Air Freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles
Fast and reliable air freight service from Xiamen to Los Angeles. Express, standard, and economy options available with door-to-door delivery and real-time tracking.
Transit
2-3 days
Departures
Daily flights
Why Air Freight
Benefits of Air Freight Shipping from Xiamen to Los Angeles
Fast Delivery
2-3 days vs 15-18 days by ocean freight
Daily Flights
Multiple carrier options available daily
Lower Risk
Reduced handling and shorter exposure time
Pre-Clearance
Expedited customs processing programs
Air freight from Xiamen Gaoqi Airport to Los Angeles International Airport delivers exceptional speed for your most critical shipments to the United States market. This route connects one of China's fastest-growing export hubs with America's largest West Coast gateway, offering multiple daily carrier options including China Southern, American Airlines, and FedEx for maximum flexibility. Your electronics, textiles, and machinery components arrive in pristine condition thanks to climate-controlled aircraft holds and minimal handling compared to ocean transport.
The business value becomes clear when you consider that air freight eliminates 2-3 weeks of inventory carrying costs and reduces the risk of stockouts during peak retail seasons. LAX's advanced cargo facilities and direct access to Southern California's distribution networks mean your goods reach final destinations faster than any other shipping method.
Route Highlights
2-3 days
Transit Time
Daily flights
Flight Frequency
99%+
On-Time Delivery
Door-to-Door
Full Service Options
Pricing Guide
Air Freight Shipping Rates from Xiamen to Los Angeles
Current air freight rates from Xiamen to Los Angeles in 2026 typically range from $4.80 to $7.20 per kilogram, depending on your cargo volume and chosen carrier service level. Fuel surcharges add approximately 15-20% to base rates, while security fees and handling charges contribute another $0.40-0.60 per kg to your total shipping cost. Import duties for most Chinese goods entering the United States vary from 7.5% to 25% based on product classification, with electronics and textiles facing higher tariff rates than raw materials. Smart shippers reduce costs by consolidating shipments to reach volume discounts at 100kg, 300kg, and 500kg thresholds, and by booking space 5-7 days in advance rather than requesting urgent same-day arrangements. Working with freight forwarders who maintain strong relationships with multiple airlines can save you 10-15% compared to direct booking, especially during peak seasons like October through December.
Quick Rate Guide
Express
1-2 day priority
$6-8/kg
Standard
3-5 day transit
$3.50-5/kg
Economy
5-7 day deferred
$3-4/kg
Additional Costs
Delivery Timeline
Transit Times for Air Freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles
Step 1
Cargo Acceptance
4-8 hrs
Security screening at origin
Step 2
Flight Transit
12-14 hrs
Direct flight to destination
Step 3
Customs Clearance
4-24 hrs
TSA and CBP inspection
Step 4
Release & Sort
2-4 hrs
Cargo release and sorting
Step 5
Final Delivery
Same/Next day
Door delivery
Express
1-2 Days
Door-to-door with priority handling
Standard
3-5 Days
Regular service with full tracking
Economy
5-7 Days
Consolidated for cost savings
Flight time from Xiamen Gaoqi Airport to Los Angeles International Airport averages 11-13 hours for direct services, though most shipments require one connection through hubs like Shanghai Pudong or Seoul Incheon, extending total transit to 15-18 hours. Customs clearance at LAX typically processes standard commercial shipments within 4-8 hours for properly documented cargo, though complex classifications or random inspections can extend this to 24-48 hours. Express services guarantee 48-hour door-to-door delivery for premium rates, while standard air freight completes the journey in 2-3 business days, and economy options may take 3-4 days due to consolidation delays. Expedite your clearance by ensuring all commercial invoices include detailed product descriptions, correct HTS codes, and accurate declared values, as incomplete documentation accounts for 60% of customs delays on this route.
Process
How Air Freight Works
Quote & Booking
Same dayGet a quote and book your air freight shipment.
Collection
1 dayWe collect cargo from your location.
Flight Transit
1-5 daysYour cargo flies to the destination.
Customs Clearance
1 dayFast customs processing at destination.
Final Delivery
Same dayCargo delivered to your door.
Track Record
Reliable Service
15+
Years Experience
50K+
Shipments
99%
On-Time Delivery
24/7
Support Available
Cargo Types
Top Cargo Categories: Xiamen to Los Angeles
The Xiamen to Los Angeles route handles a diverse range of cargo. Here are the most commonly shipped items on this corridor:
Electronics
Smartphones and tablets, laptops and charging accessories
Home & Office
Ready-to-assemble furniture for home and office spaces
Industrial
Solar energy products, manufacturing equipment, and power systems
Retail & Fashion
Consumer fashion including shoes, apparel, and accessories
Toys & Recreation
Video game consoles, STEM kits, and outdoor sports equipment
Dangerous Goods
Hazardous materials including batteries and industrial chemicals
Documentation
Required Documents to Ship from Xiamen to Los Angeles
To ship goods from Xiamen to Los Angeles, you'll need these documents. For air freight, you'll receive a Air Waybill (AWB) as your transport receipt.
Universal Requirements
Commercial Invoice
Describes the goods, value, and buyer/seller details
Contract/Purchase Order
Documentation of the purchase terms and conditions
Packing List
Specifies cargo measurements, weights, and how items are packed
Certificate of Origin
Verifies Chinese origin for preferential duty treatment
Air Freight Requirements for United States
ACAS Filing
Air Cargo Advance Screening performed by carrier/forwarder
Air Waybill (AWB)
Receipt of goods for air cargo - filed hours before arrival
Customs Bond
Single Entry or Continuous Bond required for all US imports
Important: United States Requirements
ISF Filing is critical for sea freight - failure to file results in a $5,000 fine
FDA prior notice required for food products (filed 15 days before arrival)
Customs Bond is mandatory for both sea and air imports
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
Customs
Clearing Customs in Los Angeles
Understanding United States's customs process helps ensure your Xiamen shipment clears without delays or penalties. Air freight clearance happens within hours of arrival. Documentation errors result in expensive holds at airport facilities.
Section 321 De Minimis
E-commerce shipments under $800 can clear quickly using Section 321, avoiding formal entry requirements.
Rapid Clearance Timeline
The fast pace of air freight leaves little room for error. Incorrect documents lead to immediate holds.
ACAS Screening
ACAS is mandatory for all air cargo to the US. Screening data is submitted by the carrier before departure.
Key United States Import Considerations
ISF late fees are strictly enforced without exceptions
FDA prior notice is required for food and pharmaceutical products
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
UFLPA compliance is a current CBP priority for all China shipments
Hazardous Materials
Shipping Hazmat to Los Angeles
Transporting dangerous goods from Xiamen requires careful compliance with IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) and United States import rules. Air freight regulations are stricter than sea, with tighter quantity limits and enhanced battery restrictions.
Universal Requirements for All Dangerous Goods
MSDS/SDS Documentation
Current SDS documentation in dual language format is mandatory for all dangerous goods
24-Hour Emergency Contact
Round-the-clock emergency contact required—must reach someone who knows the technical specifications
Dangerous Goods Declaration
Formal DGD signed by the shipper declaring the nature and classification of hazardous contents
UN-Rated Packaging
UN-approved packaging with proper certification stamps is required for all hazardous shipments
Lithium Battery Restrictions
Lithium Ion Batteries (UN3480) are heavily restricted. High-power batteries (>100Wh) are generally Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO).
Section II Labeling
Section II marking required for batteries packed with or in devices—include Wh rating.
ACAS Screening
DG air freight requires ACAS filing with complete hazmat details before departure.
Key Points for United States Hazmat
US requires exact chemical names—generic descriptions are rejected
ISF filing must include complete DG details 24 hours before departure
Lithium batteries >100Wh are Cargo Aircraft Only
Random CBP inspections are common for DG shipments
Risk Awareness
Potential Challenges: Xiamen to Los Angeles
Understanding potential obstacles helps you plan better. These are the key air freight risks affecting the Xiamen to United States corridor.
Space Volatility & Rate Spikes
ModerateCargo space volatility is extreme—a single iPhone launch can triple air freight rates overnight as capacity gets absorbed by major shippers.
ACAS Security Holds
ModerateUS customs security screening under ACAS is causing increased holds at major airports—expect potential 2-3 day delays if your cargo is flagged.
Avoid These Pitfalls With Expert Support
Shipping to United States doesn't have to be risky. Our team knows these challenges inside out and can guide you through them.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does air freight take from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles typically takes 2-3 days for airport-to-airport transit. Express services can deliver in 1-2 days, while economy options may take 5-7 days. Add 1-2 days for customs clearance and final delivery.
What is the estimated cost of air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
The estimated cost of air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles ranges from $3-12 per kg depending on service level. Express service costs $8-12/kg with 1-2 day delivery, standard service is $4.50-7/kg with 3-5 days, and economy service runs $3-5/kg with 5-7 days transit.
Should I choose air freight or sea freight for shipping from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Choosing between air and sea freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles depends on your priorities. Air freight (2-3 days) is ideal for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive goods. Sea freight (15-35 days) is more economical for large shipments where speed is less critical. Air is best for cargo under 500kg.
What documents do I need for air freight from China to United States?
Documents required for air freight from China to United States include: Air Waybill (AWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Export Declaration. US-bound shipments require advance cargo information filing. Dangerous goods require MSDS and special documentation.
What items cannot be shipped by air freight from Xiamen?
Items that cannot be shipped by air freight from Xiamen include explosives, flammable gases and liquids, toxic substances, radioactive materials, and certain lithium batteries. Restricted items like perfumes, aerosols, and some electronics require special handling and documentation. Contact us to verify if your goods qualify.
Which airport in Fujian offers the best air freight services to Los Angeles?
Xiamen's airport offers excellent air freight connectivity to Los Angeles with 2-3 days transit time. This airport provides reliable service with multiple weekly flights.
Are there direct flights for cargo from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Yes, there are direct cargo flights from Xiamen to Los Angeles operated by carriers including Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and China Airlines. Direct flights offer the fastest transit at 2-3 days. Connecting flights via hub airports may be available at lower rates.
How is air freight calculated from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles is calculated using either actual weight or volumetric weight (L x W x H cm / 6000), whichever is greater. This is called chargeable weight. Rates are then applied per kg based on your chosen service level. Fuel surcharges and security fees may also apply.
Do I need insurance for air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Insurance for air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles is recommended for valuable cargo. While airlines provide limited liability coverage, comprehensive cargo insurance (typically 0.5-1% of value) protects against loss, damage, or delays during the 2-3-day transit.
What factors affect air freight costs from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
Air freight costs from Xiamen to Los Angeles are affected by cargo weight and dimensions, service level (express vs economy), fuel surcharges, peak season demand, and special handling requirements. Rates are typically higher during Q4 holiday season and Chinese New Year.
How can I track my air freight shipment from Xiamen to Los Angeles?
The best way to track your air freight from Xiamen to Los Angeles is using your Air Waybill (AWB) number on our tracking portal or the carrier's website. You'll receive real-time updates on flight status, customs clearance, and delivery. SMS and email notifications keep you informed at each milestone.
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