Shipping from Hong Kong to the USAÂ
Shipping goods from Hong Kong to the USA offers several options depending on your needs—whether it’s air freight, sea freight, or express shipping. Understanding the shipping time and cost will help you choose the best option for your business or personal shipment. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from shipping methods to transit times, ensuring that your goods arrive on time and within budget.
How to Ship goods From Hong Kong to the US ? Â
Are you looking for a hassle-free shipping process from Hong Kong to the USA? Whether you’re a business owner or an individual, understanding the shipping process is key to a smooth transaction. This guide breaks down the essentials, helping you make informed choices and ensuring your goods arrive safely.
Steps to Ship Goods from Hong Kong to the USA:
-
Select Your Shipping Method
Choose between air freight for faster delivery or sea freight for a more cost-effective option depending on your shipment size and urgency. -
Find a Reliable Freight Forwarder
Partner with a trusted company like Super International Shipping for reliable shipping services between Hong Kong and the USA. -
Secure Packing & Documentation
Proper packaging and correct documentation help avoid delays at customs. -
Clear Customs with Ease
Ensure smooth customs clearance in both Hong Kong and the USA by preparing the necessary paperwork. -
Track Your Shipment
Use tracking tools to monitor your shipment from Hong Kong to the USA. -
Understand Shipping Costs
Fulfill your financial obligations based on the agreed terms and avoid unexpected charges. -
Final Reception
Be ready to inspect and receive your goods upon arrival in the USA.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth shipping experience from Hong Kong to the USA.
What are Shipping Method from Hong Kong to the USA
When shipping from Hong Kong to the USA, you can choose from various shipping methods based on your needs. Here’s a breakdown:
| 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 |
Which Method Should You Choose?
- Urgent Delivery: Choose air freight or express shipping for the fastest delivery.
- Cost-Effective Shipping: Opt for sea freight if you’re shipping large or heavy loads and time is not a concern.
- Small Packages: Use express shipping for lightweight shipments or documents.
Transit Times for Shipping From Hong Kong to USA in Comprehensive Guide
The shipping time from Hong Kong to the US depends on the method you choose. Below is an overview of the typical transit times for different shipping methods:
| 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 |
Key Considerations for Shipping Time:
- Air freight is the fastest method, typically taking 2-7 days.
- Sea freight takes longer, with Full Container Load (FCL) shipping taking 19-40 days and Less than Container Load (LCL) taking 6-38 days.
- Express shipping offers the quickest door-to-door service, usually within 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.
Factors That Influence Shipping Time from Hong Kong to the US
Several factors can impact the shipping time from Hong Kong to the USA, including:
- Shipping Method: Air is significantly faster than sea freight.
- Destination in the USA: West Coast ports (e.g., Los Angeles, Long Beach) offer shorter transit times compared to East Coast ports (e.g., New York).
- Customs Clearance: Delays in customs processing can add extra days to your delivery timeline.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can disrupt shipping schedules, especially for sea freight.
- Holidays: Peak shipping seasons around holidays can lead to delays.
Pro Tip: Plan your shipments in advance to avoid delays during peak seasons or extreme weather conditions.
Cost of Shipping from Hong Kong to the US For Various Methods (Updated May 2024)
Understanding the cost of different shipping methods is crucial for managing your budget. Here’s an overview of current shipping costs from Hong Kong to the USA:
| 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.
For more cost-effective shipping options, check out our Cost of Shipping Guide.
Air freight from Hong Kong to the U.S.A
Air freight is the fastest way to ship from Hong Kong to the USA, making it ideal for businesses with time-sensitive shipments. While more expensive than sea freight, air freight significantly reduces shipping time.
Advantages of Air Freight:
- Speed: Deliveries typically take 2-7 days.
- Safety: Air freight involves less handling, reducing the risk of damage.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of items.
Disadvantages of Air Freight:
- Higher Costs: Air freight is more expensive due to fuel costs and speed.
- Size and Weight Limitations: Strict limits apply to the size and weight of shipments.
For more on air freight, visit our Air Freight Services.
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)Â 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:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- 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
For large shipments or goods that aren’t time-sensitive, sea freight is the most cost-effective shipping method. You can choose between Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL) depending on your shipment size.
Sea Freight Options:
- Full Container Load (FCL): Ideal for large shipments requiring an entire container.
- Less than Container Load (LCL): Suitable for smaller shipments sharing container space with other goods.
Common Shipping Routes from Hong Kong to the USA:
- Hong Kong to Long Beach
- Hong Kong to Los Angeles
- Hong Kong to New York
For more details on sea freight, visit our Sea Freight Services.
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)Â
- 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)Â
- 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
For urgent shipments, express shipping offers the fastest delivery, usually within 1-4 days. This option is ideal for small to medium-sized items that need to reach their destination quickly.
Key Benefits of Express Shipping:
- Fast Delivery: Typically completed within 3 to 5 days.
- Convenient: Includes door-to-door service, making it a hassle-free option.
For more details, visit our Express Shipping Services.
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 shipping time from Hong Kong to the US depends on several factors, including the shipping method and destination. For air freight, it typically takes 2-7 days. For sea freight, you can expect 19-40 days for FCL and 6-38 days for LCL shipments.
If you’re wondering how long to ship from Hong Kong to the US, or if you’re concerned about potential delays, make sure to choose the right shipping method based on your urgency and budget. For more detailed timelines, you can visit our Shipping Time Guide.
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:
- Acids & Flammable Products: These are considered dangerous goods due to their potential to cause harm during transport.
- Articles for Illegal Drug Use: This includes any materials related to the use of illegal drugs.
- Aerosols: These are deemed hazardous materials due to the pressurized nature of the containers.
- Articles Containing Dog or Cat Hair: Importing these items is restricted due to concerns about diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
- Hemp Goods Containing Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, and its importation is heavily regulated.
- Immoral Articles: This broad category can include any items deemed to be offensive or against public morality.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials, Explosives, Firearms, Incapacitating Sprays: These items are all considered dangerous and pose significant risks during transportation and storage.
- Ivory and Ivory Products: The import of ivory is heavily restricted to protect endangered species of elephants.
- Live Animals, Plants, Seeds: Importing these items can pose a risk to local ecosystems if the imported species become invasive.
- Pornographic Materials: The U.S. places restrictions on the importation of explicit sexual content.
- 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.
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
Choosing the right shipping method from Hong Kong to the USA depends on your priorities—whether it’s speed, cost, or shipment size. With Super International Shipping, you can trust that your goods will arrive safely, on time, and within budget. Whether you choose air freight, sea freight, or express shipping, we’ve got you covered with reliable services.
For more information or to get a free shipping quote, contact us today.
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.
Testimonials
Some Words from
our Clients