In 2024, the Port of Hong Kong handled 13.69 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), a 5% decrease compared to the previous year. Trade flows between Hong Kong and the US remain significant, with Hong Kong exporting large volumes of manufactured goods to the American market while also importing $44 billion worth of products from the US. This two-way trade highlights the ongoing demand for efficient shipping solutions. Shipping from Hong Kong to the US requires clear documentation, customs support, and transparent shipping methods to ensure smooth deliveries.
Shipping From Hong Kong To US: August 2025 Update
Costs
- Air Freight (1000 kg+ to New York): ~$5.00/kg
- Sea Freight (20′ to Los Angeles): $2,800
- Sea Freight (40′ to Los Angeles): $3,400
- Express Shipping (DHL/UPS/FedEx): ~$10-15/kg
Delivery Times
| Mode | Route | Cost | Transit Time |
| Air Freight | Hong Kong → New York | ~$5.00/kg | 3-7 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | Hong Kong → Los Angeles | ~$2,800 | 30-40 days |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | Hong Kong → Los Angeles | ~$100/m³ | 25-38 days |
| Express Shipping | Hong Kong → New York | ~$10-15/kg | 1-3 days |
Choose Hong Kong to US Shipping Methods
Businesses shipping from Hong Kong to the United States often weigh urgency, cost, cargo type and destination when planning their shipments. Making informed decisions can save time and reduce costs while ensuring goods arrive safely.
| Method | Transit Time | Cost Level | Weight/Volume Capacity | Shipping Cost from Hong Kong to US | Best For |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 20–35 days | Low | Large shipments / full container | $2,000–$5,000 per 20ft container | Heavy or bulk shipments, cost-sensitive cargo |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 25–40 days | Moderate | Small to medium shipments | $50–$150 per cubic meter | Small shipments, when full container not needed |
| Air Freight | 3–7 days | High | Up to a few tons | $5–10 per kg | Urgent shipments, high-value items |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 1–5 days | Very High | Up to 70 kg per parcel | $50–$500 per parcel | Small parcels, urgent delivery |
| Rail + Sea (Intermodal) | 18–30 days | Moderate | Medium to large shipments | $1,500–$4,000 per container | Cost-efficient alternative to air freight for medium shipments |
Ocean Freight Container Type
On the Hong Kong-US trade lane, container type directly affects customs procedures, freight rates, and delivery times. A 20ft unit may be the right fit for trial shipments or mixed cargo, while 40ft and High Cube containers are more suitable for established import programs with higher volumes. Knowing the specifications upfront allows businesses to plan loading, documentation, and cost forecasting more accurately.
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
| 20ft Standard | 5.9m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33.1 CBM | 10 standard pallets, smaller shipments |
| 40ft Standard | 12.03m × 2.4m × 2.39m | 67.3 CBM | 22 standard pallets, large volumes |
| 40ft High Cube | 12.03m × 2.4m × 2.69m | 76.3 CBM | Lightweight, voluminous goods |
International Door-to-Door Delivery
Door-to-door shipping from Hong Kong to the United States involves a comprehensive process that ensures goods move seamlessly from the supplier in Hong Kong to the final destination in the U.S. The journey begins with the collection of goods from the supplier’s warehouse. Following this, the cargo undergoes export customs clearance in Hong Kong, ensuring all necessary documentation is in order.
Once cleared, the goods are transported via the chosen method, air, sea, or rail, to the U.S. Upon arrival, U.S. customs clearance is completed, and any applicable duties and taxes are settled. Finally, the goods are delivered directly to the specified address, whether it’s a warehouse, fulfillment center, or retail location. This end-to-end service streamlines the shipping process, providing businesses with a reliable and efficient logistics solution.
Amazon FBA Shipping: Hong Kong to US Shipping
For Amazon sellers in Hong Kong, shipping to U.S. fulfillment centers requires meticulous planning and adherence to Amazon’s guidelines. The process typically begins with the selection of a reliable freight forwarder experienced in Amazon FBA shipments. Goods are collected from the supplier’s warehouse in Hong Kong and prepared according to Amazon’s specific requirements, including labeling, packaging, and documentation. Depending on the urgency and volume, shipments may be sent via air or sea freight.
Upon arrival in the U.S., the cargo undergoes customs clearance, and any duties and taxes are paid. The final step involves delivery to the designated Amazon fulfillment center. Utilizing experienced logistics providers can help ensure compliance with Amazon’s standards, reducing the risk of delays or penalties.
Shipping from Hong Kong to US Transit Time
Here’s a detailed comparison of shipping methods from Hong Kong to the United States:
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs Clearance & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
| Air Freight | 3-7 days | 1-2 days | 4-9 days | Urgent, high-value shipments |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 20-40 days | 3-5 days | 23-45 days | Bulk, cost-effective shipments |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 25-45 days | 3-5 days | 28-50 days | Smaller, consolidated shipments |
| Express Courier | 1-3 days | 1-2 days | 2-5 days | Small parcels, time-sensitive deliveries |
What Factors Affect Transit Time from Hong Kong to the US
- Shipping Method: Air freight is faster but more expensive; sea freight is slower but cost-effective.
- Port Congestion: Busy ports can cause delays; plan shipments to avoid peak times.
- Customs Clearance: Incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to delays.
- Seasonal Demand: High demand during holidays can affect shipping schedules.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can disrupt shipping routes and schedules.
- Carrier Schedules: Availability of flights or vessels can impact transit times.
- Destination Port: Some ports may have longer processing times than others.
Shipping Costs & Transparent Pricing (Hong Kong to the US)
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
| Express Courier | $20-$50 per kg | $20 | Small, urgent shipments | 3-5 days |
| Air Freight | $7.10-$9.10 per kg | $500 | Shipments between 150-500 kg | 4-9 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | $1,800-$3,000 per 20′ container | $1,800 | Large, bulk shipments | 23-45 days |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | $100-$200 per CBM | $100 | Smaller, consolidated shipments | 28-50 days |
Shipping Cost Example: Medium-volume shipment of 100kg sports equipment and accessories from Hong Kong to Los Angeles via air freight.
- Base freight cost: $450 (100kg × $4.50/kg average rate)
- Fuel surcharge (FSC): $90
- Customs clearance & brokerage: $80
- Handling & documentation fees: $30
- Total cost: $650 (all-inclusive)
Transit time: 7 days door-to-door - Key cost factors: Volumetric weight calculation, product safety certifications, oversized item handling
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from Hong Kong to the US
- Shipping Method: Air freight is faster but more expensive; sea freight is slower and more economical.
- Weight and Volume: Larger shipments incur higher charges.
- Destination Port & Customs: Ports with stricter processing can increase costs.
- Seasonal Demand: Peak shipping periods can raise rates.
- Fuel and Carrier Charges: Carrier pricing and global fuel fluctuations affect total cost.
- Insurance & Additional Services: Packaging, insurance, and door-to-door handling add to the final cost.
Popular Shipping Routes: Hong Kong to the US
Shipping from Hong Kong to the US follows well-traveled maritime and air paths that influence delivery speed and reliability. These route patterns give businesses clear expectations for scheduling and operations.
Major Departure Ports in Hong Kong
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): Primary air cargo hub, handling over 4.3 million tonnes annually.
- Hong Kong Port (HK HKG): Main seaport for cargo shipping to the United States.
Primary Arrival Ports in the US
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Ideal for West Coast shipments.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Suitable for East Coast deliveries.
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Central hub for Midwest distribution.
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Major airport for southern USA shipments.
- Port of Los Angeles: One of the busiest seaports handling significant trans-Pacific trade.
Air Freight Hubs (Hong Kong and US)
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): Busiest air cargo hub globally by tonnage.
- Memphis International Airport (MEM): Hub for express cargo services.
- Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC): Key transshipment point to the US mainland.
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF): Central hub for UPS operations.
- Miami International Airport (MIA): Gateway for cargo to the southeastern US.
Efficient Route Combinations (Hong Kong to the US)
- Air Freight: Direct flights from HKG to LAX, JFK, and ORD, transit time 2-5 days.
- Sea Freight: From Hong Kong Port to Los Angeles/Long Beach, transit time 20-30 days.
- Sea-Air Combination: Sea to West Coast port + air to final destination, total delivery 10-15 days.
Customs, Duties & Insurance (Shipping from Hong Kong to US)
Understanding customs procedures, duties, and insurance is critical for smooth Hong Kong to US shipments. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) oversees all imports, ensuring compliance with federal regulations while collecting applicable duties and taxes.
US Customs & Import Duties
Current Tariff Situation (2025): Products from Hong Kong are subject to a 125% duty rate as of April 10, 2025, dramatically increasing import costs compared to previous years. These additional tariffs are imposed on top of standard customs duties and vary based on product classification.
How Duties Are Calculated:
- Based on HS Code classification
- Determined by product value (CIF – Cost, Insurance, Freight)
- Additional tariffs for Hong Kong products apply
- Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of shipment value (minimum $27.75, maximum $538.40)
Documents Required for Customs Clearance in US
Essential documentation for smooth customs clearance includes:
Primary Documents:
- Commercial Invoice: Details of buyer, seller, product description, value, and terms of sale
- Bill of Lading (BOL) / Airway Bill (AWB): Proof of shipment and contract between shipper and carrier
- Packing List: Detailed breakdown of package contents, weights, and dimensions
- Entry Form (CBP Form 7501): Official customs entry declaration
- Certificate of Origin: Verifies country of manufacture (critical for Hong Kong shipments due to tariffs)
Additional Documents (when applicable):
- Import licenses for regulated products
- FDA certificates for food, drugs, or medical devices
- FCC compliance for electronics
- Phytosanitary certificates for plants/agricultural products
- Customs Bond (for shipments over $2,500)
Cargo Insurance Protection
While not mandatory, cargo insurance is highly recommended for international shipments:
Coverage Types:
- All Risk Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for most perils (typically 0.3-0.5% of cargo value)
- Named Perils Insurance: Limited coverage for specific risks (more affordable)
- Total Loss Only: Basic coverage for complete cargo loss
What’s Typically Covered:
- Physical damage during transit
- Theft or pilferage
- Natural disasters
- Vessel/aircraft accidents
What’s NOT Covered:
- Improper packaging
- Delays or indirect losses
- Intentional damage
- War or strikes (unless specified)
HS Code Classification (Hong Kong to US)
HS (Harmonized System) codes are standardized 6-10 digit product classification numbers used to identify goods during customs clearance. Accurate classification is critical – especially for Hong Kong shipments due to current tariff situations.
Why HS Codes Matter:
- Determine applicable duty rates (including the 125% Hong Kong tariff)
- Required for customs entry processing
- Affect import restrictions and licensing requirements
- Incorrect codes lead to delays, penalties, or additional inspection fees
How to Find Your HS Code
- Use the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) database
- Consult with your customs broker or freight forwarder
- CBP provides online classification tools
Incoterms for Shipping from Hong Kong to US
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) define responsibilities between buyers and sellers in international trade:
| Incoterm | Seller Responsibilities | Buyer Responsibilities | Risk Transfer Point | Best For |
| FOB (Free on Board) | Export clearance, Delivery to vessel at Hong Kong port, Loading costs | Ocean freight, Marine insurance, US customs clearance, Import duties & taxes, Final delivery | When goods are loaded on vessel | Experienced importers with established logistics networks |
| CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) | Export clearance, Ocean freight to US port, Marine insurance (minimum coverage), Loading costs | US customs clearance, Import duties & taxes (including 125% tariff), Unloading at US port, Final delivery | When goods are loaded on vessel (despite seller paying freight) | Medium-sized shipments requiring balanced responsibility |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Export clearance, Ocean/air freight, Marine insurance, US customs clearance, Import duties & taxes (including 125% tariff), Final delivery to buyer’s location | Unloading at final destination | At buyer’s designated location | Buyers wanting turnkey delivery with minimal involvement |
| EXW (Ex Works) | Make goods available at seller’s facility in Hong Kong | All transportation, Export clearance, Freight & insurance, US customs clearance, All duties & taxes | At seller’s warehouse/factory | Buyers with complete logistics control and Hong Kong presence |
| FCA (Free Carrier) | Export clearance, Delivery to agreed carrier location, Loading onto carrier | Main carriage freight, Marine insurance, US customs clearance, Import duties & taxes, Final delivery | When goods are handed to carrier | Air freight shipments and containerized cargo |
International Freight Forwarder – Hong Kong to the US
Working with a skilled international freight forwarder for Hong Kong to US shipments gives importers a clear advantage. Forwarders connect businesses with reliable carriers for express delivery, as well as major airlines and ocean lines for air and sea freight. A strong carrier network helps lower costs, maintain predictable transit times, and provides full visibility across all shipping modes.
Why the Right Forwarder Matters – Hong Kong to the US
A dependable forwarder minimizes delays, prevents unexpected fees, and ensures smooth Hong Kong-to-US shipments. Key considerations include:
- Experience & Hong Kong-US Expertise: The forwarder has deep knowledge of Hong Kong ports, US entry points, customs procedures, and peak-season challenges, ensuring shipments move smoothly without unexpected delays.
- Carrier Network & Flexibility: Access to a wide range of shipping options-air, sea, and express-allowing importers to choose the best solution for their shipment size, timeline, and budget.
- Customs & Compliance: Expert handling of all required documentation, duties, and HS codes, reducing the risk of fines or clearance delays.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear, all-inclusive quotes that cover freight, surcharges, and delivery costs, so importers can plan expenses accurately.
- Tracking & Support: Real-time tracking and responsive customer service provide full visibility and peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
- Scalability: The forwarder can accommodate growing shipment volumes and offer additional services like consolidation, packaging, or specialized handling.
Real-Time Tracking for Hong Kong-US Shipments
Stay updated throughout your Hong Kong–US shipments with real-time tracking designed for B2B importers. Monitor cargo location, transit milestones, and customs progress to better plan inventory, predict delivery windows, and reduce operational risks.
| Tracking Type | What It Offers |
| Multi-Carrier Updates | Sea Freight: Container location refreshed daily.Air Freight: Hourly flight status and customs updates.Express Services: Real-time tracking via DHL, FedEx, UPS. |
| Smart Notifications | Departure alerts when goods leave Hong Kong.Transit progress updates.Customs clearance notifications.Delivery confirmation upon arrival. |
| Online Dashboard | Single login for all shipments.Access to bills of lading, invoices, and customs documents.Real-time cost updates and ETA predictions. |
| Mobile App | Push notifications for shipment milestones.Photo updates from key transit points.Direct communication with your freight agent.Emergency contact for urgent issues. |
Additional Considerations (Hong Kong–US)
Protect your shipments by considering critical regulatory and cargo-specific requirements-especially for sensitive goods and import restrictions.
Sensitive & Special Cargo Handling
- Dual-use and strategic items may require export/import licenses under U.S. export controls (EAR); Hong Kong is treated as if it were China in this context.
- Temperature-sensitive and fragile goods need proper packaging, refrigeration, and insurance for smooth transit.
- High-value shipments benefit from tailored logistics and theft prevention strategies
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Agricultural goods such as fresh or canned meats and certain plant products are banned or require strict clearance.
- Controlled substances and drug paraphernalia are strictly prohibited under U.S. law.
- Marking requirement: Goods produced in Hong Kong must be marked “China” to comply with U.S. entry regulations-even though duty classification remains under Hong Kong origin.
- Low-value shipments exemption ended: From May 2025, the U.S. eliminated the de minimis duty-free threshold for goods from Hong Kong and China-standard duties now apply on all shipments.
Final Review
Success in shipping from Hong Kong to the US depends on finding the right balance between cost, speed, and reliability. Express services via DHL, FedEx, or UPS deliver in 2–5 days for urgent needs, while air freight provides fast but more cost-effective transit at 5–9 days. Sea freight is the most economical choice, with FCL shipments taking 20–30 days and LCL slightly longer. Importers must also factor in customs duties, tariffs, and insurance to avoid unexpected costs. Real-time tracking, transparent pricing, and professional customs handling ensure smoother deliveries. In short: choose express for urgency, air freight for fast business replenishment, and sea freight for bulk cost savings—always supported by an experienced Hong Kong–US freight forwarder for dependable supply chain performance.
FAQ-Shipping from Hong Kong to the US
How much does it cost to ship from Hong Kong to the US?
Costs vary by method: air freight ~$9–14 per kg, express couriers ~$50–$500 per parcel, and sea freight FCL ~$2,000–$5,000 per 20ft container.
What is the cheapest way to ship to Hong Kong from the USA?
Sea freight (LCL) is usually the most cost-effective for larger shipments, while USPS international services are cheapest for small parcels.
How long does it take a package to ship from Hong Kong to the US?
Transit times: express couriers 1–5 days, air freight 3–7 days, sea freight FCL 20–35 days, LCL 25–40 days.
Does UPS ship from Hong Kong?
Yes, UPS offers international shipping from Hong Kong to the US, including express and freight services.
Can Hong Kong still ship to the USA?
Yes, shipments continue, though small parcels may face higher tariffs; international carriers like UPS, FedEx, DHL are operational.
Why did Hong Kong stop shipping to the US?
Hongkong Post temporarily suspended some small parcel services due to tariffs imposed by the US in 2025.
Why is my package from Hong Kong taking so long?
Delays can occur due to customs, tariffs, high shipping demand, or carrier-specific issues.
Are there import duties from Hong Kong to the USA?
Yes, import duties may apply based on value and type of goods. Shipments under $800 may be exempt under Section 321.
Do I need to pay customs if I buy from Hong Kong?
Yes, for items above the duty-free threshold, customs fees and taxes may apply.
Is there a US tax treaty with Hong Kong?
Yes, the US and Hong Kong have agreements to avoid double taxation, but import duties still apply.
