How to Import From China

Many businesses around the world import goods from China to expand their business. Products imported from China are of good quality, low cost and large capacity.

However, some importers face challenges in the complex process. Difficulties include confusion over unclear import processes, possible risks and opaque costs.

If you are wondering, how do I import from China? In this article, we share the exact steps to import from China and ensure product quality.

Let's start.

Advantages of importing from China

More than 90% of the world's goods are made in China. These reasons justify why the world relies on Chinese products,

Low manufacturing cost

Diversified products to meet all your needs

Convenient transportation and low transportation cost

Customs fees are lower than in some countries of manufacture

Low MOQ, very cheap to buy in bulk

You need import rights to bring imports from China into your country.

When learning to import from China, it is crucial to consider the right product. You should research the most popular products imported from China for a profitable business.

They should be low cost, high quality, and suitable for your niche. Search online and analyze keyword trends imported from China.

After finalizing your product, you can look for potential suppliers.

In the process of importing from China, you need to pay import duties. Duties depend on the type of imports from China and the final destination of your imports.

When companies import products from China, they are subject to the following taxes:

Value Added Tax (VAT)

GST

Customer responsibilities

Also, there are 6 Chinese import tariffs you need to know about.

MFN tax rate

Traditional tax rates

The special preferential tax rate

Provisional tax rate

The dutiable value of imported goods

 Anti-dumping duties

However, Chinese import duties are complicated to calculate. If you are a beginner, you may be confused about the various taxes.

Chinese suppliers produce high-quality goods at low prices and are lucrative.

With vast and advanced manufacturing capabilities, you can get fashion items fast. It prevents product shortages in your business. Here you need to know about the best 6 wholesale suppliers for importing from China: Alibaba, AliExpress, DHmen, Global Sources, Made in China, and Yiwu Go.

Also, when importing from China, you should research carefully to find a reputable supplier.

The shipping method is decided after confirming your purchase order and official invoice.

When importing from China, you should choose based on your urgency and budget. Shipping costs will affect your landing costs during the import process.

Couriers are as fast and secure as DHL and FedEx. You may have delivery within 2 to 7 days. They are great for small quantities imported from China but have higher shipping costs. 

Safe and timely delivery of urgent shipments by air within 3-7 days. However, you need to anticipate high shipping costs. 

Land and sea freight is ideal for bulk shipments. You can expect lower container charges prices.

There are fewer restrictions on imports by land or sea. However, it will take 2 to 3 months to reach you and you may face shipping delays. 

One last important step, you need to get your shipment through all customs checks. It is not easy to deal with that kind of complicated customs document. It is a good idea to choose a reliable customs broker, and before doing so, make yourself aware of some relevant customs knowledge so as not to be deceived.

This is a set of requirements to control the import and export of shipping. Documentation may vary by cargo category and destination port. For example, commercial invoices and import security filings. 

You should be aware of customs restrictions, costs, and processes to simplify importing.

A customs bond is a contract between the importer, the guarantee company, and CBP. CBP is Customs and Border Protection. 

A customs bond guarantees the importer's compliance with customs regulations and taxes. Avoiding delays at customs is critical.

Also known as customs clearance pro forma invoice. The purpose is to make a customs declaration on the value of the imported goods. Importers should state all necessary information for shipping imports, such as cargo type and shipping weight. 

You need a complete and accurate commercial invoice to successfully complete the customs process.

Licensed customs brokers help you with customs declarations for imports from China. They are professionals in customs laws, customs clearance rules, and other documents. 

You can save your hassle by hiring a licensed customs broker for a certain brokerage fee, you need a complete and accurate commercial invoice to complete the customs clearance process smoothly.

A licensed customs broker is required to handle customs operations on your behalf. You grant them rights by signing a Power of Attorney (POA). They can then handle documents such as import security declarations or customs bonds for you. 

With the customs authorization letter, the customs broker will help you with all customs activities.

Products imported from China are very popular and profitable. Learning how to import directly from China is essential.

You have to set strict criteria to find suppliers and products to import. By calculating costs and risks, importers can reduce and avoid losses. Shipping terms and customs regulations are also critical to a timely import process.

Also, you should understand the customs process and duties for importing from China.

I hope this article gave you an insight into how to import from China. Make sure you pay close attention to starting your import business! If you think the above process is more complicated for you or you want to find a professional procurement agent to be responsible for a series of processes such as procurement, please contact us.

RND is a professional sourcing agent service provider. Our company is located in Yiwu, China, the world's largest international wholesale market. Thousands of buyers come to the Yiwu market for purchase and purchase every year. Due to many years of experience in most categories, we have established a good resource of reliable cooperative suppliers. We started working with Amazon and Shopify sellers 6 years ago on product sourcing, development, bundling, packaging, manufacturing, supplier management, FBA shipping, and more. With our help, more and more of their products become Amazon Choice and Best Seller.