Accurate analysis and strategy of cosmetic liquid exports from China to Canada

Analysis on whether customs will be detained
There is indeed a risk of cosmetic liquids being detained by customs when exporting from China to Canada, but this possibility can be greatly reduced through compliance operations. Canadian customs has strict regulations on the import of cosmetics. The main reasons for customs detention include:

Ingredients do not comply with Canadian regulations

Labels do not meet requirements

Missing necessary certification documents

False declared value

Packaging does not meet transportation standards

Key points

1. Ingredient compliance

Make sure all ingredients comply with C.01.040 to C.01.049 of the Canadian Food and Drug Regulations

Cosmetic ingredients prohibited by Health Canada (such as certain heavy metals, specific chemicals) are prohibited

Restricted ingredients (such as preservatives, sunscreens) must be within the permitted range

2. Product registration and notification

Canada does not require pre-market approval for cosmetics, but a cosmetic notification (CNT) must be submitted within 10 days of the first sale

The INCI name and concentration range of the product ingredients must be provided

3. Label requirements
   Bilingual labels must be used in English and French

Must include: product name, net content, ingredient list (in descending order of content), manufacturer/importer information, country of origin

Special-purpose cosmetics (such as sunscreen, acne treatment) must be marked with “Drug Identification Number”(DIN)

4. Document preparation
   Commercial invoice (detailed description of the goods)

Packing list

Certificate of origin

Ingredient safety assessment report

Certificate of free sale (optional but recommended)

MSDS (Safety Data Sheet)

Export strategy

1. Preliminary preparation stage
   Commission a professional laboratory to conduct ingredient testing and compliance assessment

Confirm all regulatory requirements with Canadian importers

Design bilingual labels that meet Canadian standards

2. Logistics selection
   Choose an international logistics company with experience in cosmetic transportation

Liquid products must use leak-proof packaging in accordance with IATA regulations

Consider a small trial shipment to test the customs clearance process

3. Customs clearance skills
   The declared value should be true and reasonable, avoid underreporting

HS code is usually 3304 (beauty or cosmetics and skin care products)

Confirm the tariff rate with Canadian importers in advance (usually 6.5%)

4. Risk management
   Purchase transportation insurance

Prepare backup plans to deal with possible customs detention

Keep copies of all test reports and certification documents

Solutions to common problems
Q: What if the product is detained by Canadian customs?
A: Contact the customs clearance agent immediately and supplement the required documents according to the customs notification. You may need to provide a more detailed description of the product ingredients or modify the label.

Q: Is it easier to clear customs for small batch shipments?

A: Yes, it is recommended to make a small batch trial order (sample quantity) for the first export, which can reduce the inspection rate and risk.

Q: Is a Canadian agent required?

A: Although it is not mandatory, designating a responsible representative in Canada (usually an importer) will greatly simplify the process.

Through the above compliance operations and professional preparations, the customs clearance success rate of Chinese cosmetic liquid exports to Canada can be significantly improved. It is recommended that first-time exporters seek the assistance of professional foreign trade service providers or consult Canadian cosmetics regulatory experts.