I. Things to know about importing massagers:foreign tradeInsights from an experienced professional

As a 20-year veteran in foreign trade, Ive handled hundreds of massager import shipments. Today Ill talk about this seemingly ordinary yet special product—Importing household massagers is like applying for a cross-border visa for products, which must meet both the exit requirements of the exporting country and the entry standards of our country.

Recently a client asked: We want to import a Japanese brand neck/shoulder massager but dont haveimport and exportthe rights to operate. Can we proceed? This reminded me of a case three years ago: A company importing Korean massage chairs for the first time had their goods detained at port for 28 days due to not obtaining3Ccertification in advance, resulting in over 20,000 yuan in demurrage fees. So today Ive specially compiledthe complete process for importing massagersandthe latest customs consumption tipsto help everyone avoid unnecessary detours.

II. Four-step clearance method for importing massagers

Preliminary preparation: Lay a solid foundation before building

• HS Code Positioning:Massagers are typically classified under 9019.10 (electric massage appliances), with 8% tariff and 13% VAT
• Special attention is required for license processing:
  • Products with medical claims require FDA filing
  • Products with power exceeding 24W require CCC certification (cost approximately ￥15,000-30,000)
  • Products for Japan requireIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:(FORM N) to enjoy RCEP preferential tariff rates
• Key contract points:Must specify quality standards and return/exchange clauses. Last year, a client found shower-proof products unusable upon arrival due to unstated waterproof standards in the contract

International shipping: These pitfalls are marked for you

A German order once suffereddue to unperformed IPX6 waterproof testing,Maritime Transportationresulting in circuit board damage from moisture during transit. Recommendations:

• Air TransportationSuitable for samples and small batches (cost approximately ￥35/kg)
• FCL shipping is more economical (40HQ container can hold 300-400 neck massagers)
• Must purchase All Risks insurance (premium about 0.3% of cargo value)

Customs clearance: The art of dialogue with customs

Just handled a case last monthfor US massage pad clearancewhere the declaration was labeled as medical equipment requiring additionalMedical Equipmentregistration certificates. Key points:

• The Specifications column on the customs declaration must indicate voltage (110V products require converters)
• Legal inspection goods require 7-10 working days for CIQ inspection
• Common inspection focuses: certification documents, warning labels, Chinese manuals

Delivery and settlement: Dont relax during the final sprint

Remember a 2019 shipment of Thai massage pillows thatwere not dehumidified in warehouseand arrived with mold odor. Recommendations:

• Pick up goods within 3 days after clearance (storage fees apply after deadline)
• Note tax responsibility differences between CIF and DDP terms during settlement
• Retain all documents for at least 3 years (customs audit period)

III. Helpful tips from Customs

The General Administration of Customs recently issued a special noticeConsumer alert for household massagers, Ill translate the professional terms into plain language:

• Three checks before buying:Check the channel (dont buy uncertified products from unauthorized resellers), check certifications (look for CCC marks on the device), check warranty (overseas versions may not be covered domestically)
• Four donts during use:Dont wear while sleeping, dont use on wounds, dont use on pregnant women, dont exceed usage time (≤30 minutes per session)
• Two regular maintenance practices:Regularly clean massage heads (with alcohol wipes), regularly check wires (stop use immediately if damaged)

IV. Special recommendations for importers

Based on our experience serving 200+ importers, weve summarizedThree golden rules:

1. Sensitive goods +30% time:Massagers with heating functions take 1-2 weeks longer to clear customs than regular models
2. Keep scanned documents handy: Our staff always keep clients certification files on their phones for immediate submission when customs requests materials
3. Test samples first:For first-time cooperation, recommend air shipping 3-5 units for trial sales to avoid market mismatch with bulk shipments

A heartwarming case: Last year when helping a client import French massagers, we discovered the manual mistakenly printed contraindication as recommendation, and promptly contacted the manufacturer for reprinting to avoid major issues. This reminds us:Foreign trade agency isnt just about paperwork, but also safeguarding product quality for clients.

If your massagers are on their way to China, feel free to chat with me, this foreign trade veteran. After all, ensuring every massager can safely and comfortably serve Chinese consumers is the greatest meaning of our work.