Who handles 
China export customs when I buy from a Chinese supplier? in detail
Under China's customs declaration rules, the export declaration is made by the export consignor or a customs declaration enterprise it appoints. Being the overseas buyer does not by itself make you that consignor or declarant. Both must complete record-filing (备案) with China Customs. In general the declaration is filed after the goods reach the customs-supervised area and at least 24 hours before loading; advance declaration is also allowed when its conditions are met.
- Applies to
- Overseas buyers agreeing shipping and price terms with a Chinese supplier.
Dear friend,
Welcome! This letter sets out what you need to know, plainly and in order.
The short version
| Question | What the rule says | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Who declares exports? | The export consignor, or a customs declaration enterprise it appoints | |
| Do they need to register? | Yes, both complete record-filing (备案) with customs in advance | Same order, Article 4 |
| When is it filed? | In general after the goods reach the customs-supervised area, at least 24 hours before loading (Article 7); advance declaration is allowed when Article 9's conditions are met | Same order, Articles 7 and 9 |
What the rules say
China Customs' Provisions on the Administration of Declarations for Import and Export Goods (GACC Order No. 277) were published on 27 March 2025 and took effect on 1 May 2025.
- Article 2 defines declaration as the consignee of imports, the consignor of exports, or an appointed customs declaration enterprise submitting the declaration and documents, which customs accepts.
- Article 4: the consignor or consignee "may declare to customs itself, or appoint a customs declaration enterprise"; both must complete record-filing with customs in advance.
- Article 7 sets the general export timing: after arrival in the customs-supervised area and at least 24 hours before loading.
- Article 9 also permits advance declaration, within seven days before the goods arrive in the supervised area, where the documents and other conditions are met.
- Article 13: an appointed customs declaration enterprise may declare in its own name.
(Our summary and translation of the Chinese text, read from the official text republished by China's Ministry of Commerce on 19 May 2025. GACC original.)
What to ask your supplier
- Who is the export consignor, and will it declare itself or appoint a customs declaration enterprise? Whose name will appear on the declaration?
- Is export customs included in the price (for example under FOB or CIF), or charged separately? Your contract decides this, not the customs rule.
- Do you need anything from me for the export declaration (for example the buyer's name and address, or the product's intended use)?
- Will you send me a copy of the export documents after shipment?
Import customs in your own country is a separate step with its own rules.
Still uncertain
- Small parcels sent by post or express under China's cross-border e-commerce modes (such as 9610) have their own procedures; this page covers the general declaration rule.
- This page is general information from official sources, not legal or customs advice.
Sources for this letter
Wishing you good business,
The mouwise team
Checked 2026-10-27
Contact us