Why sea freight can appear cheaper
Sea freight can suit heavier and non-urgent shipments, but dimensional weight, oversized charges, remote areas, and packing type affect the total. Do not estimate from the per-kilogram rate alone.
CHINA TO USA SEA FREIGHT
China to US Sea Freight Reference Rates
For non-urgent consolidation shipments, heavier cartons, or freight where budget matters. General cargo and sensitive goods have different acceptance requirements, so confirm the goods category first.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Rates are for reference and subject to final review
Rates may change with market conditions, vessel schedules, policy, customs, fuel, destination ZIP code, and added services. The rates shown are for reference only. Standard unit rates normally do not fluctuate dramatically, but the final quote is based on the actual goods, final outer carton, and delivery address.
SEA FREIGHT
General and Sensitive Sea Freight Reference Rates
Sea freight depends not only on weight but also on dimensional weight, packing type, oversized charges, destination ZIP code, and final-mile delivery conditions.
| Service | Reference transit time | Reference rate | Charging and threshold | Suitable goods | Main restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US time-limited sea freight - general cargo | 30-35 days | CNY 88 / first 1kg CNY 25 / each additional kg | Dimensional weight /6000 Maximum chargeable weight 50kg Rounded to 0.5kg | Clothing, household goods, kitchenware, used general cargo | Longest side 120cm; second side 76cm; girth 330cm; circumference 266cm. No food, liquids, standalone batteries, or obvious sensitive goods. |
| US faster sea freight value service | 25-30 days | CNY 99 / first 1kg CNY 29 / each additional kg | Dimensional weight /6000 Maximum chargeable weight 50kg Rounded to 0.5kg | General cargo that is not urgent but needs faster arrival | Longest side 120cm; second side 75cm; circumference 265cm. The contiguous 48 states are the main service area; special states and islands require confirmation. |
| US time-limited sea freight - sensitive goods | 30-35 days | CNY 109 / first 1kg CNY 32 / each additional kg | Dimensional weight /6000 Maximum chargeable weight 50kg Rounded to 0.5kg | Some food, liquids, cosmetics, branded goods, and other sensitive categories | Longest side 120cm; second side 75cm; girth 330cm; circumference 266cm. Goods details must be reviewed first; do not place an order as general cargo. |
General cargo vs. sensitive goods
Sensitive goods cannot automatically use general-cargo rates. Acceptance, declaration requirements, and available services must be checked against the goods details.
SHIPPING NOTES
Important checks before booking sea freight
Ask about sensitive goods first
Sensitive goods must be confirmed with customer service before shipment. Food, liquids, cosmetics, battery-powered goods, branded goods, and similar categories depend on current policy, route capacity, and inspection risk. Do not assume they can ship as general cargo or use general-cargo pricing.
Confirm dimensions and packing
Sea freight compares actual and dimensional weight. Oversized, overweight, irregular packing, crates, and frames can affect availability and surcharges. Warehouse measurement is final.
Confirm the delivery address
Addresses outside the contiguous 48 states, islands, military addresses, PO Boxes, and special ZIP codes must be confirmed in advance. Final-mile delivery, remote areas, and unloading needs can affect the quote.
Provide accurate goods details
Send photos, category, package count, weight and dimensions, battery or liquid status, declared value, packing method, and destination ZIP code so we can assess eligibility and inspection risk.
CONFIRM YOUR SHIPMENT
Send the shipment details to confirm the sea service and final cost
The final quote follows a review of the actual goods, packing, and US delivery address.