Flange bar import customs clearance practice: Secrets of 15-day fast clearance at Yangshan Port

1. The "Clearance Code" for Importing Flange Strips

January, 2023, a batch of flange bars we represented successfully completed customs clearance at Yangshan Port. Behind this seemingly ordinary case lies our 15 yearsImport RepresentationThe "clearance code" derived from practical experience. As an industrial foundational component, flange strips often encounter issues during import such as HS classification disputes, material certification requirements, and high inspection rates. Through comprehensive pre-shipment planning, this batch of goods was cleared within just 15 working days from port arrival to release, 30% faster than the industry average.

II. Complete Breakdown of Yangshan Port Import Process

Lets use this case to reconstruct the complete clearance roadmap for flange bar imports:

Pre - preparation Stage

15 days before cargo arrival, our professional team initiated preparations. Based on the flange bars material (carbon steel), application (pipeline connection), and specifications, we accurately classified them under HS code 7307.9100. Special reminder: Flange bars of different materials may involve anti-dumping duties - accuracy at this stage directly impacts subsequent costs.

Documentation Preparation

We compiled 8 core documents for the client:

• Maritime TransportationBill of Lading (with accurate gross/net weight)
• Trade Contract (price term: CIF Shanghai)
• Proforma Invoice (indicating origin)
• Packing List (detailed specifications)
• South KoreaIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:(Enjoying preferential tariff rates)
• Declaration Elements (including material, processing techniques)
• Product Manual (English version + Chinese translation)
• Customs Declaration & Inspection Authorization

Clearance Implementation Phase

After the goods arrive at the port, we adopt the "advance declaration" mode, completing the customs declaration entry before the vessel docks. Here's a professional tip: For flange strips, the declared product name should be standardized as "steel flanges," avoiding vague descriptions such as "connectors."

III. Clearance Efficiency Optimization Plan

From this case, we identified 3 key optimization points:

Pre-classification Service

Complete HS classification 15 days in advance to avoid disputes. We maintain a database covering 5,000+ industrial products with 100% accuracy for flanges.

Intelligent Document Review System

An AI-assisted document review system is employed to automatically verify the completeness of declaration elements. In this case, the system automatically prompts the need to supplement the "forging process description," avoiding time loss from subsequent document supplementation.

Inspection Contingency Plan

For Yangshan Ports 50% metal product inspection rate, we prepared complete solutions: ready samples, on-call technicians, test reports. Despite inspection, it took only 5 working days due to thorough preparation.

IV. Key Points for Import Cost Control

In this case, we saved the client 12% import costs through 3 aspects:

Tariff Optimization

Utilized China-Korea FTA preferential rates to reduce duty from 8% MFN to 6.4%. Special attention was paid to certificate format requirements like stamp placement.

Logistics Solution

Considering flange bars low rust-proof requirements, we chose cost-effective bulk shipping instead of containers, saving 30% freight.

Port Operations

By leveraging Yangshan Port's "pre-declaration and release upon arrival" policy, we reduced storage fees by 2 days. Additionally, we chose berths with lower inspection rates to dock, minimizing the likelihood of secondary handling.

Industry Experience Sharing

Based on 15 years of import agency experience, we have summarized the "Three Dos and Three Don'ts" principles for importing flange strips:

Three Dos:

1. Confirm material certificates in advance (especially for anti-dumping cases)
2. Standardize declaration of product names and specifications
3. Prepare complete technical documentation

Three Donts:

1. Dont mix flange bars of different materials
2. Dont underestimate customs inspection probability
3. Dont overlook details in certificates of origin

Nationwide Multi-port Service Network

Beyond Yangshan Port, weve established professional teams at major ports nationwide:

• Shanghai Waigaoqiao: Specializing in precision instrument imports
• Shenzhen Yantian: Expert in electronic product handling
• Tianjin Port: Bulk cargo specialists
• Xiamen Port: Green channel for Taiwan trade

Our multi-port layout ensures standardized professional services regardless of clients import locations.

New Trends in Import Business

With RCEP implementation, weve observed 3 new changes in flange bar imports:

1. 40% increase in flange bar imports from ASEAN origins
2. Stricter customs requirements for quality and safety
3. "Intelligent Customs Declaration" becomes the industry standard.

Weve upgraded our customs declaration system with automatic RCEP origin rule verification to ensure clients benefit from the latest policy advantages.

Through this flange bar import case, we have once again verified: professional import agency is not merely about "running errands," but requires a comprehensive service combining technology, experience, and resources.ZhongShen International TradeWell continue optimizing import solutions to ensure efficient clearance for every batch of flange bars.