Business Background
An intelligent technology company in Beijing planned to transport a batch of intelligent machine models from Beijing to Frankfurt, Germany to participate in a technology exhibition. Through simple communication, our company realized that this batch of goods mainly contained 1 model of a sweeping robot, 1 model of a water and electricity base station, and 1 model of a double-side screen used for displaying information. Because the sweeping robot contains batteries inside, it belongs to the category of dangerous goods, therefore, our staff made the corresponding logistics and transportation plan for the customer, so as to reach the cooperation intention.
Business Process
1、Prepare corresponding documents
Necessary documents: trade contract, commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill, certificate of origin, etc.
Battery-related documents: lithium batteries need to provide UN38.3 test report (proof of battery safety) and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).
Product certification: EU CE certification and ROHS certification (to prove that the product meets the requirements of the restriction of hazardous substances).
2、Product transportation packaging and labeling
Battery packaging requirements:
- Batteries need to be independently insulated (such as anti-static bags or foam isolation), the inner packaging needs to be stable to prevent collision;
- The outer box is marked with “battery” logo, anti-tipping signs, and labeled with battery operation;
- The weight of a single box does not exceed 10kg, and the use of packaging boxes in line with UN norms.
Overall packaging: the team to ensure that the outer box is strong, to avoid damage to the goods due to vibration.
3、Air transportation customs declaration and clearance
China export customs clearance: submit customs declaration, invoice, packing list, etc., declare accurate HS code.
Germany import customs clearance:
- Provide documents required by Germany (such as CE certificate, invoice, packing list, air waybill, etc.);
- Payment of customs duty and VAT;
- Cooperate with customs inspection, may need to provide product manuals, certificates of conformity, etc
Key Notes
1、Battery safety and compliance: Battery power should not exceed 30% of the rated capacity.
2、Protection of intellectual property rights: Ensure that the products do not infringe on EU intellectual property rights, carry patent certificates, trademark certificates and other documents for inspection.
3、Transportation timeliness and tracking: The team pays attention to the flight dynamics in real time to avoid being stranded due to weather or strike delays.
4. Cost estimation: In addition to the freight cost, we need to pay extra for dangerous goods operation fee, UN box packing fee and so on.
Common Risk Avoidance
· Documentation error: Wrong HS code may lead to high fines or return shipment, it is recommended to commission a professional customs broker to audit.
· Improper packaging: Batteries not properly insulated may cause transportation accidents, need to be strictly in accordance with IATA regulations.
· Infringement risk: Search patent and trademark information in EUIPO in advance.