Customs inspection is a critical checkpoint that every import and export shipment may face. While inspection rates vary by factors such as company credit rating and commodity risk profile, all traders should understand the process to minimize delays and ensure compliance.

Inspection Triggers

Customs uses risk assessment models that consider enterprise credit ratings, commodity risk categories, country of origin assessments, declared value reasonableness, and historical compliance records. High-risk goods face significantly higher inspection rates.

Three Inspection Types

X-ray scanning is the most common method, completed within the same day. Physical inspection involves opening containers for item-by-item verification and takes longer. Sample testing requires laboratory analysis with 5-7 business days turnaround.