What documents are required for importing from China to the destination country under the DAP trade terms?

Shipping documents mainly depends on your cargo type and destination country customs regulations. Before shipment, importers need to confirm with suppliers if they can provide documents that customs may require, such as additional permits and product certificates. Following are the typical documents may require to import from China to destination country

*Commercial Invoice商业发票.

Commercial invoice is one of the most important shipping documents. It includes product description, origin, seller and buyer information, unit price, total price, currency, quantity, trade term, payment term and HS code. Used by customs to verify the declared value of goods and calculate import duties and VAT.

* Packing List装箱单

Packing list provides detailed shipment information such as packaging type, cargo weight, dimension, and quantity. It helps customs, suppliers and logistics providers verify cargo during inspection and handling.

*Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)提单 (B/L) 或空运单 (AWB)

They are the official transport document issued by the carriers as shipment ownership and transportation details. Normally, bill of lading is provided by shipping lines by sea freight, while air waybill is provides by airlines by air freight.

* Certificate of Origin and Form E 原产地证明和Form E

A Certificate of origin may be required depending on product type. It proves goods origin and affects tariff rates in Philippines. Importers may also use Form E under the ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) to claim preferential tariff treatment and potentially reduce import duties.

* Declaration Elements申报要素

Declaration elements are mainly required for some products, such as gearbox, motor, electronics, led lighting, and machinery. These products need additional description about products, including product brand, model, specification, function, and material.

*Customs Declaration Form 海关申报单

Customs declaration form mainly includes the exporters and importer’s information, cargo specification, origin, and destination. It is used for customs clearance.

* Other Permits and Certificates其他许可证和证书

For some special cargo like batteries, wooden furniture, electronics, LED, they may require additional permits and certificates for market access and compliance.

DAP How Does Customs Clearance Work in ?

In most cases, freight forwarders will help importers handle the customs clearance, but it’s still important to know potential risks during the process. The import customs clearance process is not complex, mainly including:
在大多数情况下，货运代理会协助进口商处理海关清关，但了解过程中的潜在风险仍然很重要。进口清关流程并不复杂，主要包括：

1. Import declaration is submitted to Customs.
   进口申报已提交至菲律宾海关。
2. Customs reviews the shipment information and documents.
   海关审核货物信息和单据。
3. Customs conduct inspection if required.
   海关根据需要进行查验。
4. Duties and taxes are settled (if applicable).
   缴纳关税和税款（如适用）。
5. The cargo is released for delivery.
   货物放行以供配送。

To reduce customs delay, cargo detention and penalties, importers should either be familiar with customs clearance regulations or work with an experienced freight forwarder to handle it.
为减少海关延误、货物滞留和罚款，进口商应熟悉清关规定，或与经验丰富的货运代理合作处理。