Shanghais Waigaoqiao Yangshan Ports Differ in Export Clearance

This article provides a detailed analysis of Shanghai's export customs clearance process, focusing on the differences between Waigaoqiao and Yangshan ports in terms of customs declaration and port entry sequence. It emphasizes the importance of manifest information and port entry plans. Furthermore, it offers strategies for handling potential inspections at Yangshan Port. The aim is to help export companies understand the process, avoid delays, and ensure smooth operations. The guide covers key aspects to navigate the complexities of exporting from Shanghai through these major ports.

For businesses shipping goods internationally, understanding export procedures at Shanghai Port—a critical hub for global trade—is essential to avoid delays and unexpected costs. The process involves distinct steps between Waigaoqiao (Outer Port) and Yangshan Port, particularly regarding customs declaration and container entry sequences.

1. Booking and Pre-Allocation: The First Step

The export process begins with securing vessel space. After confirming availability with shipping lines, forwarders submit bookings through shipping agents. Upon confirmation, critical details like the bill of lading number and voyage information are provided. The subsequent release of pre-allocation data enables container pickup and serves as the foundation for customs clearance and port entry.

2. Key Differences: Waigaoqiao vs. Yangshan

Shanghai's two major port areas follow contrasting operational sequences:

Waigaoqiao (Outer Port): Containers enter the port before customs clearance. For Wednesday departures, Monday evening or Tuesday morning arrivals allow sufficient time for processing. Customs releases secondary clearance ("second release") notifications if no inspection is required.
Yangshan: Customs declarations precede physical port entry. For Wednesday sailings, Monday is typically the cutoff, with Saturday completion recommended to accommodate potential inspections. Unlike Waigaoqiao, Yangshan inspection notifications occur during port entry.

3. Pre-Clearance Preparation: The Role of Manifest Data

Both ports require confirmed manifest data from shipping agents before filing declarations. Customs acknowledgment of this data is mandatory prior to submission, making timely communication with agents crucial.

4. Port Entry Planning: Avoiding Surcharges

Containers may only enter port after verifying vessel receiving schedules through EDI systems or terminal websites (e.g., Waigaoqiao Phase 1 or Yangshan Phase 3). Premature arrivals risk incurring pre-entry fees or rejection.

5. Waigaoqiao Operations: Monitoring Secondary Release

After port entry and declaration, forwarders track clearance status through customs systems. Inspections delay secondary release notifications until completion.

6. Yangshan Procedures: Handling Inspections

Yangshan's inspection scenarios require specific responses:

Luchaogang Inspection: Required when port systems show no entry records. Full-container loads need packing lists; LCL shipments additionally require stowage plans showing cargo positions.
Direct Entry: Uninspected containers proceed to port, with secondary release typically appearing within 1-2 hours.
Unnotified Inspections: When clearance stalls despite no alerts, immediate agent coordination is necessary—especially for LCL shipments where individual consignments might hold up releases.

7. Cutoff Times: Carrier-Specific Deadlines

Vessel closing times vary by shipping line (e.g., Maersk often requires 48-hour advance). Missing these deadlines may incur late fees.

8. Conclusion: Process Mastery Prevents Disruptions

Shanghai's dual-port system demands precise coordination with carriers, agents, customs brokers, and truckers. Recognizing procedural distinctions and maintaining proactive communication ensures smooth exports while minimizing costly interruptions.