China is the United States’ largest trading partner, consistently providing more than 20% of total U.S. imports. Despite shaky relations between the nations, that trend shows little deviation over time. It is clear that trading between the two nations will continue at high volumes for years to come. It isn’t easy to find new sources for over half a trillion dollars worth of goods after all, so importers will still need to have a strong grasp on the requirements of importing from China.
There are a few basic guidelines when importing from China, including:
Understanding the basic concepts associated with how to import from China can help make the import process hassle-free. Our guidelines below can help you learn the process, but getting in touch with one of our licensed customs brokers can make the process even simpler. We'll provide you with the specific help you need when importing from China
Don't be caught without a customs bond!
2020 saw importing from China become volatile. Global health concerns seriously impacted trade with China, and this created a burden for many seeking to import goods. However, imports from China are still trickling into the U.S. and there are still opportunities for importers.
Some of the most in-demand goods come from China. Many international merchants are seeking to import ventilators, import personal protective equipment, import surgical gloves and intensive care beds and more. We help import all products, including importing isopropyl alcohol, that protect people from illness during the global pandemic.
To keep trade flowing from China to the U.S. some tariffs and regulations have been lifted. This greases the wheels of commerce during times of economic uncertainty. Items you can import from China that are exempt from tariffs include:
With so many goods exempt from tariffs and surging demand for imported goods, many importers are seizing the opportunity.
If you need help navigating the uncertainty of importing face masks or any other critical need product during this time, our experienced team at USA Customs Clearance, Powered by AFC International, can provide the guidance and assistance you need. With our team of licensed customs brokers and customs clearance consultants, we can answer any questions you may have about the process.
Prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, the Trump administration had been issuing a series of high tariffs on Chinese goods imported into the U.S. Known as the Section 301 tariffs, these were meant to, among other things, reduce the trade deficit between the two nations, encourage domestic manufacturing, and incentivize the Chinese government to respect U.S. companies’ intellectual properties. A rather unsavory consequence of that decision, however, was the escalating trade war that it sparked between China and the U.S. Ultimately, these tariffs have had a massive impact on the import tax of products from China to the U.S. in 2020.
Over time, the U.S. released 4 lists of goods that would be subject to higher tariffs until further notice, which encompass almost every item that can be imported. The tariff rates applied to those goods also increased over time in retaliation to China imposing its own tariffs on U.S. goods. List 4 was going to have two parts, but the second half of the list was called off as a result of positive advancements to the trade discussions between the two nations.
Also in light of the trade discussions, the U.S. has published several lists of goods that were excluded from those tariffs after some consideration. You can also review section 301 tariff exclusions. Importers that imported goods that were excluded can file for a retroactive drawback claim to get refunded for the taxes they may have already paid on the import.
There’s a lot more to know about the section 301 tariffs in China. For more information, make sure you check out our article on the topic: Section 301 Tariffs: A Comprehensive Guide. If you have questions about whether your goods are subject to these increased tariffs, then reach out to us. We can provide information on exactly which HTS codes are affected by these rules.
Don't make costly mistakes when importing from China
When you’re thinking about importing wholesale products from China to the U.S., there are a few questions you might ask yourself. Are my Imports from China marketable and easy to sell? Do my imports from China have profitable margins? Do my imports from China have or bring quality to the market? Are my suppliers easy to work and communicate with?
Answering these questions can help you source goods. There’s a simple formula to follow when you seek to find products to import from China, MAPS. MAPS is an acronym standing for Marketable, Affordable, Profitable and Sellable. When you find suppliers, keep MAPS in mind.
Marketable
Affordable
Profitable
Sellable
Many importers travel to China to meet with Chinese suppliers. Many regions in China specialize in the manufacturing and wholesale of specific goods. Items like furniture from China and toys imported from China have their own markets. China also has unique seasons when manufacturing and importing/exporting are in flux, like Chinese New Year.
If you are unable to travel to China to meet with suppliers, you might want to work with a sourcing agent. A sourcing agent from a trade company will work on your behalf to reach out to suppliers and Chinese factories that manufacture the goods you seek to import. Online global sourcing is also a growing market for those importing from China. Websites like Alibaba.com make it simple to order goods from Chinese suppliers.
You might need to be aware of minimum order quantities (MOQ) when importing from China. Some wholesalers and manufacturers have a low MOQ for small orders, others have a high MOQ for larger orders.
After you have found the items you’d like to import, it’s time to start the process of getting your goods across the border and through customs. This involves a lot of legwork and planning. USA Customs Clearance, Powered by AFC International, is ready to be your strategic partner. We offer import consulting sessions to help you get in the know about what it takes to import goods from China and get your products in the hands of your consumers.
For information on importing fragile items like glass from China, check out our article.
Another thing to be aware of when participating in international trade is Incoterms. Incoterms are established commercial regulations that were created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Incoterms relate to international commercial laws. Incoterms are used in many commercial transactions and the procurement process. Trade councils and international courts both encourage the use of incoterms to make the import process seamless and easy.
Incoterm regulations are designed to communicate the tasks, expenses, and risks associated with importing goods and global trade.
There are 11 established Incoterms you’ll likely need to know when importing from China.
There is a lot to know when it comes to Incoterms. To learn more, check out our article "What Are Incoterms?"
Following established Incoterms from the outset will clearly outline the sourcing responsibilities between you and your supplier. Incoterms define financial responsibilities including who is responsible for import tax from China. In short, Incoterms reduce and remove doubt of what your exact contractual supply chain responsibilities are in the sales process.
Alternatively, give us a call at (855) 912-0406, and we can chat about the different incoterms and their requirements. We at USA Customs Clearance are here to help with anything.
Even though imported goods can be less expensive than domestic goods, there are some additional costs associated with bringing in goods from China. Importing costs you need to know about include:
If you need help with calculating the costs for importing from China, USA Customs Clearance can help with that too. Our licensed brokers are experts that can make sense of all the different factors that influence cost, and can assist you in filling out all the right paperwork too. We've assisted many of our clients with duty mitigation and deferment to help recover and/or delay costly import costs.
Don't make costly mistakes when importing from China
There is no general import permit for importing products from China. However, you might need a permit to import from a federal agency certain goods from China. Different federal agencies oversee different imported products and requirements can vary. As an importer, you must ensure your imported products meet all federal requirements, which sometimes include permits.
Agencies that oversee common imports include:
There are countless Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) that importers need to be aware of in order to stay compliant. A customs broker can help you understand all the requirements that apply to your shipment, and can get in touch with all the applicable PGAs on your behalf.
You’ll find that importing goods from China isn’t like working with a domestic supplier. You often can’t swipe a credit card for payment, so you’ll need to find other ways to pay. Generally, Chinese suppliers prefer methods of payment that involve working with a bank.
Common ways to pay for goods include:
The method of payment you select likely depends on many factors. The seller’s preferred method of payment and the risks and benefits associated with each method might influence your decision. After you pay for your imports, it’s time to arrange shipping. Shipping costs can vary. Many imports from China are shipped via sea freight, however, which is the cheapest option.
Nominating a licensed, bonded Non-vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) coupled with International Freight and Logistics Network (IFLN) agency at the point of origin will help navigate the containerization, ocean carrier, sailing schedules and estimated time of arrival to your destination port of entry.
There are many things to be aware of when importing from China. When shipping goods from China, you’ll need to think about container fees, product packaging, terminals and handling, customs bonds, and broker fees.
There are a few key terms to know when shipping goods from China:
You might want to ship your imports from China in bulk to save on shipping. Items shipped in bulk from China are often transported in 20-by-40 foot containers. A full cargo container holds approximately 2,400 cubic feet or 800 square feet of goods. A full cargo container can haul 61,000 pounds of goods.
If you plan to ship in bulk from China, you might want to consider either full cargo load (FCL) or loose cargo load (LCL) shipping. If your imports from China are at least 5 pallets, FCL shipping might be the best option. If your cargo is a lesser volume, LCL shipping might better accommodate your needs. When shipping imports via LCL, they will share cargo space with other, similar goods. Your customs broker can also advise you on which option would be best for your shipment, based on risks, cost, and a variety of other factors.
Shipping from China can take some time. Transit time might take between two weeks and two months. Customs clearance can add to this time. You might estimate that goods shipped in bulk from China will arrive in 2 or 3 months, depending on the circumstance.
You might use air freight rather than sea freight if you are shipping small amounts from China. Air freight is more expensive than sea freight, but also much quicker. Working with a Licensed Customs Broker can help you figure out the best shipping method for you.
Clear Description of goods dictates Duties and Taxes levied against the imports’ commercial value. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) lists numbers to determine the duty percentage based on U.S. manufactured goods to ensure a level playing field in the business sectors.
For help classifying your imports, you can work with an experienced customs broker. Most brokers have imported into the U.S. hundreds—if not thousands—of times. They know the process inside and out, and you can count on them to answer any of your questions about tariff classification and importing in general. They rely on information provided and updated by the CBP.
In addition to an HTS code, you’ll need a few other documents to clear customs with your imports. You will need:
Additionally, a continuous customs bond can help make the import process easier.
If you need help clearing customs due to the import ban on commodities from XUAR, check out our article: What Importers Need to Know About the Xinjiang Import Ban.
In many cases, a customs bond is mandatory when importing from China. CBP mandates that you use a customs bond when your imports are valued at more than $2,500 or the imports are subject to another federal agency’s oversight. Those requirements cover almost every type of import.
A customs bond is basically an insurance policy covering the payment of duties and taxes to the U.S. government when you are importing goods. A customs bond will ensure that duties and taxes are paid, even in extraordinary circumstances. Imports arriving by both air and sea will need a customs bond. You might find that you will be subject to delays and fines if you do not have the correct customs bond when importing from China.
If you elect to work with a Licensed Customs Broker when importing from China, you will be able to use your broker’s bond to secure your transaction. This can save you time and money, and you can rely on the broker’s import reputation to get your goods through customs faster. At USA Customs Clearance, powered by AFC International, you can count on our customs brokers to get things done right.
It’s important to know there are 2 kinds of customs bonds you can choose from when importing from China: Single entry bonds and continuous bonds. The bond type you choose will likely depend on how often you plan to import goods from China into the U.S. The difference between the bond types is simple. Basically, a continuous bond will cover all the shipments you import during a one-year period. A single entry customs bond will only cover a single shipment of imported goods into the U.S.
If you are purchasing a bond on your own, you should keep in mind that you are buying an insurance policy for the taxes and duties on your imported goods, so costs will vary. However, you can secure a customs bond for just $275 on USA Customs Clearance, and that’s the first step towards getting your shipments covered.
Don't be caught without a customs bond!
A Licensed Customs Broker can be a great asset to you when you are importing from China. They will make sure that your imported goods effectively cross borders and arrive at the port of entry in a timely manner. In addition to that, they can help you ensure that your shipment of imported goods follows all customs regulations and rules when entering the country. They will work you through the process step-by-step to make sure the import process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Your Licensed Customs Broker can provide a variety of services when importing from China. These services might include:
Taking advantage of China Import Consulting services through USA Customs Clearance is a wise move. Our Licensed Customs Brokers will go over all of the necessary details for your shipment and ensure it's compliant with CBP and other regulations.
Don't make costly mistakes when importing from China
After the goods have cleared clearance and have been released by CBP, a Drayman with a Terminal Worker Identification Card (TWIC) and an Interchange agreement with the ocean carrier will set an appointment to schedule to pick up and deliver your imported goods to your place of business. Your imports might be shipped on a train to a location closer to you. From there, you can have your goods shipped on a truck to your warehouse or retail location.
There are a few more basic things to keep in mind when importing products from China. Questions you might want to ask yourself include:
Don't be caught without a customs bond!
Importing from China can be a lucrative, exciting and, at times, challenging endeavor. Allow USA Customs Clearance to help manage challenging times while you enjoy the lucrative ones.
Working with a customs specialist from USA Customs can help ensure that you have all the proper documents in place to make importing from China seamless and easy.
Give us a call at (855) 912-0406 and you’ll instantly be in touch with a customs specialist who can get you the information you need right now.
I ordered shirts from China 50pcs. Valued at $800.00. They say they deliver to my door. What do I need to do to make sure I get them delivered to me.
import duty tariffs and customs cost on importing 6 coils of 26 gauge painted coil steel in a single 20 foot shipping container for forming into roofing panels.
FOB houston or all the way to Marshall TX.
cost including shipping to houston estimated at around $25,000
I'm trying to buy a motor from Hong Kong China just one motor that's all I need motor cost 2160 he said they can send it by Sea freight to Port...I'm in San Antonio Texas 78207 I'm not rich so I don't know how to go about this any little advice would help thank you brother God bless you
I bought an engine and then found out how hard it is to get here. I won't do it again unless I save at least a $1000. If you have to warranty the engine you'll have to pay for all the import crap again which is around a grand. You have to use a broker, forms have to be filled electronically so you need them. Still not sure if EPA will let it into country being the Chinese don't test them for emissions.
I have LLC in Maryland and currently I am exporting educational supplies to be shipped from China to Ethiopia.
Do you I need to import to USA and reexport later to Ethiopia ? Or I can export directly from china to Ethiopia?
Do I need to declare to CBP ?
Do I need to pay tax for each export or need to pay the profit tax at the end of the year?
What documents need to keep for future income tax ?
Please I want to start importing Men footwear from church to Nigeria, What are the necessary requirements?
what will be shipping cost from china to Canada to Vancouver port when we have 500 pcs of 1m lightning cable and 500 pcs of 2m lightning so what the shipping cost
Hi, Thanks for a very informative website.
Do I still need to pay import duties (40%) to bring HTS 9030.90.4600 products from China to the US if I'm planning to export them to Europe later?
Hi Ivan,
Regardless of the HTS, you'll still need to pay duty upon import. If you're looking to obtain a duty drawback refund when you export the products, you'll need to follow specific guidelines and provide an adequate amount of documentation in order to qualify. One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to obtain some additional information from you and schedule a consultation with our Licensed Customs Brokers. We look forward to helping you!
I am a new Amazon FBA seller . I will be starting out selling stainless steel drink tumblers that keeps drinks hot or cold. I am sourcing from China (Alibaba) and my cost of supplies will be around $1300., not including shipping and whatever else that is involved. Is it correct that your services would only involve importing into the US? I would like to have my goods flown in only for the first order and thereafter by sea. Is this a situation you would handle?
Hi Linda,
Thank you for reaching out. We can help you with more than just importing you products. We have a partnership with a freight forwarding company that allows us to handle the entire shipping journey for your products! If you have all of the details regarding your shipment, you can request a Customs Brokerage quote from our team. This quote can include other logistics services including transportation and warehousing if you need them.
You can request a quote at the link below.
Customs Brokerage Services
I am brand new at this. How many different company's do I need to order stuff from China and feel safe doing it? I would like a chance to see about a few things for myself and resale. a few things are golf carts, pontoon boats, car and big truck tires, wheels/rims for the tires, bicycles and trikes. etc. Those are the ones I really am likely to order. Also I need to know about the shipping and clearing then to be shipped and received in my hands either at the dock, work or home.
Hi Danny,
We can help you understand the end-to-end process for importing from China through our import consultations. Your consult is 1-on-1 with one of our Licensed Customs Brokers and they provide you with a complete roadmap of what you'll need to successfully import your products into the U.S. Because you're importing from China, you'll have some additional steps to go through. For that reason, we highly suggest consulting with our team. You can use the link below to sign up for a consultation. We look forward to helping you!
Licensed Customs Broker Consulting
Someone I know is importing beauty accessories,like brushes,pillow cases, items are in boxes printed with their logo on them. They don't have a 'Made in China's label on them. They resell on line. What are the PENALTIES without a 'Made in China' label?
Hi Danny,
The violation you described here can come with some serious consequences. Per CBP, goods that don't comply with CBP's marking of country of origin rules can be exported, destroyed, or be imposed additional duties. In this situation, we would advise that the products be sourced from a more reputable supplier that already complies with CBP's marking guidelines.
Hi,
I'm trying to import EVA foam from China around 180 small sheets . I asked to send by air and they will deliver to my door. They said shipping fee does not include customs or tariffs.
How do I pay for that?
Thanks,
Lilian
Hi Lillian,
Customs duties and fees can be prepaid by the shipper or paid by the recipient of the goods. Typically, this is determined by the Incoterms of the shipment. For example, in a DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipment, the supplier covers the import duties and fees for the recipient. It would be best to confirm with your supplier in China what the Incoterms of your shipment are going to be.
If you still need help, you can schedule a consulting session with one of our Licensed Customs Brokers and we'll guide you through the process!
I am trying to import a Standby diesel genset it has EPA certificate what are the custom fees
Hi Mike,
The customs fees will depend on a number of factors including the value of the engine and its' country of origin. One of our customs experts will reach out to you shortly to obtain additional information from you so that we can provide you with a quote. We look forward to helping you.
I will be importing a Photo Booth from China. What will I need to do to inorder to clear customs?
Hi Rodolfo,
You'll need to have some standard import documents prepared and completed ahead of your photo booth's arrival. The link below contains a detailed list of these required documents. If your product is a commercial import that's being used for your business or intended for resale, our Customs Brokers can clear and import for you.
Documents to Clear Customs
I'm looking into importing a few diesel engines from china. The freight will be included in the sale price to my nearest US port. What amount of additional fees and taxes should I expect to pay?
Hi Luke,
The amount of duties and fees that you'll pay will depend on the value of the engines, as well as the specific HTSUS that's assigned to them. Additionally, depending on the Incoterms that you agree on with your supplier, they may cover the costs of import duties.
One of our import experts will reach out to you shortly gather additional information and provide further assistance.
looking to import newer Kei Trucks / mini truck I have been reading you can import these as utv /atv is this true
Hi Tim,
We've responded privately with the information that you requested. We look forward to assisting you further!
Hi, I would like to bring just 50 scanner for cars... so do you think do i need to pass through all this process?
Hi Alberto,
The process that you'll need to follow will depend on a few factors including the intended use of the scanners, value of the import, product components, and more. To receive specific guidance on the process, we recommend scheduling a consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers. They'll provide you with all of the information you're looking for.
Hello,
I am going to import silverware set from China. Does it need to get FDA prior notice or confirmation on it?
Could you also please advise if importation from China to the USA is going smoothly now a days?
Thanks for your advice.
Hi Atefeh,
Your silverware may or may not be subject to FDA requirements. It depends on the specific HS code that CBP assigns to your products. Also, because of the situation regarding section 301 tariffs on many products from China, there is still increased scrutiny on goods coming from there.
We responded privately and provided you with additional information regarding your import. We look forward to working with you.
Hello,
If I am importing leggings and hoodies, will they be taxed lower at this time or will it still be 35%?
Hi Steve,
We've responded privately with the information you requested. We look forward to working with you.
what do i need to start new business importing from china just fresh start to bring face mask and N95.Frist do i have to have import licence?
Thank you.
Ness Nur
Hi Ness,
When importing goods for commercial purposes, you'll need to have a customs bond to cover your import shipments. Face masks are also regulated by the FDA. Many businesses have had their face mask imports seized recently for not being in compliance with the necessary regulations. Before importing your masks, we recommened working with one of our Licensed Customs Brokers. They'll provide you with everything you need to legally import your masks.
Utilize our Licensed Customs Broker consulting to get the help and answers you need. We look forward to working with you
Hello there,
I would like to import a 400 cc 4 seater UTV from China through a Chinese supplier through Alibaba.com. to Jacksonville seaport. How much would it cost me to get it cleared through customs paying all the duties and fees.
Thanks
Hello Joseph,
The total cost of your import will depend on a number of factors including the value of the UTV and the specific HTS code.
Feel free to reach out to our team at (855)912-0406 or schedule an import consulting session with our Licensed Customs Brokers.
I would like to import ag equipment to sell in Colorado. Is Alibaba or similar the best route or should I become an importer ?
Hello Mr. Kendall, - thank you for your inquiry. We wanted to let you know that we replied to your question by email. If you have any questions, please let us know.
I have 5000 bottles of supplements in China.
Can you make a good price to bring and do customs clearance of it?
Thanks,
Lucas
Your info has been submitted to our import specialists who can help you with importing your supplements into the US. You can expect an email from us soon.
hi! this is a excellent site and i always enjoy the data posted below. Bookmarked and shared. Thanks once again!
I do like that you said that there are Chinese suppliers that specialize in manufacturing items in bulk to make sure that you'll be able to purchase in wholesales. My husband and I wanted to own a furniture store in the future. What we want is to reduce our capital cost in sourcing our products without cutting the number of items that we need, so we'll make sure to consider China sourcing.
I was thinking of selling on Amazon and buying product from China how much would it cost thanks mike Dickinson