Complete process for automotive parts import: 20 years of experience teaching how to solve three major challenges

I. Industry Status and Import Pain Points Analysis

2023 GlobalAutomotive partsThe import market size exceeded $2.3 trillion, with China, as the worlds largest automotive aftermarket, experiencing continuous growth in import demand. However, enterprises commonly face three major operational challenges:
1.Complex Regulatory Barriers: Significant variations in emission standards (e.g., China 6b) and safety certifications (E-mark/DOT/3C) across countries
2.Frequent Classification Disputes: Over 30% of enterprises face customs delays or fines due to HS code misclassification (e.g., confusion between wiper blades and lighting components)
3.Uncontrolled Time-Cost Efficiency: Emergency orders face supply chain disruptions due to inspection and quarantine procedures (e.g.,New energyvehicle battery UN38.3 testing)

II. Breakdown of Auto Parts Import Process (With Key Node Controls)

Phase 1: Pre-Compliance Preparation
1.Product Pre-Classification Certification

• Case: A German company importing turbochargers (originally declared 8708.99 resulting in tariff deviation; corrected to 8409.91 saved 12% in duties)
• Key Operation: Apply in advance for the Pre-Ruling Decision on Classification (Customs General Administration Announcement No. 14 [2018])

2.✓

• 3C Certification Exemptions: Parts for scientific testing (requires Exemption Certificate for Compulsory Product Certification)
• Special Scenario Handling: Parallel import auto parts require simultaneous submission of VIN codes and vehicle conformity certificates

Phase 2: Customs Declaration Operations
1.Accurate Declaration Element Entry

• Core Elements: Brand/model (e.g., BOSCH 0986AB), applicable vehicle models (requires OEM part numbers), material specifications
• Warning of Common Mistakes: Body kits for modification need to declare modification purpose attribute separately

2.Documentation system setup

• Essential documents:It is recommended to verify through the following methods:(Eligible for tariff reduction under RCEP), Declaration of Conformity for quality and safety
• Emerging requirements: EU Battery Directive (2023/1542) requires carbon footprint declaration

Phase 3: Strategies for customs inspection at ports
1.Key inspection categories

• High-risk products: Brake pads (require GB5763 test report), Airbags (require UNECE R94 certification)
• NEV components: Lithium battery modules require UN38.3 test report + explosion-proof packaging certificate

2.Inspection issue resolution plan

• Label rectification: Parts with Japanese markings must add Chinese warning labels (font height ≥5mm)
• Sampling inspection: Prepare spare parts in advance to avoid production line impact (recommend 5% redundancy based on cargo value)

III. Cost optimization and risk control model (Supported by 20 years of practical data)

Three principles of cost control:
1.Utilize the China - ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) to achieve zero tariffs on imported frames from Thailand;:

• U.S.-China tariff exclusion applications (e.g. specific model drive shafts may apply for reduction from 25%→7.5%)
• FTA utilization: Gearboxes enjoy 8% preferential tariff under China-ASEAN Agreement

2.Logistics solution design:

• Emergency parts: Choose Shanghai/Guangzhou airport customs clearance (48-hour fast track)
• Bulk cargo: Priority inspection service for FCL at Qingdao/Tianjin ports

3.Exchange rate hedging mechanism:

• Forward exchange locking: Euro-denominated orders recommended to use forward settlement for exchange risk hedging

Risk Early - Warning System:

• Establish AEO-certified enterprise whitelist (reducing inspection rate to 0.8%)
• Dynamic monitoring of Key Used Mechanical and Electrical Products Import Catalog (2024 edition adds NEV motor controls)

Characteristics of the global supply chain

1.Emerging sector opportunities:

• Surge in smart driving component imports (laser radar HS code classification dispute resolution)
• Hydrogen fuel cell system import tariff preferential policy forecast

2.Regulatory upgrade trends:

• EU New Battery Regulation (carbon passport requirements) compliance solutions
• Impact of U.S. IRA Act on re-export of Chinese EV components

3.Digital upgrade path:

• Blockchain traceability system application (Mercedes-Benz has achieved QR code full-process tracking for components)
• Smart classification system deployment (error rate reduced to 0.3% for a leading agency company)

Authors Introduction
Processed over 32,000 cases of auto parts imports, appointed as special consultant by the Customs Tariff Classification Committee, led the compilation of New Energy Vehicle Parts Import Operation Guide (2023 Edition).

(Note: Import Auto Parts Compliance Self-Check List and 2024 Tariff Adjustment Forecast Table can be attached at the end, contact us to obtain if needed)

This article combines the latest policy trends with practical cases to systematically solve the three major pain points in auto parts imports: difficult classification, slow clearance, and high costs, helping enterprises build a safe and efficient import supply chain system.