Moving To China
Britannia in China
Britannia can offer you a door to door service to China, and can either ship your effects by sole use container, or for smaller shipments in a wooden crate (LCL). In addition we can offer a door to door airfreight service to most major destinations in China. Our agents in Shanghai will arrange customs clearance, and deliver and unpack the effects, including removal of debris on day of delivery.
Importing Personal Effects
All shipments of appliances, furniture, bedding and other items are dutiable. Electrical items must be itemized with make, model and serial no. Video tapes/CDs will be held for additional scrutiny. The shipper must obtain a Chinese Residency card on arrival, and then apply for an import permit for the effects. The shipment must arrive within 6 months of issue of permit. Various documentation is required for clearance, including a Baggage Declaration Form from customs, obtained at time of personal arrival. There are different requirements for returning Chinese Citizens, and News Agency personnel. You Britannia member will supply detailed customs requirements.
Documentation
Britannia and our agents will assist you with completion of customs formalities. To assist us with this please let us have a copy of your passport (and visa if applicable). The required documentation will be supplied to you on arrival. To avoid any potential additional charges and delays it is advisable that relevant forms are completed and returned promptly to our Agents.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
In general it is in your interest not to import the following items:
- Firearms & ammunition
- Inflammable goods & substances
- Plants & plant material
- Foodstuffs, perishables or otherwise
- Alcohol, narcotics and dangerous goods
- Offensive material
Transit Times
Sole use containers take an average of 7 – 8 weeks. Crated consignments may take longer, on average between 8 and 10 weeks.
Computer Tracking
Through satellite and computer technology we are able to monitor the progress of your consignment.
Bar Coding
All Groupage consignments will be bar coded before they are loaded into the shipping container. This will ensure that no items are left at origin.
Domestic Pets
Britannia can recommend a specialised shipper of animals to assist you in sending your family pet(s) from home to home. They will coordinate all documentation and necessary veterinary procedures.
Motor Vehicles
Import is subject to local restrictions and duties will apply. Shipment is not recommended.
click here to download PDF of China brochure