Import from China: A Complete Guide for Success

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 those who import 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

When businesses import from China, they gain access to manufacturers 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

One major reason companies continue to import from China is its world-class infrastructure. China has invested heavily in logistics and transport networks. 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

Choosing to import from China also strengthens supply chain resilience. 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

When businesses import from China, they must navigate 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 before you import from China can result in fines, penalties, or seized shipments.

Finding trustworthy suppliers

China’s vast marketplace includes both reputable manufacturers and opportunistic traders. Selecting a partner based purely on price can lead to quality issues, shipment delays or scams. Proper due diligence and supplier verification are essential when you import from China. This may involve research, factory visits, trade fairs, or third-party audits. Larger buyers often conduct their own audits, while smaller importers can rely on sourcing agents to bridge the gap, ensuring fair negotiations and transparency.

Quality control and product consistency

Ensuring that the goods you receive match the approved sample remains one of the biggest challenges when you import from China. Language barriers, differences in technical vocabulary, and cultural emphasis on saving face can complicate communication. At Chinese trade shows, vendors often communicate indirectly, which can mask quality concerns. Clear specifications, written standards, and third-party inspections provide the checks and balances necessary to maintain product consistency.

Shipping costs and delays

Another challenge for those who import from China is managing freight costs and timelines. Prices fluctuate with fuel rates, seasonal demand, and geopolitical events. Delays are common during major holidays like Chinese New Year or when global crises disrupt trade. Choosing between FCL (full container load), LCL (less than container load), air freight, or rail requires strategic planning. Small importers often pay more per unit for air freight, while larger companies must weigh inventory costs against slower sea freight.

Customs paperwork and clearance

Accurate documentation is critical when you import from China. Missing or misdeclared paperwork can cause 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, a customs bond (single-entry or continuous) is required. Coordinating these documents with suppliers and freight forwarders ensures smooth clearance and avoids costly disruptions.

Currency and payment risk

Exchange rate fluctuations add financial uncertainty when companies import from China. Payments in Chinese yuan (CNY) expose importers to currency risk, making costs unpredictable. Larger corporations often hedge with treasury tools, while smaller sellers may prefer paying in U.S. dollars or using trade finance to lock in rates. Choosing the right payment structure is an essential safeguard for cost control and profitability.

Step‑by‑Step Guide to Importing from China

Step 1: Preparation and compliance

Assess your readiness. Before you import from China, ensure you have the correct importer identification in place. This may be an EIN, SSN, or CAIN (depending on your jurisdiction) and registration with your country’s customs authorities. It’s also critical to verify whether the items you plan to import require special licenses, fall under restricted categories, or are subject to quotas. Skipping this step can lead to customs blocks or seized shipments.

Plan your product specification. Successful importers know that clarity reduces risk. Document the product’s features, dimensions, materials, packaging requirements, and target price. When you import from China, vague or incomplete specifications often result in miscommunication and mismatched products. For small sellers, focusing on a niche product with strong branding creates differentiation from generic marketplace sellers. Larger importers can leverage private-label strategies, custom tooling, and molds to build long-term value.

Research regulations. Every product imported into a country is classified by a Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. Before you import from China, identify your product’s HTS code to determine duty rates and check whether it qualifies for preferential treatment under free trade agreements. Be aware of additional tariffs, such as Section 301 duties in the U.S., which can significantly affect landed costs. Doing this homework upfront ensures you price correctly and avoid surprises.

Step 2: Identify and vet suppliers

Online platforms and trade shows. To successfully import from China, you need to find the right suppliers. Platforms like Alibaba, Global Sources, and Made-in-China let buyers browse manufacturers, review certifications, and read customer feedback. However, due diligence is essential because many listings represent trading companies rather than direct factories, which can affect pricing and quality control. Attending trade shows – such as the Canton Fair, Chinaplas, or Intertextile Shanghai – allows face-to-face interaction, product inspection, and rapport-building. Keep in mind that communication in China is often relationship-oriented, so clarifying technical details upfront is key.

Request company profiles and certifications. Before you import from China, always request business licenses, export certificates, and audit reports (e.g., ISO 9001). Confirm the supplier’s track record with your product category and ask for references from previous international buyers. This verification step helps avoid scams or unreliable vendors.

Verify with third parties. Independent inspection services can conduct factory audits and product quality checks. This is critical when dealing with new suppliers or high-value orders. Small businesses that lack the resources for factory visits can rely on sourcing agents to arrange on-site audits, giving them the same level of confidence larger buyers enjoy when they import from China.

Negotiate terms. Once you’ve narrowed down suppliers, negotiate Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), pricing, lead times, and payment schedules. Smaller buyers may need to accept higher unit costs in exchange for flexibility, while larger buyers can leverage volume discounts. When you import from China, don’t settle for the first offer; compare multiple quotes and use competition to secure better terms.

Step 3: Choose incoterms and plan shipping

Understand Incoterms (2020). Choosing the right Incoterm is critical when you import from China, as it defines responsibilities, cost allocation, 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. The right method depends on urgency, shipment size, and budget when you import from China:

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. To simplify logistics when you import from China, freight forwarders are invaluable. They consolidate shipments, handle documentation, and coordinate with carriers. Using a forwarder reduces errors in customs paperwork and ensures smooth transitions across borders. For smaller businesses, consolidation services offered by forwarders help cut costs while maintaining efficiency.

Step 4: Coordinate customs and documentation

Prepare export documents. To smoothly import from China, your supplier must provide complete export paperwork, including the export declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. These documents are essential for customs clearance at the destination country and help avoid delays or penalties.

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. Once your goods arrive at the destination warehouse, conduct a secondary inspection. Document any damage, shortages, or discrepancies for potential insurance or supplier claims. For high-value or regulated products, consider accredited testing with local laboratories to verify compliance with safety standards. This final layer of quality control ensures that your decision to import from China strengthens your brand rather than exposing it to unnecessary risk.

Step 6: Final logistics and delivery

Arrange inland transport. After customs clearance, the next step to successfully import from China is moving goods within the destination country. Choose a domestic carrier to transport products to your warehouse, fulfillment center, or directly to customers. Larger importers may rely on a mix of trucking, rail, or local courier services to optimize cost and speed, while smaller importers often prefer simplified trucking solutions.

Manage inventory and fulfilment. Efficient fulfillment is the backbone of profitability when you import from China. Smaller sellers can rely on third-party logistics (3PL) providers to handle storage, packaging, and distribution, while larger businesses may operate their own warehouses. Smart inventory management helps balance demand and supply, preventing costly overstocking while ensuring orders are fulfilled on time.

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 should proactively renegotiate terms with suppliers. This can mean requesting lower ex-works pricing, sharing duty burdens, or restructuring agreements. As Bradley Law Firm suggests, businesses that import from China should use crises as opportunities to strengthen their supply chain contracts rather than passively absorbing higher costs.

Explore alternative suppliers or countries. Diversification is key. Even if you primarily import from China, evaluating suppliers in Vietnam, India, or other manufacturing hubs can reduce exposure to tariffs and political risks. Some companies also use foreign trade zones (FTZs), bonded warehouses, or tariff engineering (adjusting product composition for a different tariff classification) to optimize costs.

Use free trade zones or bonded warehouses. For U.S. companies that import from China, routing goods through FTZs can defer duties until products enter domestic commerce. Goods stored in FTZs can be repackaged, relabeled, or consolidated before final entry, improving cash flow and operational flexibility.

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. Exchange rate fluctuations directly affect costs when businesses import from China. Larger companies may use currency hedging and working capital management to stabilize costs, while smaller importers can work with payment platforms that offer fixed exchange rates or deferred payment options. Building cash reserves adds another layer of protection against sudden disruptions.

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)

When you import from China, intellectual property protection should be a top priority. At trade fairs and during supplier negotiations, the risk of infringement is real. Foreign brands must register trademarks, logos, and packaging designs in China to ensure enforceability. Contracts should also include IP protection clauses and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Without these safeguards, factories may replicate your products or sell unauthorized versions.

Maintain clear communication

Miscommunication is one of the most common causes of sourcing failures when businesses import from China. Use bilingual contracts that include precise product specifications, tolerance levels, and packaging requirements. Digital tools like WeChat can help maintain real-time communication with suppliers before, during, and after trade fairs. Clear communication ensures both sides are aligned and reduces costly mistakes.

Plan around holidays and events

China’s production calendar is influenced by major holidays such as Chinese New Year (late January/February) and Golden Week (early October). When you import from China, plan orders well in advance to avoid production delays and shipping congestion. Some importers also mitigate risks by diversifying suppliers across regions with different holiday schedules.

Stay informed about policy changes

Trade policies and tariffs can shift quickly, affecting those who import from China. Regularly consult government announcements, trade bulletins, and legal updates. Partnering with customs brokers or trade consultants can help you anticipate new requirements. For example, keep track of developments like the suspension of the U.S. de minimis exemption and monitor whether similar restrictions emerge 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.

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