It’s not for nothing that China is known as the warehouse of the world. The world’s largest manufacturer and exporter, it boasted 31.6% of the global manufacturing output in 2023. That amounts to a value of almost $5 trillion. No wonder so many businesses import products from China into the UK. But although China’s is the busiest export market, the export process isn’t always simple. So for businesses just starting to work with China, and even the old hands, there are some important things to remember.
Five Things to Remember When Importing Goods to the UK from China
Product suitability
One of the most important things that all importers need to cover is whether the products they are dealing with can be exported to the UK. It sounds obvious. But it’s frequently overlooked. So, as well as ensuring that the products are not on the restricted items list, you have to look at your supplier. Not all suppliers can legally export goods from China. They need to be licenced, to hold the correct certification, and to provide export declarations. And if you buy from a supplier without the right paperwork, you’re not going to be able to move your goods.
UKCA Mark and other regulatory compliance
The UK has very strict rules about consumer safety. Consequently, any goods that are brought into the UK from other countries must be UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) or CE (Conformité Européene) marked. This requires a stringent testing process, which many smaller manufacturers simply can’t afford to implement. If you try to import goods that do not comply with the relevant regulations, they will be seized by customs.
Commodity codes
Commodity codes are globally recognised numbers used to identify products for customs purposes when importing or exporting goods. If you already work in other territories, then you’ll be aware of this. They can be six, eight, or 10 digits long. And directly link to the amount of customs duty that will be levied against your shipment. It’s vital to deploy the correct commodity codes if you wish to avoid delays and penalties.
Transportation
Logistics is an enormous part of the import/export industry. Finding the right freight forwarder to work with, and the right means of transport for your goods can change your entire experience. Although land freight is available between the UK and China (with a short ferry trip between Europe and the UK at the end!), most businesses use either sea freight or air freight. They both have their advantages – sea freight is cheaper, but air freight is faster. But it’s important to find the best mode of transport for your goods and your customers.
Differing holiday periods
Lastly, one of the most common mistakes made by UK businesses working with China is the differing holiday periods. While we’re used to a brief Christmas shutdown, in China the whole of December is business as usual. This can mean delayed and missed communication and frustrated contacts. While Chinese New Year typically results in a period of extended shutdown for Chinese manufacturers and logistics companies. This can cause delays in inventory. And because the holiday period varies, occurring any time between January 21st and February 20th, it can be difficult to plan around. As long as you keep this in mind, it shouldn’t be a problem. But many businesses experience stock shortages in the period just after Chinese New Year.
China holds a huge amount of potential for UK importers. In fact, in 2021, it was the UK’s largest import partner, with around £63.6 billion of goods brought into the country. But if you’re going to work with China, you need to get the process right. Part of that can be helped by finding a reputable freight forwarder to work with. They can not only take care of transportation, but support you through the more complicated aspects of customs and excise. But for the rest, you need to do your research, and be careful where you put your money.
Find out more about Plexus Freight’s freight services from China.
