1. Case Background: The Particularity of Oil Seal Imports in Taiwan

In June 2022, we represented a machinery equipment manufacturer in importing a batch of oil seals produced in Taiwan. Special attention must be paid to such sealing products during customs declaration: HS code classification (usually under item 4016.93), declaration of rubber material (involving environmental protection requirements), and description of industrial use. Additional preparations are required for importing products from the Taiwan region.ECFAIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:Technical data, which is the key document for enjoying the agreed tariff rates.

In practical operations, we have observed that clients frequently make two common mistakes: first, confusing the classification differences between oil seals and mechanical seals; second, overlooking the special format requirements for certificates of origin from Taiwan. It is precisely these details that determine customs clearance efficiency and highlight the value of professional agency services.

II. Comprehensive Breakdown of the Customs Clearance Process at Yangshan Port

1. Preparation Phase (3 working days)

Our team completed three core tasks before the goods arrived at the port:

• Check the declaration elements: including 8 key parameters such as material percentage, brand model, applicable temperature range, etc.
• Pre-review of ECFA certificate: Confirm that there is a signature from the Taiwan side in the "For Official Use" column (Column 7) of the certificate.
• Label Filing: Although industrial oil seals do not require food-grade labels, they must be marked as "for industrial use" on the customs declaration form.

2. Customs declaration practical operation phase (0.5 working days)

Yangshan Port adopts the "pre-declaration" mode, where we complete the customs declaration entry 24 hours before the vessel's arrival. Special note:

• The mode of transportation should be reported as "Waterway transport (Code 6)".
• The regulatory method is selected based on the actual trade situation: "General Trade (Code 0110)"
• Freight and insurance premiums must be fully declared at the CIF price.

3. Inspection Response Strategy (15-18 working days)

The inspection rate for electromechanical products at Yangshan Port is approximately 30%. We have implemented three measures to reduce inspection time:

• Prepare the product cross-section diagram and technical parameter sheet in advance.
• Schedule the "Pre-inspection Entry" service to reduce on-site waiting time.
• Prepare third-party inspection reports for common inspection priorities (such as material testing).

III. Three Key Secrets to Time Node Control

Compared to the industry average of 25 days for customs clearance, the key to our completion in 15 days lies in:

Special reminder: June to August is the peak season for ports each year. It is recommended to allow a 20% time buffer.

IV. Common "Pitfalls" in Seal Imports and How to Address Them

Based on our 15 years of agency experience, the following issues are most likely to occur with the import of oil seal products:

1. Classification disputes

A customer once mistakenly classified a PTFE oil seal under HS code 3926 (plastic products), resulting in the tariff rate increasing from 8% to 12%. The correct approach should be:

• Rubber content >50% is classified under 4016.
• Plastics are mainly classified under 3926.
• Metal skeleton-based reclassification by material in descending order of weight.

2. Determination of origin

A Taiwanese manufacturer once provided a "Made in Taiwan" statement instead of an ECFA certificate, resulting in the inability to enjoy zero tariffs. We recommend:

• Request the supplier to provide the original ECFA certificate with official seals.
• Confirm that the manufacturer is included in the list approved by the Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan.

V. Value-added Services of Professional Agents

In addition to basic customs clearance, we offer three extended services to our clients:

1. Tariff optimization plan: Reduce capital occupation through ECFA+ATA temporary duty-free measures.
2. Logistics tracking system: Real-time updates on the in-transit status of goods (including vessel positioning)
3. Compliance Training: Conduct "Seal Classification Practice" training for procurement personnel.

6. Industry Trends and Recommendations

With the implementation of RCEP, we have observed:

• The import volume of oil seals in Taiwan increased by 15% year-on-year, primarily replacing products from Japan and South Korea.
• After the pilot of the "Smart Port" at Yangshan Port, the customs clearance efficiency for electromechanical products has increased by 40%.
• Customs requirements for industrial product labels are becoming increasingly stringent.

Suggestions for Importers:

• Conduct supplier compliance audits in advance.
• Establish standardized declaration element templates
• Choose an agent with branches in major ports (such as our subsidiaries in Shanghai/Xiamen).

Through this case, we can see that professionalImport RepresentationNot just "handling procedures," but also genuinely helping businesses reduce costs and increase efficiency through process optimization, risk anticipation, and resource integration. If you have any needs for importing sealing components, feel free to exchange practical experience with us anytime.