由 caicai8478 I. Preliminary preparation stage
Understand the customs regulations of European countries
Study the latest import policies of the destination country (Germany, the United Kingdom, France, etc. are different)
Confirm whether the product belongs to the restricted or prohibited import category
Understand the VAT threshold (usually 22 euros)
Complete product information
Prepare detailed Chinese and English product descriptions
Obtain product HS code (6-10 digits)
Prepare material descriptions and usage instructions
Compliant packaging
Ensure that the outer packaging has complete Chinese and English labels
Attach product manual (official language of the European Union)
Products that require CE certification should be processed in advance
II. Key points for document preparation
List of essential documents
Commercial invoice (mark “Free of charge” if applicable)
Packing list (list each item in detail)
Waybill (complete information of consignor and consignee)
Certificate of origin (if necessary)
Special documents
Electronic products: CE certification, RoHS declaration
Food/cosmetics: hygiene certificate, ingredient list
Textiles: Material label, washing instructions
- Logistics selection strategy
Channel comparison
Postal parcel (EMS, etc.): suitable for low value, simple customs clearance
Special line logistics: balance speed and cost
Commercial express (DHL, etc.): fast but high customs clearance requirements
Declaration skills
Declare truthfully but classify reasonably (choose HS code with lower tax rate)
Split high-value parcels (single piece does not exceed 150 euros)
Declared value = product value + freight + insurance
- Customs clearance process optimization
Pre-customs clearance preparation
Send electronic documents to logistics providers in advance
Use pre-customs clearance services of logistics providers
IOSS VAT prepayment can be considered within the EU
Common problem response
Detained by customs: Submit required documents in time
Tax disputes: Provide purchase vouchers for appeal
Inspection: Keep the packaging intact and easy to check
V. Follow-up
Tracking and feedback
Use logistics tracking system to monitor status
Collect customs clearance data to establish a knowledge base
Record each customs clearance time as a reference for optimization
Long-term optimization
Establish warehousing in Europe to reduce customs clearance frequency
Register EU VAT number
Establish long-term cooperation with reliable customs clearance agents
Precautions
Avoid suspicion caused by too low declared value
Sensitive product names such as “gift” and “sample” may trigger inspection
Keep all transaction records for at least 5 years (EU requirement)
Pay attention to changes in China-EU customs policies (such as the new EU tariff policy in 2023)
Through the above systematic process, the average customs clearance time for small packages from China to Europe can be controlled within 3-5 working days, significantly reducing the risk of detention.