Imagine your goods arriving in China after a long overseas journey, only to learn they cannot be cleared directly but must be transported to another city for customs procedures. This common scenario in cross-border trade is known as "transit customs clearance" or "transshipment under customs control." While the process may seem daunting at first, understanding its mechanisms can significantly streamline your import-export operations.
What Is Transit Customs Clearance?
Transit customs clearance refers to a customs procedure where regulated goods are permitted to move between different customs checkpoints within a country, with final import/export formalities completed at the destination location. This "transfer station" approach helps accelerate cargo distribution at ports, simplifies procedures for consignors and consignees, and improves overall logistics efficiency.
Goods Requiring Transit Customs Clearance
Three primary scenarios typically necessitate transit customs clearance:
- Import Transit: Goods entering from abroad that require initial processing at the entry port before final clearance at another designated customs location (destination customs).
- Export Transit: Goods that have completed export declaration formalities at the origin but require physical export through a different port (exit port).
- Domestic Transit: Goods moving between different customs-controlled zones within the country.
Eligibility Requirements
Not all goods qualify for transit customs clearance. The following conditions must be met:
- Absence of Customs Office: Required when the final destination or origin lacks a customs office, necessitating clearance at the nearest designated customs location.
- Sealed Transportation: Vehicles or containers must have adequate sealing capability to ensure cargo security during transit. Special provisions exist for oversized or irregular cargo that cannot be sealed.
- Approved Carriers: Transportation must be handled by customs-approved companies with appropriate qualifications and credibility.
- Special Exceptions: Customs may approve transit clearance for goods not meeting standard requirements upon special application by import/export parties.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by customs-approved declaration entities through certified customs declaration personnel holding valid credentials. This ensures accurate and standardized documentation.
Key Operational Considerations
Several critical rules govern transit customs clearance operations:
- Goods cannot be opened, modified, exchanged, withdrawn, or delivered without customs authorization.
- Customs seals (including approved commercial seals) must remain intact throughout transit.
- Goods must be stored at customs-approved warehouses or facilities.
- Customs may require escorts for certain shipments, with applicants responsible for associated fees and logistical support.
Required Documentation
The following documents must be submitted for transit clearance:
For Import Transit:
- Three copies of the "Import Transit Customs Declaration Form" (one copy for international rail shipments)
- Relevant certificates and shipping documents
- For licensed imports: prior submission of import licenses to destination customs for verification and issuance of transit connection documents
- Complete and timely delivery of customs-sealed documents to destination customs within prescribed timelines
- Air shipments with matching destination and waybill information may use simplified procedures with "Customs Supervised Goods" stamps
For Export Transit:
- Two copies of the "Export Transit Customs Declaration Form"
- "Export Goods Declaration Form" for tax and clearance purposes
- Exit customs will return processing receipts to origin customs post-export
Special Provisions for Quota-Controlled Mechanical and Electrical Products
Notably, certain quota-controlled mechanical and electrical products (including complete sets, key components, and supporting equipment) generally require direct clearance at entry ports under China's port taxation policy, with limited exceptions:
- Automobiles and key components
- Motorcycles and key components
- Audio equipment and cores
- Computers and peripherals
- Color TVs and picture tubes
- Video equipment and key components
- Refrigerators and compressors
- Air conditioners and compressors
Exceptions include approved domestic manufacturers of automobiles/motorcycles importing key components, and certain rail/air shipments meeting specific conditions regarding transport method consistency, customs presence at destinations, and proper sealing.
While transit customs clearance presents procedural complexities, proper understanding of regulations and thorough documentation preparation enables businesses to navigate the process efficiently, ensuring timely and secure cargo delivery.