How to ship clothing from China to North America
Author：HAIYUAN TIME：2025-07-18Read：
Shipping clothing from China to North America (USA, Canada, Mexico) requires careful planning around cost, speed, customs, and regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a Shipping Method
| Method |
Best For |
Transit Time |
Pros |
Cons |
| Air Freight |
Urgent shipments, < 500 kg |
3–10 days |
Fast, secure, fewer delays |
Expensive, weight/size limits |
| Sea Freight (FCL) |
Large volumes (>10 CBM*) |
25–40 days |
Cost-effective for bulk, eco-friendly |
Slow, port delays, complex paperwork |
| Sea Freight (LCL) |
Smaller volumes (2–10 CBM) |
30–50 days |
Pay only for space used |
Slower than FCL, handling fees |
| Courier (DHL/UPS) |
Samples, < 100 kg |
3–7 days |
Door-to-door, easy tracking |
Very expensive for large shipments |
*CBM = Cubic Meter (e.g., 1 CBM ≈ 200–300 kg of clothing).
2. Key Steps in the Process
- Supplier Coordination:
Confirm packaging (use polybags + sturdy cartons), labeling, and compliance with North American standards (e.g., fiber content labels, country of origin).
- Export Customs (China):
Your supplier typically handles this. Ensure they provide:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading (B/L) for sea or Air Waybill (AWB) for air
- Shipping & Insurance:
Purchase marine/air cargo insurance (0.3–2% of cargo value) to cover damage/loss.
- Import Customs (North America):
- USA: File ISF (Importer Security Filing) 24 hrs before loading. Pay duties (5–15% for clothing).
- Canada: Submit B3 customs form. Duties vary (up to 18% + GST/HST).
- Mexico: Require pedimento import form. Duties based on product type.
3. Critical Considerations for Clothing
- Duties & Taxes:
- HS Codes: Use correct Harmonized System codes (e.g., 6109.10 for cotton T-shirts).
- Free Trade Agreements: Utilize USMCA/CUSMA (for USA/Canada/Mexico) if applicable to reduce duties.
- Regulations:
- Labeling: Fiber content, care instructions, and country of origin must comply with FTC (USA), CR (Canada), or NOM (Mexico).
- Safety: Children’s sleepwear may require flammability testing (e.g., CPSC 16 CFR 1615).
- Packaging:
Vacuum-seal clothes to save space. Use moisture-resistant cartons + silica gel packs to prevent mold.
4. Cost-Saving Tips
- Consolidate Shipments: Use LCL sea freight for 2–10 CBM loads.
- Optimize Packaging: Flat-pack garments to maximize container space.
- Work with a Freight Forwarder: They negotiate rates, handle docs, and manage customs (cost: 5–15% of shipment value).
- Duty Reduction: Claim USMCA exemptions if clothing is manufactured in North America.
5. Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice (value, quantity, HS code)
- Packing List (weight, dimensions, carton count)
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin (for USMCA)
- Importer Security Filing (USA)
- Textile-Specific Certificates (e.g., flammability compliance)
6. Partner with Experts
- Freight Forwarders: Choose one with textile experience (e.g., DHL Global Forwarding, Flexport).
- Customs Broker: Essential for smooth clearance (e.g., Livingston International, Flexport).
- 3PL Warehouses: For storage/distribution upon arrival.
Estimated Costs (Example: 1,000 kg Clothing)
- Sea Freight (LCL): $800–$1,500 (China → LA) + $400–$800 customs/duties
- Air Freight: $4,000–$6,000
- Courier: $7,000+
Pro Tips:
- Avoid Delays: Submit customs docs 48+ hours before arrival.
- Sustainability: Sea freight emits 95% less CO₂ than air.
- Sample First: Ship samples via courier to test demand/quality.
Work with experienced partners, double-check compliance, and always insure your shipment!
Useful customs links:
7×24H： +8619948039507 
