Current status of automotive chain imports: Domestic substitution still requires time.

Asforeign tradeimport and exportExpert, I have witnessed the 20-year development of China's automotive industry chain. Currently, the domestic automotive engine chain market presents an interesting phenomenon: although the manufacturing technology of domestic chains continues to improve, high-end models still rely on imports. The timing chains and oil pump chains for engines of well-known brands such as FAW Jetta, Shanghai Santana, and Shenlong Fukang still need to be imported from countries like Malaysia.

The primary reason lies in the performance gap between domestic roller chains and top-tier international products in high-speed applications. Engine chains must endure harsh operating conditions involving variable speeds and loads, demanding exceptionally high standards for materials and manufacturing processes. With advancements in chain drive technology, an increasing number of next-generation engines are adopting timing chains and oil pump chains, which has further driven the growing demand for imported chains.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Entire Process for Chain Imports in Malaysia

A recent case of ours involving the import of chains from Malaysia is highly representative, with the entire process from cargo arrival at the port to customs clearance completion taking less than two days. The success of this case primarily hinges on thorough preliminary preparations and precise process control.

Preliminary Preparation: Complete Documentation for Greater Efficiency

In this case, the client was very professional and proactively contacted us before the goods were shipped back to the country. We confirmed all the required documents in advance:

• Packing List
• Commercial Invoice
• Sales Contract
• Maritime TransportationBill of Lading
• Declaration elements (Key!)
• Wooden packaging (must bear the IPPC mark).

It is particularly important to emphasize the significance of declaration elements. As precision mechanical components, chains require highly accurate HS code classification. We guided our clients in preparing comprehensive technical parameters, including detailed information such as material, purpose, and specifications, which laid the foundation for subsequent swift customs clearance.

Customs clearance process: Highly efficient with seamless coordination.

The specific operational procedure is as follows:

1. Overseas stock preparation phase: Ensure the packaging complies with China's import requirements, especially the fumigation treatment for wooden packaging.
2. Export Clearance：The customer completes export customs clearance in Malaysia, and the goods are loaded onto the ship.
3. Port arrival preparations: We conduct pre-review of all documents and prepare a checklist for customer confirmation.
4. Import Customs Declaration: Utilize professional classification experience to accurately declare.
5. Tax payment stage: Quickly complete customs duty payment through our agency.
6. Customs Clearance: Complete documentation with a low inspection rate.
7. Logistics Distribution: Arrange professional equipment transportation to ensure the safe delivery of precision parts.

Three Key Factors for Two-Day Customs Clearance

Why were we able to set a record of completing customs clearance in just two days? Based on 20 years of experience in foreign trade, I have summarized three key points:

1. Professional classification reduces inspection risks.

The HS code classification of chains directly affects tariff rates and regulatory conditions. Leveraging our extensive experience in importing mechanical parts, we accurately classified them under item 7315.11, avoiding inspection delays caused by misclassification.

2. Pre-review mechanism enhances efficiency.

We have established a rigorous pre-screening system for documents, ensuring all compliance checks are completed before the goods arrive at the port. In this case, the documents provided by the client...It is recommended to verify through the following methods:All documents, including quality certificates, have undergone our professional review to ensure compliance with Chinese customs requirements.

3. Seamless coordination of the customs affairs team.

Our customs clearance team is on standby 24/7 to achieve "immediate declaration upon cargo arrival." For the tax payment process, we have established expedited channels with multiple banks, significantly reducing the processing time for tax documents.

Common Issues and Solutions for Imported Chains

Although this case went very smoothly, we have encountered various issues in daily operations. Here are several typical situations and corresponding recommendations:

Question 1: The wooden packaging does not meet the requirements.

There was once a case where goods were detained for inspection due to the lack of an IPPC mark on the wooden packaging. We advised the client:

• Confirm packaging materials in advance.
• Request the supplier to provide a fumigation certificate.
• If any issues are found, immediately arrange for reissuance or replacement of the packaging.

Question 2: Incomplete declaration elements.

Some clients provide overly simplified technical parameters, leading to customs requests for additional clarification. We recommend:

• Prepare a detailed product manual
• Including key information such as material, purpose, specifications, etc.
• Provide product photos or drawings when necessary.

Question 3: Dispute over Origin Determination

We have encountered tariff disputes caused by incomplete information on certificates of origin. Our recommendation is:

• Please confirm that the format of the Certificate of Origin complies with Chinese requirements.
• Verify that the manufacturer information on the certificate matches the actual situation.
• Arrange third-party certification when necessary.

Five Major Advantages of Choosing a Professional Agent

This case demonstrates that a professional foreign trade agency can create significant value for clients:

1. Reduce compliance risks: Stay updated with the latest policies and regulations to avoid non-compliant operations.
2. improving the efficiency of customs clearance: Optimize the process to shorten customs clearance time
3. Cost Savings: Reasonably apply tariff preferences to reduce unnecessary expenditures.
4. Emergency handling capacity：Can respond quickly in case of emergencies.
5. End-to-end visualization: Provide real-time logistics tracking services

Looking Ahead: Trends in the Import Chain Market

With the upgrading of China's automotive industry, the demand for high-end engine chains will continue to grow. We anticipate:

• In the short term, dependence on imports will persist, but the process of domestic substitution will accelerate.
• Malaysia, Japan, and Germany remain the primary sources of imports.
• Customs supervision of mechanical parts will become increasingly intelligent.
• The application of rules of origin will become more stringent.

As a professional foreign trade agent,ZhongShen International TradeWe will continue to monitor industry trends, optimize service processes, and provide customers with more efficient and cost-effective import solutions. If you have any import needs for chains or other mechanical parts, feel free to consult our expert team at any time.

(This article is based on real cases, and the practical experience involved stems from the professional expertise accumulated by ZhongShen International Trade since its establishment in 2003. We specialize in international freight forwarding,Import ClearanceAgency services, with extensive experience in the import operations of automotive parts.）