8 Core Risks and Countermeasures for Import Agency

I.Customs Valuation: Fatal Pitfalls in Declared Value

After the upgrade of the customs big data system in 2026,I handled a case of importing a German equipment: the client declared based on the contract amount but was questioned by the customs.By retrieving transaction records of the same model equipment in the same period,it was found that the customs used the deductive valuation method for revaluation,and finally the client paid the difference tax of 23%.Key monitoring points for import customs valuation:

• Related Party Declaration: Related transactions must clearly state transaction details in the remarks column of the customs declaration form
• Royalties: Technical patent fees shall be included in the dutiable price,and separate items are required since 2026
• Transport Surcharges: For overseas freight under EXW terms,original payment vouchers shall be provided

II.Product Access: Special Warnings for Chemicals and Machinery

2.1 Compliance Points for Chemical Imports

Last year,when helping Mr.Yi import a coating,it was detained at the port for 5 days due to failure to update the GHS-version hazard labels.Key points to note:

• MSDS documents must include the UN number of the 2026 edition
• The validity period of the hazard classification and identification report has been shortened to 90 days
• Lithium battery products must be affixed with anti-counterfeiting traceability QR codes separately

2.2 Special Supervision for Mechanical and Electrical Equipment

A medical equipment import was returned due to failure to obtain 3C Catalog Exemption Confirmation.Key steps:

• Old mechanical and electrical equipment must apply for pre-shipment inspection certificates in advance
• Mechanical pressure vessels must provide original ASME certifications
• EU electronic equipment must comply with the new CE 2026 energy efficiency standards

III.Quarantine and Licenses: Lifelines for Specific Goods

When Ms.Xie imported Australian beef,the goods were detained due to failure to pre-examine the quarantine license category code.Key operations:

IV.Global Policy Adaptation: 2026 New Tariff Rules

Operational errors in RCEP Certificates of Origin once caused the client to lose 12% tariff preferences.

• For ASEAN fruit imports,confirm the direct shipment rule (re-viziting required if transshipped via Hong Kong)
• For US mechanical and electrical products,pay attention to quarterly updated list of Section 301 tariffs
• Pilot scope of EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) expanded to fastener products

V.Document Consistency: Root Cause of 90% Inspection Issues

A batch of instruments triggered customs control due to brand spelling errors.Key verification points:

• First 6 digits of HS code must exactly match customs power of attorney
• Product model must match test report in letter case
• Packaging marks must reflect ISO code of country of origin

VI.Zhongshitong Practical Case: Full Record of Crisis Resolution

Mr.Han’s chemical raw materials arrived at Dubai Port before Ramadan:

• Situation: Only 72 hours left until free period expires,local customs suspended clearance
• Action: Activated Middle East agency network to complete pre-declaration + tax prepayment
• Result: Avoided USD 18,000 demurrage fees

VII.Full Process Risk Control Operation Checklist

• Contract Clause Traps: Under FOB terms,clarify party responsible for document exchange fees
• Exchange Loss Prevention: Lock timing of T+1 forward foreign exchange purchase
• Port Selection: Shanghai Yangshan Port has opened priority inspection channel for fresh goods
• Pre-classification Services: Apply for written ruling for disputed goods (20 working days)
• Deposit Management: Use tariff guarantee insurance instead of cash for anti-dumping goods