What was once a cumbersome cross-border logistics process requiring multiple documents can now be completed with just a single filing, as China implements a groundbreaking new customs clearance model. The General Administration of Customs' Announcement No. 12 of 2024, effective January 27, marks the pilot phase of a revolutionary "single-document-through" regulatory model for sea-rail intermodal and water-water transshipment of import-export goods.
This reform eliminates redundant declaration requirements when goods switch between different transportation modes, optimizing traditional customs transfer procedures. The initiative is expected to accelerate the development of multimodal transport systems including the China-Europe Railway Express and inland ports, significantly reducing clearance costs while improving logistics efficiency.
Streamlined Process: How the "Single Document" System Works
The core innovation lies in the "single-document-through" clearance model. Previously, companies engaged in multimodal transport had to repeatedly file transfer declarations at different customs districts and transportation stages. Under the new rules, qualified containerized goods only require a one-time submission of multimodal transport application forms and electronic data through the International Trade "Single Window" platform.
Customs authorities then complete review and release procedures based on this single submission, achieving true "one-time declaration, single-document clearance." Early adopters like cotton importers at Qingdao port have reported 50% reduction in clearance time and approximately 200 yuan ($28) savings per shipment , with significantly reduced manual operations and "zero-wait" transshipment.
Enhanced Oversight: Building a Secure Transport Framework
The new policy establishes comprehensive monitoring requirements to ensure cargo safety throughout the transport chain. Multimodal transport operators, as primary responsible parties, must maintain intact commercial seals on containers throughout transit and obtain customs approval before any opening. Real-time arrival/departure information must be transmitted to customs at key nodes including origin, transshipment points, and destinations.
Transshipment procedures gain added flexibility, with approved rail transfers permitted at non-supervised sites under targeted customs oversight. Standardized workflows cover the entire process from application submission to cargo arrival reporting, transshipment operations, and final release—providing clear operational guidelines for businesses.
Economic Impact: Driving Multimodal Transport Growth
The pilot program delivers tangible benefits across the trade ecosystem. Businesses gain dual advantages of reduced operational costs and faster clearance , accelerating capital turnover and enhancing competitiveness. The logistics sector sees unlocked potential for sea-rail intermodal transport (which already offers about 30% cost savings over traditional methods) through eliminated procedural barriers.
At the macroeconomic level, the reform strengthens China-Europe rail services and inland ports while improving international logistics channel stability. By creating seamless connections between hubs, corridors and networks, the system supports domestic-international dual circulation and provides stronger logistics foundations for foreign trade growth.
Nationwide Expansion: Building a Smarter Logistics Network
The pilot currently operates across major ports in Shandong, Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. As the program expands and optimizes, customs authorities plan additional supporting measures to extend benefits to more enterprises. The ultimate vision is a highly efficient, intelligent and environmentally sustainable cross-border logistics network that elevates China's global trade services.
Industry participants widely acknowledge the system's transformative potential, citing simplified procedures, cost reductions and efficiency gains that strengthen international competitiveness. Experts highlight the model's role in promoting trade facilitation and optimizing business environments, while noting remaining challenges in information sharing between transport modes and regional policy coordination.
Beyond immediate trade benefits, the reform stimulates related industries including rail infrastructure, port development, and logistics technology sectors—creating ripple effects across the entire supply chain ecosystem.