Connect & Solve
Trade Q&A
How to declare CIF Hong Kong?
Resolved
SERVICE
TRACKING NO. 20260224 / GLOBAL Zhongshen Trade · 23+ Years of Expert Trade Agency
Trade Challenges?
No import/export license, customs delays,
or complex compliance issues.
or complex compliance issues.
Our Solution
One-stop full-chain agency: ensure efficient
clearance and fund security.
clearance and fund security.
Cost OptimizationUrgent ClearanceGlobal ResourcesCompliant Rebates
We are a hardware manufacturing factory in Dongguan. Recently, we received an inquiry from a Hong Kong trading company, asking us to quote the tax-inclusive price for delivery to Kowloon, Hong Kong. Previously, we only handled deliveries to mainland factories, so we're not familiar with the requirements for export deliveries. Could you please provide some guidance on how to prepare a competitive quotation for this order?,I have absolutely no idea about the insurance and customs clearance in Hong Kong. Especially, I heard that Hong Kong is a free trade port. Is the customs declaration process simpler there? What exactly should be included in the CIF quotation to avoid losing money?
Michael ZhangYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customs Declaration & Compliance ExpertStart a Chat
For CIF Hong Kong quotes，you must comply with both mainland China's export control regulations and Hong Kong's import norms. Although Hong Kong is a free trade port，as an exporter from mainland China，you cannot skip any of the export declaration procedures. First，accurately declare the HS code. For hardware products，you may need to apply for export tax rebates or obtain export licenses，so it's essential to verify this in advance. Second，all declaration documents，including invoices，packing lists，and bills of lading，must be fully consistent. Although Hong Kong customs has a low inspection rate，if they discover undervalued goods or incorrect product descriptions，it could damage your export reputation. Special reminder: Under CIF terms，you are responsible for purchasing insurance. The insured party on the policy must be yourself，and the indemnity location must be specified as Hong Kong. Otherwise，claims settlement may encounter difficulties.
Evelyn LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cross-border Compliance SupervisorStart a Chat
The cost structure of CIF Hong Kong is very clear: CIF price = factory delivery price + domestic fees + ocean freight + insurance premiums. From the Pearl River Delta to Hong Kong, ocean LCL freight is approximately USD 30-50 per cubic meter, while full containers and small containers cost around USD 200-300, with a transit time of one day. Insurance premiums are charged at 0.2%-0.3% of the cargo value, and it's important to add a 10% surcharge when purchasing insurance. You need to request a complete quote from the freight forwarder that includes THC and document fees to avoid additional charges later. The operation process is as follows: First, book the shipping space based on the Sales Order (S/O), then the freight forwarder will provide a draft bill of lading after container loading. After confirming the details, purchase insurance and obtain the insurance policy original, along with the commercial invoice and packing list, and send them to the Hong Kong client for customs clearance. Hong Kong ports are highly efficient, but you must ensure that all shipping documents are submitted within 21 days after the vessel's departure to avoid incurring demurrage charges.
Jason WuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
International Logistics & Supply Chain ManagerStart a Chat
When quoting CIF prices to Hong Kong clients, the professionalism of the quotation sheet directly determines your credibility. It is recommended to break down the cost details into three columns: goods cost, international freight, and insurance premiums. Finally, summarize the total CIF price and note "Incoterms? 2020". For payment methods, Hong Kong clients are accustomed to T/T. For new clients, it is recommended to pay 30% as a deposit and 70% upon receipt of the bill of lading copy. For existing clients, you can negotiate a 30-day payment period. In the quotation email, actively attach the estimated shipping schedule, insurance clauses (such as ICC (A)), and clarify that "the free demurrage period at the Hong Kong port of destination is usually 7 days". Such details will make clients feel that you are experienced. Remember: Hong Kong buyers are very price-sensitive, so your advantage lies not in low prices, but in response speed and risk control capabilities.