China Customs Clearance

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Paperwork

Some suppliers in China have not enough experience to do the paperwork for the customs clearance, Macro can do paperwork professionally for suppliers or you, and this service is free for you.

Product Classification

Everyone knows the product Classification is very important in shipping link, it decides how smoothly the shipment goods through the Customs, include the accurate HS code, how to do the customs clearance based on different goods, Macro have a professional team to do this work well.

Customs Clearance in China

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Customs Clearance in Destination Port

Besides customs clearance in China, Macro also can do the customs clearance in destination port, we have branches or good agent partner almost in every country to handle the door to door service of your goods.

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Customs Clearance: The Complete Guide

If you’re importing from China, then knowing customs regulations and procedures is a must for you.

Why?

It will save you a lot of time and money.

Remember, if you don’t comply with the customs regulations, you cannot import from China.

And, today’s guide covers everything you need to know about China customs clearance.

From customs clearance basics, procedures, duties, prohibited items to importation documents, amongst others.

So, by the end of this guide, you will be an expert in China customs clearance.

Chapter 1:Macro China Custom Clearance

Macro is a leading freight forwarder you can count on when shipping from China.

For any shipping goods from China or to China, customs clearance is one of the most important in the logistic chain, it decides whether the shipment goods can delivery smoothly or not.

Macro can handle this the whole customs clearance process very well.

With Macro, you don’t have to worry about:

i. Warehousing – we offer you free warehousing for up to 30 days.

ii. Shipping container – you can use our containers for 28 days

iii. Whether you want, LCL, FCL, Reefer, Out-of-gauge or door to door shipping from China, Macro offers exactly that.

iv. Macro helps you to choose from ocean freight, air freight, rail freight or truck shipping from China

And, the best part?

Worry no more about customs clearance from China to any destination in the world.

Macro handles all customs clearance for you.

Whether you want a partner who can handle:

i. Paperwork and documentation

ii. Product classification – i.e., consumer or industrial products

iii. Customs clearance in China, or

iv. Customs clearance at the port of destination,

Macro will handle everything for you.

We have offices in the main cities in China such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Xiamen, Ningbo, etc.

Thus,Macro meets the unique requirements of your shipping needs.

Feel free to talk to us today, and we solve all your problems.

That aside:

Now, let me take you a step further and discuss the basics of customs clearance in China.

Chapter 2: Customs Clearance Basics

Well, importing from China is becoming popular among various business peoples all over the world.

This ever-increasing interest has necessitated the Chinese customs authority to come up with various policies to guide the entire process.

Importantly though, as an importer, you need to grasp some basic knowledge and understanding of customs clearance basics from China.

And that’s precisely what you’re going to learn in this guide.

First though, let’s look at some of the points that we want to cover in this section;

What is customs clearance?
How custom clearance affects importing from China
Why a Freight Forwarder Should Handle Custom Clearance
Roles of Customs Brokers during Custom Clearance in China
How to Increase Efficiency of China Custom Clearance

With that summary, let’s dive right in:

2.1. What is Customs Clearance?

Custom clearance generally refers to documented authorization for passing goods to enter or leave a specific country.

It’s the national customs authority of a particular country that is responsible for granting this permission often through shipping agents.

Primarily, it involves putting the agent into the task of proving that all respective custom duties have been paid and shipment approved.

So, what do I mean here?

Custom clearance work is to execute policies and present the paperwork necessary for facilitating importation and exportation of goods.

In most occasions, it’s the shipping agents that often represent you during customs assessment and payment of duty.

The agents also help to co-take the shipment from customs immediately its clearance is over alongside the applicable documents.

In a nutshell, that’s what custom clearance generally means and entails.

2.2. How Custom Clearance Affects Importing from China

Let’s get straight to the point;

Custom’s official procedure is always simple and straightforward.

But some issues beyond control may cause a wide range of delays.

This can either be at the port of loading or even at the destination port.

In most of such instances, it could be as a result of questionable documents.

So you’ll realize that the Chinese government provides suppliers with export rebates ranging from 0% to 17%.

At times, these rebates contribute a considerable share of the profit margin than the one you obtain from direct sales.

Other producers would at times also claim wrong HS code.

The intention, in this case, would be to attain optimum rebate income, which technically is a form of fraud.

In other occasions, some officials would enter the wrong HS codes either accidentally or because they are doubtful.

What I’m trying to imply here?

Several issues emanating from paperwork errors often cause custom clearance delays.

So what’s the bottom line?

It is necessary to ensure that you import goods from companies which understand the export process.

But if you’re not sure of the capability and experience of manufacturer regarding export knowledge, seek a reliable forwarder.

This should be a little bit easy for you especially if the forwarder understands and has experience in that particular product.

Typically, customs in the importing nation lays more emphasis on goods coming in than countries in the customs of export.

But you should also note that some containers the customs select for inspection tend to vary considerably.

Random inspection intensity is dependent on fundamental occasions in the importing country.

You see, some of them may need additional shipment monitoring as a result of security risks in the relevant department,

The intention of customs inspections is also to avert issues surrounding the intellectual property.

This includes importation of patented or trademarked goods.

2.3 Why Freight Forwarder Should Handle Custom Clearance

This is also another ideal information that you need to have as an importer from China.

In fact, this is something you need to consider deliberately especially if you’re importing bulk goods.

So to start with, who is a freight forwarder?

It refers to an agent that the exporter uses to aid them in transporting cargo to a particular foreign country.

In some cases, a freight forwarder can double up as part of your logistics plan.

Mostly, a freight forwarder is always available as a company.

You may find some individuals who also offer such services especially if you’re a small-scale importer.

The benefit is that a freight forwarder helps exporters to prepare the price quotes the costs.

They also deal with handling fees among others.

Freight forwarder would also advise you on the suitable packing methods for goods in the container.

Moreover, a freight forwarder handles additional services that are part of the international shipping business i.e.

Insurance
Customs documentation -a freight forwarder provides to consolidators as well as individual shippers.
Nonvessel operating common carrier documentation
Bill of lading
Risk assessments and management
Warehousing
Methods of international payment.

A freight forwarder will always insist on personal communication and more exceptional customer service.

2.4 Role of Customs Brokers during Customs Clearance in China

Like I’d mentioned earlier on, customs clearance is a process.

It can be intensive or straightforward depending on your paperwork and knowledge of the process.

So you’ll find that the entire procedure can be seamless, irrespective of the goods you’re importing depending on the input of customs broker.

What I try to insinuate here is that a customs broker plays a vitally significant role in the whole process.

Well before we discuss much information, let’s first find figure out who a customs broker is.

Mostly, this could be an individual or company that has been authorized to carry out customs business on behalf of traders.

The primary role of a customs broker to advise you on the possible effective mode of clearing the shipment.

This, of course, has to be within the regulations of, and other policies revolving around customs entry.

At the same time, the broker also provides an approximate landed cost for cargo that enters the country.

Now, let’s move to another significant aspect when it comes to importing from China.

2.5 How to Improve Efficiency in Customs Clearance in China

Let’s not sugarcoat this element;

The truth is that no business person would wish to be taken rounds with endless referrals when importing goods.

It is often an irritating feeling which at times can raise emotive issues that might be unnecessary at that moment.

But the truth is:

These are always as a result of inefficiency or communication breakdown somewhere in between.

Well, it’s vital to know that improving efficiency in customs clearance when importing from China can be straightforward.

Most definitely, this depends on the means you choose to pursue and whether or not you comply with specific clearance regulations.

Here are some of the proper ways that you can use to attain efficiency in customs clearance;

i. Proper Packaging and Loading

One of the leading causes of delays at customs clearance is improper packaging and loading of the items.

Listen.

It is something that must be done by experts.

You may end up saving considerable cost and time by seeking services of respective professionals.

But then, you need to understand that the Chinese customs authority have provision for packaging depending on the type of goods.

So generally, you must ensure that you package your shipment accordingly to prevent unnecessary inconveniences.

ii. Provide Accurate and Complete Information About Imports

Again, you have to ensure that all the shipping documents match the contents of the container and other related elements.

The moment the customs officials will find any sort of mismatch then it will be another issue altogether.

Remember this isn’t even a matter of whether the error could be accidental or deliberate.

And in some instances depending on the gravity of the error, you can pay hefty fines.

Of course, this is an unwarranted inconvenience because you tend to lose more than you gain.

China inspection and quarantine authorities usually issue rules regarding the regulations procedure.

The intention is always to improve the effectiveness in Chinas custom clearance.

What happens is that the procedure rules typically require the relevant authorities to comply strictly with the statutory time limits.

Of course, this is to guide in the seamless completion of the procedures with the aim of improving the customs clearance efficiency.

Normally the process is lengthy and time-consuming.

This is due to the high random check rate and a lack of regulatory guidance as to how the detailed procedures were determined.

This creates hurdles which increase the overall efficiency in customs clearance for products imported from China.

Usually, the full inspection and quarantine may include;

Accept application
Review
Inspection
Quarantine
Quarantine treatment
Overall assessment
Goods release
Archive

For a particular product, determining detailed inspection and quarantine procedures is on the basis of the products nature.

Imports not subjected to random sampling will be directly released provided a written compliance record.

iii. Another Way to Improve Efficiency is to Adjust to the Random Sampling Ratio

If you’re an importer and you fail to maintain a good compliance record with AQCIQ.

Random sampling ratios may also be increased if there is evidence that products may pose a high risk to health or safety concerns.

iv. Specification of Strict Timelines is Another Way to Increase Efficiency

Under the new rules, the relevant authorities must comply with the specified timelines for different types of products for each kind of inspection and quarantine process.

Accepting an application and reviewing an application process must be completed within half working a day.

For most products, the realization of onsite inspection is compulsory within one working day.

Additionally, laboratory inspection should also be within seven working days.

In general, the expectation is products to clear inspection and quarantine within one working day.

And therefore, here are some of the general observations;

The echoing of cross-border e-commerce growth in China necessitates ideal measures for inspection and quarantine of goods.

Ideally, AQSIQ is putting all appropriate measures towards enhancing efficiency in clearing goods that you import from China.

It happens that the overall regulatory trend is to make cross-border e-commerce to conform to legal requirements for traditional importation model.

Chapter 3: China Customs Clearance Procedure

Let me make this point clear;

Each country has its guiding principles concerning customs clearance.

And of course, China is not an exception.

In fact, as the leading export country in the world, China has put in place some of the stringent clearance measures at all her ports.

You know this is vital because, in a significant way, it helps to curb any incidents of sneaking goods inside and outside the country.

So mostly, the intention for all the rules and regulations for Chinese customs clearance is to create order and mitigate unwarranted loopholes.

In this section, we want to look at all the undertakings revolving around the clearance procedure when importing from China.

3.1. Full Fill China Customs Shipping Regulations

As an importer, you must ensure that you abide by all the shipping regulations that the Chinese customs authority stipulates.

If you want to pass through the customs clearance swiftly, you must make sure to confirm what certifications and standards you need to meet.

Incidentally, the trick for attaining this is preparing all the necessary documents.

You must also keep in mind that your importer must manage most of the customs clearance.

But you need to prepare all other documents in case the officials ask for them.

Make sure you communicate openly with your importer and manage customs clearance together to avoid time-consuming issues.

Before shipping, ensure you have the essential documents for facilitating shipping.

Actually, later on in this section, I’ll list some of these documents below to enable you to have an idea.

So just continue reading on.

But before that let’s see some of the elements surrounding full filling the customs shipping regulations in China

· Product Certification

The typical Chinese quality certificates include CCC (Compulsory China Certification) and CFDA.

CFDA is used for health food and baby formula for example.

If needed, you should get your products certified and provide certifications documents, for the customs to review when your product arrives in China.

· HS Codes

HS simply mean harmonized codes.

These codes are applicable worldwide for classifying goods traded in the country.

One of the biggest issues exporters confront is that the customs have the difficulties in specifying the HS codes to apply for your products.

Essentially, it means that they are not precisely capable of determining what kind of products you export.

Therefore, you wouldn’t know the kind of standards and regulations you need to follow.

It is crucial if you can classify your products with the correct HS codes.

Vitally, it helps so that the customs understand what kind of customs, regulations, and certifications applicable to your products.

And, I know you are possibly asking yourself:

What is Harmonized Custom Tariff Numbers (HS Codes)?

Well, this refers to the international nomenclature used for classifying products.

It enables classification of all countries taking part by the items traded on a frequent basis for customs purposes.

In general, the HS codes determine the GB standards which you need to meet.

For that reason, it is imperative if you can classify your product with the right HS codes.

It actually helps the customs to comprehend specific regulations and certifications applicable to your products.

· GB Standards

Typically, it is the HS codes that determine the GB standards you need to meet.

Well, the GB standards are unique for every aspect surrounding packaging, labeling and food products among others.

So, you mainly need to provide test reports showing that your products comply with the required GB standards for such items.

Incidentally, should any certification or test reports miss, you’ll need to provide the missing documents or a CIQdeclaration.

· Import License

This is also another document that you’ll have to avail as part of full filling Chinese customs policies.

While we’re on the subject, if an import license is a requirement, you must provide it.

As a Chinese importer, it becomes necessary to apply for an import license.

Some of the other important documents that you might require to clear your goods include the following:

i. Bill of lading

ii. Invoice

iii. Packing list

iv. Customs invoice

v. Insurance policy

vi. Trading contract

vii. Quality certificates

viii. Inspection certificate/license

ix. Import quota certificate

x. Cargo manifest

xi. Handbook of processing trade

xii. Authorization and entrustment agreement for clearance customs

But then again, the particular documents which you’ll require at a specific time depends on the type of product you’re importing from China.

And for that reason, you may realize that you will not necessarily need some of these documents when shipping some products and vice versa.

· Taxes and Tariffs

It is vital to know the costs involved to pay for different tariffs and import taxes when exporting to China.

And again, it is also fundamental that you have basic knowledge of how to calculate taxable amount.

Reason?

It is primarily to protect you from losing your hard-earned money fraudulently in the hands of con officials.

For that reason, I’m going to review the different tariffs and import taxes that are applicable in this situation.

a) Tariffs

Tariffs are dividedinto6 different categories; namely

MFN is mostly applicable in countries and members of the WTO (World Trade Organization)

b) Import taxes

It is also another form of tax that you have to pay as an importer.

Import tax revolves around several elements.

So let’s look at some of this type of taxes you’ll probably pay for as an importer;

VAT
It’s the same for domestically produced products and stretches up to 17 % depending on the products. The VAT is paid on product tariffs mentioned above.
Excise Duty
This type of tax essentially applies to limited products.
What I mean here is that it a form of duty paid specifically for some kinds of products.

In any case, such products are exclusive, and you may find that they’re merely designed to meet secondary needs of a specific group of people.

For instance, tobacco and alcoholic drinks are some of the products that attract excise duty.

· Customs Valuation

It’s important to provide documentation stating the CIF price (cost insurance and freight).

The CIF price includes the reasonable amount with the following items added;

Expectedly, the Chinese customs have a database where they can check your CIF price.

This enables them to confirm if it’s in line with local rates and tariffs.

Surprisingly, if the difference in price is relatively big, you’ll have to incur additional charges.

· China Custom Declaration Form

Apparently, this is one of the documents that many people who import from China rarely know more of what it entails.

Previously, H833 was the conventional system for customs declaration.

Currently, H2000 is what traders use for notifications.

Again, you also need to know that nowadays such declarations are managed electronically.

The Chinese customs have put across an extensive guide explaining how different systems work and how to fill out the forms.

· CR Number

This refers to the number that you obtain immediately after you register at the Chinese customs website as an importer.

It primarily refers to Customs Registration Code, which is a requirement in China both for importers and exporters.

To prevent unnecessary inconveniences and delays at the customs clearance, always ensure that your CR code is stated in the customs declarations.

· China Customs Tracking

This is also the other element still on the aspect of accomplishing Chinese customs regulations.

Remember that it is possible to check the status of your shipment on the customs website.

Excitingly all you need is to provide a declaration number and verification code to fast-track the status.

In some instances, you’ll realize that failure to provide these codes will make it somehow impossible for you to determine your shipment’s status.

Arguably, the first section of the customs clearance procedure is quite demanding and detailed.

What I mean is that it requires a lot of knowledge and proper documentation of all import details.

3.2. Prepare the Necessary China Custom Clearance Documentation

Of course, you have to prepare all the necessary documentation for facilitating customs clearance in China.

The Chinese clearance documents are the regular correspondence you need to prepare when importing products from any local manufacturer.

Of course the moment you order your goods from China you expect them to arrive on time.

And this should happen without any unanticipated interruptions both at the departure port in China and at the destination port in your country.

So how do you ensure that you achieve this?

Simple, in fact, I’m emphasizing this for the umpteenth time;

Make sure that you prepare all the relevant Chinese customs documents accurately and promptly.

When you do this, it becomes easy to ensure that your goods pass through customs without any unnecessary interruptions.

Some of the items that you need to consider

A purchase order from Buyer
Sales Invoice
Packing List
Shipping bill
Bill of Lading or air waybill
Certificate of Origin
Proper certifications (please explain these CFDA, CCC, CIQ, CCIC & CEL)
Harmonized Custom Tariff Numbers (HS Codes)

i. A Purchase Order from the Buyer

This is one of the vitally important documents you require for import customs clearance.

A purchase order gives a reflection of all the terms and conditions surrounding the sale contract.

And it is also what allows the officials at the customs desk to verify value assessment.

At the time a valuable consignment could be under a letter of credit basis.

In that case, you can present a copy of the letter of credit alongside other documents for import clearance.

ii. Sales Invoice

This document contains overall information regarding the transaction.

Some of the details that this document contains include:

It is thus apparent that a sales invoice is a significant document for both importers and exporters.

Therefore, the sales invoice plays a fundamental role for both the importers and exporters.

Also, in most instances, use of a proforma invoice is unacceptable for shipping. Instead, a sales invoice is often necessary.

Broadly, it’s because it provides the basis upon which the trade is completed in regards to bookkeeping, accounts and tariff calculation.

iii. Packing List

Ordinarily, this is a document is more or less similar to sales invoice only that it doesn’t include pricing.

However, it incorporates more information details about the contents of the shipment, such as the weight and measurement.

In general, this document is necessary as a supporting document in the commercial invoice.

iv. Shipping Bill

This is arguably one of the fundamental documents you need for efficient import customs clearance.

It indicates the total outward transmittal of a nation which is under the control of the reserve bank and customs department.

It is necessary to fill the shipping bill within a month of the consignment arriving at the customs location.

Filling of the shipping bill with the necessary custom clearance documents and assessments of goods by customs officials follow suit.

Upon completion of import customs formalities, you’ll obtain a pass order under such bill of shipping.

After receiving the pass order, the goods you’re importing can now move out of the customs area.

What now remains at this stage is payment for all the necessary import charges to the respective carrier of goods.

Upon making this payment, the cargo then moves out of the customs area to your place.

v. Bill of Lading or Airwave Bill

Apparently, it is the shipping company that issues this document to you as a consignment receipt.

Most of the Chinese companies always provide you with this particular document together with a copy at some point of the shipment.

They vary from one freight company to the other hence may easily confuse as you may think they are different documents.

But specifically, this document shows the name of the freight company.

It also indicates a text “bill of lading” at its top.

vi. Certificate of Origin

Mainly, this document shows the specific point where the cargo comes from.

In this instance, it will clearly show that the shipment comes from China.

In some cases, it would also provide the specific city or town in China.

So in China, you’ll find out that its only two particular bodies that typically issue this document;

vii. Proper certifications (CFDA, CCC, CIQ, CCIC, CEL)

In China, customs clearance is a fundamental aspect within trading borders.

Most foreign importers always regarding the missing links in Chinese customs and clearance requirements and procedures.

Some companies often assume that they do not need certification for their products.

Again, they believe that there are some exceptions on their goods hence anticipate to clear with customs without hindrances.

Unfortunately, Chinese customs authority always confiscate shipment frequently as a result of missing CCC, CFDA, CIQ, CCIC or CIQ certifications.

In other cases, such shipments could also be having such certifications but fail to correspond to the HS codes as necessary.

You can prevent such problems from arising by ensuring that these points are in place before shipping;

i. Determining whether or not a license or certification is a compulsory requirement in China for shipping.

ii. Whether it will it be necessary for you to provide certification or CIQ declaration should a certificate go missing.

iii. You also need to note that products are usually detained and charged for storage until you provide the necessary documents.

iv. Should the customs inspection team request for certification it’s imperative to verify, CEL, or CFDA for the specific products.

v. A single code of the HS code is never enough for determining the particular requirements.

vi. In instances where certification is not necessary, Chinese accreditation can offer assistance in customs clearing by obtaining a CIQ declaration.

It is the only way of providing official authentication that certification is not a requirement for clearance.

Incidentally, you’ll find that customs authorities maintain that a product certificate is mandatory.

In such instances, you need to confirm if certification is economically justifiable.

The reason behind this is that at times there is always a window period required for certification in China.

And therefore, chances for exemptions could also be high.

On the same note, you also have to be aware that exemption policies also safeguard you as the importer from hefty penalties.

Essentially, some allow importation of particular products without a CCC certificate or any other type of documentation that’s deemed necessary.

What’s more?

To know that such exemption regulations only apply to a few products including the following;

So what I suggest here is that in as much as seeking such exemptions could be advisable, you don’t really need to consider it deeply.

It is also because other options could prove to be cheaper and relatively fast.

Such reasons make it reasonable to seek services of a customs broker with expertise in this field for pertinent assistance in the whole clearing process.

Chinese certification has a vast experience in this area.

What’s the bottom line here?

In many instances, the process could be overwhelming to you as an importer, your experience and knowledge not withstanding.

It is for this reason that I always recommend you seek services of a professional freight forwarder.

Chapter 4: China Customs Prohibited Items

Look here, I want you to get this straight.

China, like any other country has put across all the products that are legal, and importers can comfortably trade in.

You may probably not want to hear this, but here we go.

The Chinese government is against some products that they deem illegal.

The rules concerning such goods are clear.

And therefore, should you find yourself in the wrong hand of the law then you’ll bear the consequences.

Incidentally, this is not a threat but the actual situation on the ground.

It is for that reason that I’ve seen the need for reviewing some of the prohibited items to import in China.

So that at the very least you can have the idea and possibly safe from encountering the wrong side of the law;

You may want to know what kind of items is prohibited from entering or leaving China;

They are as follows;

Weapons, simulated weapons ammunition and explosives,
Forged currencies or securities are never allowed
Food, drugs or other things that could harm humans and animals and are infectious or for epidermis areas.
Poison or addictive drugs are highly prohibited.
Any form of printed matter, films photos movies, videotapes, audiotapes, CDs, DVDs, computer storage devices and other things that could harmChina politics, economy, culture and morality.
Animals and animal products; the following animals and animal products are prohibited;
All living animals (except dogs and cats) and their sperm, zygotes, embryos and other genetic things.
Uncooked or cooked meat (including internal organs) marine animal products.
milk of animals and its products, including raw milk, fresh milk, cream, yoghurt, butter, cheese
Other dairy products which are not heat treated as well as whey powder, silkworm chrysalis, silkworm eggs, animal blood and its products, products of aquatic animals and so on.
Eggs and its products, including fresh eggs preserved eggs, salted eggs, egg liquid, egg shells, mayonnaise, and other egg products which are not heat-treated.
Fur, mane, bones, horns, oil and fats, flesh (viscera included) and the corresponding products
Edible birds’ nests excluding canned birds’ nests.
Transgenic biomaterials.
Plants and plant products
fresh fruit and vegetables
Transgenic biomaterial
Organic cultivation medium.
Soil
tobacco leaves (excluding cut tobacco)
seeds, sprouts, nursery stock and other fertilizable plants Also, you need to know that there are various types of items that are quarantined.
They include;
Transgenic biomaterial.
Human blood and other corresponding products.
Animal bodies, samples, specimen, and offal from animals.
Pathogens of animals and plants, injurious insects and other harmful
Other animals and plants banned in the country.
Any opiates
Rhino horns
Syringes, both with and without needles.
Needles of any description
Stethoscopes
Refrigerators
Television sets
wired phones
Games operated by coins.

Chapter 5:FAQs on China Custom Clearance

Do you have any questions about China customs?

Well, I have sampled a few for you.

1) What is custom clearance?

It refers to a mandatory process for assessing goods that enter or leave a particular country.

This process also facilitates proper documentation and enforcing payment of all necessary charges.

2) How long does customs clearance take?

It is dependent on various factors including the type of consignment and documentation process.

Additionally, some goods may require further scrutiny upon entering the port area hence taking more time.

Therefore, there is no a definite time frame for clearing at the customs.

3) What supporting customs clearance documentation do I require?

Ideally, the process requires three key documentation which includes the following;

Packing list
Suppliers commercial invoice
Shipping document(bill of lading-either original or telex)
Other papers you will need for specific goods would be:
Organic certificate
Health certificate (for foodstuffs etc.)
Health COA(for foodstuffs etc.)
Preference certificates
Certificate of origin.

Amazingly, this is more than the last six years combined.

Undoubtedly, this is irresistible and has seen trade between these two regions expanding in multifold since its establishment.

But what necessarily does this New Silk road involves?

This is probably one of the questions regarding rail freight between China and Europe that you’ll find quite interesting.

Also known as the New Eurasian Land Bridge, New Silk Road is a modern-day overland and maritime trade linkage that is fronted by the Chinese government.

In essence, the route links 35 Chinese cities with 15 major cities within the European continent.

And it is unquestionably the force behind the increasing rail share cargo value in the last two years.

In fact, a rough estimate by experts suggests that this Chinese-European rail network will double the trade share of this two regions in the next decade.

This is obviously good news from an economic perspective.

And, Macro is ready to help you get the most from this rail freight from China.

Back to the main point of discussion;

The Chinese Governmentis the initiator of all the routes falling under New Silk Road.

What’s more?

Governments of other countries have been expressing interest in being part of this initiative.

Through Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)China has successfully, managed to bind the world through the railway infrastructure, trade agreements, and various policy concerns.

And what I am sure you don’t know.

Even countries that have been reluctant in endorsing the BRI project are finally embracing these new routes.

The power of this route lies on its versatility.

All the emerging trading hubs along the path which stretches from China to Europe find healthy competition and efficiency.

This owes to the fact that it is not necessarily a single route but a connection of several interlinked corridors within the Eurasia region.

You see.

In the old Silk Road route, it was a little bit difficult to move goods via the railway when in between there’s a corridor facing political or economic upheaval.

This new one is a bit different since even if such a corridor goes down for various reasons, other suitable routes can be of the essence.

It thus signifies efficiency and reliability of the highest order.

· Operational New Silk Road Freight Train Routes

So we’ve known that Eurasia is a continental landform consisting of both Europe and Asia.

And if you’re wondering how such a landmass can be drawn into a single immense market, then I’ve got an answer for you.

Just continue reading on.

First, this is only possible with the existence of an infrastructural network that links all the emerging trade hubs within the region.

In a significant way, it helps in the movement of products from one point to the other.

Such that at the end of it all, efficiency and competition will be on par.

Now with Eurasia, the New Silk Road makes it possible to merge all the countries into a single massive market.

Presently, this rail network consists of three main operational corridors, which physically link China with Europe. Here is how they connect;

i. Northern Rail Corridor

This route goes to Europe through Russia.

However, more substantial part of this route tends to follow the course synonymous with the Trans-Siberian Express.

ii. Central Rail Corridor

This route, on the other hand, goes through Kazakhstan and links with the Northern rail corridor on the western part of Russia.

iii. Southern Rail Corridor

This is seemingly the longest among the three routes.

It traverses across Kazakhstan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey before linking with European rail network.

Alternatively, you can use the Kazakhstan route to Actau and then cross the Caspian Sea using ferry before reconnecting.

It takes anything between 10.5 to 18 days for the train to get to Europe from China depending on the specific route and other prevailing factors.

The good news:

Macro, as your reliable freight forwarder in China, were are here to make this a reality.

Like I said, it’s all about ensuring efficiency and cost effectiveness when you want to ship from China via rail freight.

And, more interestingly.

This southern route is still developing thus relatively less busy, but northern and central routes are fully operational and apparently booming.

The northern and central rail corridors primarily link merely three substantive customs zones. These include:

It’s remarkable since the entire distance of over 9000 km only covers two border crossings.

On the other hand, the southern route albeit still taking shape, it appears more or less complicated.

As we’ve seen above, this route goes through various customs regimes before finally connecting with the rail network that links it to Europe in Turkey.

Fair enough – unexpectedly, the economic and political disruptions within southern corridor regimes are what have led to its development.

So this is how the southern corridor came to be:

During the Ukraine conflict, EU sanctioned Russia.

Russia instead chose to prohibit the importation of EU products.

What’s more?

Russia also banned the transportation of goods to and from EU block across her terrain.

Now, what’s the essence of the New Silk Road Train Freight?

Here is the thing:

Development of the southern route aims at ensuring that similar and any future Russian reactionary sanctions don’t affect the movement of goods between EU and China.

It is thus imperative to understand that the interest of the BRI; and broader New Silk Road route is to provide as many transportation options as possible.

Such that creation of the diverse and interconnected network would lead to a supercharged economic grid overlaid in entire Eurasia region.

That’s exactly, what Macro will offer in its rail freight services.

And not necessarily a single route which seems so easy to disrupt and subsequently affecting the movement of products.

In fact, in a simple analogy, you can merely refer to it as many different roads leading to one destination.

Figure 14 Rail freight to China

So basically, the idea of this train freight route is to boost the constant growth of business relations within the massive Eurasia continental landmark.

We’ve seen the impact of the New Silk Road train freight.

Now let us move to the next section and find out more details about railway shipping from China to specific destinations within Eurasia.

5.2. Railway Shipping from China to Europe

Do you know Macro offers rail freight from China to Europe?

Well, if you don’t know then mark that from today.

We have helped many customers transport goods from Yiwu, China to other destinations in Europe.

Here is a fact:

China and the EU are the world’s biggest traders.

It thus inevitably follows that goods movement between these two regions has to be active all the time.

So far, we know that China owns the most extensive railway network in the entire world.

And for that reason, many suppliers all over the country can choose to organize for railway transportation of products to their specific clients.

However, this is not in the interest of this section.

The intention here is primarily, to discuss the rail freight from China to Europe.

So keep reading and learn more.

First, as repeatedly mentioned above, China holds the most extended railway network in the world.

This starts from Yiwu International Trade City which is in Zhejiang province and connects several EU nations including, Germany, Spain, Italy, France and the UK.

And by the way, the Yiwu-London Railway Line has enhanced import and export of goods between these two countries.

Remember this one excludes the other internal secondary railway connections within the country that link it to other smaller cities.

That basically shows you that rail freight from China to Europe is somewhat one of the best alternatives especially when shipping bulky cargo.

The EU nations import different types of products from China.

In fact, once the containers reach any of the EU member states, it becomes easier to transport it within the other union member countries.

The truth is.

For the longest time possible, China to Europe corridor has been one of the most vibrant routes for rail freight.

Initially, it is the Old Silk Road network that enabled movement of products from China to European countries in the ancient times.

It was meant to link the ancient Rome and China.

The primary product that China exported to Europe during this time was Silk, thus the name “Silk Road.”

However, with time, it inefficiency reduced as a result of various industrial revolutions and political commotions in different countries along the route.

Nonetheless, the present day New Silk Road is re-establishing this route albeit in different modes including:

However, that is a story for another day!

The route from Yuwi to London became officially operational as of the first day of the year 2017.

It covers approximately 7500 miles.

So mainly, we have two major operational rail freight routes under New Silk Road rail freight for shipping goods from China to Europe;

The Northern Route and Central Route.

The central route passes through Kazakhstan and later links with the northern Trans-Siberian railway on the West of Russia.

Some of the notable goods the China ship to European countries using this railway line include household items, electrical and electronic devices.

Also, we have footwear, clothing, consumer goods and medical apparatus among others.

To have a better picture, let me give you some of the major cities that this route passes through to Europe.

From Yuwi city in China, it goes to Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan. This network then goes to eastern Russia before getting to Moscow.
It is at Moscow that both the central and the northern corridors link up. From Moscow, this railway line goes to Minsk, which is in Belarus then to Warsaw in Poland, Hamburg in Germany, Brussels in Belgium, Brest in France and then London, UK.
Another intersection branches in Brest to Madrid, Spain. You should also note that some secondary lines of this railway interlink other cities to the main line.
Expectedly, this route provides several advantages to the businesspeople, China, Europe and the various countries the train passes through.

Some of the benefits of this railway route include the following;
Opening up of more European markets for the Chinese products. This is arguably the fundamental advantage that this particular mode of transport brings on board.
You see, in various occasions, limited accessibility of goods and products from international markets derails business opportunities.
But once accessing the products becomes easy, the several trading factors become apparent.
Shorter transportation of goods; for the longest time, the European market has been shipping products from China via ocean freight.

Many people label the latter as the convenient and reliable means of moving cargo from China to Europe.

However, the invention on the New Silk Road railway transport is revolutionizing this concept.

For instance, it takes between 10.5 to 18 days to ship consignments via this route.

So in general, the time has become short and ideal for non-perishable products to arrive timely.

It is relatively affordable; when you compare transporting cargo via this route with air freight, you’ll realize that you cut considerable costs.
Of course, air is faster than rail freight, but when it’s not a matter of transporting perishable goods, this is the best route for European importers from China.
Alternative for full or less container load; the China-Europe railway system provides the option of whether to transport full or less container loads.

It subsequently saves time and cost since unlike ocean you do not necessarily have to wait for the container to be full before you can ship it.

A fundamental disadvantage that we can say this railway route has is that it comparatively pollutes the environment compared to ocean freight.

Also, another noteworthy disadvantage of this route is that it passes through many countries.

As you know, different nations tend have different ideologies regarding various factors.

So in any event that one of the countries experience political, economic and social disruptions, transport can be paralyzed.

Nevertheless, the New Eurasian Land Bridge railway freight is arguably the best when it comes to reliability.

And, Macro can actually confirm that rail freight from China to Europe, is possible and we are part of it.

It’s only that it is unlikely to tell when a particular country can experience disastrous challenges.

Additionally, it gives you the capacity to monitor the movement of the good when in transit.

Such that you’ll know where precisely the consignment is at every moment you wish to know before receiving it.

However, like I did mention in the earlier parts of this chapter, there’s also another wing of New Silk Road railway known as a Southern corridor.

It also links China to Europe and can be used in shipping goods between these two regions.

It is still developing hence not necessarily efficient like the northern corridor.

5.3. Railway Shipping from China to Russia

China is generally a vast country and so is Russia.

A rugged-terrain nation known as Mongolia separates these two countries.

But since the two countries are relatively large, it means the distance from one point of the country to the other in another country is generally long.

Shipping of goods between China and Russia for a very long time has been through railway system.

The two countries have a strong rail network that serves various cities within them.

However, it is significant to understand that these two countries have a considerable number of railway networks linking them from various points.

But in this section, we’ll discuss the significant rail networks that are known for transporting bulk cargo from China to Russia.

· Trans-Mongolian Line

This line connects China to Russia via Mongolia, no wonder the name.

It starts from Beijing in China and passes through Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia before joining the Trans-Siberian railway at Ulan-Ade, Russia.

The completion of this line was in 1961, and it is seemingly the shortest line between Beijing and Trans-Siberian Railway.

An ideal benefit of this line is that it helps in opening up trading opportunities between the two nations.

Also, it serves Mongolia, which is a landlocked nation.

Its shortcoming is that it has limited capacity owing to the fact that it is single-track.

· China-Kazakhstan-Russia Railway Line

This is another notable railway route for shipping goods from China to Russia.

Ideally, the initiative for constructing this line began in 1950’s.

Both Russia and China had to build own lines and connect them to Kazakhstan/Xinjiang border.

However, as a result of political instability in the then Soviet, construction of this line from the Chinese side stopped.

It follows that construction of several smaller lines also took place in a bid of connecting this two countries via Kazakhstan.

This corridor is somewhat complicated owing to the fact of various line constructions that link it to other many lines.

Purposefully though, it helps in the smooth movement of cargo from China to Russia and also in serving the cities along the line.

The downside is that it passes through different border points hence causing a few delays at the customs.

· New Eurasian Land Bridge

It is arguably one of the most momentous rail networks that offer efficient shipping of goods from China to Russia.

I won’t explain much about it here since we covered its fundamental elements on the earlier sections of this chapter.

But of significance is to know that it is an initiative fronted by the Chinese government.

It also has quite a number of feeder lines from various cities within China.

This line serves Russia from Lianyungang, China, uninterrupted all the way to Almaty in Kazakhstan.

It then extends to Russia to connect with the Trans-Siberian Railway which in turns goes up to Moscow.

It is a reliable line given that it is a Trans-national line.

Therefore, few cases of delay are often experienced on this railway line.

It is advantageous because it helps in easy transportation of bulk cargo from China to Russia and even to Western Europe.

However, it is relatively slow hence unsuitable for the highly perishable products.

Some of the common goods Macro ships China to Russia shipped via this rail freight route include Coal, textiles, medical apparatus, computer devices, and furniture among others.

5.4.Railway Shipping from China to Central Asia

If there’s anything that is playing a great role in expanding trade and boosting the economy of Central Asia, then it has to be rail freight from China.

You see.

Most of the Central Asian countries have been in political turmoil for a long time.

So the economies have been stagnant since no meaningful activity have been taking place, especially with their neighbours.

However, rail freight from China to Central Asia is expanding the economy in multifold.

In fact, China manufactures most of the import products within the central Asia region.

Anyway, we’ll discuss that one some other day.

For now, let’s find out the aspects regarding rail freight from China to the central Asia region.

· New Eurasian Land Bridge (Southern Corridor)

It is arguably the main corridor for transporting several goods via train from China.

For a long time, concerns for making Central Asia an economic hub have been in process.

The challenge, however, was means of transporting goods from China in bulk but the affordable way. And the conception of creating the New Silk Road rail route became alive.

The line that serves central Asia is the Southern corridor which essentially runs from Western China all the way to West Europe around Turkey via central Asian countries.

Initially, the construction of this line was limited to Almaty, Kazakhstan.

It was after an inter-governmental agreement that Lianyungang Port serve the Kazakh exports/imports needs.

However, the New Silk Road initiative saw it ideal to extend the route to and provide passage to West Europe.

So from Almaty in Kazakhstan, this southern route goes to Tashkent and Samarkand, both in Uzbekistan.

Then it extends to Tejen, Turkmenistan.

It then goes to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan and ends at Türkmenbaşy, a port town of the Caspian Sea.

But then, goods, in this case, have to be loaded and off-loaded and shipped to the border port in Georgia.

It is quite tasking and consumes time hence tends to cause delays especially for goods needed for the specified duration.

And so construction of another line from Tejan began in 1996 to pass through Iran at Serakhs and reach the Persian Gulf.

This branch stretches to Caucasus and Turkey, And in 2016, the first cargo train on this route from Yiwu to Teheran in 14 days.

This route also passes through Azerbaijan and Georgia then it connects with the European Railway Network.

So basically, this route is opening up all these central Asia corridors for better trading activities.

Normally, Macro uses this rail freight network to ship medical appliances, textiles, footwear, motor vehicle and automotive parts.

Others include furniture, plastics, computers and related devices as well as electronics and electrical appliances.

One major disadvantage of this southern line is that it is still developing hence does not have many activities.

Furthermore, it is only used on a need-basis. Such that, importers, mainly from west Europe tend to use the northern corridor wing of the New Silk Road rail network.

It also passes through different countries that have different customs border policies hence derailing movement of some items.

Or worse still:

It limits the type of goods to transport on this line since some products are never acceptable in certain countries within the range.

Besides, it is also prone to different socio-political upheavals hence can prevent movement of products from China to other countries within the region.

Thus, it is not inherently a reliable line given that it is yet to become fully operational.

However, it is ironical because even with the political conflicts that marred most of the countries it passes through, most of the governments approved it.

To a great extent, it expands the economies of the countries within the region and expanding trading activities.

So primarily, the railway network in China is one of its most significant assets when it comes to shipping of good to other countries within the region and abroad.

Several options are available regardless of the destination of the goods as long as it is within Europe and Asia.

Therefore, you only need to ensure that you get the right shipper that understands the dynamics of railway shipping from China.

They ought to know the best routes suitable at that specific time for the particular goods you’re transporting.

This way, you’ll be able to get the best results always as you ship your cargo from China.

Hopefully, though, you now have a rough idea regarding the railway routes in China to Europe, Russia, and Central Asia to possibly consider.

And I can confirm this today:

As long as you live within Europe, Central Asia and Russia, where there is rail network you can easily ship goods from China to your local town.

Like I said earlier, Macro will evaluate the situation at hand and recommend if rail freight is the best.

Chapter 6:Frequently Asked Questions on Railway Shipping from China

It covers the basics of rail freight from China to Central Asia, Russia and Europe, to even more advanced subjects.

Let’s dive right in.

1. What is rail freight?

Rail freight is the transportation of goods from destination A to destination B by train.

It is a conventional method of surface transport in China, Asia, and Europe.

2. Why rail freight over other forms of international freight?

Well, in comparison, rail transportation is a complimentary freight method.

Such that while rail freight is cheaper than air freight, it is faster than sea freight and equally reliable.

Rail freight makes for a good alternative when your supplier in China is taking too long to avail the goods for transportation.

Or, when you just can’t match air freight rates.

3. The railway network connects to which cities in China?

For starters, the Chinese railway network is one of the most extensive railway networks in the world.

It connects to destinations across the Far East, Middle East, Russia and the western parts of Europe.

In China nonetheless, the network connects to over twenty cities.

These include; Yiwu, Shanghai, Qingdao, Chengdu, Wuhan, Suzhou, Hebei, Chongqing and many more.

Note however that Yiwu is kind of like the main freight transportation hub in China.

4. Are there restrictions on what you can ship?

Pretty much yes.

Moving to hazardous goods, for instance, is restricted by international law.

Living cargo, i.e., livestock is also restricted as well as anything that is deemed unsafe for transportation by rail.

5. Do trains only ship in containers?

No, they don’t.

Transportation by rail will depend on the kind of goods you intend to move.

Bulk cargo can be transported in containers which are filled and sealed.

Liquids and gases are shipped in tanks.

So generally, trains don’t just transport using containers.

There are other ways to transport goods to the intended destination safely.

It all depends on what kind of goods they are and what conditions must be met for their safe transportation.

6. Can I ship one container using rail freight from China?

Yes.

You can ship one container.

7. What about half a container or less?

Yes, you can.

There are no restrictions as to how much of a container you can move by rail.

So if your goods aren’t enough to fill up a standard container, you can still ship it as an LCL freight.

Note that container load in rail freight work pretty much the same way as in sea freight.

The same incoterms apply here.

This means that your cargo can be loaded as an LCL or an FCL depending on its volume, and mostly your shipping needs.

8. What is bulk cargo in rail freight?

This is cargo that is transported in large volumes without being packaged.

It is always loaded and offload by pouring or dropping.

It could be ballast, coal, iron ore, grains petroleum, etc.

9. How much does it cost to ship from China to the west by rail?

Shipping by rail to any destination is often cheaper than air freight.

Nonetheless, the cost is somewhat similar to sea freight costs.

The good thing about rail freight is that volumetric charges do not apply here.

Also, rail freight doesn’t have excessive surcharges like in air and sea freight.

10. What routes are used to ship to Russia?

The network from China to Russia is known as the Eurasian railway network.

This network goes from Yiwu, Shanghai China through Kazakhstan, Russia and finally London.

11. How long does it take to deliver goods from China to Europe by rail?

Comparatively, rail freight is much faster than sea freight when it comes to delivering goods from China to Europe.

So, while freight by sea will take approximately 45 days, rail takes between 16-20 days to move goods from China to Europe.

12. Is rail freight insured?

Yes, it is, especially if the cargo you are shipping is of high value.

13. What do the terms ‘intermodal’ and carload’ mean, in rail freight?

The term intermodal in rail freight refers to when cargo transportation combines the use of trains and other modes of transport, i.e., road.

Carload, on the other hand, is where cargo stays on the train in the entire shipping journey.

14. So how do I know if I am intermodal or carload customer?

Well, you are an intermodal customer if you’ll need to combine the use of train, trucks or any other vessel as part of your cargo’s transit.

In this case, your cargo from China will be loaded in an intermodal container.

This type of container provides for smooth transition of cargo between various destinations and transportation modes.

To qualify as a carload customer, however, you have to have access to rail both in China and the destination – and when your goods will remain on the train throughout the journey.

15. Your final destination is not rail served. Can you still ship by rail?

Yes, you can.

You will ship your goods from China by rail to a strategic train station.

From there, you’ll arrange how the goods will be moved from the station to wherever you want them to.

16. As an intermodal customer, what happens to my cargo when it gets to the station platform?

Well, it will be loaded onto trucks or whatever vessel that can safely and conveniently transport the cargo to its final destination.

17. Can I ship perishable goods by rail?

Yes, you can.

There are individual containers that designed to transport temperature-sensitive goods.

Like in sea freight, these are also called reefer containers.

18. Is cargo tracking possible with rail freight?

Rail freight like any other form of freight is traceable.

As long as you have the right bill of lading number, and the name of the shipping line, you can easily track your cargo from wherever.

19. Which documents do I need to finalize rail freight logistics?

You may not know this, but rail freight from China is quite still new.

It is so new that documentation and regulations governing rail freight are still not precise.

Don’t worry, however; your freight forwarder should be able to help you when it gets to this stage.

By the way, did I answer all your questions either here or in other chapters of this guide?

Well, if you have any other issue – please contact me.

I am here to help you understand rail freight from China to Europe, Russia and Central Asia.

Conclusion

As you can see, the benefits of rail freight are between ocean freight and sea freight.

You have also seen that the railway network from China to Europe, Russia and Central Asian has grown in the recent past.

Interestingly, already trains are leaving China to other destinations as an expansion of the railway network is still ongoing.

Well, as a person who imports from China, you can take advantage of this opportunity.

The good news – Macro, your reliable freight forwarder in China is here to help you.

Macro rail freight is reliable and cost-effective. Contact us today for free quote on rail freight.