The customs clearance problems and coping strategies of Chinese export goods in foreign logistics

I. Introduction
With the continuous development of China’s manufacturing industry and the advancement of the “Belt and Road” initiative, the scale of China’s commodity exports has continued to expand. However, in the process of cross-border logistics, customs clearance often becomes a key factor affecting logistics efficiency and cost. Differences in customs policies, trade barriers, document requirements, etc. in different countries have led to many challenges for Chinese export companies in overseas customs clearance. This article aims to analyze the main customs clearance problems of Chinese export goods in foreign logistics and propose corresponding coping strategies to help companies optimize cross-border logistics management and enhance international competitiveness.

II. The main difficulties in customs clearance of Chinese export goods abroad

1. Complex customs policies and regulations
   There are large differences in customs policies, tax systems and import restrictions in different countries. If companies fail to fully understand the relevant regulations of the target market, the goods may be detained, fined or even returned. For example:

High tariffs and trade barriers: Some countries impose high anti-dumping duties or set up technical trade barriers on Chinese goods (such as the EU’s CE certification and the US FDA certification).

Import restrictions: Some countries have strict access requirements for specific goods (such as electronic products, food, and medicines). If relevant licenses are not obtained in advance, customs clearance may be delayed.

2. Incomplete or non-compliant documents
   If there are errors or omissions in customs clearance documents (such as commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, bills of lading, etc.), it will directly affect the efficiency of customs clearance. Common problems include:

Inconsistent document information (such as HS code errors, inconsistent declaration of goods value);

Lack of necessary certification (such as SGS inspection, fumigation certificate);

Language barriers (some countries require documents to be in their own language).

3. Cargo inspection and delay risks
   Customs may conduct random or targeted inspections on specific goods, especially high-value and sensitive goods (such as electronic products and cosmetics). Inspections not only increase time costs, but may also lead to additional expenses due to storage fees and demurrage fees.
4. Opaque logistics information
   The level of customs informatization in some countries is low, and it is difficult for companies to track the customs clearance status of goods in real time, affecting the efficiency of supply chain management.
5. Response strategies
6. Study the regulations of the target market in advance
   Work with professional customs clearance agents or local law firms to understand the latest customs policies;
   Pay attention to free trade agreements (such as RCEP) and use tariff preferential policies to reduce costs;
   Ensure that products meet the technical standards of the target market (such as EU CE and US FCC).
7. Standardize customs clearance document management
   Use standardized templates to ensure the accuracy of documents such as commercial invoices and packing lists;
   Use the correct HS code to avoid tariff differences due to incorrect classification;
   Apply for necessary documents such as certificates of origin and inspection and quarantine certificates in advance.
8. Optimize logistics solutions
   Choose experienced international logistics service providers, especially those who are familiar with the customs clearance process of the target market;
   For countries with high inspection rates (such as the United States and Brazil), consider pre-clearance or DDP (delivery duty paid);
   Use digital logistics platforms (such as Flexport and DHL Trade Automation) to improve customs clearance transparency.
9. Establish an emergency plan
   Reserve sufficient customs clearance time to avoid delays affecting delivery time;

Purchase freight insurance to reduce the risk of goods being detained or damaged;

Cooperate with overseas warehouses or bonded warehouses to flexibly respond to emergencies.

IV. Conclusion
Customs clearance is a key link in cross-border logistics. Chinese export companies need to pay full attention to the customs requirements of the target market, optimize document management, and choose suitable logistics partners. Through compliant operations and digital means, companies can effectively reduce customs clearance risks, improve international supply chain efficiency, and enhance global market competitiveness.