International air freight customs declaration is a critical step in the export of goods. Incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to customs clearance delays, cargo detention, and even fines.
In this article, Weefreight will share a detailed customs declaration checklist, covering basic documents, supplementary information for special cargoes, and important points to help you prepare your documents efficiently.
This is the “foundational material” for customs review and is essential. Ensure that the information is accurate and fully consistent with the goods.
Commercial Invoice
Purpose: This is the core document proving the transaction value of goods, used by customs to determine tariffs.
Required Information: Names/Addresses/Contact Information of the Buyer and Seller, Name of Goods, Model, Quantity, Unit Price, Total Price, Trade Terms (e.g., FOB, CIF), Invoice Number, Issue Date, and the Seller’s Seal for Confirmation.
Note: The amount must be consistent with the contract. If the item is a sample, indicate “Sample, No Commercial Value.”
Packing List
Purpose: Provides detailed information about cargo packaging to assist customs in verifying cargo quantity and specifications.
Required Content: Cargo name, number, packaging method (e.g., carton, wooden box), gross/net weight of each package, volume (length × width × height, in centimeters or meters), and total number of pieces. This must correspond to the “Quantity of Goods” on the commercial invoice.
Note: If the goods have multiple specifications, they should be listed separately to avoid generalities.
Air Waybill (AWB)
Purpose: This is the contract document for cargo transportation and serves as the cargo’s “transportation ID card.”
How to Obtain: Issued by an airline or freight forwarder, it consists of a Master Waybill (MAWB) and a House Waybill (HAWB). A copy (or electronic version) of the Master Waybill is required for customs declaration. It must include the flight number, waybill number, consignor and consignee information, and the number/weight of pieces.
Note: The consignor and consignee on the bill of lading must match the customs declaration form and cannot be altered at will.
Customs Declaration Form
Purpose: This is a legal document used to declare cargo information to customs. It must be filled out and printed online through the “China International Trade Single Window” (or a customs-designated system) and submitted with the seal of a customs broker or company.
Required Content: Information of the declaring entity, customs code of the consignor and consignee, mode of transport (air freight), mode of trade (e.g., general trade, processing with imported materials), HS code of the goods (must be accurate as it directly affects tariffs and regulatory requirements), name of the goods, quantity, price, and place of origin.
Note: The HS code must be strictly confirmed in accordance with the “Harmonized Commodity Name and Coding System for Imports and Exports.” If unsure, verify the information through the customs “HS Code Query Platform” or a professional customs broker. Incorrect entries may result in order rejection or penalties.
Contract (Sales Contract/Agreement)
Purpose: This document serves as the basis for the transaction between the buyer and seller. Customs may conduct random inspections.
Required information: Buyer and seller information, goods details (consistent with the invoice), transaction amount, payment method, delivery time, signatures and seals from both parties. Validity period must cover the customs declaration date.
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