The HS code (Harmonized System) is the customs classification number assigned to goods in international trade: the first 6 digits are global and determine the tariff line; the trailing 4 digits are national subheadings. When you declare goods in China you also need the right declaration/regulatory codes — surveillance mode (e.g. 0110 general trade, 9610 e-commerce, KJ1–KJ3 express), licence-based control certificates, and control conditions — which together decide the duty rate, whether a permit is required, and how the declaration form is completed.
This page indexes Bofeng Logistics’ customs knowledge base. All 30 articles of our Customs Clearance Handbook plus related foreign-trade guides are grouped into seven categories by what you need — classify a product, look up a code, or follow a process — so you can jump straight to the deep dive. Tariff schedules and control catalogues change from time to time; always confirm classification against the latest PRC Import & Export Tariff and any binding customs ruling.
Customs Basics & Qualifications
First-time filers: understand who may declare, how filing differs from clearance, how to obtain import/export rights, and what an AEO certification unlocks.
HS Classification of Goods
How to classify: grasp HS structure and the General Rules, locate the first 6 digits with a three-step method, or lock in classification in advance through a binding advance ruling.
| Related Guide |
|---|
| Introduction to the HS Code System |
| How to Determine HS Code |
| Customs Pre-Ruling System |
Regulatory & Declaration Codes
Every declaration carries codes: surveillance mode (0110 general trade, 9610/1210 cross-border e-commerce, KJ1–KJ3 express), control certificates (licences, CCC, machinery permits), and control conditions (compulsory inspection). Each link below goes to the matching deep dive.
Declaration Methods & Documents
The same shipment can use different declaration routes (general trade / cross-border e-commerce / express). Complete documents decide whether filing succeeds — make the right call on method and paperwork here.
| Related Guide |
|---|
| How to choose import/export customs clearance methods |
| How to Choose a Customs Declaration Method |
| Core Documentation Production Guide for Customs Declaration |
Duty, VAT & Export Rebates
How import duty is calculated (rate × dutiable value), which tariff preferences apply (e.g. RCEP), and how exporters claim VAT rebates — the full tax chain in one section.
Clearance Workflows & Inspection
What happens at every step from filing to release, how to handle an inspection hold, and what to do about amendments and returned cargo.
| Related Guide |
|---|
| Complete Customs Clearance Process |
| Import Clearance Full Process |
| Guide to Handling Customs Inspections |
| Customs Release and Clearance |
| Returned Goods and Order Modification Operations |
Import Clearance by Destination
HS codes are global, but import rules differ by country: ISF/AMS in the US, EORI and import VAT in the EU, and the compliance essentials for Japan and Southeast Asia.
Need a customs broker, or unsure how to classify your goods and which certificates apply? Bofeng Logistics offers export / import customs declaration services from China. Contact us: 130-7567-8958 / info@zhbfwl.com.