MOVING TO CHINA

Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to China:

• Original Passport (Of the individual moving/importing the goods) with residence permit (valid at least 1 year) Packing moving inventory list in English or Chinese (diplomat list must be signed and itemized) – We will complete this if you want us to undertake a full packing service for your removal
• Ocean bill of lading (OBL) / telex release / air waybill (AWB) – We will take care of this if completing the entire international removal to China for you.
• Arrival notice (sea shipments)
• List of electronic items
• Baggage declaration form, if applicable (2 copies, matching identically)
• Alcohol / wine list
• Consulate officer certificate (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Import permit (Consulate or Embassy must apply for diplomats)
• Diplomatic card (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Pro-forma invoice (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Original work permit (valid at least 1 year)
• Original Passport (Of the individual moving/importing the goods) with diplomatic visa (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)

We recommend providing these as soon as possible to reduce delays with your removal to China. Late receipt of documentation can lead to missed shipments, additional charges and penalties at Chinese Customs. For your own protection, we will almost never ship your goods without the above in place.

• The import of personal effects must be arranged at least 6 months before the expiration of the residence permit.
• The import permit takes approximately 2-3 working days to process and is valid for 30 days after issuance.
• The baggage declaration form is required by some cities only. Contact agent for more information.
• Customs clearance for returning Chinese takes approximately 10-12 business days.
• Chinese passport holders should contact the agent for restrictions on import shipments.
• It is recommended that each antique included in the shipment is photographed.
• Diplomatic shipments are exempt from inspection, duties and taxes.
• If the owner of the goods has both, sea and air shipments, an import permit application for both shipments must be completed at the same time.
• If the owner of the goods imports an additional shipment (air or sea), all items in the shipment are subject to tax and duty.
• All electrical items must be clearly indicated on the moving inventory, including model, serial number and size.
• Only one sea and one air shipment are allowed per residence permit.
• Sea shipments take approximately 10-15 working days to clear Customs.
• Air shipments take approximately 3-5 working days to clear Customs.
• If gross weight is over 300 kg, it may take approximately 10-15 working days to clear Customs in some cities, e.g. Shanghai.
• Estimates are based on completed documentation available at the time of shipment arrival and for Customs clearance.
• Duties are determined by Customs updated duty tariff dated August 2007, using an exchange rate of US $1=RMB 6.70. Note: The official rate is constantly fluctuating and is subject to change. Please contact agents with any questions regarding current exchange rates.
• Duty rates for air shipments are usually 30% higher than sea shipments.
• An official Customs duty receipt will be issued and provided to the shipper upon delivery.
• Import duties for alcoholic beverages are extremely high and beverages are not recommended for inclusion in the shipment.
• It is recommended that food items, alcohol, cosmetics, health products and toiletries are not included in air shipments to China.
• Business / tourist visas are issued for a maximum duration of stay for 30, 60, or 90 days as determined by the Chinese Consulate overseas.
• Wood packaging material imported into China must be heat treated or fumigated with methyl bromide and properly marked according to ISPM-15 standards.

Note: Customs regulations may differ between cities. It is important to contact agent for specific information prior to importation.

If you are unsure about what you need, one of our international move managers is always willing to help. Just call us on +44 20 7097 5335 , or fill out an international removal enquiry, and we’ll ease you through the process.

If you’re moving to China, it’s very likely you’ll have to exchange a large amount of currency. Many people waste thousands doing this through their bank as they think there is no alternative; but we partner with Global Reach who specialise in doing just this. Global Reach will offer all Gerson Moving Services customers preferential rates when exchanging currency and guarantee to beat other rates you’re receiving. Ask one of our move managers about this, to find out more click here or give us a call: +44 20 7097 5335 .

We always advise taking out an insurance policy with us on every move. Although we like to think we’re the best in the industry, the odd accident can occasionally happen. For added peace of mind, make sure to speak to one of our move managers about this.

If you have already contracted us for your international removal to China, then you can download the insurance form and email the completed form back to your international relocation manager.