Connect & Solve
Trade Q&A
What procedures are required for importing black and white evaporated milk as an agent?
Resolved
SERVICE
TRACKING NO. 20260120 / 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
Our company wants to import a batch of black and white evaporated milk from Hong Kong. This is our first time importing food products, and we're not sure what procedures we need to go through. We're especially worried about getting stuck at customs or during the commodity inspection process. Could you please tell us roughly how long the entire process will take?
Andy GuoYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Supply Chain Management ExpertStart a Chat
Imported black and white evaporated milk is classified as a dairy product and is subject to strict regulatory oversight. First，you need to confirm the product's accurate classification. The HS code typically falls under items 0402 or 0403，depending on the fat content and whether it is concentrated. Key procedures include:
1. The overseas manufacturer must register with the General Administration of Customs (GACC) and obtain a registration number.
2. As an importer，you must complete the registration of the food importer.
3. The Chinese label must be designed and registered in advance，and the nutritional information and ingredient list must comply with national standards.
4. Both the official certificate of origin and health certificate are essential. Hong Kong is a preferential tariff zone，and the certificate of origin directly affects the tariff cost.
5. After arrival，the customs will conduct 100% inspection，focusing on label verification and random sampling of microorganisms and additives.
Risks include non-compliant labels or excessive additives. It is recommended to conduct label audits and ingredient pre-inspections by a third-party before shipment to avoid incurring demurrage fees for post-arrival rectifications. If everything goes smoothly，customs clearance typically takes 5-7 working days，but early preparation should allow at least 3-4 weeks for preparation.
Eric ZhouYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior Manager of Foreign Exchange & Tax RebatesStart a Chat
From a logistics operational perspective, I recommend you prioritize selecting CIF terms for shipping to ports near Hong Kong, such as Shenzhen or Guangzhou, as these routes offer frequent sailings and lower costs. Black and white evaporated milk is a shelf-stable dairy product, but for safety, it is recommended to use temperature-controlled containers for summer transportation, with a target temperature below 25°C. Regarding documentation, all five documents - bill of lading, invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and health certificate - must be obtained and verified correctly three days before the vessel arrives at the port. During customs clearance, both the customs declaration form and the inspection declaration form must be submitted simultaneously. Although the process is now paperless, hard copies of the label samples and ingredient lists should be prepared for customs inspection. In terms of costs, in addition to tariffs (about 10%) and value-added tax (13%), you should also budget for inspection fees, label rectification fees (if applicable), and potential storage demurrage charges. From the vessel's arrival to the port to cargo pickup, the process typically takes 3-5 days under normal circumstances, but may extend to 7-10 days due to inspections.
Jason WuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
International Logistics & Supply Chain ManagerStart a Chat
The core of agency importing is to effectively manage the upstream and downstream relationships. As an agent, you must clarify the following in the contract: the method of collecting agency fees (fixed amount or percentage), reimbursement for all official fees, and the responsibility for demurrage charges arising from document issues lying with the principal. Regarding payment terms, it is recommended to adopt a 30% prepayment + 70% payment upon presentation of the bill of lading copy to reduce your financial risks. If the client has good credit, you can negotiate a sight L/C, which will enhance your professional image. In communication strategies, emphasize to the principal that "we handle all procedures on your behalf, but official approval times are unpredictable" to manage expectations in advance. Proactively clarify to customs that you are acting as an import agent, provide the agency agreement for reference, and cooperate actively during inspections. Additionally, when quoting prices, include a 3-5% buffer for unexpected costs to avoid being passive later. For first-time collaborations, add a clause to the contract stipulating that neither party will hold the other accountable if policy changes result in import failure, which will protect your business reputation.