Importing garments from China offers major business advantages, but missing or incorrect documents can lead to shipment delays, customs penalties, or even cargo being held or returned. To ensure a smooth process when you import clothes from China, here are the must-have documents, shown in a structured form format for quick reference.
Document Checklist for Clothing Imports
1. Commercial Invoice
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Declares transaction value and product details to customs |
| Issued By | Supplier or exporter |
| Includes | Buyer/seller info, invoice date, product descriptions, HS codes, value, Incoterms, origin country |
| Importance | Determines import duties & VAT; used by customs for clearance |
2. Packing List
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Breaks down how goods are packed inside each shipment |
| Issued By | Supplier or factory |
| Includes | Carton count, net/gross weight, dimensions, items per box, shipping marks |
| Importance | Required for inspection, handling, and warehouse coordination |
3. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Proof of shipment; shipping contract between exporter and carrier |
| Issued By | Carrier or freight forwarder |
| Types | Ocean Freight: Bill of Lading (B/L) Air Freight: Air Waybill (AWB) |
| Includes | Shipper/consignee info, cargo details, container/flight number, port of origin/destination |
| Importance | Required for cargo release and customs clearance |
4. Certificate of Origin (CO)
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Verifies goods are made in China; qualifies for duty reductions under trade deals |
| Issued By | Chinese Chamber of Commerce or authorized agency |
| Includes | Exporter/importer info, HS codes, value, destination, signature/stamp |
| Importance | Allows access to lower tariffs (e.g. Form E, RCEP, Form A) |
5. Import License / Importer Registration
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Legal authorization to import into buyer’s country |
| Required By | Customs in your country (varies) |
| Examples | EORI (Europe), IOR (USA), import permits (India/Vietnam) |
| Importance | Mandatory for customs entry in many countries |
6. Product Compliance & Test Reports
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Ensures clothing meets health, safety, and environmental regulations |
| Issued By | Accredited labs or certification agencies |
| Examples | CPSIA (USA), REACH (EU), OEKO-TEX, flammability test, fiber content analysis |
| Importance | Required for baby/kids clothing and regulated materials |
7. Insurance Certificate (Optional but Smart)
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Proves goods are insured during transport |
| Issued By | Insurance company or freight forwarder |
| Includes | Value, type of coverage, shipment route, contact info |
| Importance | Protects your investment in case of loss, theft, or damage in transit |
8. Proforma Invoice
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Initial quote from supplier before production or payment |
| Issued By | Supplier |
| Includes | Product description, pricing, terms, estimated delivery, MOQ |
| Importance | Used for planning, applying for LCs, and internal approvals |
The Role of Freight Forwarders
| Service Provided | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Document preparation | Prevents delays and errors |
| Customs declaration | Ensures correct tax & HS code usage |
| CO/Form E assistance | Helps reduce import duty |
| Compliance guidance | Keeps you aligned with regulations |
| Consolidation support | Gathers goods from multiple suppliers/cities |
Conclusion
When you import clothes from China, document accuracy is as critical as product quality. Use this checklist to prepare each shipment, avoid delays at the border, and stay compliant with destination-country laws. Partnering with a trusted freight forwarder can streamline your document workflow and keep your clothing business moving efficiently.
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FAQ:
Q1. Do I need all of these documents for every shipment?
Not always. The specific documents required can depend on the destination country, type of garments, shipping method, and regulations. However, a commercial invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading/Air Waybill are almost always required.
Q2. Who is responsible for preparing the documents—me or the supplier?
Typically:
- Supplier: Prepares the commercial invoice, packing list, and Certificate of Origin.
- Freight Forwarder: Issues the Bill of Lading and can help with customs paperwork.
- You (Importer): Must provide importer registration, import licenses, and ensure product compliance.
Q3. What happens if documents are missing or incorrect?
Customs may:
- Delay your shipment
- Impose fines
- Reject or seize goods
Always double-check documents with your freight forwarder or customs broker before shipping.
Q4. Can a freight forwarder handle all of this for me?
Yes. A good freight forwarder will:
- Assist in document preparation
- Coordinate with suppliers
- Manage customs clearance
- Ensure compliance with shipping and import regulations
Q5. What is the HS Code for clothing imports?
HS Codes (Harmonized System Codes) vary by garment type. Common examples include:
- 6109.10: Cotton T-shirts
- 6203.42: Men’s cotton trousers
- 6110.30: Synthetic fiber sweaters
Ask your freight forwarder or customs broker to confirm the correct code—it affects duty rates.
Q6. Is a Certificate of Origin mandatory for every country?
No. Some countries require it only when:
- You’re applying for tariff exemptions
- There’s a preferential trade agreement in place
For example, under RCEP or ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement, the Form E is key to saving on import duties.
Q7. Do I need test reports for all clothing?
Generally not for adult clothing, but children’s garments, textiles with skin contact, or items with zippers, dyes, or embellishments may require:
- Flammability testing
- OEKO-TEX certification
- Fiber content labels
- Compliance with CPSIA (for the U.S.)
Q8. Do you have to pay customs on clothes from China?
Yes, in most cases, importing clothes from China is subject to customs duties, VAT, or GST, depending on your destination country.
- Duties are calculated based on the declared value and HS code of the garment.
- VAT/GST is often charged on the total landed cost (value + shipping + duty).
Example:
- USA: Duties apply, no VAT
- EU countries: Both customs duty and VAT apply
- Australia/Canada: GST plus import duties based on thresholds
A freight forwarder or customs broker can help calculate exact charges and ensure proper classification to avoid overpaying.