What's the cheapest way to ship goods from China to the US?

What's the cheapest way to ship goods from China to the US?

Current Article Tags:

Express Delivery, Logistics, Express Delivery Prices From China to the United States  

Table of Content：

Shipping method and shipping companies: an overview

---Shipping Method

---Shipping Companies

Who is cheaper?

Who has the highest transportation efficiency?

Which business has the longest operating hours?

Conclusion

FAQs

Shipping method and shipping companies: an overview

Choosing the most economical shipping method from China to the United States depends on factors such as weight, size, and speed requirements. In terms of shipping method, large items are the cheapest option, but take 30-45 days; air freight is the fastest, but the most expensive (3-7 days). Regarding logistics service providers, international providers such as USPS、UPS、FedEx、DHL、EMS、SF Express all offer shipping services from China to the United States, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This article will provide an in-depth analysis and comparison of three aspects: working hours, transportation efficiency, and price, to help you eliminate doubts and find a suitable logistics provider. You can choose according to your needs. If you are unsure which logistics service to choose, please☞https://chinadivision.com/ for professional assistance.

Shipping Method

By Air

Pros:

• Air freight is the fastest, typically delivering within 3-7 business days, ideal for products with tight deadlines or customers who prioritize fast delivery;

Cons:

• Air freight is the most expensive compared to sea freight, it is less cost-effective for bulky or heavy shipments;

By Sea

Pros:

• Ocean freight is the most economical option for large-volume goods; it is ideal for non-perishable goods where speed is not critical;

Cons:

• Ocean freight from China to the United States takes the longest, making it unsuitable for goods with tight time constraints;

Shipping Companies

In cross-border e-commerce transactions from China to the United States, choosing the right logistics service is crucial, directly impacting your operating costs, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. As international logistics giants, USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL each have their own strengths and limitations. USPS is inexpensive but slower, UPS is better suited for heavy cargo, FedEx is fast but more expensive, and DHL guarantees delivery within 3-5 days for routes to Europe and the United States. Chinese logistics companies EMS and SF Express also offer cross-border services from China to the United States. EMS has a high tolerance for different items but is slower, while SF Express is fast but more expensive. See below for details:

USPS (United States Postal Service)

Pros:

• Small packages enjoy preferential rates and no fuel surcharge;
• delivery to every address within the United States, including remote areas and PO boxes;
• 24/7 delivery available;
• simplified domestic customs procedures;

Cons:

• The default insurance coverage offered is low;
• Although tracking services have improved, they remain limited compared to other services;
• customer support is not as responsive as other courier companies;
• delivery times for standard options are typically slower than UPS and FedEx;

 ☞Website: https://www.usps.com/

UPS(United Parcel Service)

Pros:

• Offers enhanced insurance options and comprehensive customs brokerage services for international shipments;
• Real-time tracking with UPS® drop-off point and UPS Authorized Service Point® locations;
• A highly sophisticated tracking system provides accurate information on package delivery;
• Extensive international coverage, ideal for global shipping;

Cons:

• Smaller or lighter packages incur higher shipping costs;
• Additional surcharges apply for fuel surcharges, residential delivery, and oversized items;
• Free pickup service is limited unless scheduled;
• UPS has the highest package damage rate, reaching 11%;

 ☞Website: https://www.ups.com/us/en/home

FedEx (Federal Express)

  Pros:

• Offers expedited shipping options to ensure on-time delivery, ideal for time-sensitive shipments;
• Advanced tracking system with real-time updates and notifications;
• Highly time-sensitive;
• FedEx's damage rate is 7%, lower than the other two major carriers;

Cons:

• Shipping costs are generally higher compared toUSPS, especially for express services;
• The pricing structure is complex, including various surcharges, making the total cost more difficult to estimate;
• The number of physical delivery points is fewer than other courier companies;

 ☞Website: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/home.html

DHL

Pros:

• Renowned for its international shipping expertise, operating in over 220 countries and regions;
• Provides fast international shipping services for businesses with tight time constraints;
• DHL is committed to investing in cutting-edge logistics technology and sustainable development practices;

Cons:

• Its main strength lies in international shipping; its domestic service coverage in the United States may not be as extensive as other carriers;
• Prices may be higher;
• DHL has strict controls on liquids and powders;

 ☞Website: https://www.dhl.com/us-en/home.html

EMS

Pros:

• High cost-effectiveness, especially for lightweight items under 2kg, shipping to the US costs only around 100 RMB;
• Postal customs clearance is used when exporting from China, resulting in a low inspection rate, and even if taxes are levied, the amount is small;
• Greater tolerance for items, including food, cosmetics, and small amounts of liquids;

Cons:

• Slower physical speed than private companies, potentially causing delays due to customs inspections;
• Tracking information is not always detailed.

 ☞Website：https://ems.post/en

SF Express

SF Express is committed to providing customers with end-to-end, one-stop supply chain services both domestically and internationally. With a cross-border business network covering 202 countries and regions worldwide, SF Express offers sellers cost-effective logistics services. Leveraging its strong domestic network, large self-owned fleet, and robust international transportation capabilities, SF Express provides efficient delivery solutions for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Through simplified customs clearance processes, reliable transit times, and comprehensive logistics tracking, SF Express helps you improve operational efficiency while ensuring a smooth and satisfying shopping experience for consumers.

Pros:

• To the US: Five flights per week to the East Coast; six flights per week to the West Coast;
• SF Express's own aircraft provide nationwide door-to-door pickup service for single shipments;
• Goods can be tracked throughout the entire transportation process;
• Customer service personnel respond quickly and handle cases efficiently, thanks to SF Express's standardized after-sales service system;
• Service hours: 24/7, providing door-to-door pickup service nationwide;

 ☞Website:https://www.sf-international.com/us/en/

Who is cheaper?

USPS: 

They offer free uniform-price packaging for packages weighing no more than 20 pounds, with delivery within 1-3 business days nationwide and a free pickup option. Their pricing structure is friendly to e-commerce sellers, especially when purchasing discount tags through third-party platforms such as ShipStation and Pirate Ship. However, for heavy, large packages, the price advantage quickly disappears, and they may even become more expensive than UPS/FedEx.

UPS:

Offering five uniform pricing options for loads up to 50 pounds, including land transport, next-day delivery, and two-day delivery, catering to various needs, the heavy freight transport service is very competitively priced. However, it is more expensive than other services due to higher fees and surcharges added on top of the base rate, and free pickup is not provided, with additional pickup fees further increasing expenses.

FedEx:

They offer a flat rate for packages weighing up to 50 pounds, with more flexible delivery times including 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day options, along with attractive discounts, making shipping more economical and appealing to customers. However, they do not offer free pickup, resulting in higher shipping costs compared to other options.

DHL:

Shipments from Europe to Southeast Asia can be delivered to many country branches within 3 business days. Items over 21KG have separate bulk shipping rates, and in some regions, these rates are more favorable than international EMS. Small, common items have a significant price advantage, Japan, our strengths lie in Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

EMS:

Agreements with the global postal system give it an advantage in customs clearance, with fast clearance and generally tax-free shipping of personal items. Even if taxes are levied, they are relatively low, and shipping costs are moderate.

Sf Express:

SF Express assesses shipping costs based on factors such as transportation distance, service level, package weight and dimensions, and special service options. Additional charges will apply for the actual weight or volumetric weight of the package (whichever exceeds this value). To help customers plan frequent shipments, SF Express negotiates exclusive shipping discounts and preferential rates for businesses. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can enjoy more favorable shipping rates the larger their shipment volume.

About all, if you need to send small, lightweight packages within the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is the most economical option. If you are sending heavy goods, UPS and FedEx are cheaper. For special items, EMS is recommended. Considering the wider delivery coverage, we recommend FedEx, while UPS, DHL, and SF Express offer faster delivery speeds. ChinaDivision☞https://chinadivision.com/about is a global logistics service provider that leverages digital intelligence to offer diversified global transportation resources, global warehousing facilities, and a smart and efficient order fulfillment experience.For any related questions, please visit☞https://chinadivision.com/warehousing for answers.

Who has the highest transportation efficiency?

USPS: 

With the most service points nationwide, covering remote areas, Seattle delivers packages to mailboxes, post offices, and military bases, and can also send mail for credit cards.

Main Service Types:

Priority Mail Express: Fastest service, 1-3 days delivery (including $100 insurance), suitable for urgent shipments.

Priority Mail: 2-3 days delivery, free packaging, flat rate for ≤70 lbs.

Local Advantage: Economical, suitable for low-priced, low-weight small items, delivery time 2-5 days.

Media Mail: Only for sending specific educational, teaching, and creative materials, extremely low cost, limited eligibility.

UPS:

With a comprehensive global network and extensive international service points, UPS boasts a multi-modal transportation system encompassing sea, land, and air. For time-sensitive deliveries, UPS offers guaranteed expedited delivery services, including same-day and next-day delivery systems.

Main Service Types:

UPS Ground: Economy ground shipping; competitive pricing for packages over 1 lb; delivery time 1-5 days.

Next Day Air: Delivery before 10:30 AM the next business day (actual time varies by location); emergency options available.

UPS SurePost: Economy courier service, suitable for small packages 1-9 lbs; significant price increase for packages ≥9 lbs.

UPS ML: Suitable for handling large volumes of small, lightweight orders at low cost; extensive tracking coverage, but delays may occur.

FedEx:

Timely delivery is guaranteed; expedited freight and express delivery are reliable; website information is updated quickly and search is convenient; delivery area is wide; air freight capabilities are strong, but there are some limitations in remote areas. It has advantages in regions such as the United States and Canada.

Main Service Types:

FedEx Ground: Economy parcel service, advantageous for medium and large items, delivery time 1-5 days.

FedEx Express: Urgent express service, earliest shipment at 8:30 AM the next business day.

FedEx Freight: Specialized transportation for large items, usually completed within 3-6 days.

DHL:

International shipping by DHL from China to the US typically takes just 3-5 days. Depending on the weight and size of your shipment along with the type of goods being shipped, it can be cheaper to ship either via DHL China or DHL Hong Kong.

EMS:

In general, an EMS parcel can reach its destination within 3-7 working days. For some remote areas, it may need another two days.

To Southeast Asia and South Asia Areas: within 3 days

To Australia: within 4 days

To European and American countries: within 5 days

Sf Express:

SF Express offers a variety of shipping options within the United States, which can be adjusted according to customers' expectations for speed and price. International Express caters to urgent shipping needs, delivering within 2 to 5 business days. International Economy Express combines affordable prices with reliable delivery times (5-8 business days). For customers with limited budgets, International Standard Express offers global delivery within 7 to 12 business days.

Which business has the longest operating hours?

USPS Business Hours: 

Offers 24/7 delivery, including weekend service. Typically Monday through Saturday, sometimes including Sunday.

UPS Business Hours:

Primarily operates on weekdays, with limited weekend options. Disadvantages: Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Limited weekend delivery service in some areas.

FedEx Business Hours:

Offers delivery service seven days a week. Offers weekend/Saturday delivery service, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week.

DHL Business Hours：

For international shipments, DHL Express service points are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and delivery hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. DHL weekend service is available in Europe and other non-US countries, covering various weekend delivery options in select countries. Additionally, DHL's standard delivery service in Europe operates Monday through Saturday. DHL does not offer delivery services on international public holidays.

EMS Business Hours:

EMS operating hours vary in different countries and regions. In the United States, operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, with no service on Sundays.

Sf Express Business Hours:

UPS delivery hours are 9 AM to 9 PM local time on weekdays and 9 AM to 7 PM on Saturdays. Sunday deliveries are only available to those who pay extra.

Conclusion

If you're looking for the cheapest shipping options from China to the US, we hope this article is helpful. While all the services and strategies we've mentioned are excellent, if you can only choose one freight forwarder, we recommend selecting the one with the best value. ChinaDivision having operated for many years, they have a deep understanding of customer needs. Therefore, with this understanding, they are able to efficiently provide the highest quality service and offers. ☞https://chinadivision.com/plugin for more information. Finding a good courier company is crucial for the survival of e-commerce businesses, so be sure to take the time to compare multiple options, conduct background research, carefully calculate costs, and refer to customer reviews to choose a reliable and cost-effective courier company.

FAQs

1、Which is better for small e-Commerce shipping, USPS or UPS or FedEx ?

For small, convenient packages, especially lightweight packages weighing less than 2 pounds, USPS' Priority Mail and Local Advantage services are a good option. USPS is generally more advantageous than UPS and FedEx and is the lowest-cost and best choice, making it ideal for small e-commerce businesses. However, if faster shipping is required, UPS and FedEx are more advantageous.

2、Which one has the lowest package damage rate?

A Stella Service report states that one in ten e-commerce packages arrives damaged. Interestingly, some of the largest and oldest carriers are precisely the companies with the highest damage rates. UPS has the highest damage rate at 11%, followed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) at 10%, and FedEx at 7%. Therefore, if your package is valuable or you have high requirements for the quality of the shipping, please choose FedEx. Partner with ChinaDivision and enjoy worry-free fulfillment services☞https://chinadivision.com/fulfillment. From professional packaging to reliable shipping solutions, we help protect your products at every stage. Click here (internal link) to learn more about our services.

3、Is sea freight or air freight better from China to the United States?

This depends on your cargo type, time requirements, and cost budget. Sea freight is suitable for large quantities of goods with low time requirements and limited budgets, while air freight is suitable for smaller, urgent shipments, but the price is correspondingly higher.

4、From China to the United States, which is better, EMS or SF Express?

EMS charges similarly to SF Express, but EMS delivery is much slower. However, EMS has a wider delivery range and is more accommodating to various goods, including food, cosmetics, and small amounts of liquids. Therefore, SF Express is usually chosen unless the item needs to be delivered to a remote area where other companies do not have service points or the item is a special item.

Reference sources：

1、Shipping, Delivery & Returns 

https://stellar.co.uk/shipping-returns

2、5 things you didn’t know The UPS Store could do for your small business 

https://about.ups.com/us/en/our-stories/customer-first/5-things-you-didn-t-know-the-ups-store-could-do-for-your-small-b.html

3、On a Roll: Electric Cart Delivery Pilot Expands in New York City 

https://newsroom.fedex.com/on-a-roll-electric-cart-delivery-pilot-expands-in-new-york-city

4、International EMS International EMS Service 

https://www.post.gov.tw/post/internet/U_english2/index.jsp?ID=1639963626653

5、SF Express Tracking

 https://spokepackagetracker.com/sf-express