China Customs Guide

🇨🇳 China Customs Guide

Bringing Used Household Goods into China
Planning to move to China? Customs regulations are strict, and import duties apply to non-diplomatic shipments. Proper documentation and compliance with customs rules will help ensure a smooth clearance process.

Documents Required
📌 For all shipments

  1. Original Passport – Must include a residence permit valid for at least 12 months.
  2. Original Work Permit – Also valid for at least 12 months.
  3. Packing Inventory List – Must be in English or Chinese (diplomatic shipments require a signed and itemized list).
  4. Bill of Lading (OBL) / Telex Release / Air Waybill (AWB) – Required for sea or air shipments.
  5. Arrival Notice – For sea shipments.
  6. List of Electronic Items – Must be detailed, including model, serial number, and size.
  7. Baggage Declaration Form – Required in some cities (two copies must match exactly).
  8. Alcohol / Wine List – If shipping alcoholic beverages.

📌 For diplomats:

  1. Original Passport with Diplomatic Visa.
  2. Consulate Officer Certificate.
  3. Import Permit (must be applied for by the consulate or embassy).
  4. Diplomatic Card.
  5. Pro-Forma Invoice.
  6. Important Customs Rules

✅ Duties & Taxes

All non-diplomatic shipments are subject to import duties.
Diplomatic shipments are exempt from inspection, duties, and taxes.
Import duties for alcoholic beverages are extremely high—it’s best not to include them in your shipment.
Food, cosmetics, health products, and toiletries should not be included in air shipments.
✅ Timing & Shipment Limits

Household goods must be imported at least 6 months before your residence permit expires.
Only one sea shipment and one air shipment are allowed per residence permit.
If an additional shipment is imported, all items in that shipment will be taxed.
✅ Customs Clearance Timeline

Sea shipments: 10-15 working days.
Air shipments: 3-5 working days.
If gross weight exceeds 300kg, customs clearance may take up to 15 working days in some cities like Shanghai.
✅ Special Rules for Electronics & High-Value Items

All electrical items must be clearly listed with their model, serial number, and size.
Luxury and high-value items (including antiques) must be declared, with proof of value (e.g., receipts).
Each antique should be photographed before shipment.
✅ Wood Packaging Materials

Wood packaging must be heat-treated or fumigated according to ISPM-15 standards and properly marked.