Moving to China from the USA

*Updated October 2025
Embark on a new journey as the world opens up when we move.

Are you considering relocating to China from the USA? Whether it’s Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Hangzhou, or any other city in China, your move deserves the care and attention of a mover who treats you like family.

Why Choose SDC International Shipping

At SDC International Shipping, we understand that moving is more than just transporting belongings—it’s about transitioning to a new chapter in life. With over a decade of experience relocating individuals worldwide, we’re here to make your move to China seamless and stress-free.

How We Can Help

Contact us with any questions about your upcoming move. We’ll help you arrange your relocation to China. By filling out a free quote form, you can see the cost of shipping your belongings with us.

Our Service Offerings

SDC International Shipping takes you to any destination in China with precision and care. Our dedicated team has compiled comprehensive information on what our service entails, ensuring that your move is handled with expertise and professionalism. Request a quote to kickstart your journey—or give us a call for personalized assistance.

Moving to China from the USA Service

We provide worldwide household removals, vehicle and car shipping, overseas artwork shipping, and international piano moving.

We can also handle your moving insurance, storage, and packing. Wherever you are in the USA—and whatever your destination in China—we can move the contents of a house or apartment. We also operate moves to Europe.

What to Know About Shipping to China from the USA

When considering shipping household goods to China, keep these essentials in mind:

• Application Process
  • Long-term non-residents typically submit a written application to import personal belongings.
  • Holders of a residence card usually apply for permission through local customs procedures.
• Duty-Free Eligibility
  • Household items intended for personal use are often duty-free.
  • Duty-free import of a car is limited to expats classified as resident personnel.
  • Advance approval is necessary to qualify for duty-free status.
• First-Time Importers
  • Duty exemption is generally exclusive to long-term residents importing personal effects for the first time.
  • Consider including high-value possessions in your initial shipment for optimal benefit.
• Documentation Requirements
  • Prepare a detailed inventory list covering all items you intend to ship.

Our Assistance

As your moving provider, SDC streamlines the process by handling paperwork and bureaucracy. We offer guidance on importing goods into China and help ensure a smooth transition.

Containerized Shipping to China from the USA

We cater to shipments of any size—from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom houses—via the options below:

• Shared Container (LCL): Pay based on the volume you ship and share space—ideal for smaller loads.
• Solo Container (FCL): Exclusive use of a 20ft or 40ft container—best for larger moves.
• Containerized Service: Consolidate your car and household items in a single container for convenience and efficiency.

Sea and Air Freight Services to China

We offer both sea and air freight. Not sure whether sea or air is best? Our relocation consultant will compare methods, transit times, and costs with you.

Air Freight Considerations

For airfreight to China, avoid sending restricted items such as food, alcohol, cosmetics, toiletries, and medications.

Why Choose SDC International Shipping for Your Move to China

Wide Logistics Network

Benefit from our global logistics network. Whether door-to-door or port-to-port, our professionals ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.

Transparent Pricing

Request a price estimate via our online quote form. We’ll provide an initial shipping cost without hidden surprises. Quotes break out the base price and add-ons (packing, pickup, customs clearance, paperwork) so you can budget accurately.

Packing and Inventory Management

Accurate documentation speeds customs clearance. We can pack your goods and create a detailed, compliant inventory list for Chinese Customs.

Most Popular Cities for Expats to Live in China

We ship to many destinations in China. Popular choices for American expats include:

1. Shanghai: Vibrant international community and modern amenities.
2. Hangzhou: West Lake scenery and a thriving tech scene.
3. Beijing: Historic charm with modern infrastructure.
4. Shenzhen: Rapid growth and proximity to Hong Kong.
5. Chengdu: Laid-back vibe, cuisine, and panda centers.

Other destinations we serve include Guangdong, Hong Kong, Tianjin, Guangzhou, Dongguan, and Taipei.

Moving to China with SDC International Shipping

“There’s nothing as powerful as a good reputation.”

“They made our whole move to China less complicated. This was our first shipping experience outside the U.S., so we felt stressed about the process. But SDC made things a lot easier. The customer service was great, and they always answered the phone and my messages. Packing, customs paperwork, delivery, and unpacking went above and beyond. Amazing job, guys! Thank you!” — Grace C.

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Pre-Move Timeline: What to Do and When

A clear timeline helps reduce stress and keeps your China move on track. Use this simple guide and adapt it to your departure date.

• 8–12 weeks out: Request quotes, choose your mover, and confirm your shipping method (LCL, FCL, or air). Start sorting what to ship, sell, donate, or store.
• 6–8 weeks out: Gather documents (passport, visa, residence permit path, itemized inventory, valuations for high-value items). Schedule packing dates and confirm building elevator or access requirements.
• 3–4 weeks out: Finalize the inventory list, flag restricted items for guidance, and line up temporary accommodation on arrival. Notify banks and insurers of your move.
• 1–2 weeks out: Set aside essentials for travel (medications, chargers, a few days of clothes, key documents). Photograph high-value items for condition records.
• Arrival week: Coordinate customs clearance, delivery, and unpacking with your SDC coordinator. Review the delivery checklist as items enter the home.

Customs & Compliance: Do’s and Don’ts

• Do keep your inventory specific (e.g., “Kitchen: 6 plates, 4 mugs, cutlery set” rather than “kitchen stuff”). Specificity speeds clearance.
• Do separate high-value goods and provide supporting invoices or appraisals where available.
• Don’t ship perishable food, aerosols, or dangerous goods without written approval and the correct declarations.
• Don’t pack items marked “packed by owner” if you want to minimize inspection risk—use professional packing when possible.

Special Items

For fine art, wine collections, musical instruments, or sensitive electronics, we recommend custom crating, stabilized inner packing, and climate-aware routing where feasible.

Settling In: First-Week Essentials

• Connectivity: Arrange mobile service and home internet early; bring your passport for account setup.
• Banking: Check your bank’s requirements for local accounts and prepare supporting documents.
• Deliveries: Confirm elevator reservations or building permits for move-in day to avoid delays.
• Safety: Test power adapters and voltage for appliances; use transformers when required.

Cost Drivers and How to Optimize

• Volume and mode: Consolidating into FCL can be more economical for larger shipments; LCL works well for smaller loads.
• Packing level: Professional packing reduces loss and re-work, which helps keep total costs in check.
• Access and distance: Stairs, long carries, and remote locations can add handling fees—share access details early.
• Timing: Flexibility on sailing dates can unlock better rates during peak seasons.

FAQ: Moving to China from the USA

How far in advance should I book? Most clients book 6–10 weeks ahead to secure preferred dates and documentation windows.

Can I ship electronics? Yes, pack with original boxes when possible or use custom foam-in-place. Confirm voltage compatibility and plug types, and declare high-value items on your inventory.

Do I need insurance? We strongly recommend international transit insurance. It protects against rare but possible damage or loss events outside any mover’s direct control.

Can I combine my car with household goods? Yes, containerized service allows consolidation. Your coordinator will advise on documentation, cleaning standards, and eligibility.

Ready to Plan Your Move?

Speak with an SDC relocation coordinator to review timelines, inventory strategy, packing options, and the best route for your shipment. We’ll tailor a plan that fits your schedule and budget, and keep you updated from collection to delivery.