Transit goods: The "transit hub" of cross-border logistics.

On the map of international trade, transit goods are like passing travelers—they are neither imported nor exported but merely pass through Chinese territory to complete their international journey. According to customs statistics, Chinas transit goods volume increased by 15% year-on-year in 2022, becoming an important logistics channel connecting the Eurasian continent.

As a seasoned foreign trade professional, I often liken transit operations to an "international relay race":First legStarting from the overseas shipper,Second legTransshipped within China,Final legDeliver to the final destination. To ensure the smooth completion of this relay, it is essential to thoroughly understand the "rules of the game" set by customs.

The "ID card" requirement for transit goods

According to the "Customs Supervision Measures for Transit Goods," each batch of transit goods must undergo a complete "identity verification" process:

• Required Documents: Transit goods declaration form, transport documents (waybill/loading list), commercial invoice
• 37. Special circumstances: Additional quarantine certificates required for goods involving animal and plant quarantine
• Format requirements: All documents must bear the company seal of the operator, and foreign language materials must be accompanied by Chinese translations

I remember handling a batch of transit cotton from Kazakhstan in 2018 that was detained at Alashankou for 3 days due to missing phytosanitary certificates. This lesson tells us:Document preparation must be flawless.

The "Three Major Disciplines" of customs supervision

Customs implements full-process supervision of transit goods, mainly focusing on three key points:

• Time discipline: 6-month basic period + 3-month extension, exceeding the deadline may risk goods confiscation
• Route discipline: Must follow registered transportation routes, any changes require prior customs notification
• Seal disciplineCustoms seals function like "electronic handcuffs," and unauthorized opening may result in a fine of up to 30% of the cargo's value.

Last year there was a case: A Central Asia freight train was fined 20,000 yuan in administrative penalties for changing routes due to blizzards without notification, although it eventually exited safely. This reminds us:Compliance is no small matter.

"Red Light List" for transit transportation

Not all goods can enjoy transit convenience, customs has clearly marked these prohibited categories:

• Politically sensitive: Goods involving embargoed countries
• Hazardous materials: Weapons, ammunition, flammable and explosive items (except military transport)
• Contraband: Drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals
• Quarantine risk itemsNon-quarantined animal and plant products

A client once attempted to transit a batch of so-called "industrial-use" chemicals through our country, which upon verification turned out to be drug precursor materials. This case serves as a warning to us:Commercial integrity is the bottom line for transit operations.

Practical Guide to "Four-Step Success"

Based on years of experience, Ive summarized the standard procedures for transit clearance:

1. Entry declaration: Submit complete documentation at the first port of entry, with advance declaration recommended 48 hours prior
2. Customs inspection: Cooperate with on-site inspection, prepare cargo unpacking tools and protective equipment
3. In-transit monitoring: Ensure customs seals remain intact with real-time GPS tracking
4. Exit verification: Present customs seals at the final exit port to complete regulatory closure

Last year, the transit goods handled by the China-Europe Railway Express were processed through the "advanced declaration + intelligent supervision" model, reducing the entire customs clearance time to 72 hours. This indicates that:Technology empowerment can significantly improve efficiency.

Contingency plan for special circumstances

When encountering these emergencies, remember the response mantra:

• Transport vehicle breakdown: Immediately report to the nearest customs office and request supervised repairs
• Natural disaster impact: Preserve meteorological certificates and apply for exit extension
• Cargo damage anomalies: Photograph evidence immediately and complete customs confirmation procedures
• Seal accidental damage: Never handle independently - await customs officers arrival

During the typhoon in 2019, we facilitated the emergency transfer of stranded goods through the customs "emergency channel," thereby preventing a loss of 2 million yuan in cargo. At the critical moment,Proactive communication is the best crisis management.

"Customs Clearance Tips" for Foreign Trade Professionals

Drawing on 20 years of agency experience, here are practical recommendations:

• Select AEO-certified operators to enjoy priority inspection treatment
• For railway transit, it is recommended to choose ports with "Customs-Railway" data interconnection.
• High-value cargo should obtain full-transit insurance covering customs supervision periods
• Regularly log in to the "Single Window for International Trade" to check for policy updates.

Remember, cross-border business is like completing a "International logistics"Ballet," every movement must be precise and compliant. Master these key points, and your goods will surely perform a perfect "transit dance" within China.