A Detailed Guide: How to Ship from China to Amazon FBA
Whether you're just starting to ship from China to Amazon FBA warehouses or are an established e-commerce company like many of our clients, this step-by-step guide is a practical resource worth bookmarking.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shipping Method
Although logistics is a later stage in the supply chain, it should not be overlooked. When shipping to Amazon FBA, the first decision is choosing your shipping method. This helps you understand transit times and costs. Some sellers miss profit opportunities simply because they didn't confirm a suitable shipping method early in the procurement process.
You have several options:
● Express Shipping from China
● Air Freight from China
● Sea Freight from China
In rare cases, land transport may also be used (only applicable within Asia and Europe).
Below, we explain the three most commonly used shipping methods, their pros and cons, and when to use them.
🚀 Express Shipping
Express shipping from China to Amazon FBA is best for cargo under 1 CBM and 200 kg gross weight. The chargeable weight is based on the higher value between the gross weight and volumetric weight.
Volumetric weight (metric) = Total volume (CBM) ÷ 5000.
Suppliers can often get reasonable rates for shipments of this size from local forwarders. However, if you already work with a freight forwarder in China, it's best to request a quote from them to prevent issues during transit.
Advantages:
Express air is the fastest way to ship to Amazon FBA. However, speed comes at a higher cost. Pre-pandemic rates to the U.S. were around $4–6/kg for general cargo.
Risks:
Shipments may need to meet additional requirements, such as completing specific forms. If not handled correctly, goods could be returned to China—with all costs borne by the buyer. We strongly recommend using a reputable freight forwarder who can ensure full compliance before shipping.
✈️ Air Freight
If your shipment weighs over 200 kg and exceeds 2 CBM, air freight is your best option. Always choose a freight forwarder based in China—they leverage volume discounts to offer lower rates than suppliers or overseas agents.
Advantages:
● Much faster than ocean freight
● Often cheaper than LCL sea freight for smaller volumes
● Average transit: 5–9 days from China
● Lower per-kg rates than express shipping
● Higher volumetric divisor (CBM ÷ 6000) means better value for lightweight cargo
Limitations:
Some items cannot be shipped by air—e.g., aerosol cans, dry ice, and lithium batteries. Confirm with your forwarder if your products are eligible.
🚢 Sea Freight
Sea freight is ideal when your shipment reaches at least 2 CBM or exceeds 400 kg. Two common options are:
LCL (Less than Container Load)
FCL (Full Container Load)
Your shipment volume determines the best choice.
LCL costs about three times more per CBM than FCL, but it's the best option for volumes under 14 CBM. Above that, FCL may be more suitable even without a full container.
Advantages:
● Significantly cheaper than air or express for suitable volumes
● Can ship certain items restricted in air transport
Considerations:
Longer transit times are the trade-off for lower costs. Plan with buffer time to prevent supply chain disruptions.
Step 2: Contact a Freight Forwarder in China
Once you've considered the best shipping method, contact a trusted freight forwarder for a quote. If you're unsure which method to choose, a good forwarder can recommend suitable options.
Do not leave shipping entirely to your supplier. Their expertise lies in manufacturing and export assistance—not destination import rules or Amazon FBA labeling requirements.
A China-based forwarder offers several advantages:
● Better shipping rates through volume discounts
● Direct communication with suppliers saves time (especially across time zones)
● Ensures correct labeling and proper handling before goods leave China
Step 3: Perform Quality Inspection
When shipping directly from China to Amazon FBA, you won't have a chance to inspect goods before they reach Amazon.
We recommend arranging a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) while goods are still at the factory. Hire a reputable QC service in China to check that products meet your standards and Amazon's requirements. These services are relatively affordable, and some companies offer quick online booking with inspections completed within 24 hours
Step 4: Create Your Amazon FBA Shipment Plan
With quality verified, you can now prepare your FBA shipment plan in Seller Central. Amazon provides detailed guides—stay updated with any policy changes by always referring to the latest requirements on their official site.
Step 5: Pack and Label Correctly for Amazon
After creating your shipment plan, the next step is packaging and labeling according to Amazon's standards.
Product-Level Packaging
● Protect items from damage during transit using OPP bags, poly mailers, or bubble wrap for fragile goods.
● Ensure barcodes are secure and scannable.
● Each barcode or FNSKU must match the product variation (e.g., different colors/sizes have unique codes).
● Multi-packs must be bundled as a single unit.
● Plastic bags over 1.5 mil thick with openings ≥5 inches require suffocation warnings.
● Check Amazon's latest policies for packaging size/weight limits to avoid extra fees.
Master Carton Requirements
● Use six-sided cartons in good condition.
● Each box must have a unique shipping label.
● Standard boxes should not exceed 25" on any side or 50 lbs unless labeled as oversize.
🛒 When to Palletize Your Shipment
Pallets help move multiple cartons at once but are not always required.
Amazon has specific pallet requirements (e.g., U.S. centers accept 40"x48" GMA Grade B wood pallets). Check Seller Central for the latest specs.
Cost-Saving Tip:
Palletizing in China is usually only cost-effective for FCL shipments. For LCL or air freight, palletize at the destination to save on shipping costs—except for extremely fragile items like ceramic or borosilicate glass.
🏷️ Labeling for Amazon FBA
Proper labeling prevents delays or rejections:
● FBA Shipment Label: A unique label is required on each carton. Generate this in Seller Central after confirming your shipment.
● FNSKU: Each unit must have a unique barcode tied to the product listing. Match FNSKUs to correct variations (color, size, etc.).
Step 6: Perform a Container Load Check
Amazon's FBA policies include many unique requirements. A container load check ensures your goods meet packaging and labeling standards before shipping.
This inspection is affordable and can often be booked online with results in 24 hours.
Step 7: Always Get Cargo Insurance for FBA Shipments
Goods pass through multiple hands during transit—especially with air and sea freight. Damage can occur at any stage, and compensation is often hard to recover.
Cargo insurance protects your shipment from the supplier all the way to Amazon FBA. It's affordable and provides peace of mind.
Step 8: Work with a Customs Broker to Prepare Documents
Hire a qualified customs broker to prevent delays, fines, or rejected shipments. They will ensure all documents meet the destination country's import requirements, including:
● Telex Release: Authorizes cargo release without the original Bill of Lading.
● Bill of Lading: Serves as proof of ownership.
● Commercial Invoice: Issued by the supplier, stating the total value of goods.
● Packing List: Details carton counts, dimensions, and weights.
Step 9: Track Your Shipment
Finally, don't forget to track your shipment.
Use tracking numbers provided by carriers like DHL or UPS for express shipments.
Rely on your freight forwarder for regular updates.
📌 Example with Anyi International Freight:
We keep you updated on shipment progress
Provide shipping solutions
Share a copy of the Bill of Lading
Track customs clearance and send the Entry Summary for reference
Let Anyi International handle your FBA shipping—seamlessly, reliably, and affordably. Contact us today for a customized quote!
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