Industry status and challenges of high-precision press imports

As core equipment in the metal processing field, high-precision presses have seen continuous growth in import volume in recent years. According to customs data, Chinas forging press imports reached $1.27 billion in 2022, with German and Japanese equipment accounting for over 60%. Such equipment typically has high unit prices (single units can cost millions of euros) and strong technical sensitivity, often encountering the following pain points during import:

• Complex HS code classification (involving multiple chapters such as 8462/8463)
• Long processing cycles for electromechanical product import licenses
• Strict quarantine requirements for wooden packaging (must comply with ISPM15 standard)
• High anti-vibration requirements for precision equipment transportation

Five advantages of one-stop import solutions

Our recently completed import case of a 2000-ton servo press for a German-funded enterprise fully demonstrates the value of professional agency:

1. Pre-classification service in advance: Intervention 3 months ahead, confirming equipment functions through 3D drawings, ultimately accurately classified under 8462.9910 (special presses with ±0.1% error)
2. Optimization of Logistics Solutions: Using air-cushioned shock-absorbing containers + constant temperature transportation to control equipment vibration below 0.5g
3. Document pre-review: Assist clients in preparing documents certified by the German Chamber of CommerceIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:, saving approximately €120,000 in tariffs
4. Fast - track Customs Clearance Channel: With AEO Advanced Certification qualification, overall customs clearance time reduced to 48 hours
5. Destination delivery guarantee: Use hydraulic lifting vehicles for cleanroom delivery, ensuring one-time equipment installation

Key Node Analysis of the Entire Import Process

Phase 1: Pre-shipment preparation

A Japanese client case shows that thorough preparation can reduce import risks by 30%:

Phase 2: Port customs clearance practice

In actual operations at Shanghai Port, we have summarized three key control points:

• Mechanical and electrical certificate processing: For equipment with nominal pressure ≥1000 tons, application must be submitted to the Provincial Mechanical and Electrical Office in advance
• Customs valuation assessment: Recent customs authorities have intensified scrutiny on price splitting in contracts involving technical services
• Inspection coordination: It is recommended to prepare equipment principle videos in advance to reduce the probability of unpacking inspections

Cost optimization and risk prevention

Through the case of a Swiss press valued at 3.8 million euros, we achieved the following optimizations:

1. Utilize the China - ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) to achieve zero tariffs on imported frames from Thailand;: Utilizing the RCEP agreement to reduce the original tariff rate from 9% to 6.5%
2. Transportation Insurance: "Apply for insurance"Maritime Transportation"All Risks + Special Clause for Vibration Damage"
3. Port congestion prevention: Pre-applied for 7-day free demurrage period, saving approximately 20,000 yuan/day in port fees

Industry Trends and Recommendations

With the advancement of Made in China 2025, the import of high-end presses will exhibit new characteristics:

• Increased proportion of intelligent presses (attention needed on import restrictions for control systems)
• Agent service provider?Equipment ImportsStricter standards (third-party inspection reports required from 2023)
• Cross-border E-commerceEmerging channels (suitable for small laboratory presses)

Recommendations for import enterprises: Establish equipment technical parameter databases, plan import routes 6 months in advance, and select professional agents with qualifications for importing electromechanical products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are certifications required for press imports?3CA: According to the current catalog, industrial presses are generally not within the CCC scope, but confirmation is needed whether the equipment comes with additional modules such as laser safety devices.
Q: What are the special requirements for importing used presses?

A: Required documents: 1) Equipment manufacturing date certificate 2) Third-party inspection report 3) Environmental commitment letter, with the general service life not exceeding 10 years.
A: Required documents: 1) Equipment manufacturing date certificate 2) Third-party inspection report 3) Environmental compliance commitment letter, with service life generally not exceeding 10 years.

Q: How to determine whether an electromechanical certificate is required?
A: The key factor is the nominal pressure value: ≥1000 tons requires an electromechanical certificate; <1000 tons but used for automobile manufacturing may also require one, and it is recommended to consult in advance.