Home?Import Representation? Complete guide to power bank imports: How can foreign trade agents help you avoid charging bomb risks?
Things about power bank imports:foreign tradeThe agencys safety escort journey
Hello everyone, Im a veteran with 20 yearsimport and exportof foreign trade experience. Recently Im often asked: How complicated is it really to import power banks? To be honest, while these devices look compact, their import process is quite technical. Today Ill walk you through the entire power bank import process in the most straightforward way, while discussing how to avoid those charging bomb risks.
I. The medical report before import: Essential preparations
Last year I had a client who enthusiastically imported a batch of power banks, only to have them stuck at customs for three months. Why? Because they didnt clarify the HS code! Power banks typically fall under HS code8507.60.00, but tariffs may vary by capacity - Ive seen too many people stumble here.
Essential document checklist:
Commercial invoice (declare reasonable amounts, no underreporting)
Packing list (even packaging materials must be specified)
Battery UN38.3 test report (Without this? Customs will directly return shipment)
Special reminder: Power banks belong toDangerous Goods Class 9Transportation must be declared as dangerous goods - regular freight forwarders cant handle this job
The tricks of overseas shipping: The safety cabin in transportation
Last month there was a case where a batch of power banks spontaneously combusted at sea, destroying the entire container load. So never cut corners on transportation costs:
Packaging must pass1.2-meter drop test(Dont ask how I know)
Recommend purchasingmarine all risks insurance, dont begrudge the premium. Ive seen too many cases where saving on premiums ended in total loss.
Customs clearance cheat codes
Customs clearance is the most problematic stage. Last year, a shipment we handled was detained for two full weeks simply because battery capacity wasnt declared.
Key inspection items:
Battery capacity (special approval required if exceeding 100Wh)
Fire-retardant material certification
Overcharge protection test report
Tax rate reference:
Customs duty: MFN rate about 10%
VAT: 13% (dont forget urban construction and education surcharges)
Important reminder: Customs is now particularly strict about power banksactual capacity verification, false labeling may result in heavy fines if discovered!
Post-delivery safety inspection
Arrival at warehouse isnt the finish line. We had a client who skipped QC after delivery, resulting in consecutive product explosions that cost millions in compensation.
Recommended post-delivery checks:
Random sampling inspectionOvercharge protection function
ShellFlame retardant test
Actual capacityCharge-discharge test
V. Professional suggestions for importers
Based on years of experience, Ive summarized several life-saving tips:
Require suppliers to provideFull series certification documents
Reserve minimum15-day customs clearance time(inspection rate for sensitive goods is as high as 30%)
Consider purchasingImmediately suspend sales upon receiving the warning
Let me say something from the heart: While power bank import profits are high, the risks are greater. Last year alone, we knew of 3 trading companies that went bankrupt due to quality issues. Leave professional matters to professionals - finding a reliable foreign trade agent can really help you avoid many pitfalls.
If you have any questions about imports, feel free to discuss anytime. Remember, in the import/export industry,safety complianceis always more important thanlow-price quick sales!?