20211 January, we successfully handled the import of Swiss-made finishing machines through Nanhai Beicun PortImport Clearance. As professional agents with 15 years of machineryEquipment Importsindustry experience, we fully understand the challenges of importing such high-value equipment: ensuring customs clearance efficiency while avoiding professional risks like HS code classification and inspection/quarantine issues.
In this case, we provided end-to-end services from solution design to final delivery. Notably, during the CCIC pre-inspection process, we prepared complete equipment testing instructions and technical parameters in advance, reducing the inspection cycle by 30% compared to industry average.
II. Complete Process Breakdown of Swiss Finishing Machine Import
Preliminary Documentation Preparation Stage
Document preparation is the most critical step in machinery import. We compiled the following essential documents:
Original bill of lading/air waybill (special attention toMaritime Transportationthe consignee clause in B/L)
customs inspection: 15-18 working days inspection cycle is standard for machinery imports
Final release: Goods released within 0.5-1 working days after completing all inspection/quarantine procedures
III. Three Major Risk Points in Machinery Import
Through this case, we identified key considerations for machinery imports:
New/Used Equipment Identification Risk
Customs has very strict criteria for determining "new and used equipment." We have encountered cases where clients mistakenly declared refurbished equipment as brand new, resulting in the entire shipment being detained. For this import of Swiss finishing machines, we prepared in advance a complete set of documents, including the manufacturing date certificate and equipment inspection reports, to clearly demonstrate the brand-new condition of the equipment.
Special Inspection/Quarantine Requirements
Machinery imports often involve special requirements like IPPC marks for wooden packaging and lubricant declarations. We advised clients to complete these before shipment:
Wooden packaging heat treatment certificate
Equipment cleanliness statement
Lubricant MSDS safety data sheet
HS Code classification disputes
The functional description of the finishing machine directly affects its tariff classification. We have encountered cases where "surface treatment equipment" was mistakenly classified under the "machine tool" category, resulting in a tax rate difference of up to 5%. In this case, we prepared detailed working principle explanations and video materials to ensure accurate classification.
As a professional import agent, our advantages are not only reflected in process familiarity:
Nationwide network layout
With branches in Foshan, Shanghai, Dongguan, Xiamen and other locations, we can provide:
Local port clearance
Localized inspection coordination
Rapid emergency response
Professional team configuration
We have established a dedicated mechanical equipment import team, including:
Former customs classification experts
Mechanical and electrical product inspection and quarantine specialists
Multilingual documentation processing team
Intelligent clearance system
Our self-developed import management system can achieve:
Real-time clearance status tracking
Intelligent HS Code matching
Risk warning alerts
Practical suggestions for importers
Based on this case, we offer the following recommendations to clients planning to import mechanical equipment:
Plan time nodes in advance
For mechanical equipment imports, reserve at least:
2 weeks for document preparation
3 weeks for clearance buffer period
1 week for logistics distribution
Emphasize pre-inspection procedures
We strongly recommend completing at the port of shipment:
CCIC pre-shipment inspection
Equipment test run video recording
Key component photo archiving
Establishing long-term agency relationships
Establishing stable cooperation with professional agents can:
Accumulate credibility records
Enjoy customs clearance convenience
Obtain policy alerts
This Swiss finishing machine import case once again proves that professional matters should be handled by professionals to achieve safe, efficient, and economical import goals. If you have machinery equipment import needs, feel free to consult our expert team anytime.