Comprehensive Guide to Handling Import and Export Procedures

Mr. Li recently received an overseas order but had his customs declaration rejected; Mr. Li cross-border e-commerce business has been stalled for 3 months due to licensing issues... Import and export trade appears to offer unlimited business opportunities, but the "roadblocks" in handling procedures give many entrepreneurs a headache. Today, with 15 years of foreign trade service experience, we will decipher this customs clearance code.

I. Preparatory Phase: These Documents Are Indispensable

Import and export qualifications are like a "business license" that requires completing basic filings first:

• Filing Registration Form for Foreign Trade Operators (apply on the Ministry of Commerce website)
• Customs Registration for Importers and Exporters of Goods (handled through the China Customs Single Window)
• Electronic Port IC Card (used for customs declaration system login)

Zhongmaoda reminds: Different commodities also require special permits, such as the Import and Export Food and Cosmetic Registration Certificate for food, and the Import Medical Device Registration Certificate for medical devices.

II. Full Customs Clearance Process: From Declaration to Release

Taking the most common sea freight as an example:

• STEP1 Declaration: Submit 11 electronic data items, including contracts, invoices, and packing lists, through the "Single Window"
• : Customs conducts random inspections at a rate of 3%-5%, with mandatory inspections for high-risk goods
• : Customs duty + Value-added tax calculation formula = (Value of goods + Freight) × Tax rate

New regulations in 2023 require: All wooden packaging must undergo fumigation treatment, otherwise, a fine of ¥2,000 per container will be imposed.

III. Pitfall Avoidance Guide: Absolutely Do Not Step on These Landmines

We have compiled a list of high-frequency errors annually:

• Incorrect commodity code (HS Code) leading to tax rate discrepancies
• Untimely renewal of certificates of origin (RCEP certificates require annual review)
• Overdue foreign exchange cancellation (must be declared within 90 days after receiving payment)

On one occasion, Mr. Li declaration of "stainless steel tableware" was classified under "weapons," solely due to an incorrect HS code entry of 7326.9090 (the actual code should be 8215.9100).

IV. Efficiency Improvement Techniques: 3 Shortcuts 90% of People Don't Know

1. AEO certified enterprises enjoy priority customs clearance treatment (certification takes 6 months)
2. Utilize "Customs Duty Guarantee Insurance" to replace deposits (saving 70% of capital occupation)
3. Use the "Advance Declaration" mode to shorten port stay time (operation possible 3 days before arrival)

Customs Clearance is Not the End, but the Beginning

When Mr. Li learned to use the "Classification Advance Ruling" system to confirm HS codes in advance, his customs clearance time was reduced from 5 days to 8 hours. Now it's your turn—click to get the 2024 Import and Export Tariff Manual, leave your most pressing questions in the comments section, and we will select 3 readers to offer free customs consulting services.