Most customs delays aren't about freight — they're about paperwork. Here's the complete document checklist for importing from China, plus the destination-specific extras that catch first-time importers.
The Core Documents (every shipment)
| Document | What it does |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares value, goods, buyer/seller, Incoterm — the basis for duty. |
| Packing List | Carton count, weights, dimensions, what's in each box. |
| Bill of Lading (sea) / Air Waybill (air) | The transport contract and cargo receipt. |
| HS Code classification | Determines duty rate — a wrong code is costly (see HS code errors). |
Often Required
- Certificate of Origin — needed to claim FTA duty reductions (e.g. ChAFTA for Australia).
- MSDS & UN38.3 — for batteries and dangerous goods (see lithium battery shipping).
- Fumigation / phytosanitary certificate — for wood packaging and natural materials.
- Product compliance — CE (EU), FCC (US), RCM (Australia), etc.
Destination-Specific Registrations
- USA: ISF (10+2) filed 24h before vessel loading; customs bond; importer of record.
- EU: EORI number; IOSS for B2C under €150.
- UK: EORI GB; UK VAT registration; CDS declaration (UK guide).
- Canada: CARM registration; GST/PST.
The #1 Cause of Customs Delays
Mismatches — the invoice value not matching the declared value, HS codes that don't fit the goods, or a packing list that doesn't reconcile with the cartons. Consistent, accurate documents clear fast; sloppy ones get flagged.
Bottom Line
Get the four core documents right, add the certificates your goods and destination require, and complete destination registrations before cargo arrives. Ship DDP and your forwarder prepares and files all of it. Send us your shipment and we'll tell you exactly which documents you need.
Sammi Ding
Has handled 500+ shipments from China to Australia, US and Europe. Based in our Shenzhen office, available on WhatsApp at +86 136 8628 7742.