China is the world’s largest manufacturing hub — and a top source of inventory for Amazon sellers. Whether you’re launching a private label product, dropshipping, or restocking FBA inventory, understanding how to ship from China to Amazon efficiently is crucial to your success.
This guide covers the key shipping methods, customs requirements, timelines, and the critical role of freight forwarders when selling on Amazon from China.
1.Why Source Products from China for Amazon?
| Advantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Low Manufacturing Cost | China offers cost-effective production with strong economies of scale. |
| Product Variety | From electronics to apparel, thousands of suppliers cover almost every niche. |
| Private Label Friendly | Many Chinese factories are open to custom branding and packaging. |
| Established Export Channels | Logistics between China and Amazon warehouses (especially in the US, Europe) are mature and well-supported. |
📦 Many Amazon FBA sellers choose to ship directly from China to Amazon fulfillment centers to save time and costs.
2.Shipping Methods from China to Amazon
Choosing the right shipping method depends on your budget, delivery speed, and product type. Here are the most common options:
| Shipping Mode | Transit Time | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 3–7 days | Small parcels, urgent orders | Fastest, but most expensive per kg |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Mid-size shipments | Cost-effective for lighter bulk orders |
| Sea Freight (LCL or FCL) | 25–40 days | Large shipments | Lowest cost per unit, but slowest |
| Rail Freight (to Europe) | 15–25 days | To EU markets (e.g., Germany, Poland) | Balance between speed and cost |
✈️ Tip: Use air freight for your first batch to launch quickly, then sea freight for larger restocks.
3.Customs & Compliance: Avoiding Delays
When shipping from China to Amazon, you must comply with both Chinese export rules and import laws of the destination country (e.g., US, Canada, UK).
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice & Packing List | Required for customs clearance |
| Import Duties & Taxes | You are responsible unless using DDP terms |
| Product Certifications | CE, FDA, FCC, or others depending on product |
| Prohibited/Restricted Items | Check Amazon and local regulations |
🧾 Always declare the correct value and ensure your product complies with destination market regulations.
4.FBA Prep When Shipping from China
If you’re using Amazon FBA, your products must be properly prepped before reaching the fulfillment center. You have two options:
| Prep Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| In China (at factory or FBA prep center) | Saves time and avoids domestic handling fees | Must train supplier or hire a local agent |
| In Destination Country | Easier quality control, more flexible | Involves extra time and cost |
Prep Includes:
- FNSKU labeling
- Polybagging (if applicable)
- Suffocation warnings
- Proper boxing, carton labeling
- Palletizing (if required)
5.The Importance of a Freight Forwarder
Freight forwarders play a critical role in shipping from China to Amazon. They manage transportation, customs, FBA requirements, and provide shipping documents.
| Why Use a Freight Forwarder? |
|---|
| Handles customs and documentation |
| Knows Amazon FBA shipping rules (labels, box limits, appointments) |
| Offers DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping for seamless delivery to Amazon |
| Tracks shipments and resolves transit issues |
| Can offer prep, storage, and labeling in China or destination market |
📌 Choose a freight forwarder with Amazon experience, especially one offering DDP shipping to Amazon FBA centers.
6.Shipping Terms to Know
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | You pick up goods from the factory |
| FOB (Free On Board) | Supplier delivers goods to the Chinese port |
| CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) | Supplier handles shipping to your port |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Supplier or forwarder handles everything, including customs and final delivery to Amazon |
For Amazon FBA, DDP is the most recommended term — Amazon won’t act as importer of record.
7.How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Amazon?
| Shipping Route | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Express Courier (China to US) | 3–5 business days |
| Air Freight (China to US) | 5–10 days (plus customs) |
| Sea Freight (China to US) | 25–35 days (door-to-door) |
| Rail Freight (China to Europe) | 15–25 days |
⏳ Add 3–5 days for Amazon to receive and check-in your inventory.
8.Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Impact | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Sending products without shipment plan | Inventory rejected at Amazon | Always create an FBA shipment plan first |
| Improper labeling | Delays and extra fees | Follow FNSKU and carton labeling requirements |
| Choosing wrong shipping method | Lost time or high costs | Match method to your order size, budget, and urgency |
| Ignoring customs duties | Shipment held at border | Use DDP or consult your freight forwarder |
| No quality control | Negative reviews or returns | Inspect goods in China before shipping |
Final Thoughts: Ship Smart from China to Amazon
Shipping from China to Amazon can unlock massive profit potential — but only if done right. Understanding shipping options, preparing products correctly, and partnering with the right freight forwarder are all essential steps.
With the right plan, you can:
- Launch faster
- Cut logistics costs
- Avoid customs problems
- Build a scalable FBA business
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FAQ:
Q1:Can I ship directly from my Chinese supplier to an Amazon FBA warehouse?
Yes. Many sellers do this to save time and costs. Make sure your supplier follows Amazon’s packaging and labeling requirements. It’s best to work with a freight forwarder to manage this process smoothly.
Q2:What is the best shipping method from China to Amazon?
It depends on your budget and urgency. Use air freight for faster delivery, and sea freight for larger, cost-effective shipments. DDP terms are highly recommended for Amazon FBA.
Q3:Do I need to pay customs duties when shipping from China?
Yes. You are responsible for import duties, taxes, and customs clearance. To simplify this, use a freight forwarder offering DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping so everything is handled for you.
Q4:How do I prepare my products for Amazon FBA in China?
You can ask your supplier to prep and label items according to Amazon’s FBA guidelines, or work with an FBA prep center in China. This includes applying FNSKU labels, using proper packaging, and carton labeling.
Q5:Can I use my own logistics company instead of Amazon’s partnered carriers?
Yes. You can work with any logistics provider, but make sure they are familiar with Amazon delivery appointments and labeling rules. Experienced Amazon freight forwarders will help avoid costly mistakes.
Q6:Can I ship using Alibaba suppliers?
Yes. Many Alibaba suppliers are Amazon-experienced. Just ensure they can meet Amazon’s labeling, packing, and shipping requirements — or partner with a freight forwarder to assist.
Q7:What documents are needed to ship from China to Amazon?
Key documents include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or airway bill
- Amazon shipment labels
- Any product certifications
- required for import compliance.