Imagine carefully selecting products, eagerly preparing to ship them overseas, only to have them held up or even returned by customs due to unfamiliarity with clearance procedures. For cross-border e-commerce sellers, this frustrating scenario is all too common. Today we present a practical guide to export customs clearance that will help your goods move smoothly across borders.
Simply put, customs declaration is an essential step when shipping products internationally. Regardless of transportation method, exporters must complete proper customs clearance procedures before shipment to ensure smooth transit and avoid unnecessary losses. Below we examine specific requirements for different e-commerce business models.
I. Cross-Border B2B Exports: Two Models, Two Strategies
Cross-border B2B exports primarily operate under two models - "9710" and "9810" - each with distinct customs requirements.
"9710" Model: Direct Export for Efficiency
The "9710" model involves domestic companies selling directly to overseas businesses through e-commerce platforms, with goods shipped via cross-border logistics. In this model, companies must submit accurate declaration data through China's International Trade "Single Window" or "Internet + Customs" platform.
Key Considerations:
- High-value or regulated goods: For shipments exceeding RMB 5,000 or involving licenses, inspections, or tax considerations, clearance must be processed through the H2018 customs management system, requiring more detailed documentation.
- Low-value standard goods: For shipments under RMB 5,000 without special requirements, clearance can be processed through either the H2018 system or the Cross-border E-commerce Export Unified System for simplified procedures.
"9810" Model: Overseas Warehousing for Flexibility
The "9810" model involves domestic companies first exporting goods to overseas warehouses, then fulfilling orders through e-commerce platforms. While this approach reduces delivery times, it imposes stricter customs requirements.
Requirements: Companies must complete customs registration and maintain at least "General Credit" status in China's enterprise credit rating system.
Clearance Process: Before declaration, companies must transmit overseas warehouse booking information to customs through designated platforms, selecting appropriate clearance systems based on shipment value and regulatory requirements.
II. Cross-Border Retail Exports (B2C, Code 9610): Simplified Declaration
In B2C exports (direct-to-consumer sales), qualified e-commerce companies or platforms must connect with customs systems. After international consumers place orders, companies transmit electronic order details, payment records, and shipping information to customs before submitting declaration lists.
Key Feature: Retail exports follow a "list verification, summary declaration" process where individual orders are declared separately but submitted collectively. Within Cross-border E-Commerce Comprehensive Pilot Zones, qualified exports may use an even more streamlined "list verification, summary statistics" approach.
Understanding these distinct clearance processes enables cross-border sellers to select the most efficient model for their business needs, reducing costs while ensuring smooth international shipments.