In 2025, trade in goods imported from China to countries around the world remains active. However, customs clearance is an important link that cannot be ignored in international trade, whether for enterprises or individuals. Failure to prepare the required customs clearance documents may result in cargo detention, additional costs or even returns. Therefore, understanding the customs clearance requirements of various countries and ensuring that the documents are complete are the key to smooth imports.
New changes in China’s import customs clearance policy in 2025
In 2025, China Customs will implement a more intelligent and standardized customs clearance process. According to the latest policy, all imported goods will be included in the “smart customs” supervision system, which means that the degree of electronic submission of documents will be further improved. At the same time, in order to promote trade facilitation, the General Administration of Customs has introduced innovative models such as “advance declaration” and “two-step declaration”, allowing importers to submit some documents before the goods arrive at the port.
It is worth noting that from 2025, China will implement stricter HS code classification requirements for imported goods. Importers need to ensure that the product description provided matches the HS code exactly, and any discrepancy may cause customs clearance delays. In addition, more detailed quality and safety document requirements will be implemented for specific product categories such as electronic products, food and cosmetics.
Environmental protection policies are also a focus of attention in 2025. According to China’s “dual carbon” goals, all imported products involving high energy consumption and high emissions will need to provide additional environmental compliance certificates. These changes require importers to understand the latest policies in advance and be fully prepared.
What are the main documents required for customs clearance of goods imported from China?
No matter which country the goods are imported from China to, some basic customs clearance documents are essential. The following are common customs clearance documents worldwide:
Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is the core document for customs clearance of imports from China, and the invoice requirements in 2025 will be more standardized. The invoice must list the buyer and seller information, product description, quantity, unit price, total price, trade terms (such as FOB, CIF, etc.), origin and payment method in detail. It is particularly important to note that the invoice amount must be consistent with the actual transaction amount, and the customs will verify its authenticity through big data comparison.
Packing List
The packing list lists the packaging information of the goods in detail, including the specifications, weight, cargo contents, volume, etc. of each package. This document helps customs check whether the goods are consistent with the declared information.
Certificate of Origin (CO)
Some countries require a certificate of origin to determine whether the goods meet the tariff preferential policies. For example, EU member states may require a EUR.1 certificate, while ASEAN countries may require a Form E certificate.
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (B/L or AWB)
The bill of lading is a document proving the ownership of goods in sea transportation, while the air waybill is used for air cargo to prove that the goods have been delivered to the airline and arranged for transportation.
Import License
Certain specific products (such as food, medicine, chemicals, etc.) may require an import license to ensure compliance with the regulations of the importing country.
Customs Declaration Form
When importing goods, countries usually need to fill out a customs declaration form to provide detailed information about the goods so that customs can calculate tariffs and value-added tax (VAT).
Transport and insurance-related documentation requirements
In 2025, China’s transport documentation requirements will be more detail-oriented. In addition to the traditional bill of lading, the sea/air cargo manifest will need to list the transportation information of all goods in detail, including the container number, seal number and accurate cargo weight. For less than container load (LCL), a house manifest and cargo stowage plan are also required.
Insurance documents are particularly important under CIF terms. From 2025, the insurance policy must clearly indicate the coverage and insurance amount, and match the commercial invoice amount. For high-value goods, it is recommended to purchase “all risks” insurance instead of basic insurance to fully cover transportation risks.
For special modes of transportation, such as cold chain logistics, additional temperature record documents are required to prove that the goods are within the specified temperature range throughout the transportation process. Such documents are particularly important for temperature-sensitive goods such as food and medicine.
For goods transported by railways such as the China-Europe Express, more detailed transit documents will be required in 2025, including customs release certificates and transportation vehicle information from the transit countries. These requirements are aimed at enhancing the transparency and security of cross-border transportation.
Quality and safety and special regulatory documents
In 2025, China will tighten its quality and safety supervision on imported goods. Quality inspection certificates are mandatory for many categories of goods, especially food, cosmetics, medical devices and children’s products. These certificates must be issued by official or recognized institutions in the exporting country to prove that the goods meet Chinese national standards.
Sanitary/phytosanitary certificates are essential for agricultural products, food and wood products. From 2025, these certificates need to include more detailed test data, such as pesticide residues, microbial indicators, etc. For genetically modified products, an additional biosafety certificate is required.
For electronic products, CCC certification or exemption certificate is required. The scope of CCC certification may be expanded in 2025, and importers should confirm in advance whether the product is included in the compulsory certification catalog. At the same time, energy-efficient products are also required to provide energy efficiency labels and relevant test reports.
For special commodities such as chemicals and dangerous goods, stricter MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) requirements will be implemented in 2025. MSDS must be in Chinese and comply with China’s GHS standards. In addition, some commodities also require import licenses or environmental protection certificates in advance.
2025 Electronic Customs Clearance Operation Guide
In 2025, China Customs will fully promote the “Single Window” system, and more than 90% of customs clearance procedures can be completed electronically. Importers need to register on the “International Trade Single Window” platform in advance and complete corporate certification and electronic signature filing.
Electronic customs declaration is the core document for customs clearance, and all required items need to be filled in accurately, including commodity HS code, origin, transaction method, etc. In 2025, the system will introduce intelligent assistance functions to automatically prompt possible declaration errors.
Electronic tax bill payment will be more convenient and support a variety of electronic payment methods. Importers can query the tax calculation in real time through the system and complete the payment before the goods are released. In 2025, the scope of application of tariff guarantee insurance will be expanded to help companies relieve financial pressure.
For AEO certified companies, they will enjoy more electronic conveniences in 2025, such as “release first and then inspect” and “exempt from inspection”. It is recommended that eligible importers apply for AEO certification as soon as possible to improve customs clearance efficiency.
Customs clearance document requirements for shipping from China to different countries
Customs clearance from China to most countries basically only requires four basic documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading/airway bill. For special products, more documents may be required, such as:
Shipping from China to the United States
The United States has strict customs clearance requirements for imported goods. In addition to basic commercial invoices, packing lists and bills of lading, the following documents may also be required:
- Customs Entry Declaration Form (CBP Form 7501): The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires all imported goods to fill in this form to declare the value of the goods, HS code, tax rate and other information.
- Import Security Declaration (ISF, 10+2 Filing): For sea freight, importers must submit an Import Security Declaration (ISF) before the goods are loaded, otherwise they may face fines.
- Food and Drug Import Permit (FDA Prior Notice): If you import food, drugs or cosmetics, you need to submit a prior notice to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Wood Packaging Material Compliance: If the goods are packed in wood (such as pallets or wooden boxes), they must comply with the ISPM-15 international standard and provide a fumigation certificate.
Shipping from China to France
As a member of the European Union, France’s customs clearance procedures must comply with EU tariff regulations and related laws. The main documents include:
- Single Administrative Document (SAD): This document is used for customs declaration and is also applicable between countries within the EU.
- Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration Number: Importers in France need to register a VAT number and pay import value-added tax (usually 20%). If the goods comply with the EU rules of origin, tax relief can be applied.
- CE Certification: If the imported products involve electronic equipment, medical devices, toys, etc., they need to comply with CE certification standards to ensure that the products comply with EU safety regulations.
- EORI Number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number): Importers must register an EORI number in order to conduct import and export trade in EU countries.
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Shipping from China to UAE
The UAE is an important trade hub in the Middle East. Its customs clearance process is relatively flexible, but there are still some specific document requirements:
- Importer registration certificate: Importers must register with the UAE Ministry of Economy to obtain legal importer status.
- UAE Customs Declaration Form: All imported goods must submit a detailed customs declaration form, including HS code, description of goods, value and other information.
- Halal Certificate: If you import food or products related to Islam (such as meat, cosmetics, etc.), you must provide a halal certificate to prove compliance with Islamic regulations.
- Consumer Product Quality Certification (ECAS/EQM): Certain consumer products (such as electronic products, cosmetics, etc.) may require ECAS or EQM certification issued by the UAE Standardization and Metrology Authority (ESMA) to ensure product quality.
You may also be interested in: How Much does it Cost to Ship from China to UAE
How to ensure smooth customs clearance for imports from China?
To avoid goods being detained or delayed, the following measures are recommended:
Prepare all documents in advance: Make sure all documents are accurate, especially invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, etc.
Work with a reliable freight forwarder: A professional Chinese freight forwarder or customs broker can help you handle customs clearance procedures and ensure compliance.
Understand the regulations of the destination country: Customs clearance requirements vary from country to country. Learn the latest policies and tax rates in advance to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Declare the value of goods correctly: Avoid under-reporting the value of goods, otherwise you may be fined by customs or have your customs clearance time extended.
FAQ for customs clearance of imports from China:
Q: How to remedy errors in documents?
A: In 2025, the customs will provide a more convenient channel for modifying orders. Minor errors can be modified directly through the electronic system; major errors require written explanations and may face verification. It is recommended to carefully check all documents before declaration.
Q: How to deal with customs inspection?
A: In 2025, the customs will adopt a more scientific inspection mechanism. The selected goods must cooperate to provide original documents, samples, etc. It is recommended that importers prepare complete copies of documents and product descriptions in advance to speed up the inspection process.
Q: How to ensure smooth customs clearance during special periods?
A: During special periods such as exhibitions and holidays, it is recommended to communicate with the customs broker in advance and reserve sufficient time. In 2025, the customs will provide appointment customs clearance services, and enterprises can arrange inspection and release in advance.
In 2025, importing goods from China to countries around the world is still a business activity full of opportunities, but compliant customs clearance is essential. Different countries have different document requirements, so before arranging international transportation, be sure to familiarize yourself with the customs clearance process of the destination country and ensure that all documents are complete to avoid additional costs and delays.
If you have any questions about logistics transportation and customs clearance processes from China to various countries, please contact Bestlink Logistics. We provide you with professional one-stop logistics solutions to ensure that the goods are delivered to the destination quickly and safely!