Sea Freight from Shanghai to Los Angeles
Cost-effective ocean shipping service from Shanghai port to Los Angeles. Comprehensive FCL and LCL container shipping solutions with reliable transit times and professional cargo handling throughout the journey.
Transit
15-18 days
Departures
Weekly departures
Why Sea Freight
Benefits of Sea Freight Shipping from Shanghai to Los Angeles
Cost Effective
80-90% cheaper than air freight for bulk cargo
High Capacity
FCL and LCL options for any shipment size
Reliable Service
Weekly sailings from major carriers
Global Network
Direct routes to major ports worldwide
Shipping containers from the Port of Shanghai (CNSHA) to the Port of Los Angeles (USLAX) offers exceptional value for businesses moving large volumes to the United States market. This route handles over 2.8 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually, making it one of the world's most reliable shipping corridors with daily departures from major carriers like COSCO, Evergreen, and MSC. Ocean freight provides superior cargo safety through standardized container systems and weather-resistant steel construction, protecting everything from electronics and textiles to machinery and automotive parts during the Pacific crossing.
The cost advantage becomes compelling for shipments over 500 kilograms, where sea freight typically costs 85% less than air transport while offering flexible container options from 20-foot units for smaller loads to 40-foot high-cube containers for maximum capacity. Business owners appreciate the predictable scheduling and lower insurance costs, plus the environmental benefit of reducing carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to air freight.
Route Highlights
15-18 days
Transit Time
Weekly departures
Sailing Frequency
<0.1%
Cargo Damage Rate
FCL & LCL
Container Options
Pricing Guide
Sea Freight Shipping Rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles
Current sea freight rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles in 2026 range from $1,200 to $2,800 per 20-foot container (TEU) and $1,800 to $4,200 per 40-foot container, depending on seasonal demand and carrier selection. Volume shippers can negotiate better rates through annual contracts, often securing 15-20% discounts off spot market prices when committing to monthly container minimums. Additional costs include fuel surcharges ranging from $150-400 per container, customs clearance fees of $75-150, and potential detention charges of $100 per day if containers aren't returned within the free time period (typically 4-7 days). Smart businesses reduce costs by booking during off-peak months (February through April), consolidating smaller shipments through freight forwarders, and choosing slower services that add 2-3 days but cut rates by 20-30%. Understanding that rates fluctuate based on Chinese holidays, peak retail seasons, and global supply chain disruptions helps companies plan shipments strategically and lock in favorable pricing.
Quick Rate Guide
20ft Container
Standard dry
$1,800-2,800
40ft Container
Standard dry
$2,400-4,200
LCL Shipment
Per cubic meter
$45-85/CBM
Additional Costs
Delivery Timeline
Transit Times for Sea Freight from Shanghai to Los Angeles
Step 1
Cargo Loading
1-2 days
Container stuffing at origin
Step 2
Export Clearance
1-2 days
Documentation and customs
Step 3
Ocean Transit
15-25 days
Sailing to destination port
Step 4
Import Clearance
1-3 days
Customs inspection and release
Step 5
Final Delivery
1-5 days
Transport to final destination
Express
20-25 Days
Direct service with priority handling
Standard
25-35 Days
Regular service with full tracking
Economy
35-45 Days
Consolidated for maximum savings
Ocean vessels typically require 12-14 days to cross the Pacific from Shanghai to Los Angeles, with total door-to-door delivery taking 15-18 days including port processing and inland transportation. Customs clearance at the Port of Los Angeles generally adds 1-2 days for routine shipments, though complex goods requiring FDA, FCC, or other agency approvals can extend this to 3-5 days. Express services from premium carriers like Yang Ming and Hapag-Lloyd offer priority vessel space and faster port handling for time-sensitive cargo, reducing total transit to 13-16 days at a 25-40% rate premium. Businesses can accelerate the process by submitting accurate commercial invoices and packing lists 48 hours before vessel arrival, using licensed customs brokers familiar with USLAX procedures, and avoiding shipments during peak congestion periods like pre-Chinese New Year and back-to-school seasons. Preparation matters significantly since the Port of Los Angeles processes over 9 million containers annually, and proper documentation prevents costly delays in this high-volume environment.
Pricing
Container Options & Pricing
Transparent pricing for FCL and LCL shipments. All rates include standard handling.
| Carrier | 40GP (USD) | 40HQ (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMC | $3,012 | $3,012 | 13 days |
| COSCO | $3,100 | $3,100 | 15 days |
| SML | $2,800 | $2,800 | 18 days |
| HMM | $2,800 | $2,800 | 20 days |
Pricing Disclaimer
These prices are subject to change based on market conditions, fuel surcharges, and seasonal demand. Contact us for the most up-to-date pricing and a customized quote for your specific shipment needs. Prices shown are for standard cargo and may vary for special cargo types.
Standard
20ft FCL
6.1m × 2.4m × 2.6m
Contact for pricing
Extra Height
40ft High Cube
12.2m × 2.4m × 2.9m
See 40HQ rates above
Less than Container
LCL Shipment
Per CBM
From $45/CBM
Custom
Special Cargo
Various
Get custom quote
Equipment
Container Types Available
20ft Dry Container
Standard general cargo container
40ft Dry Container
High capacity for large shipments
40ft High Cube
Extra height for bulky cargo
20ft Refrigerated
Temperature-controlled cargo
Open Top Container
For oversized cargo loading
Flat Rack Container
Heavy machinery and equipment
Track Record
Reliable Service
Our Shanghai to Los Angeles corridor represents years of refined expertise and thousands of successful shipments.
15+
Years Experience
25K+
Containers Shipped
99.5%
On-Time Delivery
24/7
Support Available
Process
How Our Sea Freight Process Works
Quote & Booking
1-2 daysGet a customized quote and book your container.
Collection & Export
2-3 daysWe collect cargo and handle export documentation.
Ocean Transit
12-20 daysYour cargo travels safely across the ocean.
Port Handling
2-3 daysCustoms clearance and port procedures completed.
Final Delivery
1-2 daysCargo delivered to your specified destination.
Key Documents
See full documentation requirements below
Cargo Types
Top Cargo Categories: Shanghai to Los Angeles
This route serves as a major trade lane for various goods. Common shipments from Shanghai to Los Angeles include:
Electronics
High-tech gadgets from smartphones to industrial circuit boards
Home & Office
Flat-pack furniture, office chairs, LED lighting, and bedding
Industrial
Power generators, industrial machinery, and HVAC equipment
Retail & Fashion
Trendy clothing, athletic footwear, and textile goods
Toys & Recreation
Sports equipment, hobby electronics, and children's toys
Dangerous Goods
Lithium batteries and chemicals (requires MSDS documentation)
Documentation
Shipping Documents for the Shanghai to Los Angeles Route
Every shipment to United States requires proper paperwork. Here's what you need for sea freight from Shanghai to Los Angeles.
Universal Requirements
Details weights, dimensions, and packaging specifications
Required for duty rate determination and trade agreements
Official record of goods, their value, and parties involved
Proof of the commercial agreement between buyer and seller
Sea Freight Requirements for United States
Single Entry or Continuous Bond required for all US imports
Title document for ocean cargo - required for cargo release
Importer Security Filing must be submitted 24 hours before vessel departure from China
Important: United States Requirements
Customs Bond is mandatory for both sea and air imports
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
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
United States Customs Process
Getting your cargo through United States customs involves multiple stages of verification and documentation review. With sea freight, you have weeks to prepare documentation, but errors can lead to significant daily storage fees (demurrage) at the port.
ISF 10+2 Filing
Submit your Importer Security Filing at least 24 hours before sailing. Failure to file carries a $5,000 penalty per shipment.
Entry Type 01
Most commercial goods enter under Entry Type 01, which requires full duty payment and formal entry procedures.
UFLPA Compliance
The UFLPA requires evidence that goods were not produced using forced labor. Be prepared to provide supply chain documentation.
Customs Bond Requirement
You must have a valid Customs Bond before your sea freight arrives at a US port.
Key United States Import Considerations
UFLPA compliance is a current CBP priority for all China shipments
FDA prior notice is required for food and pharmaceutical products
FCC certification needed for electronic devices
ISF late fees are strictly enforced without exceptions
Hazardous Materials
United States Dangerous Goods Requirements
United States has specific requirements for dangerous goods in addition to international IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) standards. Sea freight allows larger quantities but requires careful planning for extended transit times.
Universal Requirements for All DG Shipments
Complete the formal declaration document with shipper signature certifying DG compliance
Provide a phone number (with country code) manned 24/7 by someone familiar with the cargo details
Packaging must display valid UN certification matching the dangerous goods classification
Material Safety Data Sheet required in English and Chinese, dated within the last 12 months
Sea Freight DG Rules for United States
49 CFR Compliance
All hazardous materials must comply with 49 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) requirements for shipping.
Port Security Requirements
Dangerous goods containers may be subject to additional security screening at US ports.
ISF 10+2 DG Details
US Customs requires precise chemical identification in ISF filings—vague descriptions will be rejected.
Key Points for United States Hazmat
Lithium batteries >100Wh are Cargo Aircraft Only
Random CBP inspections are common for DG shipments
US requires exact chemical names—generic descriptions are rejected
ISF filing must include complete DG details 24 hours before departure
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sea freight take from Shanghai to Los Angeles?
Sea freight from Shanghai to Los Angeles typically takes 15-18 days for port-to-port transit. Actual delivery time may vary by 2-5 days depending on vessel schedules, customs clearance, and final delivery arrangements.
What is the estimated cost of shipping a container from Shanghai to Los Angeles?
The estimated cost of shipping a 40ft container from Shanghai to Los Angeles ranges from $2,800 to $3,100 depending on the carrier and service level. LCL rates typically start around $45-85 per CBM. Contact us for current rates and a customized quote.
Should I choose FCL or LCL for my Shanghai to Los Angeles shipment?
Choosing between FCL and LCL for your Shanghai to Los Angeles shipment depends on cargo volume. FCL (Full Container Load) is more cost-effective for shipments over 15 CBM, while LCL (Less than Container Load) is better for smaller volumes under 10 CBM. FCL also offers faster transit and lower risk of damage.
What documents do I need to ship from China to United States?
Documents required to ship from China to United States include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and customs declaration forms. US imports also require an ISF (Importer Security Filing) submitted 24 hours before loading.
What factors can cause delays on the Shanghai to Los Angeles route?
Factors that can cause delays on the Shanghai to Los Angeles route include port congestion, adverse weather conditions, customs inspections, incomplete documentation, and peak season volume. US West Coast ports occasionally experience congestion during peak shipping seasons. Planning ahead and ensuring accurate documentation helps minimize delays.
Which port in Shanghai should I choose for the fastest service to Los Angeles?
For the fastest sea freight service to Los Angeles, Shanghai is an excellent choice with 15-18 days transit time. Shanghai and Ningbo ports offer frequent sailings and excellent connectivity.
Are there direct sea freight services from Shanghai to Los Angeles?
Yes, there are direct sea freight services from Shanghai to Los Angeles offered by major carriers including COSCO, MSC, Maersk, and Evergreen. Direct services provide the fastest transit times of 15-18 days. Transshipment options via hub ports may also be available at competitive rates.
How can I calculate import duty from Shanghai, Shanghai to Los Angeles?
Import duty from Shanghai to Los Angeles is calculated based on the HS code of your goods, the declared value (CIF), and United States's tariff rates. US import duties vary from 0-25% depending on product classification. Use the USITC database or consult a customs broker for accurate duty calculations.
Do I need insurance to ship from Shanghai, Shanghai to Los Angeles?
Insurance for shipping from Shanghai to Los Angeles is highly recommended though not legally required. Marine cargo insurance typically costs 0.3-0.5% of cargo value and covers loss or damage during transit. Given the 15-18-day journey, insurance provides valuable protection against unforeseen events.
What factors affect the cost of shipping from Shanghai to Los Angeles?
The cost of shipping from Shanghai to Los Angeles is affected by container type and size, cargo weight and volume, fuel surcharges, seasonal demand, carrier selection, and additional services like customs clearance. Peak seasons (August-October) typically see higher rates due to increased demand.
What is the best way to track my shipment from Shanghai to Los Angeles?
The best way to track your shipment from Shanghai to Los Angeles is through our online tracking portal using your Bill of Lading number. You'll receive real-time updates on vessel location, estimated arrival, and customs status. Our team also provides proactive notifications for any schedule changes.
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