Importing from China

[Dan1]

Hi all,

I've identified a number of products which I would like to import from China, and was wondering what actually happens once the goods reach customs (I am not VAT registered).

Will they be impunded until I pay VAT ? or is that not an issue ?

Is there any required documentation ?

Also - does anyone know of a cheap shipping company ?

Regards

Dan

 

[GraemeL]

Hello Dan,

You will get several forwarders contact you on the forum as a result of your post.

Yes you will need to pay VAT and any duties (VAT registered or not), before the goods are released. You need several documents:_

Invoice from factory
Matching packing list
Bill of lading
tariff code
EORI

Have you sorted for transport from the port? How/where will you de-stuff?

 

[IMEX Sourcing Services]

Hi Dan,

A good clearing agent/forwarder in the UK should be able to help you with the entire process and help you get the goods delivered to your warehouse/home.

If the goods you are dealing with are of a significant value/volume, its best to use an agent rather than going through the process yourself as there is quite a bit of paperwork involved.

 

[GraemeL]

Hi Dan,

A good clearing agent/forwarder in the UK should be able to help you with the entire process and help you get the goods delivered to your warehouse/home.

Agree. Sorry I should have said this. A UK based forwarder will help.

 

[pennylot]

Be very weary as if the items are branded then customs will take them if the item is opened ... make sure to look into this before you decide to place a order ...many people have lost a lot of money and not much comeback

 

[IMEX Sourcing Services]

There has been a serious crackdown on branded goods in china in the last one year or so and its only going to intensify, so clearing customs in China itself would be a challenge to begin under the current scenario (depending on the nature of the goods and brands).

 

[PowerForwarding]

As per prior posts a forwarder such as ourselves can assist with the shipping and get you a quote, alternatively we have an online import freight calculator you can use for an instant quote - http://www.powerforwarding.com/contents/en-uk/d21_Import_LCL_Freight_Calculator.html

Duty and VAT will need to be paid to customs prior to them releasing the cargo but we can arrange to pay this on your behalf. Documents as listed by Graeme, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading along with the tariff heading (which we can find out for you) and an EORI number (which we can help you with if you haven't already got one).

If you need anymore details or want a quote direct from me please email [email protected]