides transparent quotations, multiple service options, and expert consultation. Contact our team for a custom quote.

Factors Influencing Shipping Costs

When evaluating shipping from Xiamen to USA, understanding the factors that impact freight rates is crucial for budgeting and planning logistics.

For additional details on container shipping charges, you may refer to container shipping costs from China to USA.

Main Factors Impacting Shipping Costs

  1. Freight Mode

    • Ocean Freight (FCL/LCL) is generally more cost-effective for bulk cargo but takes longer.

    • Air Freight is faster but more expensive, suitable for urgent or perishable goods.

  2. Cargo Volume and Weight

    • Costs are calculated by either actual weight or volumetric weight (for air cargo), whichever is higher.

    • Larger shipments may benefit from volume discounts.

  3. Destination Port or Airport

    • Shipping to major ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, or New York may be cheaper due to higher shipping frequencies and economies of scale.

    • Inland or less common destinations may incur higher inland transportation or handling fees.

  4. Type of Goods

    • Oversized, hazardous, or temperature-controlled cargo often carries surcharges.

    • Certain commodities may require special documentation, impacting costs.

  5. Seasonality and Market Fluctuations

    • Freight rates spike during peak seasons (e.g., pre-Christmas, back-to-school, Chinese New Year).

    • Geopolitical events, supply chain disruptions, and fuel prices also influence costs.

  6. Service Level

    • Value-added services such as insurance, customs clearance, warehousing, and door-to-door delivery add flexibility but may increase overall costs.

  7. Customs Duties and Local Charges

    • Import tariffs, customs inspection fees, port handling, and documentation costs are often not included in basic freight rates.

Example Cost Breakdown

Cost Component

Estimated Share (%)

Ocean/Air Freight

60 – 75%

Inland Transportation

10 – 15%

Customs/Duties

8 – 12%

Documentation

2 – 3%

Insurance/Other Fees

2 – 5%

To manage and optimize your shipping budget, it is essential to work with a trusted logistics partner. Dantful International Logistics offers a comprehensive solution, including ocean freight, air freight, customs clearance, door-to-door delivery, and more. Our expertise ensures that you receive transparent pricing with no hidden costs, allowing for seamless and cost-effective delivery from Xiamen to any destination in the USA.

Customs Clearance and Import Regulations in the USA

When shipping from Xiamen to USA, understanding the customs clearance process and import regulations is essential to avoid delays and additional costs. The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations.

For a hands-on guide to regulatory procedures, see import procedure from china to United States.

Key Steps in U.S. Customs Clearance

  1. Entry Filing:
    All shipments entering the United States must be declared to CBP. This involves submitting a formal entry with required documentation, including the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and any applicable import licenses.

  2. ISF Filing:
    For ocean freight, the Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as “10+2,” must be submitted at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded at Xiamen Port. Non-compliance can result in significant fines.

  3. Duty and Tax Assessment:
    Import duties are determined based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code of the product, its value, and country of origin. You can check current duty rates at the U.S. International Trade Commission’s Tariff Database.

  4. Customs Examination:
    Shipments may be selected for inspection. Proper documentation and packaging help minimize inspection delays.

  5. Release and Delivery:
    Upon successful clearance, cargo is released for final delivery. For door-to-door shipping, a reliable freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics will handle final arrangements.

Import Regulations

  • Restricted and Prohibited Items:
    Certain goods, such as firearms, hazardous materials, and counterfeit products, are restricted or prohibited.

  • Labeling Requirements:
    All imported goods must comply with U.S. labeling and safety standards, especially food, electronics, and children’s products.

  • Partner Government Agencies (PGAs):
    Shipments may also require clearance from agencies such as FDA, USDA, or EPA, depending on the cargo type.

Estimated Transit Times from Xiamen to Major US Ports

Transit times are critical when planning your supply chain. Actual shipping duration depends on the mode of transport, route, and ports involved. Below is a comparison of estimated transit times for both ocean freight and air freight from Xiamen to major U.S. ports.

If you want to compare with other major China-US port-to-port shipping durations, see our analysis of how long is freight from China to USA.

Ocean Freight Transit Times

Xiamen Port

US Port (West Coast)

US Port (East Coast)

US Port (Gulf Coast)

Los Angeles

14-17 days

Long Beach

14-17 days

Seattle

16-19 days

New York

28-32 days

Savannah

27-31 days

Houston

25-29 days

Note: Transit times are approximate and can vary due to vessel schedules, port congestion, and customs clearance.

Air Freight Transit Times

Xiamen Airport (XMN)

Destination Airport

Estimated Transit Time

Los Angeles (LAX)

2-4 days

Chicago (ORD)

3-5 days

New York (JFK)

3-5 days

Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)

3-6 days

Air freight times include main transit only. Door-to-door deliveries may add 1-2 days for local handling and customs.

Choosing the Right Option

  • Ocean freight is cost-effective for large, non-urgent shipments.

  • Air freight is ideal for high-value, time-sensitive, or perishable goods.

Dantful International Logistics provides full visibility, real-time tracking, and optimized routing to ensure your cargo arrives on time. We help you select the most reliable and efficient shipping solution, tailored to your needs.

For the latest schedules and real-time transit estimates, contact our professional team or visit Dantful International Logistics.

Step-by-step guide to shipping from Xiamen to USA

Shipping from Xiamen to the USA involves several critical steps that ensure your cargo arrives safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulations. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide tailored specifically for global traders and importers:

1. Identify Your Shipping Requirements
Start by determining the nature, volume, and type of goods you wish to ship. Knowing whether your shipment is general cargo, hazardous material, oversized, or requires cold chain logistics will dictate the shipping mode and documentation needed.

2. Choose the Right Shipping Mode
You can select between Ocean Freight (FCL/LCL), Air Freight, or a combination such as Door-to-Door shipping. Your choice depends on the urgency, budget, and type of goods. For more insights on selecting the appropriate sea freight service, see what is LCL and FCL in shipping.

3. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder
A professional freight forwarder like Dantful International Logistics can handle your shipment end-to-end, including customs, insurance, and warehousing.

4. Obtain an Accurate Quote
Request a detailed quote from your freight forwarder. Make sure it covers all charges, including pickup, transportation, customs clearance, and delivery to the final destination.

5. Prepare Documentation
Key documents include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading/Air Waybill, and, if required, special permits or certificates. Your freight forwarder will guide you through document preparation.

6. Arrange Pickup and Inland Transport
Coordinate with your logistics partner for pickup from your supplier’s warehouse in Xiamen and delivery to the port or airport.

7. Customs Clearance and Export Declaration
Your freight forwarder will handle the export declaration process in China and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

8. Shipment Handling and Transit
Goods are shipped via your chosen mode. For ocean freight, containers are loaded at Xiamen Port. For air freight, cargo is flown from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport.

9. Arrival at USA Port or Airport
Upon arrival at major USA ports such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York, or Houston, your goods undergo customs clearance and inspection.

10. Final Delivery
After clearing customs, goods are delivered to your designated address. This may involve further inland transportation or last-mile delivery.

Step-by-Step Shipping Process Table

Step

Description

Responsible Party

Identify Requirements

Define cargo, weight, and shipping needs

Shipper

Choose Shipping Mode

Ocean, Air, Door-to-Door

Shipper/Freight Forwarder

Select Freight Forwarder

Choose logistics partner

Shipper

Obtain Quote

Receive detailed cost breakdown

Freight Forwarder

Documentation

Prepare all required documents

Shipper/Forwarder

Pickup & Inland Transit

Collect goods and move to port/airport

Freight Forwarder

Export Customs

Complete Chinese customs and declaration

Freight Forwarder

International Transit

Ship goods to USA

Carrier

USA Customs Clearance

Handle import clearance and inspection

Freight Forwarder/Customs

Final Delivery

Last mile to recipient

Freight Forwarder/Courier

By following these steps, importers can ensure that their shipping process from Xiamen to USA is smooth, cost-effective, and fully compliant with all legal requirements.

Why Choose Dantful International Logistics for Your Xiamen-USA Shipments

Selecting the right freight forwarder is crucial for successful shipping from Xiamen to the USA. Here’s why Dantful International Logistics stands out as your best partner:

1. Comprehensive One-Stop Services
We offer a full spectrum of logistics solutions, including Ocean Freight, Air Freight, Rail Freight, Road Freight, Amazon FBA logistics, Warehousing, Customs Clearance, Insurance, Door-to-Door delivery, Out-of-Gauge (OOG) Freight, Consolidated Freight, and Breakbulk Freight. This integrated approach saves you time and effort by consolidating all logistics needs under one roof.

2. Extensive Experience and Industry Expertise
With years of hands-on experience shipping from Xiamen to major USA ports such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York, Savannah, and Houston, Dantful understands the challenges, regulations, and best practices required for a seamless supply chain.

3. Competitive Pricing with No Hidden Fees
We leverage strong carrier relationships to provide highly competitive rates for both FCL and LCL shipments, as well as air freight. Our transparent pricing ensures you always know what you are paying for.

4. Global Network, Local Expertise
Our robust global agent network and in-depth local knowledge in both China and the USA enable us to offer truly Door-to-Door shipping solutions, fast customs clearance, and reliable inland transportation.

5. Advanced Tracking and Customer Support
Dantful offers 24/7 online shipment tracking and dedicated customer service, ensuring you are always informed about your cargo’s status.

6. Proven Track Record for Compliance
We maintain a strong focus on regulatory compliance, helping you navigate complex US customs, tariff codes, and import regulations, minimizing the risk of delays or penalties.

7. Flexible Solutions for Businesses of All Sizes
Whether you are an established importer or a first-time shipper, we provide tailored solutions to fit your specific needs, budgets, and timelines.

8. Value-added Services
Our expertise extends to Amazon FBA shipments, cargo insurance, and warehousing solutions, supporting your business growth and supply chain resilience.

Why Dantful for Xiamen-USA Shipments?

Feature

Dantful International Logistics

Other Providers

Full-Service Logistics

Yes

Limited

Competitive Rates

Yes

Variable

Local & Global Network

Yes

Often limited

24/7 Support & Tracking

Yes

Not always offered

Expertise in US Customs

Yes

Varies

Amazon FBA & E-commerce Ready

Yes

Not always

When shipping from Xiamen to USA, Dantful International Logistics is your reliable, professional, and cost-effective partner. We help you navigate every step of the shipping process with confidence, ensuring timely delivery and peace of mind. For a free quote or expert consultation, contact us today!

ceo

Young Chiu is a seasoned logistics expert with over 15 years of experience in international freight forwarding and supply chain management. As CEO of Dantful International Logistics, Young is dedicated to providing valuable insights and practical advice to businesses navigating the complexities of global shipping.

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