In August 2025, the US-China air freight market remains a hotspot in international logistics. With global trade gradually recovering and cross-border e-commerce continuing rapid growth, freight rates and capacity on US-China routes have once again become key concerns for exporters, cross-border sellers, and importers.

1. Freight Rate Trends

Overall rates remain steady with slight upward pressure
Entering August, driven by the back-to-school season demand, early Christmas stocking, and increased demand for some high-value goods, air freight prices between China and the US showed a moderate increase compared to July.

East China/South China → US West Coast (LAX/SFO): Prices rose about 3%-5% compared to July.

East China/South China → US East Coast (JFK/ORD/ATL): Due to longer routes and tighter capacity, price increases were higher, approximately 5%-8%.

Cross-border e-commerce demand picks up sharply
Especially for consumer electronics, new apparel lines, and outdoor sports gear. Early stocking caused concentrated shipments, tightening capacity.

2. US-China Air Freight Price Trend (May – August 2025)

The chart below illustrates the price trends (USD/kg) of key US-China air freight lanes from May to August 2025:

The graph shows steady price increases for the West Coast routes and a steeper rise for East Coast routes, reflecting greater capacity pressure and market demand.

3. Capacity and Space Availability

Capacity on direct flights remains tight
Most US-China direct flights are operated by passenger-to-cargo converted or all-cargo aircraft. Although some airlines have added flights, airport cargo handling capacity and slot restrictions in the US still mean that securing space on peak routes requires early booking.

Transit flight options offer flexibility
Transshipment via Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia provides more stable capacity. Some clients use transit flights to avoid direct flight capacity shortages and high prices.

4. Policy and Customs Clearance Updates

US import inspections remain strict
Recently, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has tightened inspections on certain sensitive categories such as batteries, cosmetics, and medical devices. Exporters should ensure all documentation — MSDS, FDA registrations, FCC certifications — is complete to avoid delays.

Environmental packaging trend
More US buyers are demanding eco-friendly or recyclable packaging, especially in electronics and fast-moving consumer goods.

5. 2025 US Holiday Stocking Calendar

This holiday schedule is crucial for exporters to plan peak season shipments:

6. Recommendations for Businesses

Book space early
Lock in rates and space ahead of peak season to avoid last-minute price hikes.

Optimize packaging and documentation
Reduce volumetric weight and ensure all documents are complete to speed customs clearance.

Use multi-channel transport options
Combine direct flights, transit air routes, and sea-air multimodal solutions to spread risks and control costs.

Stay updated on policy changes
Monitor US import regulations and adjust export plans accordingly.

Conclusion

In August 2025, the US-China air freight market is entering the pre-peak season phase with rising prices and tightening capacity. Whether you are a cross-border e-commerce seller or traditional exporter, early logistics planning and flexible transport solutions are key to ensuring your goods arrive safely and on time.

For the latest freight rates, space bookings, or professional customs clearance support, please contact our US-China air freight team. We offer one-stop solutions to help you stay ahead in international trade.