Objective To determine the species composition and originations of imported cockroaches at Shanghai Yangshan port. Methods The imported cockroaches were identified by wing spreading, dissection of male genitalia, and observation of the scanning pictures under SteREO V12 dissecting microscope. Results In total, 38 species of 26 genera of imported cockroaches were identified in Shanghai Yangshan port. These cockroaches were from various places, and 89.47% of them were from Asia, Africa, and America. Thirty species of cockroaches were first intercepted in Shanghai, and 8 species were closely related to human dwellings. Conclusion There are numerous species of imported cockroaches in Shanghai Yangshan port, and they are from various places and very likely to cause public health concern. It is necessary to enhance the quarantine inspection of imported freight.