Two-step Declaration

Two-Step Declaration is a customs clearance model promoted by China Customs since 2019, officially known as the 'Two-Step Declaration' reform. The first step is the 'Summary Declaration,' where enterprises only need to declare 9 basic items of information (such as product name, quantity, mode of transport, etc.) and confirm tax and license-related matters, allowing goods to be released from the port. The second step is the 'Full Declaration,' within 14 days after the arrival of the means of transport, enterprises supplement the remaining complete information and complete tax payment. This model applies to imported goods, especially suitable for time-sensitive goods that urgently need to be picked up, and can significantly reduce customs clearance time and port demurrage costs. Notes: Enterprises must accurately select the 'Two-Step Declaration' mode during the summary declaration, and must complete the full declaration within the prescribed period, otherwise late declaration fees will be incurred; meanwhile, goods involving prohibited or restricted controls or requiring inspection and quarantine may not be applicable. Compared with 'One-Time Declaration,' Two-Step Declaration moves the declaration process later, enabling 'pick up goods first, declare later,' but requires enterprises to have a high credit rating and information system integration capabilities.