Detailed explanation of customs inspection process and matters needing attention

Customs inspection, as an important link in ensuring national security and market order, plays a vital role in the management of imported and exported goods. This article will introduce in detail the basic process of customs inspection and several common problems during the inspection process to help import and export enterprises better understand and respond to customs inspection.

1. Customs release of goods and import certification documents

Customs will release the goods after paying the customs fee or passing the customs guarantee insurance policy. Subsequently, enterprises can download and print the electronic import goods declaration form through the “Internet + Customs” integrated online service platform or the “Single Window” standard version. In addition, some specific commodities (such as food) must undergo statutory inspection and be issued an “Inbound Goods Inspection and Quarantine Certificate” by the customs before they can officially enter the market. If the goods fail to pass inspection, the customs will issue an inspection certificate for external claims and guide the subsequent handling of unqualified goods.

2. Introduction to inbound cargo supervision (inspection)

Since 2020, the “two-step declaration” model has been promoted nationwide, and at the same time, the reform of the “two-stage access” supervision operation has also gradually begun. This series of measures aims to simplify the customs clearance process and improve efficiency. “Two-stage access” is divided into two stages: whether to allow goods to enter; whether to allow goods to enter the domestic market for sale or use. In this way, qualified goods can leave the port quickly after preliminary inspection, and the company can arrange subsequent transportation and storage matters until it receives the final release notice from the customs.

3. 4 reasons why cross-border e-commerce goods are inspected by customs

For companies engaged in cross-border e-commerce, it is also crucial to understand why goods are detained by customs. Normally, the reasons why goods are inspected include but are not limited to:

1. Weight inconsistency: There is a big difference between the declared weight and the actual weight.
2. Box quantity problem: The actual number of boxes does not match the declared quantity.
3. Hangtag Issue: Brand logos involving intellectual property are not properly authorized.
4. False declaration: The declared content does not match the actual goods, and it is suspected of fraud.

4. Specific contents of customs inspection

In actual operation, customs inspection mainly focuses on the following aspects:

• Check product name: Confirm that the product name is accurate.
• Check specifications: Check product dimensions and other detailed parameters.
• Check quantity: Ensure that the actual quantity loaded is consistent with the declared quantity.
• Check weight: Verify whether the gross weight and net weight meet the standards.
• Check the number of pieces: Count the total number of pieces, including samples and gifts.
• Check Marks: Review the marking information on the product packaging.
• Check for infringement: Check whether there is any infringement of other people’s trademark rights.
• Check the origin of goods: Confirm the origin information of the product.
• Check classification: Make sure the product classification code is correct.
• Check old and new goods: Distinguish old and new goods to prevent illegal exports.
• Check Price: Review whether the product is reasonably priced.
• Sampling for inspection: Laboratory testing of items that are difficult to judge directly.
• Check body/box: Check the transport vehicle and its internal condition.
• Whether it is hidden: Check whether there are any undeclared items mixed in.

Through the above introduction, we hope to help relevant practitioners better understand the relevant regulations of customs inspection, reduce unnecessary troubles, and ensure the smooth progress of business.