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Cost of Shipping Container from India to USA
Cargo transportation is significant in transporting goods and connecting with multiple suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors, creating the international supply chain backbone. Moving goods from production sites to retail locations or directly to customers depends heavily on efficient transportation. However, the cost of shipping containers from India to USA varies considerably based on certain key factors.
- FCL or LCL Containers:
For India to USA shipment, full-load containers (FCL) transport your goods in sealed or loaded 20-40ft containers, carrying loads of 15 CBM or more. LCL containers are recommended for grouped shipments with less than 15 CBM. - 40ft or 20ft Container: Container choices can be made depending on the cargo volume. A 40-f00t container is 20-25% more expensive than a 20-f00t one. A 20ft container can carry a volume of 33 CBM and a 40-f00t offers 79 CBM volume.
- USA’s East or West Coast
Distance is the primary factor affecting pricing for India to USA shipping consignment. Therefore, the FCL East Coast shipment is usually 24-30% more costly. Additionally, on average, LCL containers are 40% more expensive. - Additional Costs
Other than sea freight costs, additional charges will apply to the existing amount for India to USA shipping, which is, on average, 13-25% of the shipping costs. These expenses include origin fees, destination costs, insurance, last-mile shipping, and customs brokerage.
Do you plan any shipments from India to USA?
Shipping Costs From India to the West Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to Lost Angeles)
Shipping Costs From India to the East Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to New York)
India to USAContainer Shipping Calculator
Table of content
1. Cost of Shipping Container from India to USA
1.1 Shipping Costs From India to the West Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to Lost Angeles)
1.2 Shipping Costs From India to the East Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to New York)
2. India to USA Container Shipping Calculator
3. Main Factors Affecting Container Shipping Cost from India to USA
4. Choosing East Or West Shipping Coast From India To USA
5. East and West Coast of USA
6. Shipping Costs From 20ft and 40ft Container From India to USA
7. Container Types For Cargo Shipping From India to USA
8. Cargo Types Explained | Personal, Fragile, Bulk, Hazardous
9. FCL & LCL Loading Types For India To USA Container Shipping
10. Cargo Volume and Weight For Ocean Shipping from India to USA
11. Shipping to USA from India by Sea Rates | Distance From Supplier To Port and Port to Destination
12. Cost Variation Based On Supply/ Demand, Economic Situation, and Oil Rates
13. Main Shipping Carriers | Types & Features
14. Some Factors for Choosing the Best Carrier
15. Tax and Customs Clearance Costs For Shipping from India To USA
16. Cost Impact On Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers for India to US Shipping
17. Additional Expenses Affecting India to USA Container Shipping Charges
18. Cargo Shipping Stages for India to USA Explained | Key Charges Outlined
19. India Sea Ports
Main Factors Affecting Container Shipping Cost from India to USA
Container shipping rates from India to US can be influenced by several factors. Here’s a brief list of variable factors for export and import.
- USA’s Coasts: East and West Coasts of USA
- Container Types: 20ft and 40ft Containers
- Non-standard Containers: Refrigerated, Half-rack, open top, High Cube, Reefer, Side-opening, double-door, and tank
- Cargo Type: General, bulk, fragile, personal, and custom
- Loading Type: FCL Loading and LCL loading containers.
- Cargo’s Weight & Volume: Dimensional or gross weight in Kg’s
- Approximate Distance: Distance from port to sender (India) and then final destination(USA)
- Shipping Price: Based on supply/demand, oil prices, and unforeseen economic conditions
- Carriers Costs: Carrier costs can vary depending on the service you choose for shipping.
- Custom Policies & Tax: Particular tax and regulatory policies of the USA.
- Additional Expenses: The cost of custom brokers and freight forwarders can impact.
Choosing East Or West Shipping Coast From India To USA
Cargo shipping from India to USA cost can greatly vary for the East and West Coasts based on the nearest distance you select. It is suggested to prefer coasts with shorter distances that are cost-effective per your budget. Selecting a port that is closest to the port from both departure and delivery destinations helps you save money.
For instance, if the supplier is in Delhi-Mumbai, India, and you are in Los Angeles, USA, you prefer Nhava Sheva or Hazira port, which provides the closest shipping route. That’s because last-mile delivery impacts significantly on the overall costs. So, you must go with the coast that is nearest to you either East or West.
For instance, if the supplier is in Delhi-Mumbai, India, and you are in Los Angeles, USA, you prefer Nhava Sheva or Hazira port, which provides the closest shipping route. That’s because last-mile delivery impacts significantly on the overall costs. So, you must go with the coast that is nearest to you either East or West.
Map from India to the US West Coast 
Ports of the West Coast of the USA 
Map from India to the US East Coast 
Ports of the East Coast of the USA East and West Coast of USA
Notably, shipping from the East Coast of the USA is 24-30% more expensive for FCL containers and approximately 40% for LCL containers. For shipping from ports of India to the USA’s destination ports, there are East and West Coast options as follows:
Ports
West Coasts of USA
- Los Angeles
- Seattle
- Long Beach
- Oakland
East Coasts of USA
- New York
- Miami
- Charleston
- Savannah
- Virginia
Specifications
The United State’s East Coast port is directly linked to the West Port of India. Therefore, it will be the cheapest and most efficient route for shipping compared to the West.
Costs
Shipping destinations on the East Coast of the USA will be budget-friendly due to the direct route. The estimated price range for this route is about $3034 for 20ft and $3334 for a 40ft container.
Shipping Time
It takes about 15-30 days on average for cargo shipping from India to the USA.
Obstructions
The ports of New York and Los Angeles are often crowded which causes delays in container unloading and usually results in additional expenses.
Shipping Costs From 20ft and 40ft Container From India to USA
Generally, the shipping cost of a 40ft container from India to USA is about 25-30% more expensive. However, the selection of containers mainly depends on the cargo volume. For instance, a 20ft container can bear a load of 22 tons (33 CBM), and a 40ft container offers a capacity of 27 tons (67 CBM). Based on your cargo weight, you can choose a suitable container option.
Additionally, you can choose a High-cube (HC) containers that offer the flexibility of 67-CBM in 20ft and 75-CBM in a 40ft container. As these HC containers are less in demand, they won’t cost you much but you'll have to check it for clarity for each scenario. When selecting between 20 and 40-ft containers for India to USA transport, a lot of factors need to be considered like cargo volume, shipping rates, goods types, economic conditions, seasonal variations, fuel price, unloading delays, and destination port.
If your container volume is less than 22 tons, choose a 20-ft container, and if the goods volume is more than 22 tons, prefer a 40-ft container for cost-effective delivery from India to the final destination of the USA.
Additionally, you can choose a High-cube (HC) containers that offer the flexibility of 67-CBM in 20ft and 75-CBM in a 40ft container. As these HC containers are less in demand, they won’t cost you much but you'll have to check it for clarity for each scenario. When selecting between 20 and 40-ft containers for India to USA transport, a lot of factors need to be considered like cargo volume, shipping rates, goods types, economic conditions, seasonal variations, fuel price, unloading delays, and destination port.
If your container volume is less than 22 tons, choose a 20-ft container, and if the goods volume is more than 22 tons, prefer a 40-ft container for cost-effective delivery from India to the final destination of the USA.
Container 20 Standard
Container 40 StandardContainer Types For Cargo Shipping From India to USA
Transit containers for India to USA freight come in different types, and among standard and non-standard ones, non-standard ones are more expensive due to their tall size.
Open Top
- Open-tap was designed to resolve space and height issues.
- Perfect for cargo that cannot be loaded via container doors.
- It can load equipment, vehicles, and large construction materials.
- A crane is used to load cargo into the containers.
Reefer
- Designed with heating and cooling temperatures control from -30°C to +30°C.
- Used to transport frozen goods like flowers, food, and pharmaceuticals.
- It is available with 20ft and 40ft container options for your convenience.
High Cube
- 1 foot taller than standard containers that are used to transport bulk goods.
- High Cube can carry goods in high volume but with less weight.
- Available with both 20ft and 40ft versions of the container.
Flat Rack
- It comes with only base and end walls but without side walls.
- Can transport heavy and oversized cargo like yachts and pipes.
- Upon convenient loading and unloading, end walls can collapse.
Tank Container
- Designed with a tank placed on a container to ship hazardous goods.
- Chemicals, liquids, and gases can be transported via these tanks.
- Offers goods safety and pressure control during transport.
Side Opening Container
- Besides the end door, it has a side loading/unloading door.
- Heavy goods can be loaded via these containers from a side door.
- This is a set of bi-fold doors that provide complete side access.
Double Door Container
- Designed with double doors at the end of the container.
- Makes loading and unloading of non-dimensional cargo easier.
- You can get this container type with 20-40ft options.
Based on your cargo type, shape, and volume, the cost can greatly vary. For instance, for a standard FCL 40ft container, the costs are 25-30% more expensive than regular ones. Although you can pick a suitable one for India to USA shipping, High Cube is the most common option, offering a lot of space while Reefer makes it to transport frozen goods.
Cargo Types Explained | Personal, Fragile, Bulk, Hazardous
The container shipping rates from India to the US mainly depend on the cargo type. Here are some cargo types explained for India to USA import and export transfer:
Personal
- Cargo Included: Household items, personal belongings, furniture, accessories.
- Container Dimensions: Standard 20-foot to 40-foot containers are usually used.
- Cost Influencing Factor: Loading/unloading, small shipment, insurance, and customs duties.
Fragile
- Cargo Included: Antique, glass, porcelain, electronics, Jewelry
- Container Specfication: Reefer with standard dimensions carries sensitive items.
- Cost Influencing Factor: Special transportation conditions, packaging, and insurance.
Bulk
- Cargo Included: Coal, fertilizer, grain, cement, sand
- Container Specification: Open-top or flat rack containers
- Cost Influencing Factor: Packaging, weather conditions, loading, unloading
Hazardous
- Cargo Included: Explosives, chemicals, and toxic elements with labels
- Container Specification: Tank containers with special safety measures.
- Cost Influencing Factor: Packaging, labeling, insurance, regulatory requirements
Note that India to USA container shipping costs can be impacted by carrier rates, insurance, destination route, and customs duties.
Do you plan any shipments from India to USA?
FCL & LCL Loading Types For India To USA Container Shipping
Loading container type also affects price range when it comes to sea cargo shipping from India to USA. So, here are two main loading types explained.
Full Container Load (FCL)
Specification:
Full container loading offers 15 CMB volume or more in which an entire cargo is rented whether 20-40 feet.
Cost:
No matter how much or more space your cargo takes, you’ve to pay for the entire container load for India to USA shipping.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
Specification:
Less than Container provides partial space with less than 15 CMB volume in which the remaining space is filled with other shipper’s goods.
Cost:
In LCL shipping from India to the USA, you only pay for the space your cargo occupies based on the expected weight and volume.
Note that, container type, weight and volume, cargo handling, chosen route, weather conditions, loading and unloading, and customs duties can affect prices when it comes to India to USA shipping. Additionally, FCL is more expensive yet reliable than LCL containers, so, consider your budget and urgency level to decide on loading type.
Cargo Volume and Weight For Ocean Shipping from India to USA
The goods weight and volume majorly influence sea cargo shipping from India to USA cost. Let’s determine how volume and weight impact shipping rates. The cargo shipping charges from India to USA are mainly calculated by the volume your cargo occupies and weight as well. Volume is measured in cubic meters (CBM) while weight is in tons.
Cargo Volume & Weight Specifications
- FCL
When you opt for FCL (20-40ft), volume calculation isn’t important, as you’ve to pay for the entire load for India to USA shipping. - LCL
With an LCL container, volume measurement is crucial because costs directly depend on your cargo volume.
Precise Weight & Volume Analysis
For India to USA shipping, volume and weight analysis is a must which can be determined as:
- Prefer FCL for 15 CBM or more volume and LCL for less than 15 CBM volume.
- 20ft containers can load 21.6 tons, while 40ft containers can carry 26.5 or more tons.
Shipping to USA from India by Sea Rates | Distance From Supplier To Port and Port to Destination
Cargo shipping cost from India to USA are directly influenced by the transporting distance from supplier to port and then port to delivery destination.
Transportation charges from India to US costs from a range of $209-3970 based on the delivery distance, cargo and loading type, and weight and volume.
The distance of 100km with more or fewer options also makes a difference in the overall sea freight cost. So, it is necessary to analyze the distance from the port of origin to the port of destination. Note that, for less or longer distances, the price range can vary.
Cost Variation Based On Supply/ Demand, Economic Situation, and Oil Rates
Container shipping rates from India to the US can fluctuate greatly depending on certain factors and unforeseen conditions that are explained below:
Supply and Demand
- Supply
The supply of shipping containers directly depends on the demand for goods in the USA and global trade levels. The higher the consumer demand, the more containers are required, leading to price inflation. - Demand
On the other hand, demand can be determined by the ships, space, and container availability. The more the container shortage, the higher the prices for India to USA shipping will be.
Economical Situations
Economic growth conditions also affect container shipping costs. Shipping cost from India to the USA falls when there’s a downturn and costs exceed along with economic growth.
Oil and Fuel Prices
Ocean shipping from India to the USA depends on oil and fuel costs. With the rise of oil prices, shipping rates also increased.
Majeure Conditions
Shipping route blockage, worker strikes, natural disasters, and pandemics also affect the global supply chain. During these situations, shipping costs from India to USA rise.
Weather Situation
Other subjective matters are weather and seasonal variation. Prices drop when there’s off-peak season and rise when there’s a national holiday or festival.
Trade and Customs Duties
Trading wars and customs duties also majorly influence overall costs. Due to these conditions, prices fall with low trade volume and increase with high trade volume.
Port Delays
Sometimes strikes can form long queues at ports, resulting in delayed shipping. As an outcome, the additional charges are added to India to USA shipping costs.
Infrastructural Issues
Other factors that increase waiting times are labor shortages, port congestion, and domestic logistics. That’s the reason why sea freight costs increase for India to USA shipping.
Main Shipping Carriers | Types & Features
Here are some carrier types with features for Mumbai, India to Houston, USA shipment.
Some Factors for Choosing the Best Carrier
Prices for India to USA shipping can fluctuate based on route congestion, shipping schedule, fuel prices, scaling and flexibility, digitalization and technology, alliances and vessel sharing, weather conditions, or seasonal demand. Make sure to consider:
- Cost Comparison
- Seasonal Variation
- Reliability & Schedules
- Shipping Alliances
Tax and Customs Clearance Costs For Shipping from India To USA
One of the main factors that affect ocean freight costs from India to USA is tax and customs duties. Here are the details of how customs and tax impact costs:
- Administrative Costs
- A Commercial Invoice
- Origin Certificate
- Credit Letters & other payments
- Lading bill for ocean freight
- VAT and Export Subsidies
- Economic Agreements
- Logistic and Trade Charges
- Direct/Indirect Policies
Cost Impact On Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers for India to US Shipping
Freight forwarders support and organize logistics while custom brokers manage goods declaration and clearance. Let’s see how both these impact the estimated container shipping costs from India to USA.
Freight Forwarders
When it comes to freight forwarders, the cost is determined by several factors like cargo type, door-to-door service, route complexity, and more. Usually, the average shipping cost range from India to the USA is between $300-1500. Additionally, the specialized or custom service costs you more.
Custom Brokers
As they are responsible for handling documentation procedures and ensuring safety compliances. Based on cargo complexity, amount of required work, and customs addition, these brokers charge between $300 and $1,000.
Note that, delivery speed, shipment volume, cargo type, specialized service, discount deals, and a number of documents can make a significant impact on costs. Also, documentation errors could result in delays and consequently additional expenses.
Additional Expenses Affecting India to USA Container Shipping Charges
The overall shipping price from India to the USA is majorly influenced by extra expenses. These additional charges can be due to different aspects like:
- Origin Charges (India) ($300 to $1,000)
Pre-carriage transportation, Handling, Loading, Documentation, administrative fee - Destination Charges (USA) ($500 to $1,500)
Terminal handling cost, On-port transportation, and storage expenses. - Customs Brokerage ($100 and $500)
Custom declaration preparation, Duty Calculation, Certification, and Inspection aid - Insurance($500 and $1,500)
Cargo damage and loss, Force majeure events, and Shipment accidents - Last Mile Delivery in USA ($500 to $3,000)
Domestic transportation, loading/unloading, intermediate warehouse storage
Note: Above mentioned costs for India to USA sea shipping are only for reference, actual costs can vary significantly from regular prices based on the cargo volume weight, port charges, insurance coverage, and additional expenses.
Cargo Shipping Stages for India to USA Explained | Key Charges Outlined
When it comes to sea freight transport from India to USA, a container has to go through several steps. Every step has its average and additional costs that add up to total costs.
Step1: Cargo Transport from to India’s Departure Port (Pre-carriage)
Specification
- Cargo transportation from India’s production site to the port of departure
Estimated Charges
- Transport Fee: $200–$500 via truck/rail
- Loading Fee: $50–$150 container loading
Step2: Cargo Handling At the Port of Departure (Origin Charges)
Specification
- Proper container preparation at the India’s terminal for a shipment process.
Estimated Charges
- Terminal Handling Charges: $300-$500/40ft Container
- Documentation Fee: $50-$100 export declaration
- Forwarding Charges: $200–$500 freight forwarder fee
Step3: Transporting Container at Sea Freight
Specification
Sea container transport from the port of departure India to the port of arrival USA Estimated Charges
- Ocean Freight: $3,000–$6,000/ 40ft container
Step4: Goods Handling At the Port of Destination (Destination Charges)
Specification
Container arrival, handling, and unloading at the port of destination in the USA Estimated Charges
- Terminal Handling Charges: $400-$600/40ft Container
- Documentation Fee: $50–$100
Step5: Customs Documentations and Clearance in the USA
Specification
Before final delivery in the USA, the shipment goes through the clearance procedures. Estimated Charges
- Customs Brokerage: $100–$500
- Customs Duties: 5% of the Cargo Value
Step6: Insurance of the Delivered Cargo
Specification
Insurance against the loss and damage of any cargo during shipment from India to the USA Estimated Charges
- Cargo Insurance (optional): $500–$1,500
- Cargo Value: 0.5–1.5% of the Cargo Value
Step7: Inland Transport in the USA (Last Mile Delivery)
Specification
Insurance against the loss and damage of any cargo during shipment from India to the USA Estimated Charges
Last Mile Delivery: $500–$3,000 Final Note:
All the values for India to USA container shipping are estimated and just for reference. These listed values can vary based on the cargo type and volume, port fees, customs duties, insurance, and last mile delivery.
Do you plan any shipments from India to USA?
Table of content
1. Cost of Shipping Container from India to USA
1.1 Shipping Costs From India to the West Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to Lost Angeles)
1.2 Shipping Costs From India to the East Coast Of the USA (Example: Mumbai to New York)
2. India to USA Container Shipping Calculator
3. Main Factors Affecting Container Shipping Cost from India to USA
4. Choosing East Or West Shipping Coast From India To USA
5. East and West Coast of USA
6. Shipping Costs From 20ft and 40ft Container From India to USA
7. Container Types For Cargo Shipping From India to USA
8. Cargo Types Explained | Personal, Fragile, Bulk, Hazardous
9. FCL & LCL Loading Types For India To USA Container Shipping
10. Cargo Volume and Weight For Ocean Shipping from India to USA
11. Shipping to USA from India by Sea Rates | Distance From Supplier To Port and Port to Destination
12. Cost Variation Based On Supply/ Demand, Economic Situation, and Oil Rates
13. Main Shipping Carriers | Types & Features
14. Some Factors for Choosing the Best Carrier
15. Tax and Customs Clearance Costs For Shipping from India To USA
16. Cost Impact On Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers for India to US Shipping
17. Additional Expenses Affecting India to USA Container Shipping Charges
18. Cargo Shipping Stages for India to USA Explained | Key Charges Outlined
19. India Sea Ports