Shipping Machinery from China to USA

Most industrial machinery (HS Chapter 84) falls under Section 301 List 3 at 25%. This adds to the standard MFN rate, usually 0–3.9%. So the total duty rate lands near 25–29% for most machinery. The 12.5% forced-labor duty in force since July 24, 2026 also applies. Some types got USTR exclusions that cut or drop the Section 301 duty. We check exclusion status for every HTS code. This duty applies only to covered HTS provisions; product exemptions must be checked.

Big, out-of-gauge (OOG) machines need special gear. This includes flat-rack containers (20ft or 40ft), open-top containers, or breakbulk shipping for very large pieces. The process starts with a size and weight survey at the factory. Next comes an engineering check for lashing and blocking. Then we book with carriers that take OOG loads. Cranes handle the port-to-port move on both ends. Last comes inland delivery, with permits for oversize road transport. We plan this whole job with project cargo partners.

You'll need a detailed invoice that lists each machine by model and serial number. Add a packing list with weights and sizes, plus a bill of lading. Include CBP Form 7501 with the correct HS Chapter 84 codes. You also need an ISPM 15 fumigation certificate for wood packing, and any CE marking papers that apply. Machines with embedded software may need extra BIS/EAR review.

Standard containerized machinery takes 25–35 days by ocean from Shanghai to LA. For US East Coast ports, allow 30–40 days. OOG and flat-rack bookings can take longer, since vessel space and port handling are tighter. Plan for 30–40 days, plus extra lead time to book. Air freight for critical spare parts takes just 3–6 days.

ISPM 15 stands for International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures. It requires that all wood packing — pallets, crates, dunnage — used in global shipments gets treated to kill wood-boring bugs. Treatment can be heat treatment (HT) or methyl bromide fumigation, marked with the IPPC logo. US Customs and USDA enforce this rule strictly. Wood packing that fails gets refused, or fumigated at the importer's cost, at the US port. Ask your supplier for the IPPC mark before loading, and we check the photos and papers before it ships.

Yes. The USTR grants exclusions for certain HTS codes — mainly for items you can't easily source outside China. An exclusion lets you get a refund on Section 301 tariffs you already paid. It also lets you keep importing at a lower or zero Section 301 rate going forward. Exclusion programs have opened and closed several times. We track current status and help with exclusion applications.