Hong Kong network switch import clearance case study: How 3C certification accelerates Waigaoqiao customs clearance?

I. Case Background: Million-Dollar Network Switch Import Project

In August 2022, we received an urgent commission from a technology company to import a batch of Cisco enterprise-grade network switches from Hong Kong, with a total value of $1.2 million. The client originally planned to handle the import procedures independently, but after understanding3Cthe certification requirements, they realized the necessity of professional agency. As a service provider withImport Representation15 years of experience, we ultimately assisted the client in successfully completing customs clearance at Waigaoqiao Port, finishing the entire process 9 working days ahead of the clients expectations.

II. Three Core Challenges in Network Switch Imports

1. The roadblock of CCC certification

According to the Compulsory Product Certification Management Regulations, network switches fall under Category 0809 for information technology equipment and must obtain CCC certification. The biggest challenge we faced was that this batch included new models for which the client had not yet obtained certification. Through our CCC certification fast-track channel:

• Coordinated with testing institutions to prioritize type testing
• Prepared complete EMC test reports and technical documentation
• Adopt declare first, supplement certificates later special clearance plan

2. Customs Classification Dispute

Network switches fall into a disputed range between HS codes 8517.62 and 8517.69. We prepared in advance:

• Technical parameter manuals (Chinese-English bilingual version)
• Functional description letters issued by the manufacturer
• Customs clearance cases for similar products over the past three years

Ultimately declared under 8517.62, enjoying a 5% preferential agreement tariff rate.

3. Key Inspection Points at Waigaoqiao Port

The inspection rate for electromechanical products at Waigaoqiao Port remains around 15% annually. We anticipated the key points customs might focus on:

• Verifying whether the serial numbers on the devices matched the declaration
• Checking if the power adapters complied with national standards
• Confirming whether the devices fell under cybersecurity review scope

III. Seven Critical Nodes in the Customs Clearance Process

Stage	Time Consumption	Precautions
Data Preparation	Days 1-2	Need to confirm Chinese nameplates provided by the original manufacturer
Hong KongExport Clearance	0.5 day	Note the special requirements of Hong Kongs free port
Waigaoqiao inspection declaration	0.5 day	Need to simultaneously submit CCC certification acceptance receipts
Customs price review	Days 1-3	Prepare duty-paid price calculation explanations
Inspection (if triggered)	Days 15-18	Schedule inspection site appointments in advance
Pay taxes and release the goods	0.5 day	Recommend using electronic payment
Logistics Distribution	Day 1	Constant temperature transportation requirements

IV. Four Optimization Suggestions for Electromechanical Product Imports

1. Certification Pre-assessment Strategy

Recommend enterprises initiate during the procurement phase:

• CCC certification pre-evaluation
• Energy efficiency label filing
• Radio model approval

2. Split Declaration Techniques

For mixed packaging equipment:

• Declare hosts and accessories separately
• Declare software value separately
• Gifts must be clearly labeled

3. Logistics Route Selection

By comparing characteristics of various ports:

• Shanghai Port is suitable for high-value equipment
• Shenzhen port is suitable for urgent goods
• Tianjin port is suitable for northern markets

4. Tax planning solutions

Tax-saving measures we help clients achieve:

• Utilizing RCEP rules of origin
• Applying for sci-tech innovation tax reductions
• Deferring import VAT payments

V. Industry trends and compliance recommendations

With the implementation of the Cybersecurity Law, starting from 2023, networkequipment. For example, Indonesia has the SNI certification, Thailand has the TISI certification, and the Philippines has the BPS certification. It is necessary to confirm in advance the equipment voltage (such as 380V/50Hz in Thailand), the compatibility of the CE certification, and the proof of environmentally friendly materials.New additions include:

• Cybersecurity commitment letter
• Key component localization statement
• Data出境 security assessment

Recommend importers establish three-inspection mechanism: pre-compliance check, clearance process inspection, annual compliance recheck.

This case demonstrates that professional agencies value lies not only in process handling, but more importantly in risk anticipation and targeted solutions.ZhongShen International TradeOur localized teams at major nationwide ports ensure dedicated personnel for each import process - the secret behind our 98% customs clearance timeliness rate.