How to import from China: the full process

Bottom line up front: the two things that surprise first importers are the HS code (it sets your duty rate) and Incoterms (they decide who's responsible at every handoff).

The clearance process, step by step

From order to unloading: customs broker, paperwork, inspection drawdowns, and the realistic timeline for each step.

How to look up duties (HS code and rates)

What an HS code is, where to find the official rate for your category, and the common mistake that inflates your duty bill.

DDP vs FOB: who owns the risk at each step

What DDP and FOB actually mean in practice, and which one to use for a first order.

FAQ

How long does customs take? Depends on inspection drawdown; see the timeline in step 4 above.

What should I budget for duties? Work the landed-cost calculator once you have the HS code →

Next: plug your numbers into the landed-cost calculator →