Must-Know Customs Tips When Importing from China

You've found the perfect product. The supplier is responsive. The samples look great. You're ready to place your first bulk order from China — but then you hear stories: shipments held at customs, surprise fees, missing documents, or even seized cargo. Suddenly, your exciting new venture feels risky.

The truth? Importing from China doesn't have to be stressful — especially if you know how customs really works.

At Market Union, we help global businesses source high-quality products from China and get them safely to their destination. As a one-stop procurement agent, we don't just find suppliers — we manage the entire process, including customs documentation, logistics coordination, and end-to-end shipping.

In this guide, we'll share the must-know customs tips every importer should understand — so you can avoid delays, reduce costs, and build a smooth, reliable supply chain.

1. Know Your HS Code — It's the Key to Smooth Clearance

Every product shipped internationally is classified under a standardized system called the Harmonized System (HS) Code. This 6–10 digit number tells customs officials exactly what your shipment contains, which determines:

• Applicable import duties
• Tax rates
• Regulatory requirements

Why it matters: An incorrect or missing HS code is one of the top reasons for customs delays. For example, “LED lamps” and “LED decorative lights” may look similar, but they fall under different codes — and different duty rates.

Pro Tip: Always verify the correct HS code before shipping. Use your country's official customs database (like the U.S. HTS system) or consult an expert.

How Market Union Helps:
We identify the correct HS code for every product during the sourcing phase. This ensures accurate declarations and faster customs clearance — no last-minute surprises.

2. Documentation Must Be Accurate & Complete

Customs authorities don't just look at your package — they look at your paperwork. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays, fines, or even rejected shipments.

Essential documents include:

• Commercial Invoice (product description, value, buyer/seller info)
• Packing List (weight, dimensions, quantity per box)
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
• Certificate of Origin (proves where the goods were made)

Common mistakes:

• Undervaluing goods to avoid duties (a red flag for customs)
• Using vague descriptions like “gift items” or “electronic parts”
• Mismatched invoice and packing list details

Pro Tip: Treat your documents like a passport — every detail must be correct and consistent.

How Market Union Helps:
As your one-stop sourcing agent, we prepare and review all customs documentation. We ensure every form is accurate, complete, and compliant with your destination country's regulations — so your shipment clears customs smoothly.

3. Understand Duties, Taxes & De Minimis Rules

You don't just pay for the product and shipping — you may also owe import duties and taxes. These vary by:

• Product category
• Declared value
• Country of import (e.g., U.S., EU, Canada, Australia)

What is the de minimis value?
This is the threshold below which no duties or taxes are charged. For example:

• USA: $800 (per day, per person)
• EU: €150
• Canada: CAD $20

Pro Tip: Shipping smaller quantities under the de minimis limit can save costs — but don't abuse it. Customs is cracking down on repeated low-value shipments.

How Market Union Helps:
We calculate your landed cost upfront — including product price, shipping, insurance, duties, and taxes. This gives you full cost transparency before you place an order.

4. Be Aware of Restricted or Prohibited Items

Not everything can be imported. Some products require special permits, certifications, or are outright banned.

Common restricted categories:

• Electronics with lithium batteries (require UN38.3 testing)
• Food, cosmetics, or CBD products (may need FDA approval)
• Textiles with incorrect labeling (e.g., “100% cotton” when it's not)
• Products with safety risks (e.g., toys without ASTM/EN71 certification)

Pro Tip: Research your country's import regulations before placing an order. A product that's legal in China may not be legal in your market.

How Market Union Helps:
We conduct a compliance check for every product we source. If certification is needed, we work with the factory to provide the necessary test reports — so you never ship something that can't clear customs.

5. Choose the Right Incoterm — It Defines Who's Responsible

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) define the responsibilities between buyer and seller — especially for shipping and customs.

Key terms for importers:

• FOB (Free On Board): You handle shipping and customs from the port in China.
• CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): Supplier arranges shipping, but you still handle customs.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Supplier (or agent) handles everything — including paying duties. Best for beginners.

Pro Tip: If you're new to importing, DDP is the safest option — it shifts the risk and complexity to your partner.

How Market Union Helps:
We offer flexible shipping solutions, including DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). As your one-stop procurement agent, we manage the full logistics chain — from factory pickup to final delivery at your door. No need to hire a separate freight forwarder or customs broker.

6. Partner with a Sourcing Agent Who Manages Logistics

Many sourcing agents only help you find suppliers. But if you're serious about scaling, you need someone who handles both sourcing and logistics.

Why? Because customs issues often start before the shipment even leaves China — wrong labeling, missing certificates, or poor packaging.

Pro Tip: Work with a partner who oversees the entire process: sourcing → production → QC → packaging → documentation → shipping → customs clearance.

How Market Union Helps:
We are a true one-stop procurement agent. From the first inquiry to final delivery, we manage every step — including customs coordination and logistics. You get a single point of contact, full visibility, and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts:

Importing from China doesn't have to be complicated. With the right knowledge — and the right partner — you can avoid delays, reduce costs, and build a reliable supply chain.

At Market Union, we've helped hundreds of businesses import successfully — not just by finding great suppliers, but by ensuring their products arrive on time, in full, and customs-cleared.

Ready to import with confidence?
Have a product in mind? Facing a customs issue? Want to learn how our one-stop service can save you time and money?

Contact Market Union today — let's make your China sourcing journey simple, safe, and successful.

Or, explore our full range of sourcing and logistics services on our website for more help.