Q: I have a shipment of personal effects (used household goods) arriving at Shanghai Port, but I am unable to find a customs broker who handles personal items.

Could you please advise how an individual can complete customs clearance?

A: According to China Customs regulations, your shipment must fall within the approved catalogue of personal-use items and be in reasonable quantities.

If you are a long-term non-resident traveler, you may handle customs clearance either in person or through a customs brokerage company authorized by you. However, you must first obtain a long-term residence permit in China before you can declare personal effects for import.

Your first-time import of eligible personal effects can be exempt from duties, except for motor vehicles. Any subsequent imports of personal effects will be subject to taxation.

For specific inquiries, you may consult the comprehensive business division of Huangpu Customs, which is responsible for the valuation review of imported vehicles for non-resident travelers coming to Shanghai for long-term stays and for returning resident travelers within the Shanghai Customs jurisdiction.

Address: 7th Floor, Lansheng Building, No 8 Middle Huaihai Road

Tel: 021-6889-4329

You may also consult the diplomat and expatriate goods supervision section, which is responsible for:

• The review of self-use items for inbound and outbound non-resident long-term visitors and individuals coming to China for settlement, as well as the review of vehicles imported by long-term residents.
• The review of vehicles imported by personnel returning home after completing their tenure at overseas embassies and consulates.
• The review of self-use items, educational and scientific research supplies, and vehicles imported by high-level talent.
• The review of tax-free domestic vehicle purchased by returning overseas students.
• The acceptance of declarations for seafreight inbound and outbound unaccompanied baggage.

Address: 7th Floor, Lansheng Building, No 8 Middle Huaihai Road

Tel: 021-6889-1439

Source: Shanghai Customs