What is the Customs Clearance Process in Dropshipping for 1688?

Customs clearance involves preparing and submitting the documentation required to facilitate exports or imports into a country — representing the client during customs examination, assessing and paying duty, and taking delivery of cargo after clearance along with the necessary documents.

The Customs Clearance Process

1. Paperwork review — the customs officer examines the paperwork for your shipment. On the export side, this includes the buyer's purchase order, sales invoice, packing list, shipping bill, bill of lading or air waybill, certificate of origin, and any documentation required by the buyer, financial institution, or LC terms. On the import side, it includes the dropshipper's purchase order, the supplier's sales invoice, bill of entry, bill of lading or air waybill, packing list, certificate of origin, and any other documentation required by the importing country's regulations.

2. Duty and tax assessment — the officer determines whether taxes and duties apply, based on the type of goods, their value, and the importing country's laws. If the shipment's value is above the relevant tax threshold, the officer checks whether those taxes and duties have already been paid.

3. Payment request — if outstanding taxes and duties haven't been paid, customs will request payment before the shipment can proceed.

4. Release — once it's confirmed that all outstanding taxes and duties have been settled, the shipment is released and continues to its final destination.

Why This Matters for 1688 Dropshippers

Because 1688 shipments typically cross international borders on their way to overseas customers, understanding this process — and making sure the right documentation is prepared upfront — helps avoid unexpected delays or additional costs at the border. Working with a sourcing agent or fulfillment partner familiar with these requirements can reduce the risk of customs holds affecting delivery times.