How to Quickly Determine Whether Your Goods Require Export Inspection
When exporting goods from China, one of the most common compliance questions is: Do I need export commodity inspection?
By understanding HS codes, the Dangerous Chemicals Catalogue, and classification reports, you can quickly determine inspection requirements and avoid customs clearance delays.
Method 1: Check the HS Code Regulatory Conditions
This is the most direct and widely used method.
Every product has a corresponding HS code (Harmonized System code). In China customs classification, the code includes regulatory conditions that determine whether inspection is required.
Typical rules:
- Regulatory code includes “B” → Export commodity inspection is required
- Regulatory code includes “A” → Import inspection may be required
- No relevant code / blank field → Usually no export inspection required
How to check:
Simply look up your product’s HS code in the customs database and check the “regulatory conditions” section.
Method 2: Check the Dangerous Chemicals Catalogue
If your product involves chemicals, raw materials, or chemical components, you must also check the:
“Catalogue of Hazardous Chemicals (2015 Edition)”
Decision logic:
- Listed in the catalogue → Export inspection is required (must obtain a “Customs Clearance Certificate for Export”)
- Not listed → Usually no inspection required
(but HS code rules still apply)
You can search using:
- Product Chinese name
- CAS number (Chemical Abstracts Service registry number)
Most Authoritative Basis: Hazard Classification Report
If your product has a Hazardous Characteristics Classification Report, this is the most authoritative reference.
The report will clearly state:
- Whether the product is classified as a hazardous chemical
- Whether inspection and quarantine supervision is required
This document is considered the final and most reliable compliance proof in customs practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which products are more likely to require export inspection?
Common categories include:
- Chemical products and raw materials
- Lithium batteries
- Certain metal products
- Wooden products
- Food-contact materials
Q2: When should export inspection be completed?
Export inspection must be completed before customs declaration.
You must obtain the Export Inspection Clearance Certificate before proceeding with export customs clearance.
Q3: What happens if I don’t complete export inspection?
If inspection is required but not completed:
- Customs will reject clearance
- Goods cannot be exported
- Delays will occur
- Additional fines or compliance risks may arise
Q4: How do I apply for export inspection?
You must apply through the local customs authority in China, submitting:
- Product information
- Test or classification reports
- Required supporting documents
Simple Summary
To determine whether export inspection is required, follow this 3-step process:
HS Code → Dangerous Chemicals Catalogue → Classification Report
If inspection is required, the Export Inspection Certificate is mandatory for customs clearance.
Failing to complete it will result in shipment delays or rejection.
👉 Early compliance checks = smoother customs clearance + faster global shipping.
