Freight forwarding from China to the USA is a crucial service that has steadily increased in importance as e-commerce continues to grow. Working with the best freight forwarders has, therefore, become an essential recipe for business success.
What is Freight Forwarding?
Freight forwarding refers to the efficient management and coordination of the movement of goods from their origin to their destination, often across international borders.
Freight forwarders handle all the tasks involved in shipping, such as booking transportation, documentation, and customs clearance on behalf of shippers. With these tasks delegated to experts, e-commerce merchants can focus on running their online stores and serving customers.
Choosing the best freight forwarder from China to the USA can be challenging with so many options available. That is why we have compiled this list of the top 7 best freight forwarders from China to the USA in 2024.
The freight forwarders have been selected according to their position in the industry, and the services they offer. Read through to the end to discover what these companies can do for your business.
1. UPS Supply Chain Solutions
UPS Supply Chain Solutions is an arm of the United Postal Services launched in 1992 after the acquisition and rebranding of Haulfast and Carryfast. UPS Supply Chain Solutions offers freight and contract logistics services covering over 175 countries, making it one of the best freight forwarders from China to the USA.
Main Business
UPS Supply Chain Solutions offers freight services that simplify shipping from China to the USA, tailored to business needs.
- Air freight
- Ocean freight
- Express shipping
- Multimodal freight
- Consolidated freight
UPS Supply Chain Solutions excels at its express shipping service, allowing businesses to access fast next-flight shipping from China to the USA. The service is also available for other global destinations and offers the option of commercial and chartered planes for urgent, time-sensitive, emergency, and high-value goods.
To optimize your supply chain while shipping freight from China to the USA, you can also explore UPS’s range of logistics services, including warehousing and distribution, e-commerce fulfillment, service parts logistics, and customs brokerage.
Service Characteristics
UPS freight services offer integrated and customizable logistics solutions for optimizing supply chains for e-commerce brands of all sizes, including e-commerce fulfillment, warehousing, and distribution. It is also worth noting that all UPS Supply Chain Solutions are tech-driven and can help you meet your brand’s sustainability goals.
Customer Service
A host of customer support solutions are available to ensure a smooth freight forwarding experience with UPS. If you have any questions, the following support options are available.
| Support Method | Contact Detail | |
| Contact Form | https://www.ups.com/us/en/supplychain/about/contact-us.page | |
| Nearest UPS Service Office | https://www.ups.com/us/en/supplychain/tools/global-directory.page | |
| Phone (UPS Supply Chain Solutions) | US and Canada | +1-800-742-5727 |
| Rest of the world | +1-913-693-6151 | |
| Mail (UPS Supply Chain Solutions Corporate Office) | 12380 Morris RoadAlpharetta, GA 30005USA | |
2. FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is a subdivision of FedEx that handles all freight shipping and forwarding services that the courier company offers. It was founded in 2002 after FedEx bought American Freightways and expanded further in 2006 through the acquisition of Watkins Motor Lines.
In 2010, FedEx decided to consolidate all its freight services under the FedEx Freight brand which combined FedEx Freight East, FedEx Freight West, and FedEx Freight National LTL. By doing this, FedEx cemented its position as the best freight forwarder in the US.
Main Business
FedEx Freight has consistently evolved its service offering since its founding and presently has the following catalog.
- 1,2, and 3-day Domestic express freight
- International express freight
- Less-than-truckload (LTL) services
- Air freight forwarding
- Ocean freight forwarding
- Dated release service
- Distribution and consolidation services
- FedEx charter services
Service Characteristics
FedEx Freight services have a worldwide reach. One of the standout characteristics of these services is the automatic pallet-level tracking. FedEx Freight also provides specialized handling and flexible services according to customer needs and guides you through the entire process.
Customer Service
FedEx has developed a thorough self-service portal with all commonly asked questions to provide customers with a convenient way to address any issues they encounter. Customers can call or mail FedEx through the following channels for personalized support.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Phone | International – 1.866.393.4685, Say “Freight Services” |
| USA – 1.866.393.4585, Say “Freight Services” | |
| Mail (FedEx Freight Headquarters) | Renaissance Center1715 Aaron Brenner DriveSuite 600Memphis, TN 38120 |
3. DHL Global Forwarding
DHL Global Forwarding is Deutsche Post DHL’s forwarding division. Its history traces back to 2000 when Deutsche Post World Net bought Danzas and later merged it with DHL and Euro Express after completing their acquisitions in 2002.
The new company, DHL Danzas Air and Ocean, offered global freight forwarding services. It was later rebranded to DHL Global Forwarding in 2005 and has gone from strength to strength to become one of the largest freight forwarders from China to the USA today.
Main Business
DHL Global Forwarding is one of the most easily recognizable freight forwarding companies globally owing to its branding and vast service catalog that serves all corners of the world. The primary services the company offers customers include the following.
- Air Freight
- Ocean Freight – FCL, LCL, and NCL.
- Road Freight – LTL, FTL, PTL, and temperature-controlled transportation.
- Rail Freight- FCL and LCL cargo.
- Domestic Freight Shipping – Brazil, China, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Singapore, USA, Russia, and Malaysia.
Service Characteristics
DHL Global Forwarding services and logistics solutions are accessible globally. Customers can also request customized freight forwarding. DHL provides end-to-end tracking that ensures maximum visibility during freight shipping.
Customer Service
DHL Global Forwarding has availed a help center on its website to answer the most common customer questions. If you have an issue that needs the attention of a DHL rep, you can use the support method below.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Contact Form | https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home/our-divisions/global-forwarding/contact-us.html |
4. DSV
DSV A/S, popularly known as DSV, is a Danish transport and logistics company founded in 1976. The company came about when nine independent haulers joined together to form one organization that would help offer better transport service and venture into the Pan-European and global logistics markets. Initially, DSV only offered contract haulage and deliveries, but through strategic acquisitions over the year, it expanded its service and coverage.
Its international air and sea transport division gained momentum in 2005 after the purchase of J.H. Buchanan, at the time one of the largest freight forwarders in Europe and internationally. DSV took up this business and merged its operations into the parent company. By 2019, DSV was one of the world’s four largest transport and logistics companies.
Main Business
DSV’s primary business is transport services which include the following.
- Air Freight
- Sea Freight
- Road Transport
- Rail Freight
- Special Project
Alongside the transport services listed above, which also cater to shipping from China, DSV also provides logistics solutions, including e-commerce shipping, fulfillment, pharma warehousing, inventory management services, supply chain optimization, inventory scan, warehousing, and logistics manufacturing services.
Other value-added services you can access through DSV include customs clearance, insurance coverage, package protection, dangerous goods shipping, purchase order management, and supply chain security and visibility.
Service Characteristics
DSV’s freight forwarding services are flexible to meet your business’s unique shipping needs. The company also offers multimodal transportation to help you balance cost, speed, and time when shipping. End-to-end tracking is also provided to allow you to follow your freight’s journey conveniently.
Customer Service
On DSV’s home website, there is a self-service portal, glossary, and FAQ section where customers can find answers to help them resolve any issues they encounter while forwarding freight from China to the USA. For escalated issues, use the support method below to get in contact with DSV.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Contact Form | https://www.dsv.com/en/support/help-and-contact |
5. Expeditors
Expeditors, or Expeditors International of Washington, as is officially registered in public records, is a worldwide logistics company and freight forwarder headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The company has been operational since 1979 when it started as an ocean forwarder.
In 1981, the company’s founders joined with more partners and expanded to six locations. They aimed to be a one-stop shop for door-to-door transportation and customs brokerage services. The company expanded to San Francisco, Chicago, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Singapore and, in the process, became one of the largest US-based forwarders of air freight from the Far East.
Main Business
Expeditors service catalog includes the following.
- Air transportation
- Ocean transportation
- Ground transportation
- Project and energy services
Expeditors is also famous for its supply chain services, such as order, delivery, and total container management. Customers shipping freight can also access customs and compliance services provided by Expeditors to help them streamline freight forwarding. For businesses that need warehousing and distribution, Expeditors also provides order fulfillment, specialized programs, and other value-added services.
Service Characteristics
The freight forwarding services offered by Expeditors are tech-powered, ensuring a seamless integration with your business system. Moreover, the company also offers tailored logistics solutions and freight consulting that lets you ship freight on the best terms for your business’s bottom line and customer needs.
Customer Service
The customer service team at Expeditors is available to answer any questions that shippers have. You can contact them through the methods provided below.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Contact Form | https://www.expeditors.com/contact |
| Locate a Local Agent | https://www.expeditors.com/locations |
6. Maersk
Maersk Line is the shipping and logistics arm of AP Moller-Maersk which operates shipping lines in the USA and globally. This container shipping company is the largest subsidiary of the Maersk brand, which was initially founded in 1904 in Svendborg, Denmark.
Throughout its more than a century history, Maersk has endeavored to grow its businesses and has done this through investing in new ships, technology, and acquisitions. In 2023, the Forbes Global 2000 ranked Maersk as the 174th largest public company in the world.
Main Business
Maersk Line’s main business is transportation which includes the following.
- Ocean transport
- Cross-border rail transportation
- Air freight
- Inland transportation
- Less-than-container load (LCL) shipping
When you forward freight from China to the USA with Maersk, you can also access their supply chain and logistics services including warehousing and distribution, customs services, lead and project logistics, cold chain, and e-commerce logistics.
Service Characteristics
Maersk’s freight forwarding services are a model for other freight forwarders on matters of sustainability. The company owns eight carbon-neutral ships and is a member of the BEC Low-carbon Charter. In 2023, Maersk also unveiled its first vessel using green methanol, an alternative to carbon fossil fuels.
Customer Service
Maersk provides customers with a thorough resource hub where they can learn more about freight forwarding and get answers to common questions and challenges. To engage with the live assistant or support team use the method provided below.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Live Chat | https://www.maersk.com/support/chat/ |
7. SFC
SFC Service is a third-party logistics (3PL) and order fulfillment company that helps e-commerce brands ship from China to the US conveniently.
Founded more than 17 years ago, the company has set up several branches in key export areas in China including Shenzhen, Yiwu, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. SFC Service works with several global partners who help the company deliver goods to more than 200 countries and regions.
Main Business
SFC’s primary business is divided into four categories as follows.
- Global logistics
- Warehouse
- Crowdfunding fulfillment
- Dropshipping fulfillment
Service Characteristics
SFC’s services can be customized to meet your online business needs with value-added services such as branding and marketing available. The company also boasts efficient processing workflows that help e-commerce brands streamline their inventory management.
Customer Service
SFC’s support team can be contacted using several methods provided in the table below.
| Support Method | Contact Detail |
| Contact Form | https://www.sendfromchina.com/contact-us |
| National Service Hotline | 400-881-8106(Available from Monday to Friday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm) |
| Mailing Address | 10/F, Tower A, Yuanzheng Chuangye Building, No.19 Langshan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China |
Who Is the Cheapest Freight Forwarder From China to the U.S.?
Comparing different freight forwarders from China to the US to find the cheapest option for your business is time-consuming since the shipping cost is affected by various factors.
6 Main Factors Affecting Shipping Costs
Knowing the factors that affect shipping costs beforehand can help you anticipate them and take the necessary precautions to ensure you don’t go over your budget and hurt your bottom line.
1. Destination
Shipping costs vary greatly depending on the distance between the origin of a shipment in China and its final destination in the USA. Longer distances cost more, as do remote and less accessible locations, due to limited transportation options and extra handling. If any region-specific customs duties and taxes are enforced, it may also impact shipping costs.
2. Parcel Weight and Dimensions
Most freight forwarders serving the China-USA route use weight to determine the cost of a shipment. The heavier the package, the more you will pay to ship it. Also note that bulkier, oversized, or irregularly shaped parcels utilize more space and may require special handling. The dimensions make such items costlier to ship than standard-size packages.
3. Speed
For freight without any specific instructions, freight forwarders will, by default, ship it at standard speeds. While standard shipping is longer, it is less costly. On the other hand, expedited shipping normally costs more.
4. Customs Clearance
Seamless freight forwarding from China to the USA requires accurate documentation and compliance with customs regulations. Any non-compliance may lead to delays and fines. The fines affect the overall shipping costs, as do the delays, which require you to pay for storage and handling.
Customs authorities also levy import duties, taxes, and other applicable fees, which impact overall shipping costs. Freight forwarders offer customs brokerage services that help your freight move seamlessly through customs and consult on customs clearance. Enlisting this service from them can help you avoid costly fees and confusing processes during the actual shipping.
5. Carriers
Another critical factor affecting shipping costs is the carriers you partner with. Different carriers have different pricing structures and rates for freight forwarding and varying transit times and service levels, too. Selecting the right carrier based on your shipping needs can help you keep costs within a reasonable range and avoid cost escalation factors like delays and mishandling.
6. Shipping Options
Various shipping options cater to different needs, and each has its associated costs.
- Standard – Features economical rates, but the delivery time is longer.
- Express – This option is most suitable for time-sensitive shipments. The transit time is faster but costs more.
- Overnight – This is an expedited service for next-day delivery and is the most expensive option on this list.
- Priority – The option features high-priority handling with faster transit times than standard shipping but not as fast as overnight shipping.
4 Ways To Save On Shipping Costs
Freight forwarding rates from China to the USA can cause a significant dent in your profit margins. The four tips below can help you save on shipping costs.
1. Compare Carriers
Freight carrier comparison will help you find the most cost-effective option. Different carriers have varying rates, transit times, and service levels, all of which factor into your overall shipping cost. Comparing allows you to choose one that offers the perfect balance of cost and service. Additional considerations you need to make when comparing carriers are their reliability, tracking capabilities, and customer support.
2. Bulk Shipping
Bulk shipping lets you consolidate multiple shipments into one large shipment. Some freight forwarders offer discounts for bulk shipping because it allows them to maximize the shipping space they’ve booked and reduce handling costs. Choosing to ship in bulk can help reduce your shipping costs, but beware that bulk shipments may have longer lead times and require careful coordination.
3. Choose Slower Delivery
Slower delivery options, such as ocean freight, significantly reduce shipping costs between China and the USA. Opting for a slower delivery method can result in substantial savings on shipping costs for non-urgent shipments. However, ensure you evaluate your business needs and those of your customers to find the right balance.
4. Optimize Packaging
Efficient packaging helps minimize shipping costs by reducing the size and weight of shipments. Appropriately sized packaging is recommended to minimize space wastage. Additionally, you can opt for lighter packaging materials if they do not compromise the safety and quality of your goods.
Conclusion
Fast shipping from China to the USA is becoming increasingly important as e-commerce continues to grow. Finding reliable international shipping companies to work with is therefore vital to ensure time and cost-efficient delivery. The ideal freight forwarder varies; the best one for you is the one that best meets your specific needs.
The TrackingMore team shares insights on logistics tracking technology, industry trends, and e-commerce logistics solutions to help businesses streamline shipment tracking and enhance customer post-purchase experience.
