Under the Boom of Artificial Snow Importsforeign tradeAgency Services

As a seasoned foreign trade professional with 20 years of experience, I've recently noticed a surge in demand for imported artificial snow. This popular product, made from superabsorbent polymer, is widely used for commercial decorations and children's educational activities. However, many first-time importers often ask, "Is the import process for this product really complicated?" Today, I'll walk you through the entire import process for artificial snow in the most straightforward way possible.

The "must-do" before importing: These preparations cannot be overlooked.

First, lets clarify: Although artificial snow may resemble toys, its customs classification requires careful consideration. Based on my experience, I recommend declaring it under3926.90.90(Other Plastic Products) with a 6% tariff and 13% VAT. However, note that:

• If the packaging is labeled with the "toy" function, it may be classified under item 9503, with a different tax rate.
• Some ports require the submission ofMSDS Chemical Safety Data Sheet
• Additional preparations are needed for childrens products:Chinese warning labels

Last year, a client had their shipment held by customs for two weeks due to missing Chinese labels, incurring over 8,000 yuan in demurrage fees alone. Its better to spend an extra half-day on preparations than to remedy issues afterward.

The "Hidden Test Points" in International Transportation

Artificial snow is classified asLightweight cargo,Maritime TransportationIts advisable to ship via LCL (Less than Container Load),Air TransportationPay attention to volumetric weight. There are three major pitfalls in transportation:

• Packaging must be moisture-proof. I had a client whose entire shipment clumped together due to damaged packaging.
• Confirm in advance whether the destination country requires special certifications, such as EUs REACH.
• Recommended shipping temperature should be kept below 40°C, as high temperatures may affect product performance.

Last Christmas season, a client urgently air-shipped 200 boxes of artificial snow, but didn't account for the high temperatures on the Middle East route. Upon arrival, it had all turned into "artificial pancakes"—a lesson worth remembering.

The "Cheat Sheet" for Customs Clearance

When arriving at domestic ports, these key points can save you real money:

• Key inspection items: Customs may conduct random tests for heavy metals and microorganisms.
• Label rectification: Outer packaging must include Chinese product name, composition, and warning labels.
• Environmental protection requirements: Documentation should specify product biodegradability to avoid classification as solid waste.

Special reminder: Starting this year, some ports have intensified testing forPhthalate contentin artificial snow. Its advisable to conduct pre-shipment testing. Otherwise, like a shipment last month that was rejected due to excessive levels, losses could exceed 200,000 yuan.

After-sales service following "pickup"

Clearing customs is just the beginning—these follow-up tasks are more important:

• Warehousing requiresProtection from light and moistureTemperature and humidity monitoring cannot be omitted
• Provide to downstream distributorsCopy of customs clearance documentFor convenient market inspection
• Keep completeTrade documentsFor at least 3 years to handle subsequent verifications

Thoughtful suggestions for importers

Combining customs consumption tips, Ive summarized4 Dos and 4 DontsAfter the export enterprise receives foreign exchange through the agency company, it needs to provide:

• Choose suppliers withMSDS certificationSpecify in the contract
• Quality dispute resolution clausesDo not purchase
• Products without ingredient descriptionsUncertified products of unknown originDont easily believe duty-free clearance
• Do not easily trust "tax-inclusive customs clearance."Remember, although compliant imports may have higher initial costs, they can prevent potential risks that could be 10 times greater later. As I often tell clients: in foreign trade,

Slow is fastIf you still have questions about artificial snow imports, feel free to contact us anytime. 20 years of foreign trade experience isnt for nothing - it can help you avoid at least 80% of the pitfalls!.

Importing artificial snow