We offer premium services for organizing and managing shipments of all types and sizes. From logistics to customs clearance, we handle every detail. Choose the delivery method that best suits your needs for shipping cargo from Germany to the USA.
Freight Shipping from Germany to the USA
- LCL and FCL sea freight
- Air freight
- Express delivery
- DDU/DDP, door to door, port to port, port to door
Freight Shipping Services from Germany to the USA by Fulfillment-Box
With over 10 years of e-commerce experience, Fulfillment-Box has mastered the intricacies of international logistics. This expertise enables us to deliver fast and secure shipping from Germany to the USA, creating optimal routes tailored to each shipment.
We’ve refined our processes and built strong partnerships with trusted carriers, airlines, and shipping lines, making our services reliable and affordable. Our goal is to ensure quality delivery from Germany to the USA at competitive rates.
Beyond transportation, Fulfillment-Box offers a global network of fulfillment centers. In Germany and the USA, you can store your goods in our warehouses and trust us with all logistics, from storage to returns management. We handle the supply chain, while you focus on growing your business.
Shipping Methods from Germany to the USA
Sea Freight (LCL and FCL)
Transport bulky and heavy cargo at the lowest cost. We can arrange a 20 or 40-foot container just for your shipment or book space in a consolidated container with other shippers. Delivery is available from Bremerhaven and Hamburg to ports on the East and West Coasts of the USA. Upon request, we offer door-to-door or port-to-door service.
Air freight
Air transport offers greater speed and reliability than sea freight, with an average delivery time of 8-10 days to the USA. Our partnerships with top airlines ensure fast and efficient delivery to the American market, making it the perfect solution for perishable and high-value items.
Express delivery
Delivery of non-bulky shipments by air within just 3 days. Established connections with leading parcel carriers in Germany and the USA (UPS, DHL, and FedEx) give us a significant advantage in offering speed at an affordable price. This service includes a full range of logistics operations and customs clearance, minimizing any delays and unforeseen complications.
Door-to-Door delivery (DDP/DDU)
Overseas delivery to your doorstep with maximum convenience. For DDP shipping, we handle all customs clearance, duty payments, and delivery to the final destination. For DDU shipping, you will need to pay all taxes and additional customs fees, but we will provide full support in organizing the customs clearance process and deliver your cargo to the final destination.
Delivery to Fulfillment-Box warehouses
Fulfillment-Box warehouses are strategically located across the USA, ensuring quick and reliable delivery of goods nationwide. Offer your customers high-quality service and minimal waiting times.
Delivery to Amazon warehouses
Shipping to any Amazon FBA distribution center in the USA from Germany on DDP terms. Transport is carried out by air or sea for large shipments. We take full responsibility for export and import, including customs clearance and duty payments.
Why Fulfillment-Box Is the Best Freight Forwarder from Germany to the USA
We offer optimal logistics solutions tailored to each client’s desired timelines and costs. You provide us with all the information about your cargo and your preferences, and we develop the most advantageous route for you. The individuality of each solution allows us to guarantee the safety of your cargo and help protect your business from potential losses.
For international transportation, every minute can make a difference. Prompt problem-solving is crucial to avoid any delays or unforeseen circumstances. Our support service is available five days a week and responds within 20 minutes in four languages: English, German, Russian, and Ukrainian. Fulfillment-Box specialists will answer all your questions and provide timely, qualified assistance.
Fulfillment-Box is more than just a freight forwarder. It’s a reliable business partner capable of handling any task related to managing your supply chain. We take care of all logistics stages, from receiving and storing goods in our warehouses to their delivery and returns processing. This allows you to focus on the strategic development of your business while we ensure its seamless operation.
Request Freight Shipping Cost Estimate from Germany to the USA
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Frequently Asked Questions About Freight Shipping from Germany to the United States
How much does it cost to ship cargo from Germany to the US?
Here are approximate shipping prices from Germany to the USA:
● Sea Freight LCL (Less than Container Load): $200-250 per cubic meter
● Sea Freight FCL 20-foot container: Approximately $2,500 to $3,250
● Sea Freight FCL 40-foot container: Approximately $3,400 to $4,000
● Air Freight: $4-7 per kilogram
● Express Delivery: $6-9 per kilogram
How much time does shipping from Germany to the US take?
The shipping time from Germany to the USA varies depending on the chosen transport method:
● Shipping by sea: 30-40 days
● Air transport: on average 8-10 days
● Express delivery: 1-3 days
Which shipping method from Germany to the USA is the fastest?
When it comes to speed, nothing beats express delivery. While standard air shipping from Germany to the USA takes 8-10 days, express shipments arrive at their destination in just 3 days.
Which shipping method from Germany to the USA is the cheapest?
Shipping cargo from Germany to the USA by sea offers lower costs compared to air transport. However, its cost can vary depending on the distance of transport, type, volume of cargo, and other factors. Our specialists can help you determine the most cost-effective transportation method.
What is the most beneficial method of transporting cargo from Germany to the USA?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It all depends entirely on your needs. For some, cost is important, while for others, speed takes priority.
From an economic standpoint, opting for sea freight is more advantageous. It is the cheapest method of transportation compared to other logistical options. However, the waiting time for a ship ranges from 30 to 40 days.
If you need to transport goods quickly, it’s better to choose air freight from Germany to the USA. Despite being significantly more expensive than sea freight, it offers significant advantages in terms of speed and reliability. Using express delivery, your shipment will arrive within just 3 days.
What documents are required for shipping cargo from Germany to the USA?
– Commercial invoice
– Packing list
– Waybill
– Certificate of origin
– Bill of lading or air waybill (depending on the shipping method)
International Freight Shipping from Germany to the USA: A Comprehensive Guide
Logistics isn’t just about choosing a mode of transport to move cargo from point A to point B. It involves a complex set of processes that require meticulous planning and coordination at every stage. To select the optimal route with minimal time and resource costs, proper route planning and preparation of all accompanying customs documents are essential. Ensuring reliable shipment tracking throughout the journey is crucial for timely delivery to the destination. Adhering to these processes is key to guaranteeing swift and secure cargo movement.
Our guide will help you understand all aspects of freight shipping from Germany to the USA. This knowledge will help you ensure your shipment runs smoothly and on the best possible terms.
Freight shipping options from Germany to the USA
Germany and the USA are separated by the Atlantic Ocean. The only possible corridors for transporting goods between the countries are sea routes and air transportation. Choosing the right option depends on several factors: the type and volume of cargo, urgency, budget, and the sender’s individual preferences.
Container shipping by sea from Germany to the USA
Sea freight from Germany to the USA is the most traditional and widely used method of delivery. It allows for the transportation of large batches of oversized, liquid, bulk, and other types of goods at a relatively low cost. Container ships can carry thousands of tons of products, making this method particularly efficient for heavy and bulky items. The only downside to container shipping is its slower speed. Transport takes 30-40 days, which can be a critical factor for urgent shipments.
Choose sea freight if:
1) You need to ship cargo weighing more than 300 kg;
2) Your goods are not suitable for air transport;
3) Your cargo does not require urgent delivery;
4) You need to ship non-standard sized cargo.
FCL and LCL Shipping
For shipping goods from Germany to the USA, containers of 20 and 40 feet are used. You can either fill the container entirely with your cargo or share it with other shippers when sending smaller batches of goods.
● FCL (Full Container Load): Involves renting the entire container space for quicker processing. It’s ideal for large shipments exceeding 15 cubic meters, allowing you to fill a 20-foot container completely. This minimizes risks of damage or loss since the container is sealed and not shared with other shippers.
● LCL (Less than Container Load): In an LCL container, each shipper pays only for the space they use, significantly reducing transportation costs. While financially advantageous, it may require more time as it involves consolidating and processing shipments from multiple shippers.
The choice between FCL and LCL shipping depends on specific business needs. Large companies with substantial volumes typically find FCL more efficient, facilitating quick loading and unloading at both ends. Small to medium-sized enterprises with smaller batches can save considerably using LCL. However, LCL containers have multiple final delivery addresses, which may extend arrival times. It’s crucial to carefully evaluate all aspects—cost, delivery times, and cargo security—to select the most suitable option.
Consult with Fulfillment-Box specialists to ensure the safe and timely arrival of your cargo at its destination.
Sea freight shipping routes from Germany to the USA
Cargo departs directly from leading ports in Germany – Hamburg and Bremerhaven – to either the East or West Coast of America. Arrival points in the USA include ports in New York, Los Angeles, and Houston.
When planning shipment from Germany to the United States, it’s crucial to consider the final destination. If your goods are headed to the East Coast, New York Port is the optimal choice for swift delivery. However, if the destination is on the West Coast, such as Las Vegas, plan to ship your cargo from Germany to the Port of Los Angeles in California.
Choosing the right arrival port will expedite the delivery process and help avoid unnecessary expenses and delays.
Air freight from Germany to the USA
Air freight from Germany to the USA offers clear advantages over sea freight. Primarily, it boasts high transport speed. Airplanes can cross continents and oceans in just a few hours, making them indispensable for urgent or valuable goods.
However, the main drawback is its high cost, which may be prohibitive for some companies. Before shipping, it’s crucial to ensure your cargo meets air transport requirements. Airlines strictly regulate maximum dimensions and weight of cargo that can be loaded onto planes. Ignoring these limits can lead to significant delays. Also, consider the type of cargo and adhere to all international security norms during preparation.
Choose air freight shipping from Germany to the USA if:
1) Delivery time is critical for you;
2) Your goods have a limited shelf life;
3) You need to send valuable or fragile cargo;
4) The cargo weight does not exceed 500 kg.
Shipping time for air freight from Germany to the USA
The delivery time for air freight isn’t solely determined by flight duration. Before goods board, they must undergo warehouse handling, customs checks, and other administrative procedures. On average, goods reach the American market from Germany in 8-10 days. Final delivery times depend on route distance and cargo specifics.
Airports for shipping cargo from Germany:
(FRA) Frankfurt Airport
(DUS) Düsseldorf Airport
(TXL) Berlin Tegel Airport
(MUC) Munich Airport
(HAM) Hamburg Airport
Airports for receiving cargo in the USA:
(ORD) O’Hare International Airport – Chicago, Illinois
(JFK) John F. Kennedy International Airport – New York City, New York
(ATL) Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – Atlanta, Georgia
(DEN) Denver International Airport – Denver, Colorado
(PHL) Philadelphia International Airport – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost of shipping from Germany to the USA by air
There’s no standard rate for shipping from Germany to the USA by air. Costs depend on cargo specifications, chosen airlines, route distance, and delivery timelines. Clearly, shipping to New York by air will cost less than to Denver. To find the optimal solution for your cargo, consider all these factors.
Fulfillment-Box managers understand all nuances of air delivery and can offer you the most advantageous route.
Express delivery from Germany to the USA
If you have a small shipment that needs to be delivered within the shortest possible time frame, opting for express delivery is the wisest choice. Its primary advantage lies in speed and convenience. Your cargo can be delivered to the USA within just 3 business days while complying with all customs regulations.
Delivery is handled by leading courier services (DHL, UPS, and FedEx) with minimal effort required on your part. A courier will collect the parcel from your door in Germany and deliver it to its final destination in the USA.
However, this method does come with drawbacks – speed and convenience come at a price. The average cost of express delivery is approximately $8 per kilogram.
Choose express delivery if:
1) Your goods are perishable;
2) Delivery deadlines are critically tight;
3) You need to ship a small volume of goods.
D2D, DDP/DDU Delivery
When organizing international shipping from Germany to the USA, various logistical solutions can simplify the process of receiving goods.
Door to door, Port to port, Door to port, etc.
Shipping goods from Germany to the USA under D2D (door to door) terms is the optimal choice for those who value time, money, and reliability. This process includes the full cycle of operations from picking up the cargo from the sender to delivering it to the recipient in America. This service allows you to avoid arranging delivery from a port or airport to the final recipient, saving considerable time and potentially costs. It’s worth noting the economic benefit as well. Initially, D2D delivery may seem more expensive, but it often proves cost-effective by eliminating additional expenses for intermediate transportation stages.
Regardless of whether your city has an airport or access to the sea (ocean), we will move your cargo using intermodal delivery. Our specialists thoroughly plan each stage of transportation to ensure timely arrival and the safety of your cargo. We strive to ensure seamless movement of goods throughout America and are ready to handle any challenges posed by the geography of your location.
In addition to full-cycle logistics, there are other logistical solutions available. Among the methods of sea freight, options like Port to Port, Port to Door, and Door to Port are particularly popular. For air transport, methods such as Airport to Airport, Airport to Door, and Door to Airport are widely used. Choosing the right option depends on various factors, including costs, delivery times, and the level of responsibility and client involvement in the delivery process.
DDP and DDU Delivery
DDP and DDU determine who will bear the expenses during the import of goods into the USA.
DDP (Delivery Duty Paid): The seller assumes all costs associated with delivering the goods to the destination, including customs duties and taxes. This means the buyer receives the goods cleared of all formalities without the need for additional expenses. This approach is convenient as it helps avoid unexpected costs and delays during the import of goods.
DDU (Delivery Duty Unpaid) / DAP (Duties At Place): The responsibility for paying customs duties and taxes lies with the buyer. The seller organizes delivery of the goods to the destination but does not take on obligations for customs clearance. This can be advantageous for those experienced in customs procedures and able to optimize costs.
Choosing between DDP and DDU depends on various factors, including the buyer’s experience level in international trade, ability to manage customs processes, and preferences regarding financial risks. It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons to make the most advantageous decision for both parties involved in the transaction.
How much does shipping from Germany to the USA cost?
The cost of shipping from Germany to the USA is determined by a variety of factors. Key factors include the type of cargo, its weight and volume, the chosen method of transportation (sea or air transport), and the specific route. Seasonal fluctuations, urgency of delivery, transport condition requirements, and the need for additional services will also impact the final price.
Individual customer needs and preferences can significantly alter the cost, so for an accurate quote, please contact our managers.
Estimated costs for different types of shipping are as follows:
● Sea LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping: $200-250 per cubic meter
● Sea FCL (Full Container Load) shipping (20-foot container): $2,500 to $3,250
● Sea FCL (Full Container Load) shipping (40-foot container): $3,400 to $4,000
● Air freight: $4-7 per kilogram
● Express delivery: $6-9 per kilogram
The prices mentioned are approximate and indicative. For actual figures, request a personalized cost estimate for your cargo from our specialists.
Specifics of customs clearance in the USA and Germany
Successfully navigating customs requires thorough preparation and knowledge of all process intricacies. American legislation places particular emphasis on the completeness of information in the documentation being processed. Improperly completed documents can stall the process, leading to significant delays.
A key aspect of customs clearance in the USA is correctly identifying HS codes for goods. This is necessary to accurately calculate customs duties and taxes. Errors in classification can result in fines or importation under inflated tariffs.
Equally important are compliance rules regarding restrictive measures and sanctions. The USA has several sanction programs that apply to specific countries and goods. Importing from sanctioned countries or restricted goods may be prohibited or require special permits.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) oversees compliance with U.S. customs laws. In Germany, customs processes for export goods are monitored by the European Commission.
Documents required for customs clearance of goods include
● Commercial invoice
● Packing list
● Bill of lading
● Certificate of origin
● Waybill or airway bill (depending on the mode of delivery)
Customs duties in the USA
In the USA, customs duties are governed by a tariff system known as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). The HTS is a detailed set of rules and rates applied to various categories of goods imported into the country. This system not only efficiently manages the import process but also safeguards the domestic market against unfair competition.
The average customs tariff in the USA is just 3.4%, which is one of the lowest rates globally. The tariff rate can vary depending on the country of origin of the goods. Goods from countries with which the USA has trade agreements may be subject to reduced tariffs or exempt from duties altogether.
Restrictions and bans on imports into the USA
Imports into the USA are restricted for:
● Controlled substances
● Weapons and firearms
● Counterfeit goods
● Wildlife products and endangered species
● Cultural artifacts
Prohibited from entering the USA are:
● Illegal drugs
● Hazardous materials
● Cuban cigars and rum
● Certain goods from specific countries
How much time does shipping from Germany to the USA take?
To accurately determine the shipping time for cargo from Germany to the USA, it’s important to consider all influencing factors. Each method has its own timeline depending on specific conditions and the characteristics of each individual shipment.
● Shipping by sea takes the longest time. On average, cargo reaches American ports in 30-40 days, depending on the route and weather conditions.
● Air freight is faster and more predictable in terms of delivery times. It typically takes 8-10 days for the organization and transport of cargo to America. The only factors that may affect its timing are weather conditions.
● Express delivery is for cases when time is of the essence. Cargo will be delivered to the USA within 3 days. However, speed comes at a significantly higher cost.
Which shipping method from Germany to the USA is best?
When searching for the optimal shipping method from Germany to the US, it’s important to consider all aspects. Each option has its own characteristics that can meet the different needs and capabilities of all participants in the process.
Before settling on a specific option, define your needs:
1) What type and volume of goods do you need to ship?
2) Which transportation routes can and do you want to use to deliver the goods?
3) How quickly does your cargo need to reach its destination?
If you have a large batch of goods and time is not critical, sea freight is the best option.
If you need to transport a small volume relatively quickly and are confident your goods can be loaded onto an airplane, choose air freight.
If you need to receive the goods in the next few days and are willing to pay extra for it, opt for express delivery.
A professional freight forwarder from Germany to the USA like Fulfillment-Box will help you choose the most suitable method of shipping with an optimal balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How to ship goods from Germany to Amazon FBA warehouses in the USA
Amazon holds a significant 37.8% share of the US e-commerce market, making it one of the most attractive platforms for online sales. Amazon provides its sellers with a massive customer base in America and a well-established infrastructure. This significantly simplifies business operations for European entrepreneurs. However, to fully leverage the platform’s advantages, it’s crucial to plan logistics carefully while adhering to all Amazon FBA standards.
Directly sending goods to an FBA warehouse helps avoid additional costs during intermediate shipping stages and speeds up the process of getting your products onto the virtual shelves of the marketplace. However, simply loading goods from a warehouse in Germany and unloading them at an FBA warehouse in the USA isn’t enough. Amazon has strict packaging and labeling standards. Proper cargo preparation ensures your goods are accepted at the warehouse without delays or additional inspections.
Failure to meet platform requirements can lead to refusal of goods acceptance at the warehouse and additional expenses to correct errors. Therefore, many sellers prefer to entrust logistics to an intermediary or freight forwarder experienced with Amazon FBA. They have the capabilities and knowledge to minimize any risks associated with transporting and receiving goods.
Fulfillment-Box has been in the Amazon market for many years. During this time, we have studied its strengths and weaknesses. We handle various types of shipments, including hazardous and perishable goods, ensuring compliance with all platform standards. Fulfillment-Box operates dozens of warehouses in close proximity to Amazon’s distribution centers across the USA. This ensures swift access to the American market for your business.
Choose Door to Door DDP shipping method for delivery to an FBA warehouse in America. You’ll have assurances that your goods will arrive on time and hassle-free.
Freight forwarder services from Germany to the USA
Handling transatlantic transportation on your own can be a complex and labor-intensive task. It involves solving numerous organizational issues. Proper route planning, choosing a reliable carrier, preparing all accompanying documents, and understanding export-import legislation are essential. These processes can require significant effort, time, and resources. It’s more practical and cost-effective to use the services of an expeditor.
A professional expeditor has the necessary experience and connections to offer you an optimal balance of service quality and cost. They will manage all organizational aspects from route planning to document processing and will accompany your shipment from point of origin to destination while complying with all legal requirements. To ensure the delivery process is as efficient and trouble-free as possible for you, your main task is to choose a reliable partner. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
1) Professional support. Communication with your expeditor is not just about exchanging information but is crucial for a successful and efficient partnership. If your expeditor is always available, they can quickly resolve issues related to route changes, delays, or other unforeseen circumstances. This is particularly important in today’s globalized environment where logistics chains are becoming increasingly complex and multi-layered.
2) Pricing policy. Don’t choose a company solely based on the lowest price. A low cost may hide a lack of experience or necessary resources. It’s important to find a balance between the cost of services and the quality of service provided. Transparency in pricing is also crucial: you should be aware of all possible additional costs in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.
3) Trust. Trust between the client and the expeditor is built on reliability and professionalism. You should be confident that your shipment will be delivered on time while adhering to all necessary procedures and safety standards. The best way to establish such trust is to research the expeditor’s reputation, reviews from other clients, and verify their relevant certificates and licenses.
Fulfillment-Box can be your key to successful shipping from Germany to the US. We offer a comprehensive solution tailored to your needs and will support you at every stage of the logistics process. Trust our professionals and rest assured knowing that your shipment will arrive on time and intact.