The US exports a wide range of goods to Saudi Arabia, including vehicles, machinery, electronics, and more. Let’s explore the main options for shipping from the US to Saudi Arabia and what importers and exporters should know.
Shipping from the US to Saudi Arabia – means of transportation
As the US and Saudi Arabia are on two different continents, there are only two main transportation modes available, sea freight and air freight. Each of them has some benefits.
Sea freight from the US to Saudi Arabia
Sea freight is the most cost-effective solution for shipping large volumes of goods or heavy cargo from the US to Saudi Arabia. It is widely used for industrial goods, vehicles, project cargo, and consumer products.
You can choose between two main shipping modes:
- Full Container Load (FCL) – ideal for large shipments, as the shipper rents an entire container (20’ or 40’).
- Less than Container Load (LCL) – suitable for smaller shipments, where cargo from multiple shippers is consolidated into one container.
Sea freight offers predictable schedules and competitive pricing, especially for non-urgent shipments.
How long does it take to ship from the US to Saudi Arabia by sea?
It takes about 20-35 days to ship cargo from the US to Saudi Arabia via sea.
Main cargo seaports in the US
- Port of New York and New Jersey
- Port of Savannah, Georgia
- Port of Houston, Texas
- Port of Los Angeles, California
- Port of Long Beach, California
Major seaports in Saudi Arabia
- Jeddah Islamic Port
- King Abdulaziz Port, Dammam
- King Abdullah Port
Air freight from the US to Saudi Arabia
When you need to ship high-value goods and time-sensitive shipments, speed and reduced transit risks are your priorities. Even though it comes with a higher price compared to sea freight, in certain cases, such as perishable goods, it is necessary.
How long does shipping from the US to Saudi Arabia by air take?
Air freight transit times between the United States and Saudi Arabia typically range from 2 to 5 days.
Major cargo airports in the US
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
Major airports in Saudi Arabia
- King Khalid International Airport (RUH), Riyadh
- King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), Jeddah
- King Fahd International Airport (DMM), Dammam
How much does shipping from the US to Saudi Arabia cost?
Shipping costs vary widely and depend on several factors, including:
- origin and destination ports/airports,
- shipment weight and volume,
- transit time and service level,
- fuel surcharges and seasonal demand,
- FCL vs LCL or air freight,
- customs, certification, and clearance fees.
Because rates fluctuate frequently, especially on long-haul routes, it’s best not to rely on rough estimates. For the most reliable and cost-effective solution, use ShipHub.co to get in touch with experienced freight forwarders and optimize your shipping strategy. from certified forwarders and compare prices based on your shipment’s size and specific needs.
