How to Source AI Hardware for DeepSeek from the US and Ship to China

The Hype Behind DeepSeek in 2026

As we move through January 2026, the tech world is buzzing with the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. DeepSeek has emerged as a dominant force in the AI industry, trending globally for its incredible efficiency and open-weights accessibility. While many users access AI through the cloud, the real trend in 2026 is local execution. Tech enthusiasts and developers in China are increasingly looking to run DeepSeek models on their own machines to ensure data privacy and reduce latency.

However, running these sophisticated models requires significant local computing power. This has led to a surge in demand for high-end GPUs, AI-ready laptops, and specialized workstations that can handle the computational load of DeepSeek's latest iterations.

Why Buy AI Hardware from the USA?

For users in China, sourcing the latest AI hardware can sometimes be a challenge due to local availability or price markups. The United States remains one of the primary markets for the newest releases from NVIDIA, AMD, and specialized AI hardware manufacturers. Buying directly from US retailers often ensures you get the latest tech—like the high-demand RTX 50-series or specialized AI accelerators—at competitive prices before they are widely available elsewhere.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Hardware for DeepSeek

Before you start shopping, you need to identify the components that will best support DeepSeek. Look for GPUs with high VRAM (Video RAM), as this is the primary bottleneck for large language models. In 2026, the standard for a smooth local experience involves at least 24GB of VRAM, with many enthusiasts opting for multi-GPU setups.

Popular US stores for these components include Newegg, Amazon, and Best Buy. These retailers often have exclusive bundles or discounts that are not available internationally.

Step 2: Setting Up Your US Address with comGateway

Most US retailers do not ship high-end electronics directly to international addresses, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. To bypass this, you need a reliable package forwarder. By signing up for an account, you receive a dedicated US shipping address located in a tax-free state (Oregon), which allows you to save on US sales tax.

If you are new to this process, it is highly recommended to check out this step-by-step guide to understand how your US address acts as a bridge between American retailers and your home in China.

Step 3: Purchasing from US Stores

Once you have your US address, you can head to your preferred retailer and place your order. Simply enter your comGateway address as the shipping destination at checkout. For those who find that certain US stores do not accept international credit cards, there is a solution. You can use the BuyForMe service, where an expert purchasing team will buy the items on your behalf, ensuring a smooth transaction with even the most restrictive US retailers.

Step 4: Calculating Shipping Costs to China

Shipping sensitive electronics like GPUs or AI workstations requires careful planning regarding weight and dimensions. To avoid any surprises, you should use the shipping calculator to get an accurate estimate of the costs involved in shipping from USA to China.

For frequent shoppers who plan on upgrading their AI rig throughout 2026, exploring Prime membership benefits can lead to significant savings on shipping rates and provide access to discounted consolidation services.

Step 5: Navigating Customs and Import Duties for China

When importing high-value electronics into China, it is crucial to be aware of the local regulations. Electronics are generally subject to customs scrutiny. You will need to account for import duties and the local VAT/GST that may be applied upon the arrival of your hardware in China.

Proper documentation is key. Ensure that your package forwarder has the correct invoice values to prevent delays at the border. Generally, for personal use, computers and components fall under specific tax brackets that are manageable if declared correctly.

Pro-Tips for Smooth Customs

• Consolidate: If you are buying multiple components (e.g., a GPU, RAM, and a Motherboard), consolidate them into one box to save on the base shipping fee.
• Insurance: Always opt for shipping insurance when sending high-value AI hardware.
• Accuracy: Be precise with your item descriptions (e.g., "Computer Graphics Card for Research") to help customs officers categorize your shipment.

Step 6: Receiving Your Package

Once your hardware arrives at the US warehouse, you will be notified. You can then choose your preferred shipping speed. Given the value of AI hardware, many users in 2026 prefer express options that provide end-to-end tracking. Within a few business days, your hardware will arrive at your doorstep in China, ready for you to install and start running DeepSeek locally.

By following this structured approach, you can bridge the gap between US tech availability and your local AI projects, ensuring you have the best possible tools to explore the frontier of DeepSeek's capabilities.