Importing garments from China can offer huge margins—but only if your goods clear customs smoothly. Many first-time or even seasoned importers face shipment delays, unexpected fees, or even confiscation due to missteps in customs documentation or labeling.
Handling customs clearance efficiently requires proper planning, accurate paperwork, and a deep understanding of import regulations in your target country.
In this article, I’ll walk you through a clear, step-by-step guide to ensure your apparel shipments from China don’t get stuck at the border—and arrive exactly when your customers expect them.
What Documents Are Required for Apparel Imports?
Each shipment must include several key documents for customs clearance. Missing or misfiled paperwork is the top reason shipments get delayed or fined.
The good news is that with the right preparation, these documents are relatively straightforward to compile.
What Are the Mandatory Shipping Documents?
Here are the essentials:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Proof of value and description of goods |
| Packing List | Details of box count, sizes, and weights |
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | Shipping contract between exporter and carrier |
| Certificate of Origin (CO) | Confirms goods are made in China |
| Import License (if applicable) | Needed in some countries for apparel items |
You can find a template for a standard commercial invoice here and examples of packing lists on Alibaba’s trade documentation guide.
What Is the Correct HS Code for Apparel?
Harmonized System (HS) codes are internationally standardized numbers used to classify products for tariffs.
For example:
- T-shirts: 6109.10
- Women’s blouses: 6206.40
- Men’s trousers: 6203.42
You can look up exact HTS codes for U.S. imports or use the EU TARIC system for European shipments.
How Do You Calculate and Pay Duties and Taxes?
Calculating duty and VAT can feel overwhelming—especially for new buyers. But once you know the product code and destination, it’s easy to estimate costs in advance.
Understanding duties and taxes lets you price accurately and avoid surprises on arrival.
What Is the Duty Rate for Clothing in the U.S. and EU?
U.S. duty rates for apparel typically range from 16% to 32%, depending on material and gender. For example:
- Men’s cotton trousers: 16.6%
- Synthetic fiber jackets: 28.2%
You can find your specific rate on the U.S. ITC tariff tool.
For the EU, VAT is also added (usually 19–25%) on top of the duty. Use the EU Access2Markets tool to calculate EU rates.
How Are Duties Paid?
If you're shipping DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), your supplier or freight forwarder handles all taxes and delivers goods to your warehouse. If FOB or CIF, you (the importer) must pay taxes directly to customs.
Most importers use customs brokers to manage payment and declaration. Tools like Zonos and EasyShip help calculate and collect duties automatically.
How Can You Avoid Common Customs Clearance Delays?
Most customs delays come down to three avoidable issues: incorrect paperwork, suspicious labeling, and misdeclared values.
Planning ahead and staying compliant avoids most delays—and keeps your supply chain on schedule.
Why Are Some Shipments Held for Inspection?
Random checks happen, but often customs holds shipments because:
- Value seems too low to be realistic
- HS code doesn't match product
- Missing documentation
- Suspected trademark violation (e.g., brand logo misuse)
This is why you should always declare truthfully and use third-party inspection reports to back up your invoice when needed.
Sites like QualityInspection.org provide free resources to help draft compliant documents and prep for customs audits.
How Do You Avoid Under- or Over-Valuing Goods?
Declare actual transaction value. Don’t try to lower the invoice to reduce taxes—it’s illegal and risks seizure. Also, don’t overinflate prices to insure the goods unless it’s reflected in contract terms.
At Fumao Clothing, we help buyers create fair, audit-proof invoices that reflect real market value—protecting both ends of the deal.
Should You Use a Customs Broker or Handle It Yourself?
Many new importers ask if they can clear customs themselves. The truth? Yes, you can—but it’s rarely worth the risk or hassle.
Hiring a licensed customs broker ensures paperwork is filed correctly and any problems are handled fast.
When Is It Best to Use a Customs Broker?
Always consider a broker if:
- You’re importing full containers or high-value shipments
- You’re unfamiliar with your country’s customs rules
- You want to focus on sales, not compliance
You can find certified brokers through Freightos, Flexport, or CBP's list of U.S. brokers.
How Much Does It Cost to Use a Customs Broker?
Fees vary but typically range from $100 to $250 per shipment. Some also charge for additional services like bond filing or HTS code review.
At Fumao, we offer referrals to trusted brokers and forwarders with pre-negotiated rates, or handle clearance ourselves if you choose our DDP option.
Conclusion
Customs clearance for clothing shipments from China doesn’t need to be a nightmare. With the right documents, realistic duty estimates, and either a reliable freight partner or customs broker, you can streamline the process—and focus on what matters most: growing your apparel business.
At Fumao Clothing, we assist every client through the full customs journey—from factory door to your warehouse. Let us help you navigate the regulations and avoid costly surprises.
