High-nickel alloy import: Customs clearance challenges for special materials

As a professionalforeign tradeAs a professional agency, we recently successfully handled a batch of high-nickel alloy materialsImport Clearancebusiness. These special alloy materials are widely used in high-end manufacturing fields such as aerospace and petrochemical industries due to their excellent high-temperature resistance and corrosion resistance. However, they face special challenges in the import process, including complex HS code classification and strict documentation requirements.

Preparatory work: The art of document verification

Before shipment, our professional team began meticulous preparation work:

• Triple verification of trade documents: Consistency checks of contracts, invoices, and packing lists are fundamental. We pay special attention to the accuracy of key information such as material composition and specifications
• It is recommended to verify through the following methods:Verification: Verification of certificate authenticity and preferential tariff applicability. This verification alone saved the client 2% in tariff costs
• Pre - classification Service: For the complex composition of high-nickel alloys, we conducted HS code pre-confirmation in advance to avoid later classification disputes

Complete record of Shanghai port clearance practice

The real test begins after the goods arrive at the port:

Key points for bill of exchange procedures

We encountered cases where discrepancies in consignee information on bills of lading caused delays. Now we always confirm in advance with shipping companies:

• Differences in handling original bills of lading/telex release
• Demurrage fee calculation rules
• Special working hour arrangements

Key points for customs declaration and inspection

Special attention is required for high-nickel alloy declarations:

• Nickel content percentage must be accurate to two decimal places
• Material certificates and usage descriptions must be provided
• Some specifications require automatic import license processing

Practical case of tax calculation

Taking a batch of high-nickel alloy worth USD 500,000 as an example:

Inspection Response and Logistics Distribution

Our statistics show that the inspection rate for high-nickel alloys is approximately 15%, with primary focus on:

• Radioactivity testing (some alloys contain trace elements)
• Consistency between actual composition and declaration
• Hazardous material labeling inspection

By preparing test reports and MSDS documents in advance, we maintain an inspection pass rate of over 95%. Within 48 hours after clearance, we can complete:

1. Port pickup
2. Special vehicle arrangement (some alloys require constant-temperature transportation)
3. GPS-monitored delivery throughout the process

Experience Summary and Risk Warnings

Through this case, we have summarized three golden rules for high-nickel alloy imports:

1. Pre-classification: Avoid customs delays caused by incorrect HS codes
2. Document authenticity: Ensure authenticity and validity of certificates, especially the certificate of origin and test reports
3. Contingency plan: Prepare complete technical documentation for potential inspections

We also remind importers to pay attention to:

• The impact of China-US trade friction on certain alloy materials
• Changes in RCEP rules of origin implemented since 2023
• Fluctuations in customs clearance efficiency during special periods at Shanghai Port

Professional Services Create Value

In this case, our professional services delivered significant value to the client:

• Saved RMB 12,000 in tariffs through classification optimization
• Avoided RMB 35,000 in demurrage charges through expedited processing
• Achieved logistics visibility through end-to-end tracking system

If you are planning to import high-nickel alloys or other special materials, feel free to contact our expert team for customized solutions.