How to Import From China to the USA: Step-by-Step Guide
Importing from China is easier than it looks if you take it one step at a time. This guide walks you through the full process, from finding a supplier to getting the goods delivered, and flags the costs and paperwork most first-time importers miss.
The 10 steps at a glance
- Choose your product and check it is allowed into the USA.
- Find the right HTS code and estimate duty.
- Find and verify a supplier.
- Order samples and agree specifications.
- Agree price and Incoterms.
- Place the order and pay safely.
- Inspect the goods before they ship.
- Book freight.
- Clear US customs.
- Take delivery and handle returns or restocks.
Step 1: Choose a product and check it is allowed
Some products are restricted or need approval from agencies such as the FDA, CPSC or FCC, for example food, cosmetics, children’s products and electronics with radios. Check the rules for your product before you order, not after it lands.
Step 2: Find your HTS code and estimate duty
Your product’s HTS code decides the duty rate, and many Chinese-origin goods also carry additional tariffs. Work out the full landed cost before you commit. Our guide on how to calculate US import duty from China has the formula and a worked example.
Step 3: Find and verify a supplier
Search on Alibaba, 1688, trade shows or through a sourcing agent in China. Whatever route you take, verify the supplier before paying. Follow our 9-step Alibaba supplier checklist.
Step 4: Order samples and agree the specification
Always order samples first. Write a clear specification with materials, dimensions, colours, packaging and labeling, and keep the approved sample as your reference.
Step 5: Agree price and Incoterms
| Incoterm | Who arranges shipping to the USA | Who pays duty |
|---|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | You, from the factory door | You |
| FOB (Free On Board) | You, from the Chinese port | You |
| CIF | Supplier, to the US port | You |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Seller or forwarder, to your door | Seller or forwarder |
FOB is popular with importers who want control of freight. DDP gives one all-in price. Ask exactly what is included in any quote.
Step 6: Place the order and pay safely
Pay a deposit to start production and the balance after inspection. Pay only to the company named on the invoice and licence, and keep everything in writing.
Step 7: Inspect before the goods ship
A third-party inspection catches defects while they are still cheap to fix. Read our guide to what quality inspection is and when to use it, or book our inspection service.
Step 8: Book freight
Choose between sea freight for most orders and air freight for urgent ones. A freight forwarder with a team in China can collect from the factory, consolidate several suppliers and handle the paperwork. See how long it takes in our China to USA shipping time guide.
Step 9: Clear US customs
As the importer of record you need a customs bond. For sea shipments an Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be submitted before the cargo is loaded. A customs broker or your forwarder files the entry and you pay duty and fees. With DDP, this is done for you. See shipping from China to the USA: price, customs and DDP.
Step 10: Take delivery
Your goods are delivered to your warehouse or to Amazon. If you sell on Amazon, read how to ship from China to Amazon FBA.
How much does it cost to import from China?
- Product cost and any tooling or sample fees
- Inspection
- International freight
- Customs duty, additional tariffs, MPF and HMF
- Customs broker, bond and ISF
- Delivery inside the USA
- Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I import from China to the USA?
Choose and check your product, find the HTS code, verify a supplier, order samples, agree Incoterms, pay safely, inspect, book freight and clear customs.
Do I need a licence to import from China to the USA?
There is no general import licence for most goods, but you need a customs bond, and some products need approval from agencies such as the FDA, CPSC or FCC.
How much does it cost to import from China to the USA?
Costs include the product, inspection, freight, duties and fees, customs brokerage and delivery. Duty depends on the product’s HTS code, and many Chinese-origin goods have additional tariffs.
Can I import from China without an agent?
Yes, but you manage supplier checks, inspection, freight and customs yourself. A sourcing agent or forwarder reduces risk, especially on a first order.
How long does it take to import from China to the USA?
Production time plus about 25 to 45 days by sea door to door, or 3 to 10 days by air.
What is the best Incoterm for importing from China?
FOB gives you control of freight, while DDP gives one all-in price. The best choice depends on how much of the process you want to manage.
Related guides
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or customs advice. Rules, rates and transit times change, so confirm the details for your goods with a licensed customs broker or the relevant authority before you ship.