Sending a parcel to the USA costs approximately $25–$120 for packages under 5kg via express courier, with delivery in 3–7 business days. DHL, FedEx, and UPS all serve this route. ShippingToGo compares live rates from all major carriers — so you find the cheapest option for your USA shipment in seconds.
Looking to make the American dream more accessible — with fast, affordable, and secure delivery to anywhere in the United States? At ShippingToGo, we make it happen. Whether you're a business sending important documents, an eCommerce store shipping orders, or an individual sending a gift to loved ones — our platform gives you the power to choose, compare, and ship with the best couriers in the world, including UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
With just a few clicks, your package is picked up from your door and sent on its way — tracked, insured, and handled with care.
What Are the Shipping Options to the USA?
The USA is one of the world's largest import markets. Based on ShippingToGo's shipping data, the most common shipping methods from the Middle East and Europe to the USA are express courier (for small parcels and documents) and ocean freight (for large household or commercial shipments).
ShippingToGo offers International Courier Services and Parcel Delivery. We are dedicated to providing a great value shipping service to the USA, helping businesses as well as individuals transport important paperwork, packages, and other goods — meeting and even exceeding their expectations.
We work only with the best couriers — UPS, FedEx, DHL, and more. It's you who chooses the courier. A wide range of options for international parcel delivery is guaranteed, so you can always find the service that matches your package requirements.
ShippingToGo allows you to use the parcel tracking service for all your shipments. All you need to do is enter your tracking number and trace your postage with us.
The only thing you need to do is choose the courier service and stay at home — no more dropping packages at depots. If you're looking for the cheapest way to international postage, ShippingToGo offers the best delivery services at the cheapest prices.
Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight to the USA: A Complete Comparison
Choosing the right shipping method depends on your parcel size, urgency, and budget. Here is a detailed comparison of the two main options for shipping to the USA:
| Factor | Air Freight / Express Courier | Ocean Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Transit Time | 3–7 business days | 3–6 weeks |
| Cost | Higher per kg | Much lower per kg for large volumes |
| Best For | Documents, electronics, gifts, small parcels | Furniture, household contents, large commercial shipments |
| Tracking | Real-time, door-to-door | Milestone-based tracking |
| Customs | Electronic, handled by courier | Formal entry required for shipments over $800 |
| Max Weight | Typically up to 70kg per parcel | No practical limit (FCL or LCL containers) |
Shipping to the USA with ShippingToGo
Shipping to the USA involves several steps and considerations, including choosing a shipping carrier, determining the weight and dimensions of the package, calculating shipping costs, and filling out customs forms if necessary.
Some common shipping carriers for deliveries to the USA include ShippingToGo's partners — DHL, FedEx, and UPS — as well as ocean freight operators for large shipments. To determine the best shipping method for your needs, consider factors such as delivery time, cost, and package size.
How to Choose a Courier Company While Shipping to the USA
When choosing a shipping company for deliveries to the USA, consider the following factors:
Delivery time: Choose a company that can deliver within your desired time frame.
Cost: Compare shipping rates of different companies and choose the one that offers the best value for money.
Package size and weight restrictions: Make sure the company can handle the size and weight of your package.
Tracking and insurance options: Consider if you need tracking and insurance options, and choose a company that offers these services.
Reliability and reputation: Research the company's reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
International shipping options: If you are shipping from outside the USA, make sure the company offers international shipping services and has experience with customs and import regulations.
Air Freight to the USA
Air freight shipment is a mode of transportation that involves shipping goods via air transportation. Air freight is often used for time-sensitive or high-value shipments and is generally faster and more expensive than other modes of shipment, such as ocean or ground shipping.
When shipping goods via air freight, it's important to consider factors such as the size and weight of your shipment, the delivery time required, and the cost of shipping. Additionally, air freight shipments may require additional documentation such as air waybills, packing lists, and customs declarations, so it's important to work with a freight forwarder or shipping company that has experience with air freight shipments and can assist with the necessary paperwork.
Advantages of air freight shipment include faster delivery times, reduced transit risks, and the ability to handle high-value and perishable goods. The main disadvantage is the higher cost compared to other modes of shipment.
Ocean Freight to the USA
A slower and more cost-effective option for large or heavy shipments, ocean freight involves the transportation of goods by large cargo ships over long distances.
Key aspects of ocean freight to the USA:
1) Types of cargo: Various types of cargo can be shipped via ocean freight, including containers, bulk cargo, breakbulk cargo, and project cargo.
2) Routes: Ocean freight routes connect ports all over the world, and cargo ships follow regular schedules to transport goods between these ports.
3) Shipping companies: Several shipping companies provide ocean freight services, including Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and many others.
4) Costs: The cost of ocean freight depends on various factors, such as the type of cargo, distance, and shipping company. On average, it is one of the most cost-effective methods of shipping large quantities of goods.
5) Documentation: Documentation such as bills of lading and customs declarations are required for ocean freight shipments.
6) Transit time: The transit time for ocean freight varies depending on the distance and the shipping route, but it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
7) Incoterms: Incoterms are international trade terms that define the responsibilities of the buyer and seller for the delivery of goods. The most commonly used incoterms in ocean freight are FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
8) Environmental impact: Ocean freight has an impact on the environment, particularly in terms of emissions from ships. The shipping industry is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact.
Ground Shipping Within the USA
Ground shipping refers to the transportation of goods over land, typically by truck, rail, or intermodal means. Once your parcel clears US customs and is in the country, ground delivery services take over for last-mile delivery to the recipient's door.
Some of the key benefits of ground shipping include lower costs compared to air shipping for domestic US legs, the ability to transport larger quantities of goods, and the ability to handle a wider range of goods, including oversized and heavy items. Ground shipping can also be combined with other forms of transportation, such as ocean freight, to create a multi-modal shipping solution.
US Customs: Key Rules for Shipping to the USA
The United States has strict customs regulations enforced by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Key rules to know before shipping:
- De minimis threshold: Shipments valued at $800 or less per person per day are generally exempt from customs duties.
- Commercial invoice required: All shipments need an accurate commercial invoice with HS codes, declared values, and item descriptions.
- ISF (Importer Security Filing): Ocean freight shipments to the USA require ISF filing at least 24 hours before loading.
- Prohibited items: Firearms, certain food products, biological substances, and counterfeit goods are banned.
- FDA registration: Food, drug, cosmetic, and device shipments may require FDA prior notice.
According to US Customs and Border Protection, the agency processes millions of international shipments annually. Working with experienced couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS ensures your documentation meets CBP requirements.
Best Shipping Companies for USA Deliveries
ShippingToGo: A reliable comparison platform that lets you choose from DHL, FedEx, UPS, and more based on your shipment's specific requirements — with competitive rates and full tracking.
DHL: A German company that is one of the largest couriers and logistics companies in the world. It offers a range of shipping services, including ground, air, and ocean freight, as well as logistics and supply chain management services.
FedEx: An American company that is one of the largest couriers and logistics companies in the world. It offers a range of shipping services, including ground, air, and ocean freight, as well as logistics and supply chain management services.
Maersk: A Danish company and one of the largest shipping companies in the world, offering ocean freight services and logistics solutions.
MSC: Mediterranean Shipping Company, one of the largest container shipping companies in the world, operating a fleet of 500+ vessels.
CMA CGM: A French company and one of the largest container shipping companies in the world, providing ocean freight, logistics, and intermodal services.
Where Can You Send a Package with ShippingToGo?
The answer is all over the USA. If our clients prefer to choose the courier that will deliver their package, then we can offer them a great list from which they can choose. We work with the best couriers because we want to offer only the best services in the industry.
When someone wants to send a package with ShippingToGo they need to know the dimensions of the parcel and the complete address where they want to send it. A courier will come to take the package, or if the client does not want to wait, they can drop it at one of the pick-up points.
Top Tips for Everyone Who Wants to Make a USA Delivery
- A parcel that is adequately packaged arrives at the destination in one piece. International parcels make several stops, so make sure it's packaged securely.
- Think about protecting your package with appropriate insurance coverage.
- Check to see if the items you're sending are allowed in the USA.
- Include the receiver's contact details — a phone number or email address will come in handy for US customs and delivery notifications.
- Book express delivery if you want the goods to arrive quickly.
- Use ShippingToGo's online calculator to compare rates before booking.
Tips While Shipping to the USA
Here are some tips to consider when shipping to the USA:
Documentation: Ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate, including customs declarations and bills of lading.
Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the regulations and restrictions for shipping to the USA, such as restrictions on certain types of goods.
Carrier selection: Choose a carrier that has experience in shipping to the USA and is familiar with the regulations and customs procedures.
Timing: Plan your shipment to arrive in the USA during regular business hours to ensure that there are no delays in processing.
Packaging: Use appropriate packaging that is sturdy and able to withstand the journey to the USA.
Insurance: Consider purchasing insurance to protect your shipment against loss or damage during transit.
Communication: Maintain clear and open contact with the carrier and the recipient to ensure that the shipment is delivered smoothly.
Tracking: Utilize shipment tracking tools to monitor the progress of your shipment and ensure that it arrives at its destination on time.
Based on ShippingToGo's analysis, customers who compare at least two carrier options before booking save an average of 18–25% on their international shipping costs. Always compare live quotes before booking your USA shipment.
Final Words
In conclusion, shipping to the USA requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure that the shipment is delivered smoothly and in compliance with regulations. Choosing a carrier, such as ShippingToGo, that has experience in shipping to the USA, familiarizing yourself with the regulations and restrictions, and using appropriate packaging are all important steps to consider.
Maintaining clear and open communication with the carrier and recipient, utilizing shipment tracking tools, and purchasing insurance are also important factors to keep in mind. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your shipment to the USA arrives at its destination in a timely and efficient manner.
For larger moves to the USA, read our guide on relocating from Israel to the USA. For other destinations, compare rates for sending a parcel to the UK or sending a parcel to Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions — Sending a Parcel to the USA
How much does it cost to send a parcel to the USA?
Sending a parcel to the USA costs approximately $25–$120 for packages under 5kg via express courier (DHL, FedEx, or UPS), with delivery in 3–7 business days. For large shipments, ocean freight is more economical. Use ShippingToGo to compare live rates from all major couriers and freight providers instantly.
How long does parcel delivery to the USA take?
Express parcel delivery to the USA takes 3–7 business days via DHL, FedEx, or UPS. Economy air freight may take 7–14 business days. Ocean freight for large shipments typically takes 3–6 weeks depending on origin port. East Coast destinations (New York, Miami) are generally 1–2 days faster than West Coast cities.
What is the US customs de minimis threshold?
The US de minimis threshold is $800 — shipments valued at or below this amount per person per day are generally exempt from US customs duties and import taxes. Shipments above $800 require a formal customs entry filed with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Accurate declared values are required for all shipments.
What documents are needed to ship to the USA?
Shipping to the USA requires a commercial invoice listing item descriptions, quantities, and HS codes; a packing list; and the recipient's full US address and phone number. Shipments valued above $800 require a formal CBP customs entry. Ocean freight shipments also require an ISF filing 24 hours before loading at origin port.
What items are prohibited when shipping to the USA?
The USA prohibits shipping of firearms, controlled substances, biological substances, counterfeit goods, and hazardous materials. Certain food items, plants, and animals require USDA or FDA clearance. Always check with US Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov) and your chosen carrier before shipping any potentially restricted items.
Is air freight or ocean freight better for shipping to the USA?
Air freight is faster (3–7 days) but more expensive per kg — best for small, urgent, or high-value shipments. Ocean freight is much cheaper per kg for large or heavy shipments like furniture or household goods, but takes 3–6 weeks. Many shippers use both: air freight for essentials, ocean freight for bulk goods.
