Introduction
China’s manufacturing boom over the last three decades has made it the world’s largest exporter of consumer goods, machinery, textiles and countless other categories. From the buzz of Shenzhen’s electronics markets to the textile hubs of Zhejiang, Chinese factories power brands both big and small. Import from China is therefore not just a trend – it is a strategic necessity for companies that want competitive pricing, fast innovation and diverse product ranges.
2025 brings new opportunities and challenges for importers. Tariff policies are shifting, geopolitical tensions influence supply chains and digital platforms like Temu, Shein and Shopee are changing customer expectations for price and speed. Meanwhile, the US has announced that all imports, regardless of value or shipping channel, will be subject to duties and taxes as the de minimis exemption for shipments under USD 800 from China and Hong Kong will be eliminated. This move highlights the need for businesses to understand how to import legally and efficiently.
This guide aims to help small e‑commerce entrepreneurs, mid‑size sellers expanding their product lines and large brands managing global supply chains understand the import process from China in 2025. It covers preparation, supplier selection, shipping methods, customs and duty considerations, as well as strategies to navigate new tariffs. Each section includes insights backed by recent sources and practical tips to avoid costly mistakes.
Why Import from China?
Low cost and variety
The primary driver for importing from China is cost. China’s vast manufacturing base and economies of scale allow factories to offer competitive prices for everything from textiles to electronics. Importers benefit from lower per‑unit costs and can source a wide variety of goods in a single trip or through one procurement partner. This advantage helps both small sellers who need to keep margins lean and large retailers looking to offer private‑label products at attractive prices.
Innovation and rapid prototyping
Chinese manufacturers are known for rapid prototyping and the ability to quickly adapt designs to market feedback. For product designers and brand owners, this agility is invaluable. Factories work with designers to refine samples and produce new variations quickly, enabling sellers to respond faster to trends – whether that means launching a new TikTok‑friendly gadget or iterating on a best‑selling garment.
Infrastructure and logistics
China has invested heavily in logistics and infrastructure. Major ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen and Ningbo are connected to rail lines, highways and air cargo hubs. This network enables efficient consolidation and shipping of goods across continents. Combined with China’s participation in global trade initiatives, importers can choose from sea, rail, air and express courier options to balance cost and speed.
Resilience through diversification
Relying on a single domestic supply chain leaves companies vulnerable to local disruptions. Importing from China, especially when combined with suppliers from other countries (such as Vietnam or India), spreads risk. Even small e‑commerce sellers can work with consolidation and freight forwarders to diversify their supply base while keeping costs manageable.
Challenges and Pain Points
New tariff landscape
The global trade environment is shifting. In May 2025, the U.S. announced that it would suspend the de minimis exemption on low‑value goods (under USD 800) from China and Hong Kong. This means all shipments, regardless of value or mode of entry, will be subject to duties and taxes. The same update noted upcoming tariffs on copper products and increases on certain steel and aluminium goods. Small sellers who previously relied on duty‑free shipping via postal networks will need to factor in new costs and compliance requirements.
Complex regulations and compliance
Importing goods involves navigating multiple regulatory frameworks: export rules in China, import rules in the destination country and international trade compliance. For U.S. importers, this includes obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), a Social Security Number (SSN) or a Customs Assigned Importer Number (CAIN), and ensuring that the product is not restricted or requires special licenses. Failing to check regulations can result in fines or seized shipments.
Finding trustworthy suppliers
China’s vast marketplace includes reputable manufacturers and opportunistic traders. Selecting a supplier based purely on price can lead to quality issues, shipment delays or scams. Vetting suppliers properly – through research, trade fairs or third‑party audits – is essential. Large buyers often conduct factory audits themselves or hire third‑party inspectors, while smaller importers can leverage sourcing agents for verification and negotiation.
Quality control and product consistency
Ensuring that the product you ordered matches the approved sample is a persistent challenge. Language barriers, differences in technical vocabulary, and the cultural emphasis on maintaining relationships (even if issues arise) can complicate communication. At Chinese trade fairs, it is common for vendors to communicate indirectly to save face, so clarity on quality requirements and technical terms is crucial.
Shipping costs and delays
Freight prices fluctuate based on fuel costs, seasonal demand and geopolitical events. Shipping delays can occur during holidays like Chinese New Year or when global crises disrupt supply chains. Deciding between full container loads (FCL), less than container loads (LCL), air freight or rail shipments requires careful planning. Small importers face higher per‑unit costs for air freight, while large importers must balance inventory holding costs with slower sea freight.
Customs paperwork and clearance
Documentation errors, missing paperwork or misdeclared goods can lead to customs delays or fines. Importers must provide export declarations, commercial invoices, packing lists and certificates of origin. For U.S. shipments valued above USD 2,500, customs bonds are required (either single‑entry or continuous). Coordinating these documents with suppliers and freight forwarders is critical.
Currency and payment risk
Exchange rate fluctuations affect cost of goods sold. Paying suppliers in Chinese yuan (CNY) requires monitoring currency risks and potentially hedging through financial instruments. Large companies may have treasury teams for hedging; smaller sellers should consider paying in U.S. dollars or using trade financing solutions to lock in rates.
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Importing from China
Step 1: Preparation and compliance
Assess your readiness. Ensure you have a valid importer number (EIN, SSN, or CAIN) and are registered with your country’s customs authorities. Verify whether the items you plan to import require licenses, are restricted or subject to quotas.
Plan your product specification. Document the intended product’s features, dimensions, materials, packaging requirements and target price. For small sellers, focusing on a niche product with unique branding can differentiate them from commodity sellers on large marketplaces. Larger importers may develop private‑label products using custom tooling and molds.
Research regulations. Consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes for your products to determine duty rates and any applicable trade agreements. For example, certain categories may qualify for preferential treatment under free trade agreements or may be subject to additional tariffs (such as Section 301 duties in the U.S.).
Step 2: Identify and vet suppliers
Online platforms and trade shows. Major platforms such as Alibaba, Global Sources and Made‑in‑China allow buyers to search for manufacturers, review certifications and read customer feedback. However, due diligence is still required; some listings represent trading companies rather than factories, which could affect pricing and quality control. Attending trade shows – like the Canton Fair, Chinaplas or Intertextile Shanghai – provides face‑to‑face interaction with potential suppliers and the chance to see product samples. At trade fairs, remember that communication is often indirect and relationship‑oriented, so building rapport and clarifying technical details is important.
Request company profiles and certifications. Ask for business licenses, export certificates and relevant audits (e.g., ISO 9001). Confirm the supplier’s experience with your product category, and request references from previous international buyers.
Verify with third parties. Use independent inspection services to conduct factory audits and quality checks. This is especially important for high‑value items or when working with a new supplier. Sourcing agents can also facilitate factory visits and audits for small businesses.
Negotiate terms. Discuss Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ), pricing, production lead times, and payment schedules. Smaller buyers may need to negotiate higher unit prices for lower MOQs, while larger buyers can leverage volume discounts. When negotiating, avoid simply accepting the first offer; compare multiple quotes, discuss pricing, lead times and payment terms to secure better deals.
Step 3: Choose incoterms and plan shipping
Understand Incoterms (2020). Incoterms define responsibilities and risk transfer between buyer and seller:
- FOB (Free On Board) – The seller is responsible for delivering goods to the port and clears them for export. The buyer then takes responsibility for sea freight, insurance and import customs clearance. This term is commonly used for importers because it balances risk and cost.
- EXW (Ex Works) – The buyer collects goods from the factory and handles all transportation and export procedures. While EXW may seem cheaper, it requires the buyer to manage inland transportation in China and export paperwork, which can be complex. Use this only if you have a strong local presence or an experienced agent.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) – The seller pays for shipping to the destination port and insurance; the buyer assumes risk after arrival. This is good for inexperienced buyers who want the seller to arrange insurance, but shipping costs may be higher.
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) – The seller delivers goods to the buyer’s address, including duty payment and customs clearance. It’s convenient but rare for cross‑border shipments because sellers seldom handle import procedures. DDP may also increase costs, as sellers factor in potential duties and taxes.
Select shipping method. Your choice depends on budget, urgency and volume:
- Ocean freight (LCL or FCL) – Suitable for large or heavy cargo and the most cost‑effective per unit. Use Less than Container Load (LCL) for smaller volumes; your goods share a container with other shippers, leading to longer consolidation times but lower costs. Full Container Load (FCL) is ideal for larger shipments as it reduces handling and risk of damage.
- Air freight – Faster (usually 3–7 days) but more expensive. Use for high‑value, perishable or time‑sensitive goods. Air cargo is priced by weight and volume, so smaller items may be economical.
- Rail freight – China‑Europe rail routes via the Belt and Road Initiative offer a compromise between cost and speed. Rail freight has grown in popularity for shipments to Central Asia and Europe but is subject to regional political dynamics.
- Express courier (FedEx, DHL, UPS) – Best for small parcels and samples. While door‑to‑door shipping is convenient, costs increase for packages over a few kilograms.
Work with freight forwarders. Freight forwarders consolidate shipments, handle documentation and coordinate with carriers. The Foresmart guide emphasises using freight forwarders or consolidation services for small shipments to save costs and simplify logistics. They can also recommend the best route based on cargo volume and budget.
Step 4: Coordinate customs and documentation
Prepare export documents. Ensure your supplier provides a complete export declaration, commercial invoice, packing list and certificate of origin. These documents will be needed by customs at the destination country.
Customs bond and import documentation. For shipments to the U.S. valued above USD 2,500, a customs bond is required. The Foresmart guide explains that importers can obtain a single‑entry bond for one shipment or a continuous bond covering multiple shipments, which is more economical for frequent importers. The bond ensures compliance with customs regulations and payment of duties.
HTS code verification. Proper classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule ensures that you pay the correct duties. Misclassification can lead to fines or delays. The Foresmart article recommends checking the HTS code to determine duty rates and identify any tariff advantages.
Work with customs brokers. Customs brokers assist with the entry process, ensure that paperwork is accurate and minimize delays. They can also help you understand new tariff requirements, such as the elimination of the de minimis exemption.
Step 5: Inspect goods and manage quality
Pre‑shipment inspection. Before goods leave the supplier, hire a third‑party quality inspection company to verify that the production matches the approved sample and that packaging is secure. This step is crucial for large shipments or custom products. Inspections can be done at various stages – pre‑production, during production and pre‑shipment – depending on the complexity and value of the goods.
On arrival. Inspect goods upon arrival at the destination warehouse. Document any discrepancies or damage for potential claims. For high‑value items, consider working with an accredited testing laboratory to verify compliance with local safety standards.
Step 6: Final logistics and delivery
Arrange inland transport. Once customs are cleared, choose a domestic carrier to transport goods to your warehouse or directly to customers. For large importers, a combination of trucking, rail or local courier services may be used.
Manage inventory and fulfilment. Smaller sellers may use third‑party logistics (3PL) providers to store and distribute products, while larger importers might have their own warehouses. Efficient inventory management ensures that you can meet demand without overstocking or incurring unnecessary storage costs.
Impact of Tariffs and Strategies to Mitigate Them
New tariff environment in 2025
The U.S. government’s suspension of the de minimis exemption means that all U.S. imports from China will be subject to duties and taxes, regardless of value or shipping channel. This change targets shipments that previously entered duty‑free via small parcel services. Additionally, new tariffs on copper products and increased duties on certain steel and aluminium goods were announced. These tariffs are part of broader trade protection measures and efforts to encourage domestic manufacturing.
Strategies for importers
Negotiate price adjustments. When tariffs rise, importers can renegotiate with suppliers for lower ex‑works pricing or share duty burdens. The Bradley law firm suggests that businesses should not be afraid to negotiate better terms with suppliers and to use crises as an opportunity to restructure supply chains.
Explore alternative suppliers or countries. Diversifying sourcing to countries outside the tariff regime can reduce overall duties. Bradley’s article advises exploring alternative suppliers in nearby countries, using foreign trade zones (FTZs) or free ports, or engaging in “tariff engineering” (modifying product composition to change tariff classification).
Use free trade zones or bonded warehouses. Shipping goods into a foreign trade zone allows you to defer duties until the goods enter domestic commerce. For example, U.S. importers can store goods in FTZs, repackage or relabel them, and then pay duties only on goods that enter the domestic market, which helps manage cash flow.
Consider Section 321 / de minimis shipping solutions (where available). For jurisdictions where de minimis still applies, consider splitting shipments into multiple packages to stay below duty thresholds, but ensure this is legal and logistically feasible. Since the U.S. de minimis exemption has been suspended for shipments from China, this strategy is only relevant for other markets.
Strengthen financial resilience. Bradley’s article advises businesses to build cash reserves, hedge currency risk and manage working capital carefully. Currency hedging is particularly important for large importers with significant exposure to Chinese yuan or other currencies. Small sellers may benefit from working with payment platforms offering fixed exchange rates or deferred payment options.
Tailoring the Approach for Different Business Sizes
Small e‑commerce sellers and side‑hustle entrepreneurs (Tier 4)
Many micro‑sellers start by dropshipping or buying small quantities from Alibaba or AliExpress. New tariffs will raise costs, but small orders can still be profitable if the products are niche and if sellers differentiate through branding. These sellers should focus on:
- Choosing lightweight, high‑margin products to offset duties and shipping costs.
- Working with consolidation services to reduce freight expenses on small LCL shipments.
- Using platforms like Amazon or TikTok Shop for initial sales while building their own direct‑to‑consumer site to capture customer data.
- Considering cooperative sourcing with other micro‑sellers to meet minimum order requirements for better pricing.
Professional resellers and scaling marketplace sellers (Tier 2–3)
Sellers with annual revenues between USD 50k–1M (often using Shopee, Lazada or local marketplaces) need a structured approach:
- Establish relationships with multiple suppliers and negotiate for lower MOQs and volume discounts.
- Implement quality control protocols to maintain customer satisfaction and reduce returns. Third‑party inspections and sample management are crucial.
- Plan shipping in advance, combining FCL for steady sellers and LCL or air freight for new or seasonal products. Use freight forwarders to navigate port congestion and multi‑modal options.
- Monitor tariffs and adjust pricing accordingly. If tariffs on a specific product category make it unprofitable, consider switching to a different product line or negotiating new terms.
High‑volume brand sellers (Tier 1)
Large companies with revenue above USD 1M rely on global supply chains and often import high volumes. They should:
- Develop strategic supplier partnerships with exclusive contracts, co‑invest in tooling or new production lines and secure capacity.
- Employ supply chain professionals to monitor trade policy changes and diversify sourcing across multiple countries.
- Use bonded warehouses or free trade zones to manage duty payments and inventory flows.
- Invest in technology for forecasting, inventory management and digital supply chain monitoring. This helps integrate data from Chinese suppliers, freight forwarders and domestic distribution networks.
Additional Tips and Best Practices
Protect intellectual property (IP)
At Chinese trade fairs and when dealing with suppliers, IP infringement is a risk. MarketingChina notes that foreign brands must protect their intellectual property rights and ensure that designs, logos and packaging are legally registered and enforceable. Failing to do so could lead to product replicas or unauthorized factory use. Register trademarks in China and include IP clauses in contracts.
Maintain clear communication
Miscommunication can lead to costly errors. Use bilingual contracts and include precise specifications and tolerance levels. Adopt digital tools (e.g., WeChat) to share e‑brochures and maintain contact before and after trade shows. This ensures that both parties are aligned and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
Plan around holidays and events
China’s manufacturing calendar is affected by public holidays such as Chinese New Year (late January or February), Golden Week (early October) and other regional festivals. Plan production and shipping schedules accordingly. Order well in advance, or consider diversifying to suppliers in regions with different holiday calendars.
Stay informed about policy changes
Trade policies and tariffs can change quickly. Regularly consult official announcements, trade bulletins and legal updates. Work with customs brokers and trade consultants to stay ahead of new requirements. For example, keep monitoring whether the suspension of the U.S. de minimis exemption is made permanent and whether similar policies arise in other markets.
Conclusion
Importing from China remains a powerful strategy for businesses of all sizes to access competitive pricing, diverse product categories and rapid innovation. However, the 2025 landscape brings new complexities: tariffs, compliance requirements, logistics challenges and shifting consumer expectations from social commerce platforms. Success requires a structured approach that covers every step – from selecting the right suppliers and choosing appropriate incoterms to handling customs paperwork and mitigating tariff risks.
For small e‑commerce sellers, the focus is on careful product selection, low‑volume consolidation and leveraging platforms for initial sales before moving customers to their own site. Scaling sellers need to balance cost and quality through multiple suppliers, robust quality control and adaptive logistics. Large brands must deploy strategic partnerships, diversify sourcing across regions and invest in technology to manage complex supply chains.
Ultimately, importers who stay informed, negotiate wisely, diversify their supply chains and remain agile will continue to thrive. If you’re ready to import from China in 2025, Yana Sourcing stands ready to help you navigate the process – from finding trusted suppliers to coordinating shipments and compliance. Contact us for a tailored sourcing plan that suits your business size and goals.