Importing from China to the United States involves more moving parts than most first-time buyers expect — but it follows a predictable sequence once you understand each step. This guide covers the practical process, not the theoretical one.
Step 1: Find and Verify Your Factory
Finding a factory is easy. Finding one that will actually deliver what they quote is harder. Before placing any order, obtain the factory's business licence (营业执照), confirm their export licence, and verify their certifications match the claims on their profile.
Request a product sample before committing to production quantities. Expect to pay for samples; factories that offer "free samples" typically recover the cost elsewhere. A credible factory welcomes this process — it's how they demonstrate capability.
Step 2: Agree Incoterms and Payment Terms
For most US-bound shipments, FOB [Chinese port] is the right Incoterm. The factory handles export customs in China; you take over from the vessel. Avoid EXW unless you have a China-based freight forwarder. Treat DDP with caution — see our guide on DDP risks.
On payment, the industry standard for established buyers is 30% deposit, 70% before shipment (30/70 T/T). First orders with new factories often involve 50/50. Letter of Credit (L/C) is available for large orders but adds complexity. Never pay 100% upfront.
Step 3: Arrange Freight and Insurance
Engage a freight forwarder before your production run completes. They need lead time to book container space, prepare documentation, and file ISF. For shipments above approximately $2,500 in goods value, marine cargo insurance is strongly recommended — cargo loss is more common than buyers expect.
Typical sea freight transit times from Shenzhen or Guangzhou: Los Angeles 12–16 days, New York 25–30 days via Panama Canal. Add 3–5 days for customs clearance at the US end.
Step 4: US Customs Entry
Shipments valued above $2,500 require a formal entry filed with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Your freight forwarder or customs broker files this using the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and (where required) certificates of origin or compliance.
Shipments below $800 enter duty-free under the de minimis threshold. Between $800 and $2,500, an informal entry applies. Above $2,500, formal entry with full documentation is required.
Step 5: Section 301 Tariffs
Since 2018, many Chinese-origin goods are subject to Section 301 tariffs on top of standard MFN duty rates. Tariff rates vary by product HTS code and have been modified several times. As of 2025, additional tariffs of 25% apply to a broad range of manufactured goods; some categories carry higher rates.
Before placing your order, classify your product under the correct 10-digit HTS code and look up the applicable duty rate using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Factor this into your landed cost calculation from the start — duty surprises are expensive.
Common First-Order Mistakes
- Not calculating total landed cost upfront. Factory price + freight + duty + customs broker fee + inland delivery = your real cost. Many buyers only discover the full number when the goods arrive.
- Skipping the sample. Production quality differs from samples, but having no sample means no quality baseline at all.
- Missing product compliance requirements. Products sold in the US may require specific certifications (FCC for electronics, ASTM standards for toys, etc.). Non-compliant goods can be refused entry or recalled.
- Using the factory's recommended freight forwarder. The factory's forwarder works for the factory. Use your own.
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