Shipping from Hong Kong to the USA

Shipping from Hong Kong to the USA 

When sending items from Hong Kong to the USA, you have options like air freight, sea freight, and Express Shipping  at your disposal. Each one has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Your choice will hinge on factors such as how big and heavy your package is, how quickly you need it delivered, and what you’re willing to spend.

Shipping From Hong Kong to USA

How to Ship goods From Hong Kong to the US  ?  

Are you looking to ship goods from Hong Kong to the US efficiently and hassle-free? Whether you’re a business owner or an individual, understanding the shipping process is crucial for a smooth transaction. This guide breaks down the essentials, so you can make an informed choice and ensure your goods arrive safely and on time. From customs regulations to freight forwarders, we’ve got you covered. Gain valuable insights and make informed decisions for a successful shipping experience.

Your Step-by-Step Shipping Guide

Step 1: Select Your Shipping Method

Determine the right balance between speed and cost. Choose sea freight for savings, or air freight for faster delivery.

Step 2: Find a Reliable Freight Forwarder

Partner with a trusted expert like Super International Shipping for peace of mind.

Step 3: Secure Packing & Documentation

Ensure your items are packed safely and all documents are in order for a worry-free shipment.

Step 4: Clear Customs with Ease

Navigate customs clearance smoothly in both Hong Kong and USA with proper preparation.

Step 5: Track Your Delivery

Stay updated with real-time online tracking to know exactly where your shipment is at all times.

Step 6: Shipping Costs

Understand and fulfill your financial obligations according to the agreed terms.

Step 7: Final Reception

Be on standby to inspect and receive your goods once they land in the US.

Why This Matters

Following these steps is vital for a smooth and successful shipping experience from Hong Kong to the US. Our guide is designed to help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your goods are transported without any hitches.

Get the Full Picture

We cover everything from customs regulations to choosing the right freight forwarder. With our expert advice, you can make smart shipping decisions and enjoy a successful, stress-free experience.

What are Shipping Method from Hong Kong to the USA

Shipping Criteria Courier Services Air Freight Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)
Suitability Small/light shipments Time-sensitive items Large/bulk shipments
Cost Efficiency Higher for quick delivery Most expensive, but fastest Most affordable for heavy loads
Transit Time Fast Fastest Slower, but cost-effective
Weather Disruptions Low impact Moderate impact Possible route changes due to severe weather

Quick Selection Guide:

  • Urgent Needs: Choose Air Freight for the quickest delivery.
  • Budget-Friendly: Opt for Sea Freight when cost is a concern and time is flexible.
  • Small Shipments: Use Courier Services for convenience and speed with lightweight packages.

When it comes to shipping from Hong Kong to the USA, you’ll want to choose the most efficient option that aligns with your needs. Let’s break down what you should consider in a simple,

  • Shipment Size & Weight:
  • Cost Considerations:
    • Air Freight: Faster but typically more expensive, with higher fuel costs.
    • Sea Freight: More cost-effective for heavy shipments but slower.
  • Potential Delays:
    • Be aware of possible disruptions due to weather, like storms or hurricanes, which could affect transit times.

Need guidance on the best option for your shipment? Here are some quick tips:

  • For urgent deliveries, air freight is your best bet.
  • If keeping costs low is a priority and time isn’t an issue, consider sea freight.
  • For small packages or documents, courier services offer convenience and speed.

Transit Times for Shipping From Hong Kong to USA in Comprehensive Guide

When sending goods from Hong Kong to the USA, how long it takes can differ based on the shipping method you pick. For instance, air freight will get your items to the USA quicker than sea freight. Check out the table below to get an idea of the usual delivery times for each option.

Shipping Method Port to Port Door to Door
Sea Freight (FCL) 19-40 days 24-28 days
Sea Freight (LCL) 6-38 days 25-30 days
Air Freight Shipping 2-7 days 6-12 days
Express Shippping –– 1-4 days

These are estimated transit times for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. Depending on the specific needs and preferences of the client, the actual transit time may vary.

Cost of Shipping from Hong Kong to the US For Various Methods (Updated May 2024)

Shipping Method Weight/Size Rate (USD) Transit Time (Days) Destination
Air Freight +100 kg $5.57/kg 2 – 7 USA
+300 kg $5.73/kg 2 – 7 USA
+500 kg $5.70/kg 2 – 7 USA
+1000 kg $5.30/kg 2 – 7 USA
Sea Freight (LCL) Shipping to Long Beach $50.00/CBM 18 – 25 Long Beach
Shipping to Los Angeles $53.00/CBM 18 – 25 Los Angeles
Shipping to New York $59.00/CBM 33 – 38 New York
Sea Freight (FCL) 20GP to Long Beach $2,340.00/20GP 16 – 18 Long Beach
40GP to Long Beach $2,935.00/40GP 16 – 18 Long Beach
20GP to Los Angeles $2,240.00/20GP 16 – 18 Los Angeles
40GP to Los Angeles $2,635.00/40GP 16 – 18 Los Angeles
20GP to New York $3,170.00/20GP 30 – 33 New York
40GP to New York $4,135.00/40GP 30 – 33 New York

Note: Rates are actual as of Marchch  2024. For the most current offers, visit FreightAmigo Special Offers.

You can also check China-US cost guide 

Air freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A

Air freight, also known as air cargo, is your express highway in the skies for moving shipments swiftly from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. What’s air freight cost about? It’s the price tag for the swift, airborne journey of your goods from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Looking to understand the rates, costs, and quotes for airfreight from Hong Kong to Los Angeles? Reach out to our Super International Shipping team. We’re committed to helping you send your goods across Hong Kong and the U.S.A.

Here’s a perk – save up to 30% on your air freight charges when shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. No need for a certification or sign-up. Get unlimited quotes instantly, and we’re ready 24/7 to support your quote inquiries.

Connect with us at Super International Shipping and contact us in quote form to get an estimate for air freight cost between Hong Kong and the U.S.A., without any hidden costs.

With us, experience a fast transfer of your cargo from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. We’re proud of our broad network of airline partners and our service to over 11,530 locations in the U.S.A, a number that’s growing! Plus, we’re reaching out to more than 41,544 spots globally, including Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Make Super International Shipping your choice for air freight between Hong Kong and the U.S.A., and let us show you how we save you more.

Air freight from Hong Kong to USA

Advantages of Air freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Choosing air shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. comes with a host of advantages, especially when time is of the essence or precision is required. Let’s explore some of the key benefits:

  • Speed of Shipping: Without a doubt, air freight is one of the fastest ways to transport your goods from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. Your items can traverse continents within a day or circle the globe in just a few days, depending on local laws and delivery procedures. This speed is especially beneficial for businesses that operate on tight schedules or at significant distances.
  • Variety of Items: Air freight allows you to ship a broader range of items compared to ground-based services. For example, perishable goods are often transported via air freight as they can reach their destination in the U.S.A. faster than if they were transported by a land-based service.
  • Safety in Shipping: It’s a simple rule of transportation that the more times a package is handled or changes hands, the greater the risk of damage or loss. Air shipping involves minimal handling of your items, making it one of the safest shipping options.

In summary, air freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. offers speed, versatility, and safety, making it a strong choice for various shipping needs.

 

Disadvantages of Air Shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Despite its many advantages, air shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. also has certain drawbacks that need to be considered:

  • Increased Cost: As you might expect, air shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. can be considerably more expensive. Airplanes consume a lot more fuel than ground vehicles, and the premium for speed means that air freight companies can charge higher prices.
  • Size and Weight Limitations: Due to limited space in the cargo hold of an airplane, there are restrictions on the size and weight of items you can ship. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also imposes weight limits. This means that large and heavy items, such as furniture, may not be suitable for air shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.
  • Weather-Related Delays: Adverse weather conditions can pose a greater challenge for air freight than ground transportation. Airports can be shut down and planes grounded in extreme weather conditions, potentially delaying shipments by several days. This should be taken into account when shipping during winter, over mountains or other regions known for severe weather conditions.

In conclusion, while air shipping offers significant advantages, it might not be the best choice for every situation. It’s important to consider these factors when choosing the right shipping method for your needs from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Airports of Hong Kong and the U.S.A for Imports from Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG, ICAO: VHHH) is a key hub for shipments from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. It’s a central hub for multiple airlines and operates 24/7.

In the U.S.A., the top five busiest airports for imports from Hong Kong are:

  1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  3. O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
  4. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
  5. Denver International Airport (DEN)

These airports are major gateways for international shipping from Hong Kong.

Door-to-Door Service from Hong Kong to the U.S.A

Door-to-door delivery service, also known as house-to-house service, is your hassle-free shipping solution from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. It’s all about picking up your shipments from the sender in Hong Kong and delivering right to the receiver’s doorstep in the U.S.A.

Leveraging our extensive network of offices and long-standing partnerships, we at Super International Shipping provide reliable door-to-door transportation and cross-trade services from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. Our team of professionally qualified personnel ensures impartiality in third-party transactions and can provide expert insights on all matters related to transportation from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. We promise swift delivery times, gentle handling of shipments, and seamless management of customs regulations.

Have questions? We’re here to help. Our air freight specialists at Super International Shipping are eager to provide data and advice without obligation. Let us make your shipping journey from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. a breeze.

Ocean Freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A

The ability for businesses to ship cargo overseas from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. significantly relies on ocean transportation. Ocean freight has been pivotal to global economic growth, with roughly 90% of all goods we buy transported via the sea. This enormous task is facilitated by container ships juggling more than 200 million freight containers worldwide.

Annually, billions of tons of cargo are moved along established trade routes. Ocean transportation uses high-capacity vessels following fixed routes on fixed schedules. Although the base cost of ocean transportation is substantial, its cost-effectiveness relative to other transportation methods makes it the preferred choice for moving goods.

This section aims to provide a primer on the basics of ocean freight, helping you understand how international shipping works, specifically focusing on ocean freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

sea freight from Hong Kong to USA

What are the Ocean Freight Options When Shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Ocean Cargo Type Description Suitability
LCL (Less Than Container Load) Shared container space with other shippers’ goods. Small shipments that don’t fill a container.
FCL (Full Container Load) A dedicated container for your goods alone. Large shipments that fill an entire container.

When it comes to ocean freight, there are primarily two kinds of cargo shipping options. These are:

  • LCL (Less Than Container Load) 

    • Perfect for smaller shipments that don’t require a full container.
    • Goods are transported in a container shared with other shippers.
  • FCL (Full Container Load) 

    • Ideal for large shipments that can fill an entire container.
    • Provides a dedicated container for your goods only.

These options give flexibility to businesses of all sizes to choose a shipping method that best suits their needs when shipping goods from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. by sea.

The Most Common Shipping Routes from Hong Kong to the USA

Shipping Route from Hong Kong Destination Port in the USA
Hong Kong to Long Beach Port of Long Beach
Hong Kong to Los Angeles Port of Los Angeles
Hong Kong to New York Port of New York

Looking for more routes? Depending on where you need to go in the US, there are additional paths to take. Check with Super International Shipping for pricing and various choices for your Hong Kong to USA deliveries.

Express Shipping from Hong Kong to the USA: Fast and Convenient

  • Ideal for quickly shipping small to medium items.
  • Delivery usually within 3 to 5 days.
  • Perfect for when you need a package delivered urgently.
  • Offers the ease of door-to-door service.
express Shipping From Hong Kong to USA

Typical Cargo Shipped Through Ocean Freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Ocean freight is a common choice for shipping large and heavy cargo from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. Items with a weight above 100 kg, or consisting of numerous cartons, are typically suitable for sea freight.

While there are restrictions on certain types of goods, the majority of items can be shipped via sea freight. Here are some examples:

  • Hazardous Goods: These can be shipped under specific conditions and with proper documentation and packaging.
  • Perishable Goods: Items such as fruits, vegetables, and other food products can be transported in refrigerated containers to ensure they remain fresh during transit.
  • Frozen Goods: Sea freight also allows for the transportation of frozen items, with special containers designed to maintain low temperatures.
  • Dry Bulk Cargoes: Goods like sugar, grains, or coal that need to be kept dry during transit can be shipped in specially designed containers or bulk carriers.

In summary, ocean freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. is versatile and can accommodate a wide range of cargo types, making it a popular choice for many shippers.

How Long does sea Shipping takes from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

The transit time for ocean freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A. is influenced by several factors, and it’s essential to differentiate between the time spent at sea and total door-to-door transit time.

Ocean freight transit from Hong Kong to the USA takes time, and several factors affect the journey from start to finish. Let’s break down what to expect:

  • Time on the Open Sea: Your cargo will spend between 2 and 4 weeks sailing from Hong Kong to the USA.
  • Loading and Unloading: It typically adds about a week before and after the sea journey for loading in Hong Kong and unloading in the USA.
  • In-Transit Stops: Transfers between ships at various ports can extend the overall time.
  • Customs and Paperwork: Any hold-ups in customs or with documents can cause delays. Proper, early paperwork helps avoid this.

Overall, you’re looking at about 3 to 6 weeks door-to-door for ocean freight from Hong Kong to the USA. For the clearest picture, chat with your freight forwarder for specifics on your shipment.

Factor Transit Time Influence Typical Duration
Time at Sea 2 to 4 weeks based on route and vessel speed 2 to 4 weeks
Loading/Unloading Adds time pre and post sea journey About 1 week each
Stops in Transit Possible due to vessel transfers Varies
Customs & Documentation Can cause delays if not properly managed Varies; early paperwork helps

Total Door-to-Door Transit Time: 3 to 6 weeks (estimate; discuss with a freight forwarder for details)

What are advantages and Disadvantages of Different Incoterms for Sea Freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.

Incoterms, short for International Commercial Terms, are a set of rules which define the responsibilities of sellers and buyers for the delivery of goods under sales contracts. They are published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and are widely used in international commercial transactions.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of various Incoterms for sea freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A:

Incoterm Advantages Disadvantages
EXW (Ex Works) Buyer has full control of shipping Buyer assumes all responsibility from seller’s location to destination
FCA (Free Carrier) Seller handles initial shipment stages; buyer has control over main carriage Buyer is responsible for stages beyond the initial handoff
FAS (Free Alongside Ship) Clear division of responsibilities; seller manages export stages Not recommended for air/LCL due to complexity
FOB (Free On Board) Seller covers all up to loading on board; straightforward for buyer Similar to FAS, complexity in air/LCL shipping
CPT (Carriage Paid To) Seller arranges and pays for transportation to carrier Can increase overall goods cost; buyer takes over at the carrier
CIP (Carriage And Insurance Paid To) Seller also covers insurance to the first carrier Cost increase for buyer; transfer of risk at the carrier
CFR (Cost and Freight) Seller covers costs to destination port Buyer assumes risk once on board; no insurance covered
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) Seller includes insurance in shipping cost Higher cost for buyer; similar to CFR with insurance
DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) Seller handles all until unloading at destination Buyer responsible for import customs and unloading
DAP (Delivered At Place) Seller manages shipping up to the final destination Buyer handles import customs; no unloading responsibility
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Seller manages everything including import customs Significantly higher costs for seller; less worry for buyer

Choose the right Incoterm considering both the advantages and disadvantages to ensure a smooth international shipping process.

United States Import Prohibitions – Items from Hong Kong

The United States has several import prohibitions in place. Here is a list of items that are prohibited from being imported from Hong Kong to the U.S.A., along with a brief explanation of why they are not allowed:

  1. Acids & Flammable Products: These are considered dangerous goods due to their potential to cause harm during transport.
  2. Articles for Illegal Drug Use: This includes any materials related to the use of illegal drugs.
  3. Aerosols: These are deemed hazardous materials due to the pressurized nature of the containers.
  4. Articles Containing Dog or Cat Hair: Importing these items is restricted due to concerns about diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
  5. Hemp Goods Containing Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, and its importation is heavily regulated.
  6. Immoral Articles: This broad category can include any items deemed to be offensive or against public morality.
  7. Medication: Importation of medicines by individuals for personal use is usually prohibited unless they have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
  8. Kinder Surprise Eggs: These chocolate eggs, which contain small toys, are banned in the U.S. because they pose a choking hazard to young children.
  9. Goods from Countries under U.S. Sanction or Embargo: This includes any goods originating from countries that the U.S. currently has sanctions or embargoes against.
  10. Goods Produced by Forced or Indentured Labor: The U.S. prohibits the importation of goods produced by forced or indentured labor as part of its commitment to human rights.
  11. Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials, Explosives, Firearms, Incapacitating Sprays: These items are all considered dangerous and pose significant risks during transportation and storage.
  12. Ivory and Ivory Products: The import of ivory is heavily restricted to protect endangered species of elephants.
  13. Live Animals, Plants, Seeds: Importing these items can pose a risk to local ecosystems if the imported species become invasive.
  14. Pornographic Materials: The U.S. places restrictions on the importation of explicit sexual content.
  15. Tobacco and Tobacco Products: These items are heavily regulated due to health concerns.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and import regulations can change frequently. Always check with the appropriate authorities or a shipping professional before attempting to import goods into the U.S.

Understanding Duties & Taxes for Hong Kong-US Shipments

Shipping your goods from Hong Kong to the United States? Here’s what you need to know about duties and taxes:

Who Handles It: The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) takes care of assessing and collecting these charges.

What You’ll Pay:

  • Customs Duties: These kick in for goods over $800 in value.
  • Excise Tax: This one’s for items like alcohol and tobacco.
  • Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): Charged on both informal and formal entries.
  • Harbour Maintenance Fee (HMF): This applies to sea shipments.

Duty-Free Threshold:
Goods valued under $800 usually slide by without duties or taxes in the US.

Trade Staples Between Hong Kong and the US:
These regions trade lots of items, from tech gear to designer makeup.

The most common export commodities for shipping From Hong Kong to USA 

  • Toys: Hong Kong’s a big player in toys. A smooth import/export process hinges on knowing the rules.
  • Electronics: Thanks to Hong Kong’s export prowess, tech moves well. But stay sharp—the game’s always changing.
  • Cosmetics: Hong Kong’s beauty exports are all the rage in the US.
  • Food & Beverage: Hong Kong’s a launchpad for food and drink trades with the US.
  • Car Batteries: The demand for lithium-ion batteries, especially for electric vehicles (EVs), is revving up.

Navigating these trades means staying savvy about shipping standards and trends. Working with seasoned shippers can be a game-changer.

Customs process in the United States of America for Import from Hong Kong

The numerous essential quality of the documentation is applied in an import or export is its security. If there are irregularities in shipment content due to what is said in customs, the buyer must respond as responsible for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A since this is a fault or infraction. As fraud in businesses, we must apply significant business fines and even incarceration in the most severe cases.

These are enough reasons always to be fair and transparent to customs and the transport agencies that manage your shipping services. There are many reasons to know you do not have to look at the value as much as the care to detail and advice when looking for a good customs administration service.

Remember that the character in cost of the customs information is the importer/exporter of Hong Kong and the U.S.A where the system is carried out. It is not the accountability of the shipping company. If the shipment is delayed at customs, all costs and responsibilities account for the goods’ owner discrepancies in the documentation and any other irregularity.

Our customs section gives the following services to and from the United States:

  • Customs clearance of exports and imports from Hong Kong
  • Transits for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A
  • Assistance in shipping inspections carried out by the Customs Section for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.
  • Power of Attorney management support
  • Assistance in the management of Customs Bond

Freight Forwarder in Hong Kong

These are enough reasons always to be fair and transparent to customs and the transport agencies that manage your shipping services. There are many reasons to know you do not have to look at the value as much as the care to detail and advice when looking for a good customs administration service.

Remember that the character in cost of the customs information is the importer/exporter of Hong Kong and the U.S.A where the system is carried out. It is not the accountability of the shipping company. If the shipment is delayed at customs, all costs and responsibilities account for the goods’ owner discrepancies in the documentation and any other irregularity.

Our customs section gives the following services to and from the United States:

  • Customs clearance of exports and imports from Hong Kong
  • Transits for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A
  • Assistance in shipping inspections carried out by the Customs Section for shipping from Hong Kong to the U.S.A.
  • Power of Attorney management support
  • Assistance in the management of Customs Bond
 
 

FAQ: Shipping from Hong Kong to the USA

How much does it cost to ship from Hong Kong to USA?

Air Freight: Depending on the weight of the shipment, the rate for air freight from Hong Kong to the USA varies. For weights over 100 kg, the rate is $5.57 per kg, and for over 300 kg, it’s $5.73 per kg. For shipments over 500 kg, the cost is $5.70 per kg, and for those over 1000 kg, it’s $5.30 per kg. All these shipments typically take 2-7 days to reach any part of the USA. Sea Freight (LCL): The rate for Less Container Load (LCL) sea freight varies by destination. Shipping to Long Beach costs $50.00 per CBM with a transit time of 18-25 days. Shipping to Los Angeles is slightly higher at $53.00 per CBM, also within 18-25 days. For New York, the rate is $59.00 per CBM with a longer transit time of 33-38 days. Sea Freight (FCL): For Full Container Load (FCL), the costs also differ based on the destination and container size. Shipping a 20-foot container (20GP) to Long Beach costs $2,340, and a 40-foot container (40GP) costs $2,935, both with a transit time of 16-18 days. To Los Angeles, a 20GP costs $2,240 and a 40GP costs $2,635, with the same transit times. For New York, a 20GP is priced at $3,170 and a 40GP at $4,135, with transit times of 30-33 days.

How long does shipping take from Hong Kong to the US?

For Sea Freight (FCL), the estimated transit time is approximately 19-40 days for port to port and 24-28 days for door to door. Sea Freight (LCL) typically takes 6-38 days port to port and 25-30 days door to door. Air Freight Shipping generally requires 2-7 days port to port and 6-12 days door to door. Express Shipping offers the quickest door to door delivery, usually within 1-4 days. These estimates may vary based on specific needs, preferences, and external factors, so it’s advisable to consult with your shipping provider for more precise timings.

What is the cheapest way to ship from Hong Kong to US ?

Sea shipping is the cheapest way to ship goods from China to the US. There are several factors that make it cheaper than air and others. Sea shipping has the longest routes, so there are many ports available to choose from. Depending on which port your goods leave from and where they’re going, you could save money on shipping costs by choosing a port that’s closer to your destination.

What is the cheapest shipping to Hong Kong from US ?

Sea shipping is the cheapest shipping when shipping from China to the US. There are several factors that make it cheaper than air and others. Sea shipping has the longest routes, so there are many ports available to choose from. Depending on which port your goods leave from and where they’re going, you could save money on shipping costs by choosing a port that’s closer to your destination.

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