Q: I am a Russian citizen relocating permanently from the United States to Belarus. I have a 40-foot container that will transit from New York → Shanghai → Vladivostok → Minsk, Belarus. I need assistance with the customs transit declaration for this shipment.

A: According to Article 35 of the Measures of the Customs of the People's Republic of China for Supervision over Inbound and Outbound Luggage and Articles, "Luggage and articles" refers to items carried by persons entering or leaving China, including items carried with them and items transported separately.

Items belonging to persons who are not entering or leaving China do not fall within the category of "luggage and articles" and therefore cannot be declared as ordinary luggage and articles or separately transported luggage and articles.

If the items need to be declared as goods, we recommend confirming the transport route, mode of trade, and other relevant details with the logistics company. For items classified as transshipment goods, the carrier shall handle the transshipment formalities in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Source: Shanghai Customs