The Taiwan-US shipping route demonstrated remarkable growth in 2024, with bilateral trade surging 24.2% to reach $158.6 billion, making Taiwan the 7th largest US trading partner. Navigating the complex shipping landscape and mastering the logistics of shipping from Taiwan to US has never been more critical for B2B importers seeking reliable supply chain solutions. Whether you’re an Amazon seller sourcing electronics, a Canadian wholesaler importing hardware, or an agent managing industrial goods, understanding this vital trade corridor can make or break your bottom line.
Shipping from Taiwan to US: 2025 Cost & Time Overview
With Taiwan’s strategic location as a manufacturing hub for electronics, textiles, and precision goods, choosing the right shipping method determines whether your inventory arrives on time and within budget. Smart importers leverage this trade route’s multiple port options, diverse carrier networks, and flexible shipping solutions to maintain steady product flow while managing seasonal rate fluctuations and customs complexities.
Costs
- Air freight (500kg+ to US): ~$4.50-6.50/kg
- Express shipping (1-30kg): ~$15-25/kg
- Sea freight (20′ FCL): ~$1,800-2,500
- Sea freight (40′ FCL): ~$2,200-3,200
- LCL (per CBM): ~$120-180/CBM
Delivery Times
| Shipping Mode | Route | Cost Range | Transit Time | Best For |
| Express Courier | Taiwan → US (Door-to-Door) | $15–25/kg | 3–5 days | Urgent samples, documents |
| Air Freight | Taiwan → US Major Airports | $4.50–6.50/kg | 5–8 days | High-value electronics |
| Sea FCL 20′ | Taiwan → US West Coast | $1,800–2,500 | 14–18 days | Medium volume (10–15 CBM) |
| Sea FCL 40′ | Taiwan → US West Coast | $2,200–3,200 | 14–18 days | Full container loads, bulk |
| Sea FCL 20′ | Taiwan → US East Coast | $2,200–2,800 | 22–28 days | East Coast distribution |
| Sea FCL 40′ | Taiwan → US East Coast | $2,800–3,800 | 22–28 days | Large volume east coast |
| Sea LCL | Taiwan → US West Coast | $120–180/CBM | 18–25 days | Small shipments (1–10 CBM) |
| Sea LCL | Taiwan → US East Coast | $150–220/CBM | 25–32 days | Small east coast shipments |
Taiwan to US Shipping Methods: Ocean, Air & Express
For importers moving goods from Taiwan to the US, the choice of shipping method shapes both cost and lead time. Ocean freight, air freight, and express courier services remain the three primary methods, each designed to meet different business priorities.
| Method | Transit Time | Best For |
| Express Shipping | 3-5 days | Documents, samples, urgent small parcels (<30kg) |
| Air Freight | 5-8 days | Time-sensitive goods, high-value items, medium weight cargo |
| Sea Freight FCL | 14-28 days | Large volumes, full container loads, cost-effective bulk shipments |
| Sea Freight LCL | 18-25 days | Smaller shipments, shared container space, budget-conscious importers |
Container Types for Ocean Freight
Container types play a decisive role in ocean freight efficiency. Standard dry, refrigerated, and specialized containers each serve different cargo needs, helping businesses optimize costs, maintain cargo integrity, and streamline international logistics.
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | 5.89m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33.2 | Small to medium shipments, dense cargo, cost-effective option |
| 40ft Standard | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 67.7 | Large shipments, balanced volume and weight capacity |
| 40ft High Cube | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.70m | 76.3 | Voluminous lightweight cargo, oversized items requiring extra height |
| 20ft High Cube | 5.89m × 2.35m × 2.70m | 37.4 | Medium volume cargo needing additional vertical space |
International Door-to-Door Delivery
Door-to-door shipping streamlines the process of moving goods from Taiwan to the US. Shipments are collected from your supplier or warehouse, professionally packaged, and labeled according to international standards. Documentation, customs clearance, and duty payments are managed along the way. Air freight typically delivers in 5-7 days, while sea freight takes 15-25 days for FCL and 20-30 days for LCL. This end-to-end solution reduces the need for multiple logistics partners and provides a single point of contact for the entire shipping journey.
Amazon FBA Shipping: Taiwan to US
E-commerce sellers benefit from tailored FBA shipping solutions from Taiwan to US fulfillment centers. Products are prepared according to Amazon standards, including inspection, packaging, labeling, and bundling. Air express delivers in 6-8 days, and sea freight in 22-28 days, with all customs documentation and clearance handled efficiently. Real-time tracking keeps inventory visible throughout transit, allowing sellers to focus on growing their business while shipments arrive reliably at Amazon warehouses.
Estimated Transit Time for Taiwan to US Shipments
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs Clearance & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
| Air Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 1-2 days | 1-2 days | 3-5 days | Urgent shipments, samples, high-value goods |
| Air Freight | 3-5 days | 2-3 days | 7-10 days | Time-sensitive commercial goods, mid-size shipments |
| Sea Freight (FCL) | 14-18 days | 2-4 days | 20-25 days | Large volume shipments, cost-efficient transport |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 14-18 days | 4-7 days | 25-30 days | Smaller shipments, budget-conscious importers |
| Sea-Air Combination | 12-15 days | 2-3 days | 15-20 days |
Transit Time Factors and Considerations
- Seasonal Fluctuations: Peak seasons (August-October for holiday merchandise) can add 1-2 weeks to shipping times
- Port Congestion: Kaohsiung and Taipei ports in Taiwan and Los Angeles/Long Beach in the US frequently experience congestion
- Customs Inspection: Random or detailed inspections can add 3-7 days to clearance time
- Documentation Accuracy: Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can cause significant delays
- Product Type: Restricted or regulated products require additional permits and inspection time
- Weather Conditions: Typhoon season in Taiwan (June-October) can impact vessel departures
- COVID-19 Protocols: Pandemic-related restrictions may still cause unexpected delays at certain ports
- Inland Transportation: Distance from ports to final destination can add 1-5 days depending on US location
A Clear Breakdown of Shipping Costs from Taiwan to the US
Freight costs between Taiwan and the US directly impact your profit margins, with rates varying significantly based on service level, cargo characteristics, and seasonal demand. Smart importers budget for these variations while leveraging volume discounts and optimal timing to reduce landed costs.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
| Express Courier | $15-25/kg | $45 | Samples, urgent documents, small parcels <30kg | 3-5 days |
| Air Freight | $4.50-6.50/kg | $300 | Medium volume, time-sensitive goods 100kg+ | 5-8 days |
| Sea Freight FCL 20′ | $1,800-2,500 | $1,800 | Full container loads, cost-conscious bulk shipments | 14-18 days |
| Sea Freight FCL 40′ | $2,200-3,200 | $2,200 | Large volume shipments, maximized container utilization | 14-18 days |
| Sea Freight LCL | $120-180/CBM | $200 | Smaller shipments, shared container space | 18-25 days |
Shipping Cost Example: Medium-volume shipment of 200kg medical equipment and supplies from Taipei to Chicago via air freight.
Key cost factors: Dimensional weight calculation, FDA compliance documentation, temperature-controlled handling requirements
- Base freight cost: $1,200 (200kg × $6.00/kg average rate)
- Fuel surcharge (BAF): $150
- Customs clearance: $80
- Handling & documentation fees: $20
- Total cost: $1,450 (all-inclusive)
- Transit time: 6 days door-to-door
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from Taiwan to US
- Cargo weight vs. volume: Dimensional weight pricing applies when shipments exceed 167kg per cubic meter
- Peak season surcharges: September through November adds 15-30% premium to base rates
- Port destination: West Coast delivery costs $200-400 less than East Coast routing
- Fuel price volatility: Bunker adjustment factors fluctuate 5-12% monthly
- Product classification: Hazardous or restricted goods require specialized handling fees
- Freight forwarder markup: Service quality and carrier relationships affect final pricing by 8-15%
Most Used Taiwan-US Shipping Routes Linking
Strategic port selection between Taiwan and the US can reduce shipping costs by 15-25% while optimizing transit times based on your cargo destination and volume requirements.
Major Departure Ports in Taiwan
- Kaohsiung Port: Taiwan’s largest container hub, handling 70% of exports with direct services to all major US ports
- Keelung Port: Northern Taiwan gateway, ideal for Taipei region manufacturers and high-value electronics shipments
- Taichung Port: Central Taiwan’s primary facility, specialized in automotive parts and industrial equipment exports
- Taipei Port: Biggest container facility in northern Taiwan Total value of monthly U.S. trade with Taiwan 2024
Primary Arrival Ports in the US
- Los Angeles/Long Beach: Fastest transit at 15-20 days U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, December and Annual 2024 | U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), lowest freight costs for West Coast distribution
- Seattle/Tacoma: Premium gateway for Pacific Northwest and Canadian markets via rail connections
- New York/New Jersey: East Coast’s largest facility, adds 7-10 days transit but serves Northeast markets directly
- Savannah: Emerging Southeast hub with competitive rail access to inland distribution centers
Air Freight Hubs
- Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Taiwan’s primary cargo hub with daily freighter services to all major US gateways
- Los Angeles International (LAX): West Coast’s largest air cargo facility, fastest customs clearance
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Central US hub ideal for nationwide distribution via trucking networks
- New York JFK: Premium East Coast gateway for time-sensitive shipments to Northeast markets
Efficient Route Combinations
- Kaohsiung → Los Angeles: Most cost-effective for high-volume sea freight, 14-16 days transit
- Taoyuan → Chicago: Optimal air freight balance of cost and central US access, 5-7 days door-to-door
- Keelung → Seattle: Best for tech companies serving West Coast markets, strong rail connections inland
- Taichung → Savannah: Emerging route for automotive/industrial goods targeting Southeast US manufacturing
Managing Customs, Duties & Insurance in Taiwan-US Shipments
Efficient customs management is essential when shipping from Taiwan to the US. Importers must navigate tariff classifications, duty rates, and compliance requirements while securing proper insurance to mitigate risks during transit. A structured approach to customs clearance, duties, and insurance not only reduces delays and unexpected costs but also ensures smoother cross-border trade and reliable delivery.
US Customs & Import Duties
Import duties from Taiwan to the US depend on your product’s HTS classification code and current trade policies. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates apply to Taiwan goods, with recent developments showing Taiwan facing potential 20% tariff rates on certain products, though this varies significantly by product category.
Import Duties Based on HTS code classification:
- Electronics & semiconductors: 0-6% (most computer components duty-free)
- Textiles & apparel: 8-32% depending on material and construction
- Industrial machinery: 0-4.9% for most categories
- Automotive parts: 2.5-25% based on component type
- Steel & metal products: 0-25% with anti-dumping considerations
Additional Import Costs
- Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of cargo value (minimum $27.23, maximum $528.33)
- Harbor Maintenance Fee: 0.125% of cargo value
- Customs broker fees: $75-150 per entry depending on complexity
- FDA/FCC fees: $175-500 for regulated products requiring special clearance
Each product requires accurate HTS classification – misclassification can result in penalties and delayed clearance affecting your supply chain timing.
Cargo Insurance Protection
Ocean freight from Taiwan carries higher risks due to 14-28 day transit times, multiple handling points, and Pacific weather conditions. Insurance isn’t mandatory but protects against total cargo loss scenarios that could devastate your business.
Typical costs: 0.2-0.5% of cargo value for standard coverage, 0.6-1.2% for high-risk goods like electronics or fragile items. All-risk policies cover damage from handling, weather, and theft, while total loss coverage only applies to complete cargo destruction. High-value shipments above $100,000 and time-sensitive inventory shipments benefit most from comprehensive coverage.
Incoterms & Delivery Options Taiwan Shipping To US
Cost and responsibility allocation between you and your Taiwan supplier depends entirely on your chosen Incoterms. Each term shifts different obligations for freight costs, insurance, customs clearance, and delivery risks.
| Cost/Responsibility | FOB | CIF | DAP | DDP |
| Export Customs (Taiwan) | Seller | Seller | Seller | Seller |
| Main Freight (Sea/Air) | Buyer | Seller | Seller | Seller |
| Insurance | Buyer | Seller (minimum) | Seller | Seller |
| US Port Charges | Buyer | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Import Customs Clearance | Buyer | Buyer | Buyer | Seller |
| Import Duties & Taxes | Buyer | Buyer | Buyer | Seller |
| Final Delivery in US | Buyer | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Best For | Buyers with US customs brokers | Standard B2B shipments | Door-to-door without customs hassle | E-commerce/full-service shipping |
DDP vs DDU: Best Shipping Terms for Taiwan to US
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) transfers all shipping risks and costs to your Taiwan supplier, including US import duties, customs clearance, and final delivery. Your supplier handles everything – you simply receive goods at your specified address. This works best for smaller importers without customs expertise or Amazon FBA sellers who need predictable landed costs. However, you pay premium pricing since suppliers build in risk margins for duties they can’t control.
DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) / DAP means your supplier delivers goods to your US destination but you handle import duties, taxes, and customs clearance. This gives you better control over customs classification and duty optimization while still getting door-to-door freight service. Most experienced importers prefer DDU because it provides transparency over actual duty costs and allows relationship building with US customs brokers who understand your business needs.
International Freight Forwarder from Taiwan to US
Taiwan to US shipping demands expertise in trans-Pacific logistics, US customs regulations, and multi-modal transportation networks. Professional freight forwarders bridge the complexity gap between Taiwan’s advanced manufacturing hubs and America’s diverse distribution centers.
Experienced forwarders handle factory pickup across Taiwan’s industrial corridors – from Taipei’s tech districts to Kaohsiung’s manufacturing zones – delivering directly to your US warehouses, distribution centers, or Amazon FBA facilities in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and nationwide. Their integrated networks provide reliable transit options via ocean freight, air cargo, or expedited services, with transparent pricing structures that eliminate surprise costs and streamline customs clearance processes that keep your inventory flowing.
Choose The Right Freight Forwarder for Taiwan-US Trade
Your freight forwarder choice impacts more than just cargo movementو it affects cash flow, inventory timing, and regulatory compliance. The right partner brings deep knowledge of US import regulations, Taiwan export procedures, and optimal routing strategies that can reduce your total logistics costs by 15-25%.
Skilled forwarders consolidate multiple supplier shipments into single containers, reducing per-unit freight costs while coordinating pickup timing across different Taiwan factories. They provide guidance on packaging requirements for electronics sensitive to humidity during Pacific crossings, ensure accurate HTS classification to minimize duty exposure, and maintain relationships with US customs brokers who expedite clearance at major ports. This expertise translates into predictable delivery schedules, optimized landed costs, and reduced regulatory risk that protects your business from costly delays or compliance penalties.
Real-Time Taiwan to US Tracking
Real-time visibility transforms Taiwan to US shipments from uncertainty into predictable supply chain components. Modern tracking systems provide milestone updates from factory pickup in Taiwan through final delivery at your US destination, enabling proactive inventory planning and accurate customer delivery commitments.
Professional freight forwarders integrate tracking across ocean carriers, airlines, trucking companies, and customs facilities, consolidating multiple data streams into single dashboards. This visibility helps B2B importers manage cash flow timing, coordinate warehouse receiving schedules, and respond quickly to potential delays before they impact customer orders.
Service-Based Tracking
Ocean freight tracking provides container-level visibility with port departure confirmations, vessel positioning updates, and estimated arrival windows at US ports. Air freight systems offer flight-by-flight updates with customs clearance status and final mile delivery scheduling. Express services deliver real-time package location with delivery attempt notifications and recipient confirmation.
Smart Notifications, Online Dashboard And Mobile App
- Proactive alerts: Automated notifications for departure delays, customs holds, or weather-related route changes
- Milestone tracking: Factory pickup, export clearance, vessel departure, US port arrival, and final delivery confirmations
- Exception management: Immediate alerts for documentation issues, customs inspections, or delivery problems requiring action
- Mobile accessibility: Real-time status updates and document access from smartphones during business travel
- Dashboard analytics: Historical performance data showing average transit times and carrier reliability metrics
- Integration capabilities: API connections to your ERP, WMS, or inventory management systems for automated updates
Additional Considerations (Taiwan to US)
Beyond standard shipping procedures, Taiwan to US imports involve specialized cargo requirements and regulatory restrictions that can significantly impact your supply chain timing and compliance costs if not properly managed upfront.
Sensitive & Special Cargo Handling
- Electronics & semiconductors: Require anti-static packaging, humidity control, and temperature monitoring during Pacific crossings
- Precision machinery: Needs shock-resistant crating, tilt indicators, and specialized lifting equipment at ports
- Chemical products: Must comply with hazmat shipping regulations, require MSDS documentation and certified dangerous goods packaging
- Lithium batteries: Subject to IATA regulations for air freight, limited quantities per shipment, special labeling requirements
- Pharmaceutical products: Need FDA registration, cold chain management, and validated temperature monitoring systems
- Food products: Require FDA prior notice, facility registration, and compliance with US food safety standards
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Completely prohibited: Illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, endangered species items, and unlicensed firearms
- FDA regulated: Food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics require pre-approval and facility registration
- USDA restricted: Agricultural products, meat, dairy items need import permits and quarantine inspection
- FCC controlled: Radio frequency devices, telecommunications equipment require certification before import
- Export control items: Dual-use technologies, encryption software may face re-export restrictions from Taiwan
- Textile restrictions: Certain apparel categories subject to quota limitations and country-of-origin marking requirements
- Intellectual property: Items suspected of trademark or copyright infringement face seizure and destruction
Taiwan to US Shipping: Final Recommendations
Taiwan to US shipping success depends on three critical decisions; route optimization, service selection, and freight forwarder partnership. Smart importers save 15-25% on logistics costs by matching cargo characteristics to appropriate shipping methods express for urgent samples, air freight for medium volumes, and sea freight for bulk shipments. Port selection directly impacts your bottom line, with West Coast routing typically costing $200-400 less than East Coast delivery.
However, factor in inland transportation to your final destination when calculating total landed costs. Peak season planning becomes essential, as September through November rate surcharges can increase shipping costs by 30%. Your freight forwarder choice affects more than just cargo movement; experienced partners provide customs expertise, consolidation opportunities, and real-time tracking that transforms unpredictable shipping into reliable supply chain components. Proper HTS classification, insurance coverage, and Incoterms selection protect against costly compliance issues that can derail your import operations.
Shipping from Taiwan to the US – FAQ
How much does it cost to ship from Taiwan to the US? / How much to ship from Taiwan to the US?
The cost depends on several factors:
- Shipping method: air freight, ocean freight (FCL/LCL), or express courier.
- Package size & weight: larger or heavier shipments cost more.
- Type of goods: restricted or fragile items may have extra fees.
- Additional services: insurance, customs clearance, fuel surcharges, and last-mile delivery.
As a general idea:
- Express couriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS): from around $30–$100+ for small parcels.
- Air freight: usually $4–8 per kg, depending on the route and demand.
- Ocean freight (40ft container): can range from $1,500 to $3,500+, depending on the season and port of entry.
- For accurate rates, shippers usually request a quote from a freight forwarder or use online calculators (e.g., FedEx, Freightos, or Chunghwa Post).
2. Is Taiwan still shipping to the USA?
Yes. Taiwan maintains active trade and shipping connections with the United States. Both postal services (Chunghwa Post) and major couriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL) continue to operate regular services. No suspension of shipments exists between Taiwan and the US.
3. How long does it take to ship a package from Taiwan to the USA?
Transit time varies by shipping method:
- Express couriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS): 2–5 business days.
- Air freight: around 5–10 days (including handling and customs clearance).
- Ocean freight (FCL/LCL): about 14–25 days, depending on the port of origin and destination.
- For eCommerce and smaller packages, average delivery is usually 6–13 days door-to-door.
4. What is the import tax from Taiwan to the USA?
Import duties depend on the type of product being imported. The U.S. uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) to calculate tariffs. Many products from Taiwan enter the US with low or zero tariffs due to long-standing trade agreements. Some categories (e.g., electronics, machinery, textiles) may have specific duty rates. Importers must also pay Customs clearance fees, and in some cases state taxes or FDA compliance costs (for regulated goods). To calculate duties:
- Identify the product’s HS/HTS code.
- Check the U.S. Customs tariff database.
- Apply the duty percentage to the customs value (product cost + shipping + insurance).
- Some items (like personal effects, low-value goods under $800 de minimis) may be exempt from import duty.
