Im relocating from Shanghai back to the US. I need to know the best way to get everything home. Pay the airline for extra baggage? Ship items through the mail? Any preferred service providers? tips or tricks?
looking for the most economical option

I also haven't found an answer for this question I'm satisfied with yet...

It really depends on the volume and the weight of the goods that you intend to ship back to the US. If you are simply sending a few boxes of belongings, try those courier companies such as Fedex, DHL or UPS. If you are sending a large amount of goods home including furniture items, your best bet is to find a moving company that can provide Door to Door moving service. Movers can also provide you with boxes and packing materials to pack up your things.

Excel Worldwide Moving & Storage
www.excelrelo.com
info@excelrelo.com

Thanks for the advice. I wouldn't need to ship anything big,no furniture items, etc just an extra suitcase or so. A friend mentioned barrel shipping. Anyone know any details? Seems like flat-rate shipping would be the easiest...

What about getting saved RMB back to the US? What's the least expensive way to do this? I know western union, and paypal etc. charges fees. Has anyone done research on this and found the best way? are there limits on the amount that can be brought back with you at the airport or these service centers?

Seven Seas Worldwide provide " Small Budget Moving " service. If you only sending several cartons without big furniture, it is the best cost effective " Door to Door " solution. The price from Shanghai to US is from RMB 1499, pleease get your online quotation in www.sevenseasworldwide.com.

Seveseas are much more expensive than china post 1500RMB for 500 at the post office

If you're using any Chinese moving company, or overseas moving company with a Chinese logistics office you are contacting, then dial 114 to get their phone number.
Do not use phone numbers found online, not even in these threads.