Under the Boom of Artificial Snow Importsforeign tradeAgency Services

As a foreign trade veteran with 20 years of experience, I have noticed a recent surge in demand for imported artificial snow. This popular product, made of superabsorbent polymer, can be used for commercial decoration as well as childrens educational scenarios. But many first-time importers often ask, Is importing this thing complicated? Today, I will walk you through the entire process of importing artificial snow in the most straightforward way.

Essential Prerequisites Before Import: These Preparations Are Indispensable

First, lets clarify: Although artificial snow may resemble toys, its customs classification requires careful consideration. Based on my experience, I recommend declaring it under3926.90.90(Other Plastic Products) with a 6% tariff and 13% VAT. However, note that:

• If the packaging is labeled with toy functionality, it may fall under HS Code 9503, subject to different tax rates.
• Some ports require the submission ofMSDS Chemical Safety Data Sheet
• Additional preparations are needed for childrens products:Chinese warning labels

Last year, a client had their shipment held by customs for two weeks due to missing Chinese labels, incurring over 8,000 yuan in demurrage fees alone. Its better to spend an extra half-day on preparations than to remedy issues afterward.

Hidden Challenges in International Shipping

Artificial snow is classified asLightweight cargo,Maritime TransportationIts advisable to ship via LCL (Less than Container Load),Air TransportationPay attention to volumetric weight. There are three major pitfalls in transportation:

• Packaging must be moisture-proof. I had a client whose entire shipment clumped together due to damaged packaging.
• Confirm in advance whether the destination country requires special certifications, such as EUs REACH.
• Recommended shipping temperature should be kept below 40°C, as high temperatures may affect product performance.

Last Christmas season, a client urgently airfreighted 200 boxes of artificial snow but failed to account for high temperatures on Middle Eastern routes. Upon arrival, it had all turned into artificial pancakes—a lesson worth remembering.

Clearance Cheat Sheet at Customs

When arriving at domestic ports, these key points can save you real money:

• Key inspection items: Customs may conduct random tests for heavy metals and microorganisms.
• Label rectification: Outer packaging must include Chinese product name, composition, and warning labels.
• Environmental protection requirements: Documentation should specify product biodegradability to avoid classification as solid waste.

Special reminder: Starting this year, some ports have intensified testing forPhthalate contentin artificial snow. Its advisable to conduct pre-shipment testing. Otherwise, like a shipment last month that was rejected due to excessive levels, losses could exceed 200,000 yuan.

After-Sales Service Post-Delivery

Clearing customs is just the beginning—these follow-up tasks are more important:

• Warehousing requiresProtection from light and moistureTemperature and humidity monitoring cannot be omitted
• Provide to downstream distributorsCopy of customs clearance documentFor convenient market inspection
• Keep completeTrade documentsFor at least 3 years to handle subsequent verifications

Thoughtful suggestions for importers

Combining customs consumption tips, Ive summarized4 Dos and 4 DontsAfter the export enterprise receives foreign exchange through the agency company, it needs to provide:

• Choose suppliers withMSDS certificationSpecify in the contract
• Quality dispute resolution clausesDo not purchase
• Products without ingredient descriptionsUncertified products of unknown originDont easily believe duty-free clearance
• Low-price promisesRemember, although compliant imports may have higher initial costs, they can prevent potential risks that could be 10 times greater later. As I often tell clients: in foreign trade,

Slow is fastIf you still have questions about artificial snow imports, feel free to contact us anytime. 20 years of foreign trade experience isnt for nothing - it can help you avoid at least 80% of the pitfalls!.

Importing artificial snow