Ocean & Air Freight Shipping from the United States to Spain

There is a long history of trade between the United States and Spain. The two countries have been trading partners for centuries, and the volume of trade has increased significantly in recent years. 

The vast majority of trade between the United States and Spain is transported by ocean freight, which makes it by far the most efficient and cost-effective way to transport large volumes of goods over long distances. Airfreight is also used for some shipments, particularly time-sensitive or high-value shipments.

If you are thinking about shipping cargo from the United States to Spain, here's everything you need to know about the process.

What Are the Options for Shipping Freight From the United States to Spain?

There are a few options available when shipping freight from the United States to Spain. Depending on the size and weight of the shipment, ocean freight or air freight may be the best option.

Ocean Freight From the United States to Spain

Ocean freight is typically the most economical way to ship large or heavy shipments from the United States to Spain. In this mode of shipment, you have two options: less than container load (LCL) or full container load (FCL). 

LCL shipping is a good option for small shipments or when you are unsure of how much space you will need. With LCL shipping, your goods are consolidated with other shipments and loaded into a container. This can be a more cost-effective option than shipping your goods by themselves.

FCL is the most common and cost-effective way to ship goods overseas. FCL shipping entails using a 20-foot or 40-foot ocean container to transport your goods. Your goods will be loaded into the container at a port in the United States and then transported by ship to Spain.

FCL shipping is often more cost-effective than other methods of shipping, such as air freight. It allows you to ship more goods at once, which can be beneficial if you have a large order. It also typically has a shorter transit time.

Air Freight from the United States to Spain

For smaller or time-sensitive shipments, air freight may be the best option. Transit times for airfreight are much shorter than ocean freight, typically around 2 to 8 days. However, airfreight is typically more expensive than ocean freight.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship Cargo From the United States to Spain?

The cost of shipping will vary depending on the following factors: 

• Your choice of ocean or air shipping
• Your preference for door-to-door, port-to-port, port-to-door, or door-to-port shipment
• Your consignment’s weight, volume, and size
• Weight and size limits

For an estimate of your shipping costs, use our freight costs calculator online. The table below lists the current cost for shipping a standard 20-foot container from the US to Spain:

How long does it take to ship cargo from the United States to Spain?

The time it takes to ship goods from the United States to Spain is largely dependent on the international shipping mode selected. However, the following factors also play a role:

• The season (peak or low) during which you ship
• Whether the shipment route is direct
• The popularity of the trade lane
• Geopolitical instability
• Incidents that might occur at ports

How long does it take to ship cargo by sea from the United States to Spain?

It takes an average of 15 to 50 days to ship cargo from the United States to Spain by ocean freight.

How long does it take to ship cargo by air from the United States to Spain?

Air freight shipping times are typically shorter, averaging 2-8 days.

For the most accurate estimate, we recommend using our transit time calculator.

Customs Clearance in the United States and Spain

When shipping freight from the United States to Spain, it is important to be aware of the customs clearance process in both countries. Generally, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents: 

• A commercial invoice
• A packing list
• A certificate of origin
• A letter of credit or other payment terms (depending on the contract between the parties involved)
• A bill of lading for ocean freight or an Airway Bill for air freight

For more information on the customs clearance process in the United States and Spain, you can refer to our full documents list.

Should You Choose Ocean Freight or Air Freight?

Ocean Freight

Ocean freight has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on whether you select LCL shipping or FCL shipping. 

Considerations for LCL Freight Shipping

LCL freight is right for you if your cargo is: 

• Small in size and quantity 
• Lightweight
• Suitable for consolidation with cargo belonging to other shippers 
• Not delicate, fragile, or high-value 
• Not requiring special handling or movement 

Considerations for FCL Freight Shipping

FCL is a good option for cargo that is: 

• Large in size and quantity 
• Heavy or overweight
• Not suitable for consolidation with cargo belonging to other shippers 
• Delicate, fragile, or high-value 
• Requiring special handling or movement 

Air Freight

Airfreight shipping from the United States to Spain is a great option for those who need to get their goods to their destination quickly. There are a few things to keep in mind when shipping by air, however, such as the weight and size of your shipment, as well as the value of your goods.

The first thing to consider when shipping by air is the weight and size of your shipment. Airfreight charges are based on the weight and size of the cargo, so it is important to make sure that your goods are not too heavy or large. If you are unsure about the weight or size of your goods, you can always ask your shipper for an estimate.

When shipping by air, you will also need to consider the value of your goods. Airfreight is generally more expensive than other shipping methods, so it is important to make sure that your goods are insured for their full value.

Ocean Cargo Port Guide

Cargo ports of origin in the United States

Port of Los Angeles 

The Port of Los Angeles is a major seaport located in San Pedro Bay in the Greater Los Angeles Area of California, United States. The port is America's busiest container port and one of the world's largest ports overall. It handles over $200 billion in trade annually.

The port consists of two main facilities: the Main Channel Dock and the Outer Harbor Dock. These are connected by a network of shipping channels and berths. The port also has a rail yard and a fleet of trucks and cranes for moving cargo around the complex.

The Main Channel Dock is where most of the port's container traffic is handled. The dock is 2.6 miles long and can accommodate up to 13,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) containers. It is served by a network of rail lines and roads that connect it to the rest of the country.

Port of Miami 

The Port of Miami is located in the city of Miami, Florida. It is the largest cruise port in the world and home to many major cruise lines. The port is also a major cargo port, handling millions of tons of goods each year.

The Port of Miami was founded in 1825, making it one of the oldest ports in the United States. It is a vital part of the economy of South Florida. It supports thousands of jobs and generates billions of dollars in economic activity each year.

Port of Houston

The Port of Houston is one of the busiest seaports in the United States. Located in Houston, Texas, the port is a leading gateway for trade between the United States and Latin America. The port handles a variety of cargo, including crude oil, chemicals, grains, and containers.

In recent years, the Port of Houston has undergone a major expansion. A new container terminal was constructed, and a new grain terminal is currently under construction. The expansion has helped the port handle an increasing volume of trade.

Port of New Orleans

The Port of New Orleans is one of the busiest and most important ports in the United States. Located on the Mississippi River, it is a vital hub for trade and transportation, handling millions of tons of cargo each year. The port is also a key tourist destination, with cruise ships and other vessels bringing visitors from all over the world to experience the city's unique culture and history.

The Port of New Orleans has a long and rich history, dating back to the early days of the city's founding. It has played a vital role in the city's growth and development and continues to be an essential part of the local economy. The port is constantly evolving, with new facilities and services being added to meet the needs of its customers.

Cargo ports of arrival in Spain

Port of Madrid 

The Port of Madrid is the main seaport in Spain, located on the country's central Atlantic coast. It is also the busiest port in the Mediterranean Sea in terms of container traffic. The port handles a wide range of cargo, from containers and vehicles to bulk commodities and breakbulk cargo.

The Port of Madrid is situated close to the city center and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The port has an excellent infrastructure, with a wide range of facilities and services available to its users.

The Port of Madrid is managed by the Port Authority of Madrid (Puerto de Madrid), which is a public body responsible for the development, management, and operation of the port.

Port of Barcelona 

The Port of Barcelona is one of the busiest and most important seaports in Europe. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, it is a key hub for trade and transportation in Spain and the surrounding countries. The port handles a wide variety of cargo, including containers, vehicles, and passengers.

The port has been in operation for centuries, and its history is closely linked to the city of Barcelona itself. Today, the port is managed by the Port of Barcelona Authority, which is responsible for its operations and development. The port is constantly expanding and modernizing its facilities to keep up with the demands of the ever-growing shipping industry.

Port of Valencia 

The Port of Valencia is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located in Valencia, Spain, and is capable of handling large ships and containers. The port has a long history, dating back to the Roman Empire. It was used as a major trading hub for centuries and played an important role in the development of Valencia as a city.

Today, the Port of Valencia is still a major economic engine for the city and the region. It handles a wide variety of cargo, including food, manufactured goods, and petroleum products.

Air Freight from the United States to Spain: An airport guide

Airports of origin in the United States 

New York's JFK International Airport

The JFK International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving more than 60 million passengers each year. Located in Queens, New York, JFK is a major hub for domestic and international travel.

The airport features six terminal buildings and four runways, making it one of the largest airports in terms of physical size. JFK is also home to a variety of airlines, including many of the large US carriers.

The airport was originally known as Idlewild Airport before being renamed after President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Today, JFK remains an important part of New York City's transportation infrastructure and continues to be one of the busiest airports.

Los Angeles International Airport

The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary airport serving the Greater Los Angeles Area, the second-busiest airport in the United States by passenger traffic, and the seventh busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic. 

LAX is in southwestern Los Angeles County, California, 18 miles (30 km) from Downtown Los Angeles. The airport is owned and operated by Los Angeles World Airports, an agency of the government of Los Angeles known as the Department of Airports.

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 87 million passengers annually. ORD is also a major cargo airport, handling over 2 million tons of cargo each year.

The airport was first established in 1955 and has since undergone several expansions and renovations. Today, the airport spans over 7,000 acres and features eight runways. ORD is home to two terminal complexes, which include a total of 175 gates.

Airports of arrival in Spain 

Madrid-Barajas Airport

The Madrid-Barajas Airport, located in Madrid, Spain, is one of the busiest airports in Europe. The airport is well-connected to the city center by public transportation. There are several bus lines that operate between the airport and different parts of Madrid. The airport also has a cargo terminal and a general aviation terminal.

Barcelona-El Prat Airport

The Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the primary international airport serving Barcelona, Spain, and the surrounding areas. It is located 12 kilometers (7.5 mi) southwest of the city center, in the municipality of El Prat de Llobregat.  Barcelona-El Prat Airport also has a dedicated cargo terminal.

Malaga Airport

The Malaga Airport is located in the south of Spain, just a short drive from the city of Malaga. It is the fourth busiest airport in Spain and the main hub for the budget airline Ryanair. The airport is well connected to the city center by public transport, with regular buses and trains running between the airport and central Malaga.

Gran Canaria Airport

The Gran Canaria Airport, commonly known as Las Palmas Airport, is the main airport serving the island of Gran Canaria. It is located in the eastern part of the island, about 16 kilometers (9.9 mi) southwest of the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.