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CAR SHIPPING FROM THE USA TO CHINA

Ship a Car from the USA to China: Get Instant Rates

Ship your car from the USA to China with West Coast Shipping, a U.S.-based international vehicle shipping company specializing in container shipping and air freight. We handle pickup, export paperwork, ocean/air booking, and arrival coordination to major ports in China.

We offer door-to-port and port-to-port service for individuals, dealerships, and exporters. With export warehouses in California, Florida, and New Jersey, we can collect vehicles nationwide and route shipments from the U.S. to China based on sailing schedules and your destination port.

Common destination ports in China include Shanghai, Tianjin, and Dalian (routing depends on vessel schedules and your final delivery location).

Shipping options: Shared container • Dedicated container • Air freight

Frequent exporter? Request wholesale USA → China container rates below.

Calculate Car Shipping Rates To China:

West Coast Shipping

Why Choose West Coast Shipping for Car Shipping from the USA to China?

With 17+ years of experience shipping cars from the USA to China, we manage the full export process—pickup, U.S. export clearance, ocean container booking, and arrival coordination—so your vehicle reaches China on schedule and with the right paperwork.

Common destination ports for USA → China vehicle shipments include Shanghai, Tianjin, and Dalian (final routing depends on carrier schedules and your delivery region in China).

Our Comprehensive Car Shipping Service Includes:

  • International car shipping via dedicated and shared containers
  • Secure vehicle transport to China’s major ports
  • Customs clearance and documentation assistance
  • Wholesale car shipping solutions for dealerships
  • Loading services for sedans, SUVs, classic cars, and electric vehicles

Use our calculator to get an up-to-date quote for car shipping from the USA to China.

Get Your China Shipping Rate

We collect your vehicle from anywhere in the US using open or enclosed car transporters. The car is then transported to our nearest export warehouse in California, Florida or New Jersey.

You always have the option to deliver/drop off the vehicle yourself.

With nearly 2 decades of experience in loading containers, we make sure that your cars are safely secured for their journey overseas.

Our team works closely with US Customs to clear cars for export.

For a seamless car import experience, we work with reliable partners worldwide to ensure your cars arrive safely and are properly cleared with import customs.

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Export Locations

We export vehicles from our U.S. shipping hubs in California, Florida, and New Jersey, with nationwide pickup available. Choose the most efficient departure port based on your location and the China destination port.

Learn more about our locations here.

International Car Shipping Methods

AIRPLANE

Need your vehicle fast? Air freight delivers in just 3-10 days, making it the quickest shipping option—significantly faster than container or RoRo shipping. Exact timing depends on customs and documentation.

SHIPPING CONTAINER

Our containers fit 1-4 vehicles—running or non-running—and offer cost-saving consolidation shipping. For high-value cars, we provide dedicated 20ft or 40ft containers.

RORO VESSEL

RoRo shipping requires vehicles to be operational and empty. Available ports and rates vary. Note: This method is only available for oversized cars

RORO VESSEL

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What Vehicles Can We Ship from the USA to China?

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Vehicles

Ship sedans, SUVs, and pickups from the USA to China with container options and nationwide pickup to our U.S. export hubs.

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Motocycle

We handle motorcycle export prep and secure loading in shared or dedicated containers for USA → China shipments.

Motocycle
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Electric & Hybrid Cars

EVs may require special handling and documentation. We confirm routing and requirements before your vehicle is loaded for China.

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Race & Rally Cars

Low-clearance and performance vehicles benefit from careful loading and blocking/bracing inside containers for overseas transport.

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Classic Cars

For higher-value classics, we recommend dedicated container shipping and careful export documentation review.

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Luxury Cars

Premium vehicles typically ship in dedicated containers for extra control over scheduling, handling, and loading.

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Salvage & Project Cars

We can ship non-runners from the USA to China with the right loading plan and equipment at origin.

Heavy_Machinery

Heavy Machinery

We coordinate export routing for machinery shipped overseas by container (or other methods when size requires).

Oversized_Vehicles

Oversized Vehicles

Lifted trucks and oversized units may need special routing. Share dimensions and we’ll confirm the best method for China.

CHINA CAR SHIPPING COSTS

Ports We Serve in China (USA → China Vehicle Shipping)

Car shipping from the USA to China typically starts around $1,600 for shared container service, with pricing driven by your U.S. pickup location, vehicle size, and the shipping method (shared container, dedicated container, or air freight).

Additional destination charges in China are not included in the base shipping cost. These may include customs clearance, import duties, unloading, and local port fees.

Most vehicles ship by container to China. Shared containers can reduce cost, while dedicated containers offer more control over loading and scheduling—ideal for higher-value vehicles.

We route to major ports in China depending on carrier schedules and your delivery region, including Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, and Guangzhou.

If you’re shipping new cars, luxury vehicles, or classic cars, we offer customized shipping solutions to meet Chinese import regulations.

Optional protection options are available for customers who want additional coverage during transport.

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Instant USA → China Quote

Get instant pricing based on your U.S. pickup ZIP, vehicle type, and destination port. See shared vs dedicated container options and the next available sailing windows.

SHIPPING TIMES TO CHINA

Shipping a car from the USA to China takes approximately 17 to 35 days, depending on the departure port and the destination in China.

Vehicles shipped from California typically arrive in China in about 17 days, while those shipped from New York take up to 35 days due to the longer transit route.

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL COSTS TO CONSIDER

  • Vehicle Collection: Additional fees may apply for picking up the vehicle from its location before shipping.
  • Import Duties & Taxes: Import duty on cars in China includes a 25% import duty, 17% VAT, and potential consumption tax based on engine size.
  • Homologation Fees: Vehicles must meet Chinese import regulations, and modifications may be required to comply with safety and emissions standards.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

We accept wire transfers, checks, and ban deposits only. Read more about banking fees when paying from overseas.

We do not accept credit card payments.

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Ports We Serve in China (USA → China Vehicle Shipping)

China — Car Shipping Ports (Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian & Guangzhou)

We ship vehicles from the USA to China through major commercial ports depending on carrier schedules, customs routing, and your final delivery region. Common China arrival ports include Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, and Guangzhou—each with different sailing frequency and destination handling requirements.

Most USA → China shipments route through the port that offers the best combination of sailing availability and onward transport options. Once your vehicle arrives, we help clarify what’s included in your ocean freight quote versus what is typically paid at destination (terminal handling, port documentation, and local customs release steps).

Want an instant quote for shipping a car from the USA to China?

Calculate Shipping Cost

 

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Container Shipping Is the Primary Method for Cars Shipped to China

For sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles, and classic cars shipped from the USA to China, container shipping is the standard and most widely accepted method. It offers full enclosure, better compliance with Chinese import rules, and consistent access to approved destination ports.

RoRo Shipping from the USA to China: When It’s Available & When It’s Not

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping can be used for certain vehicle exports from the USA to China, but availability is route-specific and restricted compared to other destinations. Most passenger vehicles shipped to China move via container shipping, while RoRo is typically limited to commercial vehicles, heavy machinery, and fleet units operating on approved routes.

Unlike markets where RoRo is widely available, China maintains strict port, carrier, and import controls that limit RoRo access for standard passenger cars. For this reason, container shipping remains the most reliable and commonly approved method for exporting vehicles from the USA to China.

RoRo shipping to China may be suitable for:

  • Heavy machinery and construction equipment
  • Commercial trucks and industrial vehicles
  • Fleet or government-authorized shipments
  • Units that meet carrier, port, and import approval requirements

Need a RoRo price for your oversized vehicle or machinery?

Visit our RoRo Shipping Calculator or our RoRo Services Page to get a personalized quote instantly.

Calculate RoRo Shipping Cost

“Excellent communication and genuine interest in our vehicles well being throughout the whole process. Highly recommend them for all your vehicle shipping needs!”
Alexander
San Francisco, California
West Coast Shipping

Vehicle Protection for Shipping to China

Protect your vehicle during international car shipping from the USA to China with Cargo Damage Protection. This coverage applies from the moment your vehicle departs our U.S. export warehouses through ocean transit and arrival at approved Chinese destination ports, including Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, and Guangzhou, via vetted overseas shipping partners.

Standard U.S. auto insurance policies do not cover international vehicle shipping between the United States and China. If Cargo Damage Protection is declined, carrier liability is typically limited to $500 per shipment under the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, regardless of vehicle value.

For added peace of mind, we recommend enhanced coverage for luxury vehicles, classic cars, electric vehicles, and high-value imports, particularly when shipping in shared or dedicated containers to China.

Learn More
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Wholesale Vehicle Export & China Shipping Solutions

We support high-volume dealers, auctions, wholesalers, and exporters with turn-key logistics for shipping vehicles from the USA to China. From U.S. pickup and export clearance to container loading and overseas release coordination, our team streamlines repeat shipments at scale.

  • End-to-End solutions between the US and the world
  • Vehicle collection & export clearance
  • Private warehouses in CA, FL, NJ
  • Vehicle and parts consolidation
  • Use our carrier bookings or your own
  • Ability to choose your own import agent when shipping dedicated containers 
  • Expedited Air Freight options
Explore Wholesale Solutions

Documentation Required to Ship Cars from the USA to China

Shipping a vehicle from the United States to China requires U.S. export clearance and compliance with China import rules. Below are the most common documents needed to move a car from the USA to China by container shipping (and, when available, RoRo).

  • A Bill of Sale is required to prove ownership of the vehicle.
  • The Original Vehicle Title must be provided. If there is an active lien, a lien release letter is also necessary.
  • A Power of Attorney Form is required for both international residents and US citizens to authorize the export process.
  • International residents must provide a copy of a passport.
  • US citizens must provide a copy of an EIN letter from the IRS.
  • The Completed Online Shipping Form must be submitted along with the Import Declaration for Chinese Customs and Vehicle Registration Records.

Our dedicated export team reviews your paperwork, coordinates the U.S. export filing and port clearance, and confirms your vehicle is approved to load and depart for China with no preventable delays.

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Dedicated Export Team

Your account manager coordinates U.S. export clearance, document checks, and port procedures so your vehicle is cleared to ship from the USA to China.

Car Import Process in China

Shipping Cost & Duties

Shipping your car from the United States to China requires clearing US customs and complying with Chinese import regulations. Below are the required costs and duties associated with importing a vehicle to China.

Mandatory Fees in the USA

  • Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of the cargo value, excluding air freight.
  • Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of the cargo value, with a minimum charge of $31.67 and a maximum of $614.35.

Import Duties & Taxes in China

  • Import Duty: Varies depending on the vehicle’s engine size, type, and emissions.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT): 13% applied to the total customs value.
  • Consumption Tax: Ranges from 1% to 40%, depending on engine displacement.
  • Luxury Car Tax: May apply to high-end vehicles exceeding a certain price threshold.

Additional Considerations

  • Used cars can only be imported under specific conditions, such as for diplomatic purposes or personal relocation.
  • Homologation requirements may require modifications to comply with Chinese vehicle safety and emissions standards.
  • Import restrictions vary based on vehicle type, and some older models may not be allowed entry.

Click Calculate Cost to get the latest pricing for shipping your car to China.

Calculate Cost

Car Import Process from USA to China

Shipping your car from the USA to China is a streamlined process backed by years of experience. Whether you're shipping classic cars, luxury vehicles, electric cars, or motorcycles, our door-to-door international car shipping service ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Due to strict Chinese import regulations, vehicles must meet compliance standards to be legally registered. This includes import duties, emissions compliance, and customs documentation. Our local partners in China ensure your vehicle meets all necessary import requirements.

China Car Shipping Service

Our China Car Shipping Service includes:

  • Door-to-door vehicle transport from any US location.
  • Dedicated container shipping for secure vehicle transport.
  • Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping for eligible vehicles.
  • Air freight options for urgent vehicle shipping.
  • Customs clearance and documentation handling for both export and import.
  • Secure vehicle transport at both the origin and destination.
  • Compliance assistance for Chinese import regulations.
  • Special handling for high-value, classic, and luxury cars.

Our consolidated container shipping service offers a cost-effective solution, saving importers and dealerships significant costs compared to other methods. We manage every step of the process, from pickup in the USA to final delivery in China.

Registering Your Car in China

After shipping your car from the USA to China, you must complete several steps to legally register and drive it in the country. Chinese import regulations require compliance with emissions, safety, and tax laws before your vehicle can be officially registered.

To register your vehicle, you need:

  • A foreign registration certificate and proof of ownership.
  • Customs duty and VAT payment records.
  • Approval from the China Transport Bureau.
  • Vehicle approval certificates to comply with Chinese import laws.
  • The original bill of sale, shipping documents, and an import declaration form.

Classic Car Restrictions

China has strict regulations on classic car imports. Currently, classic cars can only be imported temporarily for exhibitions, shows, and special events. Permanent importation is restricted due to government policies.

Additional Compliance Considerations

Chinese authorities require homologation modifications to ensure compliance with local safety and emissions standards. Adjustments may include upgrading headlights for Chinese roads, emissions system modifications, and other necessary compliance updates.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping to China

How much does it cost to ship a car from the USA to China?

The cost of shipping a car from the USA to China starts at $1,600 per vehicle for container shipping. Rates depend on factors such as service type, container size, and vehicle condition. Additional costs may apply for Chinese import duties, customs clearance, and local port fees.

 

How long does shipping to China from the USA take?

The transit time for shipping a car from the USA to major Chinese ports like Dalian, Tianjin, or Xingang is approximately 17 days via container shipping. Air freight options can be faster, with estimated transit times ranging from 3 to 10 days, depending on documentation and customs processing.

 

What documents do I need for shipping a car to China?

To export a car from the USA to China, you need the original vehicle title, a bill of sale, a copy of your passport (for international residents), or an EIN letter from the IRS (for U.S. citizens). You also need to submit a Power of Attorney form and complete the online shipping form.

 

What taxes and duties apply when importing a car to China?

China imposes significant import duties on vehicle imports. The tax rate varies based on the vehicle’s engine size and type. New cars are subject to higher tariffs, while used cars are restricted unless the owner is relocating to China. Diplomats have fewer restrictions and can import vehicles duty-free.

 

What shipping methods are available for car transport to China?

The most common shipping method for cars to China is container shipping, with both single-car and consolidated shipping options available. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is available at select ports but requires the vehicle to be in running condition. Air freight is the fastest but also the most expensive option.

 

Can I ship a classic car to China?

China does not allow permanent classic car imports. Classic cars can only be imported temporarily for exhibitions, events, and rallies. Many Chinese classic car collectors choose to store their collections overseas due to these restrictions.

 

Can I ship a motorcycle to China?

Yes, motorcycles can be shipped to China via container shipping or air freight. The most cost-effective method is shipping multiple motorcycles in a consolidated container. A custom crate may be required for air freight shipments.

 

Can I ship a car with personal belongings inside?

No, China does not allow personal belongings to be shipped inside vehicles due to customs regulations. All vehicles must be empty before being exported.

 

Is insurance available for car shipping to China?

Yes, cargo damage protection is available for shipping cars to China. Standard auto insurance policies do not cover international shipping, so it is recommended to purchase a comprehensive shipping insurance plan based on the vehicle’s value.

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