Importing from China: a starter guide
From choosing a supplier to customs clearance, the key steps of a successful first import from China, with no bad surprises.
Before ordering
A successful import is prepared upstream: identify a reliable supplier, validate a sample, agree on specifications, minimum order quantity (MOQ), price, packaging and Incoterm. It's also the time to collect each product's HS code and origin, essential for what follows.
Organising transport
The transport mode depends on your volume, budget and deadline: sea for large non-urgent volumes, air for urgent or high-value goods. The Incoterm determines who arranges what — FOB is often a good starting point to keep control of the main carriage.
Anticipating customs and centralising
Commercial invoice, Packing List, HS code, origin, value and EORI number drive smooth clearance. Gathering these before shipping avoids hold-ups. Centralising order, supplier, documents and tracking in a single dossier saves considerable time on every new import.
Ready-to-use templates (Packing List, international shipping checklist, supplier sheet) are available in our library.
Structure your purchasing. Streamline your shipments.
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