Advance Valuation

Advance Valuation is a system whereby customs, upon the importer's application and before the goods are actually imported, pre-reviews and determines the dutiable value of the goods to be imported. Its core purpose is to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce compliance risks, and enable enterprises to know in advance their tariff and import-related tax burdens. Use cases include: high-value goods, goods with complex pricing, or goods imported in long-term installments; and when enterprises wish to lock in costs and accelerate customs clearance. Points to note: the advance valuation result usually has a validity period and applies only to the transaction conditions described at the time of application; if the actual transaction does not match the declaration, customs has the right to re-determine the value. Unlike 'price declaration,' which is a formal declaration act at the time of import, advance valuation occurs before declaration; it is similar to 'advance classification,' but it addresses price rather than tariff classification. Enterprises need to provide contracts, invoices, payment vouchers, and other documents, and ensure the price is authentic and complete.