Importing Diamond ring: Ocean vs Air in 2026
Example on a $5,000 shipment from China · updated 2026-10-01
| Ocean (sea) | Air freight | |
|---|---|---|
| Duty rate | 43% | 43% |
| Customs duty | $2,150.00 | $2,150.00 |
| MPF | $34.58 | $34.58 |
| HMF (0.1%, ocean only) | $6.25 | — |
| Landed (duty+MPF+HMF) | $7,190.83 | $7,184.58 |
The duty rate is identical by mode. Air avoids the $6.25 HMF, but air freight itself normally costs far more, so ocean is usually cheaper overall for non-urgent, bulky diamond ring. Freight and broker fees are not in the table.
Frequently asked questions
Does shipping by air instead of ocean change the duty on diamond ring?
No. The ad-valorem duty rate (43% here) is the same; only the Harbor Maintenance Fee changes.
What fee differs between ocean and air?
HMF of 0.1% is charged on ocean cargo only. On a $5,000 shipment that is $6.25 — air freight pays no HMF. MPF applies to both.
Does this include freight cost?
No. These figures cover duty, MPF and HMF only; actual air freight is usually far more expensive than ocean, which usually outweighs the HMF saving.
Get the data via API or MCP
These rates are maintained and delivered as a source-linked API (REST + MCP for AI agents). Plug live 2026 duty rates, MPF, HMF and landed cost into your app, ERP or agent without maintaining the data yourself.