Shipping from China to Amazon FBA: A Complete Guide for 2025
Written by Shahid R. KhanReviewed by Andrew L. Adler & Jonathan M. Adler
Shipping products from China to Amazon FBA can be complex, but with the right approach, it becomes cost-effective and efficient.
Whether you’re a new seller or looking to optimize your supply chain, this guide covers everything from shipping methods, customs clearance, freight forwarders, and avoiding common mistakes.
Why Amazon Sellers Source from China
China remains the #1 manufacturing hub for Amazon sellers due to:
✅ Low production costs (up to 80% cheaper than domestic options).
✅ Wide variety of products and easy customization.
✅ Established supply chains optimized for Amazon FBA compliance.
However, getting your products from Chinese factories to Amazon warehouses requires strategic shipping decisions to minimize costs and avoid delays.
How to Ship from China to Amazon FBA: Step-by-Step Process
1️⃣ Choose the Best Shipping Method
| Shipping Method | Speed | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 5–7 days | $$$ | Small, high-value shipments |
| Air Freight | 8–14 days | $$ | Medium-volume shipments (500-1000kg) |
| Sea Freight | 25–45 days | $ | Large, bulk shipments |
2️⃣ Work with a Freight Forwarder (Recommended)
📦 What Freight Forwarders Do: ✔ Handle international shipping logistics.
✔ Manage customs clearance & duties.
✔ Provide cost-efficient bulk shipping solutions.
✔ Ensure Amazon FBA compliance (packaging & labeling).
📌 Best Freight Forwarders for Amazon Sellers
✅ Flexport → AI-powered tracking & logistics automation.
✅ Freightos → Compare quotes from multiple freight providers.
✅ Shenzhen Fulfillment → Amazon FBA-specific expertise.
3️⃣ Prepare for Customs & Import Duties
📌 Common Import Fees When Shipping from China
| Fee Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Customs Duty | 0%-25% (based on product category) |
| Value-Added Tax (VAT) | 17%-27% (EU countries) |
| Tariffs/Anti-Dumping Duties | Varies by product |
✅ How to Calculate Import Duties:
1️⃣ Find your product’s HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code.
2️⃣ Check the duty rate for your destination country.
3️⃣ Use duty calculators like SimplyDuty or DutyCalculator.
Avoiding Common Shipping Mistakes
🚨 Incorrect Product Labeling & Barcodes
📌 Amazon requires FNSKU barcodes (not UPC codes).
✅ Ensure barcodes are clearly printed & correctly positioned to avoid delays.
🚨 Packaging & Prep Violations
📌 Amazon FBA Prep Requirements: ✔ Poly bags → Required for textiles (must have suffocation warnings).
✔ Bubble wrap → For fragile items.
✔ Secure packaging → Prevents damage in transit.
✅ Solution: Use a prep center to ensure compliance before shipping to Amazon.
🚨 Underestimating Shipping Time & Costs
📌 Peak season delays occur during Q4 (holiday rush) & Chinese New Year.
✅ Plan shipments 1-2 months in advance to avoid stockouts.
✅ Factor in hidden fees like warehouse handling charges & customs delays.
Should You Ship Directly to Amazon FBA or Use a Prep Center?
Option 1️⃣: Ship Directly to Amazon FBA
📌 Best if: ✔ Your supplier meets Amazon’s packaging & labeling requirements.
✔ You’ve done a quality control inspection before shipping.
✔ Your products don’t require bundling or prep work.
Option 2️⃣: Use a Third-Party Prep Center
📌 Best if: ✔ You want professional inspection & labeling before sending to Amazon.
✔ Your products need bundling, kitting, or special packaging.
✔ You want strategic inventory release to avoid Amazon’s high storage fees.
📌 Top Prep Centers for Amazon Sellers
✅ MyFBAPrep → Nationwide fulfillment with expert prep services.
✅ ShipBob → Amazon prep + direct-to-consumer fulfillment.
✅ Rapid Prep → Affordable prep services with no minimum orders.
How to Track & Manage Your Shipment
Best Shipment Tracking Tools
✅ Freightos → Real-time tracking from factory to Amazon warehouse.
✅ 17Track → Free tracking for all major global carriers.
✅ Flexport → AI-powered supply chain visibility.
Common Delivery Issues & How to Fix Them
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Customs Holds | Provide missing documentation ASAP. |
| Warehouse Refusals | Ensure proper Amazon prep & barcode labeling. |
| Lost Shipments | Use insured freight forwarders & keep all records. |
Final Steps: Ensuring a Smooth Shipment to Amazon FBA
🚀 Action Plan for Your Next Shipment
✅ Choose a reliable supplier with Amazon FBA experience.
✅ Select the best shipping method based on cost & speed.
✅ Work with a freight forwarder to simplify logistics & customs.
✅ Calculate import duties before shipping to avoid surprises.
✅ Decide whether to ship directly to Amazon or use a prep center.
✅ Track your shipment using digital logistics tools.
📌 Pro Tip: Always request multiple freight quotes before booking a shipment!
🚀 Ready to streamline your shipping from China to Amazon FBA? Start by comparing freight forwarders, calculating import duties, and ensuring your products meet Amazon’s prep requirements!
💬 What’s your biggest challenge in shipping from China to Amazon FBA? Let us know in the comments!
