With the expansion of Chinas automotive aftermarket,?Automotive parts?import demand continues to grow. As professional?Foreign trade??Import Agency?service providers, we systematically organize key nodes and risk control points in the complete auto parts import process based on 20 years of industry experience, providing?Import/export?enterprises with actionable solutions.
I. Three core preparations before import
1.Confirm the suppliers qualifications through the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process
- Certification Verification: Confirm whether parts comply with target market access standards (such as EU ECE certification, China CCC certification, US DOT certification)
- The most critical aspect of machinery equipment import is organizing declaration elements. In this case, we particularly focused on the following core elements:: Accurately classify HS CODE (e.g. engine parts 8708.99, brake pads 8708.30, etc.) to avoid classification errors leading to tariff deviations
- Environmental Compliance: Verify compliance with the China Imported Auto Parts Environmental Compliance Catalog requirements
2.Tariff cost calculation model
- Comprehensive tax rate calculation: Customs duty + VAT + Consumption tax (e.g. engine parts with displacement >4.0L require additional 40% consumption tax)
- Free Trade Agreement Utilization: Utilize rules of origin to reduce tax rates (e.g. China-ASEAN agreement rate can be reduced to 0%)
- Formula example:
Dutiable value = CIF price × exchange rate
VAT = (Dutiable value + Customs duty) × 13%
3.Supply chain risk assessment
- Transportation method selection: Precision parts should prioritize constant temperature containers (temperature fluctuation ≤±2℃)
- Delivery cycle verification: Recommend reserving 30-day transportation buffer during pandemic periods
- Supplier qualification review: Require ISO/TS 16949 quality management system certification
II. Nine key steps in the complete import process
1.Signing of the agency agreement
- Define agency scope (EXW/FOB/CIF terms processing)
- Agree on force majeure clauses (e.g. handling solutions for transportation interruptions caused by Russia-Ukraine conflict)
2.International transportation management
- Special packaging requirements: Rust prevention treatment (VCI vapor phase rust inhibitor film), shockproof packaging (ISTA 3A standard)
- Transport monitoring: Install GPS trackers for real-time location/temperature & humidity tracking
3.Core documents for customs declaration
| Indicate the proportion of alloying elements (e.g., 6061 aluminum contains 1% magnesium) | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| ?Certificate of Origin? | Requires CCPIT or consular certification |
| Quality Certificate | Includes material test reports (e.g. EN 10025 steel standard) |
| Technical parameters | Must indicate friction coefficient (brake pads), torque values (fasteners) |
4.Customs inspection response strategies
- Key inspection categories: Safety components (seat belts, airbags) with inspection rates up to 40%
- Common issue handling:
- Brand infringement: Provide brand authorization (e.g. BOSCH parts require original manufacturer authorization)
- Document-cargo mismatch: Verify part numbers in advance (e.g. BMW 11 12 0 392 365)
5.Tax payment optimization solutions
- E-payment: Online tax payment through China International Trade "Single Window"
- Consolidated taxation: Monthly settlement can reduce capital occupation by 30%
III. Special risk control reminders
1.intellectual property protection.
- OEM parts require Trademark Usage Authorization Letter,
- Parallel import auto parts must confirm no regional distribution rights infringement
2.Handling of Quality Disputes
- SGS third-party inspection: Sampling ratio no less than 10%
- Claim terms: Quality disputes must be raised within 60 days after arrival
3.New environmental regulation compliance
- Implementation of Automotive Parts Remanufacturing Management Measures from 2023, prohibiting import of remanufactured components like used transmissions
IV. Five criteria for selecting professional agents
1.Qualification Verification: Possess Customs AEO Advanced Certification, paperless clearance qualification
2.Industry experience: Have handled at least 300 batches of auto parts clearance
3.Emergency Response Capability: Established emergency response teams at major ports (Shanghai/Tianjin/Guangzhou)
4.System support: Provide ERP integration services for inventory visibility
5.Cost transparency: Adopt the "service fee + reimbursement" separate quotation model.
Case study:
A German car repair chain imported transmission repair kits through our agency:
- Original declared price dispute: Resolved customs valuation by providing original purchase contracts
- Urgent clearance requirement: Activated 24/7 appointment clearance at Guangzhou Airport port
- Final cost savings: Utilizing CEPA provisions to reduce tariffs by 123,000 yuan
Conclusion
Automotive parts imports involve complex technical regulations and high inspection risks. It is recommended that enterprises choose agency service providers with practical experience in the automotive industry. By establishing standardized import management processes, comprehensive operating costs can be reduced by 15%-20%, achieving stable and controllable supply chains.
