How Long Does Customs Clearance in China Take? Update 2024

China is a major commercial hub. Due to its standing, the country processes tremendous imports and exports. In 2022, China’s commerce value was an astounding $6.3 trillion. Thus, good customs processes are vital to the nation and its businesses.

China prioritizes customs clearance as a leading trading nation. It ensures uninterrupted movement while exporting and importing goods to China. Delays in this process can disrupt supply chains and raise costs.

Many factors impact the duration of Chinese customs procedures. Companies that import from China must understand customs clearance. Thus, this guide covers significant aspects of customs clearance in China. I will review the duration, factors that can impact the process, and more.

Overview of the Chinese Customs System

All China customs procedures are supervised by the General Administration of Customs (GACC). They follow export and import restrictions and collect taxes and levies. China’s customs system has been extensively upgraded in the past several years. I must mention the effort to hurry procedures and shorten shipping delays in China.

Companies conducting business in China must prioritize customs clearance. It affects inventory, supply chain, and operational expenses. Several factors affect China’s customs clearance time, including the nature of the goods.

The completeness and correctness of the accompanying paperwork is another factor. Also, entry ports and extra licenses or permissions may affect the procedure.

The process of customs clearance in China typically involves four main steps. These include pre-arrival documentation, duty and tax payment, and goods release. How long it takes to clear items for import or export depends mainly on their nature.

The Harmonized System (HS) codes classify items and determine taxes, tariffs, and permits. So, to avoid delays and possible fines, accurate categorization is essential.

The Customs Clearance Process in China

You must understand the procedure for customs clearance in China to trade successfully. Here’s an overview of the China customs clearance process:

1) Pre-arrival documentation

Clearing customs starts before the goods even get to China. Through China’s Single Window method, importers can send relevant documents online. Hence, it makes the import documentation in China a lot faster.

Pre-arrival processing in China helps customs authorities assess hazards. It also allows them to go through the documents before items arrive. It could reduce the time it takes for clearing customs in China.

2) Arrival and inspection

When goods arrive at China’s port of entry, they are checked out physically. The type of goods, importer’s compliance history, and risk assessment findings impact inspection. China Customs uses a sophisticated risk management system.

These systems decide whether packages only need to have documents looked over. It also determines if non-intrusive exams like X-rays or physical checks are required.

3) Duty and tax payment

Importers must pay any customs and taxes due after the goods are inspected. Based on the HS code system, China has a standardized tariff plan. You can pay your duties at certain banks or online through the Single Window method.

Note that China has consistently decreased import duties in recent years. From 2010 to 2022, the average tariff rate dropped significantly, almost from 9.8% to 7.4%. It made buying imported items easy for businesses and consumers.

4) Release of goods

Customs officials give a release order once all the requirements are met, and payment is made. It makes getting the goods from the port or secured warehouse possible. The time between arrival and release can vary based on the earlier factors.

China Customs claims a 45% increase in rule-abiding trader release time since 2018. That’s because changes and attempts to digitize are still ongoing.

Average Time Frames for Customs Clearance

The processing times for customs clearance in China aren’t always the same. The following examines the average China customs clearance time:

1) Air freight clearance times

In China, air freight usually has the fastest customs clearance times. Standard plane packages generally get through customs in 24 hours. AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) approved companies can undergo this in 4 to 8 hours. But, clearing complicated or high-risk goods could take up to 72 hours.

2) Sea freight clearance times

Sea shipping from China usually takes longer to get through customs than air freight. In China, the average time it takes to clear sea goods is 3-7 days. This extended deadline is because more documents are required and more work needs to be done.

Note that China has made noteworthy developments in this area. The average time to clear marine freight has dropped 20% since 2020.

3) Land border clearance times

The time for customs clearance in China at land borders is very different. It depends on the type of goods and the border crossing. Truck packages at China’s mainland borders usually get through customs in 12 to 48 hours.

The use of electronic customs declaration systems at land borders has been helpful. It has helped cut wait times by an average of 35% over the past three years.

4) Express shipment clearance times

In China, customs processes are sped up for express packages. These are usually taken care of by courier companies. Express orders usually get through customs in two to six hours. Risk-based screening methods and pre-arrival data submission make this rapid clearance possible.

Factors Influencing Clearance Duration

The time it may take for goods to clear customs can vary greatly. Below are some of the factors influencing the China customs procedures:

1) Type of goods and HS codes

The type of goods inspected affects clearance time. Harmonized System (HS) codes are unique to each product. They give information on tax rates and any other special needs.

Complex or sensitive goods often face longer processing times. For example, food products undergo more rigorous checks than raw materials.

2) Shipping Method

Shipping method also influences customs clearance in China. Air freight clears faster than marine freight. That happens due to its smaller and more frequent shipments.

A study by the World Bank found that it usually takes 1-2 days for air goods to clear customs. But sea cargo can take 3-5 days or more.

3) Accuracy and completeness of documentation

For smooth customs clearance, you need to have all the proper documents. Having complete and correct paperwork can significantly speed up the process.

If you make mistakes or leave out information, it could cause shipping delays in China. In severe cases, it may even attract fines. If you double-check all documents, you can cut clear-out time by days.

4) Customs valuation issues

How much customs officials value foreign goods can alter how long it takes to clear them. If the declared value seems too low, customs may investigate further, causing delays. It’s essential to understand and use assessment methods properly to avoid holdups.

The World Customs Organization says that valuation disputes cause 15% of customs delays. So, keep solid records and be clear about costs to prevent these issues.

Tips for Expediting Customs Clearance in China

Navigating customs clearance in China can be complex. So, here are tips to get your packages through customs clearance in China faster:

1) Working with experienced customs brokers

Working with experienced customs agents can cut processing times significantly. These experts know how China’s trade rules are constantly changing. With their knowledge of customs inspection in China, they can prevent common problems.

The World Customs Organization studied companies that used expert customs agents. They had 30% lower clearance times than businesses doing it themselves. This expertise is invaluable in China, where regulations can be particularly complex.

2) Choosing the Right Shipping Method

How you ship can significantly affect how long it takes to clear customs. Most of the time, plane freight gets through China’s customs faster than sea freight.

China Customs Statistics show that shipments by air clear customs in an average of 1 to 3 days. But shipments by sea take 3 to 7 days. For time-sensitive goods, consider using express courier services.

3) Ensuring accurate product classification

How well your things are classified under the Harmonized System (HS) is crucial. It can ease the process of getting them through customs without any problems. Misclassification can cause delays, fines, or even the rejection of a package.

To avoid this, learn the correct HS codes for your goods. You should get permission from China customs beforehand for complex or new items. It can provide certainty and prevent classification disputes during the clearance process.

4) Preparing comprehensive documentation

To speed up customs processing, it’s essential to have complete and correct paperwork. You might also need specific licenses or certificates for some goods. The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade surveyed this.

They found that up to 40% of trade packages to China are held up because the paperwork is missing or wrong. To avoid this, make a thorough list for each type of package. Then, read all the paperwork carefully before sending it in.

5) Leveraging AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) status

Getting AEO status in China can significantly speed up clearing customs. AEO-certified companies enjoy faster clearance and easier customs processes.

The World Customs Organization mentions that AEO-certified Chinese enterprises clear customs 50% faster. The licensing process can be complex, but the benefits in the long run are worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

You must plan and understand the process to get through China import customs. China keeps simplifying its customs procedures, so keeping up is important. There may be problems, but if you follow the rules, you can get through customs seamlessly.

In the long run, this will help you compete better in the Chinese market. Always remember that getting through customs quickly isn’t the most important thing. You must follow China trade regulations and get along with the customs officers.

You can partner with an experienced sourcing agent. Our team knows how to handle Chinese customs clearance efficiently. Contact us to reduce delays and experience smooth import operations.