China is the world’s second largest power and one of the oldest civilizations in the world. It is a fascinating country for its culture and customs. China is the number one destination for Spanish expatriates in Asia. If you are preparing an international move to China (Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Pekin or any other destination), it is necessary to have a certain amount of time in advance and a certain methodology.
First of all, it is advisable to choose an international moving company that makes frequent routes between Spain and China, that knows the customs procedures, and that is recognized by international organizations such as ARA, IAM or PAIMA, a guarantee of quality and seriousness.
Grupo Amygo is a specialized company In international moving, he is an honorary member of ARA (Asian Moving Association) since 2018 and joined the association 5 years ago. This guarantee is made for moves to China and to any Asian country.
To be able to enter China, it is necessary to obtain a work permit that is issued with a date of at least 1 year, and a residence permit.
Tips for your move to China
In this practical guide for your international move to China, you will be able to find all the necessary information for your international move to China.
You must bear in mind that each city, province and neighborhood may have a different interpretation of the laws.
An international move to China requires significant organization. The processes are long, but surmountable.
The complicated part doesn’t end there, the packaging of your belongings must be meticulous and in accordance with Chinese customs. The waiting time for your belongings to arrive in China from a sea container is two months, but this period can vary from one place to another given the size of the country.
Once you have made an inventory of the objects you are going to move, it is necessary to have an import permit. If you have chosen a trusted moving company, they will take care of this on condition that you have a work permit of at least 1 year and a residence permit.
Upon arrival of your belongings, they will ask you to translate the list of the contents of your container into Chinese. If you do not have all the necessary customs documentation, your personal belongings will not be allowed into Chinese territory.
The last stage is the delivery and unpacking of the goods. Depending on the services contracted with the moving company, you may be able to install some of your furniture in a storage facility if you are temporarily residing in a residence.
If you have the possibility, avoid the rainy season, especially if you are moving to the southern regions.
Customs in China follow an exhaustive methodology, below we summarize the most important aspects:
PROHIBITED ITEMS
• Weapons and ammunition.
• Drugs or poisons.
• Fresh food, especially meat.
• Pornographic and subversive literature.
• Dangerous and rare animals and their products.
MOTOR VEHICLES
• Motorcycles are prohibited.
• Privately owned vehicles are considered a luxury item and are subject to taxes.
• Restrictions and taxes depend on the type and size of the vehicle (import duties can be up to 200%).
ANIMALS
• Only one pet is allowed per residence permit.
• A veterinarian’s certificate and an original rabies vaccination certificate are required.
• A veterinary inspection must be arranged by the owner upon arrival in Chinese territory.
CUSTOMS TIMETABLES
• 5 to 8 business days for an air shipment through customs.
• 12 to 15 business days to inspect a full container.
• Incomplete documentation may alter the established timetables.
