Documents needed for customs clearance when importing from China

A customs clearance gets stuck, almost always, because of a paperwork problem. Having complete and consistent documentation from origin is the best way for your goods to enter without delays.

This is the key documentation you need to import from China.

The commercial invoice

It's the main document. It must reflect the real value of the goods, the seller and buyer, the product description, the quantities and the agreed Incoterm. Customs uses it to determine the customs value and calculate the taxes.

The packing list

It details how the goods are packed: number of packages, weight, dimensions and contents of each. It facilitates inspection and must be consistent with the invoice.

The transport document

It evidences the transport contract and title to the goods: it's the Bill of Lading (B/L) in sea transport and the Air Waybill (AWB) in air. Without it the goods can't be collected at destination.

The certificate of origin

It indicates the country of origin of the goods. It's needed in many cases and, when a trade agreement exists, can entitle you to tariff reductions. It's best to have it ready to avoid requests.

The product documentation

• EU Declaration of Conformity and CE marking, if the product requires it.
• Test reports (RoHS, safety...) according to the applicable rules.
• Special licences or certificates (medical, food products, etc.).

The SAD and the EORI

Clearance is formalised with the SAD (Single Administrative Document), filed by your customs broker. To operate you need an EORI number, without which you can't clear goods.

Tip: check consistency

The most common reason for a hold isn't a missing document, but that the data doesn't add up between them: the invoice description doesn't match the packing list, or the value looks low. Check that everything is consistent before shipping.

How R'S WARE helps you

We prepare and review all the documentation at origin, check it's consistent and complete and coordinate clearance with the customs broker, so your goods pass without blocks.