Export Documentation

Export Documentation for China: Required Documents

Documents for shipping to or from China: core documents, certificates, restricted goods, and customs procedures.

Country
China
Customs authority
General Administration of Customs of China (GACC)
Trading bloc
RCEP
Currency
CNY
Estimated clearance
1-3 business days (compliant shipments), longer for inspections

All importers must be registered with GACC

Pre-arrival declaration required

CIQ inspection for regulated goods

China Compulsory Certification (CCC) for specified products

Core documents

  • Commercial Invoice (required): In English and Chinese, with detailed description
  • Packing List (required): Detailed packaging information
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (required): Original transport document required
  • Customs Declaration Form (required): Filed through Single Window platform
  • Sales Contract (required): Often required for verification of transaction value

Additional documents

  • Certificate of Origin: Required for preferential rates (RCEP, FTAs) RCEP origin required for preferential treatment
  • CCC Certificate: China Compulsory Certification Mandatory for listed products
  • CIQ Certificate: Inspection and quarantine certificate For food, cosmetics, certain goods
  • Import License: For quota-controlled goods Auto or non-auto license depending on product
  • CFDA Registration: For cosmetics and medical devices Registration takes 6-12 months

Special certificates

  • CCC Mark: applies to 20+ product categories including electronics, automotive, issued by CNCA-designated bodies.
  • CFDA Registration: applies to Cosmetics, issued by CFDA/NMPA.
  • CIQ Certificate: applies to Food, animal/plant products, issued by GACC/CIQ.
  • Energy Label: applies to Appliances, issued by CNIS.

Customs procedures

  • Single Window electronic filing
  • Pre-arrival declaration available
  • Customs examination at designated locations
  • Duty payment before release

Restricted goods

  • Cosmetics (CFDA registration required)
  • Food products (CIQ inspection)
  • Medical devices (NMPA registration)
  • Telecommunications equipment (network access license)
  • Mechanical and electrical products (may need CCC)

Prohibited goods

  • Weapons and ammunition
  • Counterfeit currency
  • Pornographic materials
  • Products harmful to national security
  • Certain waste materials

Tips

  • Register with GACC before first shipment
  • CCC certification takes 2-6 months - plan ahead
  • Use a local customs broker familiar with Chinese procedures
  • Accurate HS codes are critical - Chinese classification may differ
  • Keep Chinese language documentation where required

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Frequently asked questions

What is CCC certification and when is it needed?

CCC (China Compulsory Certification) is mandatory for products in 20+ categories including electrical appliances, automotive parts, toys, and IT equipment before they can be imported and sold in China.

How do I register as an importer with Chinese customs?

Foreign companies typically work through a registered Chinese entity (WFOE, JV, or agent) that handles customs registration with GACC and files declarations on their behalf.

What is the Single Window system?

China's Single Window allows importers to submit all required documentation to multiple government agencies through one electronic platform, streamlining customs clearance.