Cross-Border Shipping Rules and Regulations

EEI (Electronic Export Information)

EEI filing is required for all shipments to China, regardless of the value, and must include an Export Commerce Control Number.

Customs Clearance Process

All shipments to China require an Importer/Exporter Customs Registration Code (a 10-digit customs code), except for the following types of shipments:

Documents

Personal effects

It is especially important to provide a detailed product description for shipments to China, as China Customs enforces strict declaration requirements.

Gifts

Gift exemptions may be allowed on a case-by-case basis, but only between individuals. To clear customs, the shipper’s passport or the receiver’s China Compulsory Certificate (CCC) is required.

Effective January 1, 2025, a new German postal law will require that parcels weighing between 10 and 20 kg, as well as those over 20 kg, display a clearly visible weight-class icon, for example, on the label.

To comply with this regulation, AUSDURAN shipping labels for parcels to Germany will be updated accordingly.

How to prepare:

• WorldShip Users: Please ensure you are using the latest version, as only the most recent version will generate compliant labels.
• Custom Labels: Customers creating their own labels (e.g., Host to Host) will receive specific labeling requirements from AUSDURAN to comply with these new regulations.

Correct weight-class indication is essential for compliant labeling. It is crucial that customers provide accurate weight information when submitting shipment details to AUSDURAN.

Import and Export Regulations for Hong Kong

Hong Kong operates under a free port policy, which makes it an attractive hub for international trade. However, companies still need to be aware of specific regulations, particularly those relating to sanctions and export controls.

Import Regulations

Customs Declaration: All imports into Hong Kong must be declared to the Customs and Excise Department. For most goods, this involves submitting a customs declaration form along with a commercial invoice and bill of lading.

Duties and Taxes: Hong Kong does not levy general import duties. However, goods like alcohol, tobacco, and fuel are subject to specific duties.

Prohibited Imports: Like most countries, Hong Kong prohibits the importation of illegal drugs, firearms, and counterfeit products.

Export Regulations

Export Declaration: An export declaration is required for all shipments leaving Hong Kong. Similar to import declarations, these must contain detailed descriptions of the goods and their destination.

Sanctions and Export Control: Hong Kong adheres to international sanctions, and exports to sanctioned countries such as North Korea and Iran are prohibited. Additionally, goods considered to be dual-use (civilian and military applications) are subject to export control.

Special Notes:

International Sanctions: Hong Kong-based entities involved in trade with Iran or countries facing international sanctions should be cautious. U.S. and EU sanctions may impact shipments originating from or passing through Hong Kong.

Gifts and Samples

Samples must be valued below 10,000 INR to qualify for duty-free clearance. The term “sample” must be clearly mentioned in the invoice for the shipment.

All shipments of gifts are subject to duties and taxes.

Shipping Medical Products

All medical products, devices, and supplies, including diagnostic kits, require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Health Department.

Shipments of medicine and vitamins require a No-Objection Certificate from the Assistant Drug Controller. Nutritional supplements require an NOC issued by the Drug Controller.

Import and Export Regulations for Iran

Iran has specific import and export regulations heavily influenced by international sanctions. While the country has eased restrictions on certain goods in recent years, it's crucial to stay updated with regulatory changes, especially those impacted by international sanctions.

Import Regulations

Import Licensing: All goods imported into Iran require a license from the Iranian Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Trade. Certain goods may require additional approvals from other authorities, such as food or pharmaceutical products.

Customs Duties: Import duties are imposed on goods entering Iran, and they can range from 5% to 55% depending on the classification of the product.

Sanctions Compliance: Due to international sanctions, many goods from countries such as the U.S. and EU are prohibited, including technology, software, and specific industrial equipment. However, the Iranian government allows the import of certain items from non-sanctioned countries.

Export Regulations

Export Declarations: Exporters must submit an export declaration, including detailed descriptions of the goods, quantity, and value. The export declaration must be approved by the Iranian Customs Administration.

Export Restrictions: Iran has export restrictions on specific items such as petroleum products, weapons, and military technology. Any exports to sanctioned countries (such as the U.S.) are strictly prohibited.

Sanctions Impact: Be aware of the impact of U.S. sanctions, which have led to restrictions on Iranian oil exports and sanctions on businesses or individuals involved in exporting such goods.

Special Notes:

Dual-Use Goods: Certain goods that can be used for both civilian and military purposes (dual-use goods) are heavily controlled. Exporters must comply with Iran’s strict regulations regarding these items.

Import and Export Regulations for Japan

Japan’s regulations are among the most stringent and modern, with strong emphasis on safety, environmental protection, and consumer protection.

Import Regulations

Customs Clearance: Every import shipment must undergo customs clearance, where the goods are subject to inspection. A customs declaration is required, detailing the product's classification, origin, value, and destination.

Import Duties and Taxes: The standard import duty rate in Japan ranges from 0% to 15%, depending on the type of product. Additionally, Japan imposes a consumption tax (similar to VAT) of 10%.

Food and Pharmaceutical Products: Goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices must meet specific regulations, including certification from the Japan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) for health-related products.

Prohibited Imports: Certain goods are prohibited, including illegal drugs, weapons, and counterfeit products.

Export Regulations

Export Control: Japan has a robust export control regime, particularly for military and dual-use technology. Exports of high-tech equipment and sensitive materials, including those that could be used for missile technology, are tightly regulated.

Export Declaration: Before exporting goods from Japan, an export declaration must be submitted to Japan Customs, detailing the goods and their destination. A Certificate of Origin may also be required for some shipments.

Sanctions Compliance: Japan enforces United Nations and international sanctions. Exports to sanctioned countries like North Korea or Iran are strictly prohibited.

Special Notes:

Catch-All Export Control: As of January 31, 2025, Japan will enforce "catch-all" export controls, preventing the diversion of sensitive technologies to unauthorized destinations. This affects entities from countries like Iran, the UAE, and Hong Kong.

To clear customs, most countries in Latin America need the receiver’s TAX ID or identification number.

Effective July 5, 2024, the Thai Customs Department has commenced collecting 7% value-added tax (VAT) on imported goods into Thailand with a value ranging from 1 THB to 1,500 THB per package.

Import and Export Regulations for the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stringent import and export regulations in place, managed by the UAE Customs Authority. Companies and individuals importing goods into or exporting from the UAE must follow the specific requirements set by the government to ensure compliance and avoid any delays.

Import Regulations

Customs Declaration: All shipments entering the UAE must be declared to the customs authorities. A customs declaration must include a detailed description of the goods, including the HS code, value, and country of origin.

Value Added Tax (VAT): Goods entering the UAE are subject to a VAT of 5%. Importers must ensure that VAT is paid at the time of import. This applies to most goods, but certain categories like medical supplies may be exempt.

Import Restrictions: Certain items such as firearms, pornography, and counterfeit goods are prohibited. The UAE has strict regulations on pharmaceuticals, hazardous materials, and cultural artifacts.

Required Documentation: Documents required for import include:

Customs Inspection and Duties: All shipments entering the UAE are subject to customs inspection. The general import duty rate is 5%, but some products may incur additional duties, depending on the category (such as alcohol, tobacco, etc.). Products must also pass customs inspections, which may include physical checks.

Export Regulations

: Before exporting from the UAE, a declaration must be made with the UAE Customs Authority. This includes information on the goods, their destination, and the consignee details.

: Be aware of any trade sanctions that may impact exports to certain countries. The UAE adheres to international sanctions imposed by the United Nations, European Union, and the United States.

: Similar to import regulations, exports require the following documentation:
Commercial invoiceExport declarationBill of ladingCertificate of origin

: The UAE has several free zones where goods can be exported with special benefits such as zero customs duty and reduced VAT. However, shipments leaving these zones must comply with UAE national export regulations.

Special Notes:

Customs Clearance Delays: Failure to provide correct and detailed descriptions of goods, incorrect valuation, or incomplete documentation may lead to delays in customs clearance or shipment rejection.

All shipments of £600 GBP or more require an EORI number. For shipments valued less than £600 GBP, a temporary VAT number can be used.

Shippers do not need an EORI number if they are moving goods that are

• not controlled goods, AND
• for personal use only

Returns: Goods returned to the UK within two years can be done without duty and VAT, provided the item is in the same state as at the time of export

ICS2
Recent changes to the European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) does not impact most of the U.K. (England, Scotland, and Wales). However, if shipping to Northern Ireland, then data must be submitted as if the goods were going to an EU member state. This is due to there not being any border or customs clearance between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which is an EU member.

Effective January 11, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will fully enforce Section 321 - the ‘de minimis’ rule. This means CBP will be able to identify importers who do not comply with this regulation across all modes of transportation. According to CBP, shipments eligible for de minimis entry must meet the following criteria:

The value must be under US $800.

The $800 de minimis limit applies to each consignee in the U.S. by one person or company, on one day.

Consolidated shipments to a single consignee are considered as one importation, regardless of the transportation method.

The importer must declare the value on a bill of lading or similar document, such as a manifest.

This regulation applies to all modes of transportation and entry types.

Shipments that are found with omitted or altered declaration details intended to avoid the daily threshold could face customs clearance holds or delivery delays. If a shipment exceeds the daily threshold, it will be subject to either formal or informal entry, depending on the specific circumstances.

For formal entry, the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) along with applicable duties and taxes imposed by customs, as well as AUSDURAN's customs brokerage fees, will be billed to the shipper or consignee based on the shipment's billing term.

For informal entry, AUSDURAN's customs brokerage fees and applicable duties and taxes will be billed to the shipper or consignee, depending on the shipment's billing term.

Shipments with vague descriptions may be delayed at origin. To avoid customs delays or unexpected charges, please ensure that a detailed and accurate description of the goods is provided for all shipments.

For guidance, the description of goods should include the following information:

What the item is

What materials it is made of

What the item is used for

The item's serial or part number, if applicable

You can contact us to identify the harmonized tariff code for your goods.

If you're shipping a single commodity valued over $2,500, you will need to fill out an Electronic Export Information (EEI) form. EEIs are filed electronically with ACE, either by you or AUSDURAN on your behalf.

Filing options are as follows:

Self-file at ACE: While this is free of charge, you’ll need to refer to the AUSDURAN Port of Export Guide to determine from which port the shipment left the U.S. (this is required by ACE).

Print an EEI from AUSDURAN's shipping system: You can do this via our online tools. You’ll need to provide a completed Power of Attorney form for us to file on your behalf. A small fee will apply.

Provide your own company's printed EEI or a completed commercial invoice: A Power of Attorney form is required, and a small fee will apply.

Please ensure all required documentation is accurate to avoid delays or additional fees.