Importing Custom Bags from China in 2026: Duties, Shipping & Paperwork
Importing custom bags comes down to four things: a correct HS/HTS classification, a clear Incoterm, complete shipping documents, and knowing how duty and tax are calculated for your destination. Bag classification depends on material (cotton, jute, non-woven, paper) and construction — your customs broker or freight forwarder will confirm the exact code and the duty rate that applies to your country and the current tariff situation, which changes frequently.
Rates and trade measures change often. Always confirm the current duty rate and any additional tariffs with your customs broker before finalizing landed cost.
The documents you need
| Document | Issued by | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial invoice | Supplier | Value, terms, parties, HS code |
| Packing list | Supplier | Cartons, quantities, weights, dimensions |
| Bill of lading / AWB | Carrier / forwarder | Title and transport record |
| Certificate of origin | Chamber of commerce / CCPIT | Origin claims, preferential treatment if applicable |
| Test / compliance reports | Third-party lab | e.g. azo dyes, REACH, food-contact where relevant |
Incoterms: what each one means for you
- EXW — you arrange everything from the factory gate; lowest supplier price, most work for you.
- FOB — most common for sea freight: supplier delivers to the port and handles export clearance.
- CIF — supplier also pays freight and insurance to your port; useful if you don’t have a forwarder yet.
- DDP — you receive cleared goods at your door; simplest for buyers but verify how duty is handled.
Choosing the shipping mode
| Mode | Transit | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Sea freight (LCL/FCL) | 25–35 days | Large volumes, lowest cost per unit |
| Air freight | 7–12 days | Mid volumes, time-sensitive launches |
| Express courier | 3–7 days | Samples, small urgent runs |
Landing-cost checklist
- Unit price × quantity (with the exact spec sheet).
- Freight and insurance for the chosen mode.
- Duty (HS code × declared value) plus any additional trade measures currently in force.
- Import VAT/GST and customs clearance fees.
- Inland delivery from port/airport to your warehouse.
Frequently asked questions
Do you ship samples internationally? Yes — express delivery typically takes 3–7 days depending on destination.
Can you declare a lower value to reduce duty? No. We invoice the true transaction value; under-declaration is illegal and creates customs risk for you.
Do you help with documentation? Yes, we supply the commercial invoice, packing list and origin documents, and work directly with your forwarder.
Next step
Send your destination country and target volume and we will quote FOB/CIF/DDP options so you can compare landed cost. See products or contact us.