What Are the Common Pitfalls in Purchasing Restaurant Take-Out Food Containers for Export?
author: Iris
2025-12-16
I. Common Pitfalls in the Procurement Process
1.1 Pitfalls in the Inquiry Stage
In the inquiry stage, many importers fall into seemingly simple but actually insidious traps. The most common pitfall is focusing only on the unit price while ignoring the total cost breakdown. Suppliers' quotations often only show the basic price, but in reality, they may include many hidden costs such as packaging fees, mold fees, sample fees, and transportation costs. One baby product brand, for example, was misled by "all-inclusive price" claims and subsequently faced seven additional hidden charges, including testing fees and label modification fees, resulting in actual costs far exceeding expectations.
Another easily overlooked problem is the cost trap behind the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). Importers often only focus on the unit price, but ignore the mold amortization cost behind the MOQ. The average mold delivery cycle in the French market is 40% longer than in Asia, meaning that if the order quantity is insufficient, the mold cost per unit product will increase significantly. It is recommended that when inquiring, you should not only ask about the unit price but also understand the total cost breakdown in detail, including whether it includes tax, the tax rate, and whether the units are standardized, to avoid quantity conversion errors due to ambiguous units.
The choice of payment method also presents many pitfalls. Many importers overlook the impact of the payment method on the total cost during the inquiry stage. Common problems include: "wire transfer payment" not clearly specifying whether it is prepayment, payment upon receipt of a copy of the bill of lading, or payment upon arrival of goods; payment terms not specifying the exact number of days or the starting point; and letter of credit terms not clearly specifying the issuing bank, type of letter of credit, validity period, and document requirements. These seemingly minor details often lead to disputes and additional costs in subsequent transactions.
Another easily overlooked problem is the cost trap behind the Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). Importers often only focus on the unit price, but ignore the mold amortization cost behind the MOQ. The average mold delivery cycle in the French market is 40% longer than in Asia, meaning that if the order quantity is insufficient, the mold cost per unit product will increase significantly. It is recommended that when inquiring, you should not only ask about the unit price but also understand the total cost breakdown in detail, including whether it includes tax, the tax rate, and whether the units are standardized, to avoid quantity conversion errors due to ambiguous units.
The choice of payment method also presents many pitfalls. Many importers overlook the impact of the payment method on the total cost during the inquiry stage. Common problems include: "wire transfer payment" not clearly specifying whether it is prepayment, payment upon receipt of a copy of the bill of lading, or payment upon arrival of goods; payment terms not specifying the exact number of days or the starting point; and letter of credit terms not clearly specifying the issuing bank, type of letter of credit, validity period, and document requirements. These seemingly minor details often lead to disputes and additional costs in subsequent transactions.
1.2 Pitfalls in the Ordering Stage
The pitfalls in the ordering stage are mainly reflected in the lack of rigor in the contract terms. Many importers easily make the following mistakes when signing contracts: incorrect or incomplete information regarding the names, legal representatives, addresses, and contact information of both the buyer and seller; vague descriptions of product names, specifications, technical parameters, and quality standards; and unclear trade terms (such as FOB, CIF, DAP, etc.) in the price clause, leading to unclear allocation of costs and risks.
The vague description of quality standards is one of the most dangerous pitfalls. Contracts that only stipulate "quality meets international standards" without specifying the exact standard number, or only include samples without clarifying their legal validity and storage method, will lead to disputes during subsequent inspections. One importer suffered significant losses because the quality standards in the contract were unclear, leading the buyer to claim compensation on the grounds of "not meeting European environmental standards."
Regarding transportation terms, unclear loading and destination ports (e.g., only stating "Chinese port" or "European port"), and vague shipping time agreements (e.g., "ship as soon as possible," "ship after receiving the letter of credit" without specifying a specific deadline) can bring huge risks to subsequent logistics arrangements. In addition, overly lenient penalty clauses for breach of contract are also a common problem.
The vague description of quality standards is one of the most dangerous pitfalls. Contracts that only stipulate "quality meets international standards" without specifying the exact standard number, or only include samples without clarifying their legal validity and storage method, will lead to disputes during subsequent inspections. One importer suffered significant losses because the quality standards in the contract were unclear, leading the buyer to claim compensation on the grounds of "not meeting European environmental standards."
Regarding transportation terms, unclear loading and destination ports (e.g., only stating "Chinese port" or "European port"), and vague shipping time agreements (e.g., "ship as soon as possible," "ship after receiving the letter of credit" without specifying a specific deadline) can bring huge risks to subsequent logistics arrangements. In addition, overly lenient penalty clauses for breach of contract are also a common problem.
1.3 Misconceptions in Communication with Suppliers
When communicating with European and American suppliers, language and cultural differences can easily lead to serious misunderstandings. The most typical example is confusing the legal validity of "proforma invoices" and "commercial invoices." Proforma invoices are usually only used for quotations and do not have a legally binding force, while commercial invoices are formal transaction documents. Many importers, misunderstanding the difference between the two, arrange payment after receiving a proforma invoice, resulting in fraud or discrepancies in goods.
European and American suppliers place more emphasis on written confirmation and details in business communication. They usually require all changes and commitments to be documented in writing, while Chinese importers may be accustomed to oral agreements, which are not accepted in the European and American markets. It is recommended that all important business terms be confirmed in writing during the communication process, and complete communication records should be kept.
European and American suppliers place more emphasis on written confirmation and details in business communication. They usually require all changes and commitments to be documented in writing, while Chinese importers may be accustomed to oral agreements, which are not accepted in the European and American markets. It is recommended that all important business terms be confirmed in writing during the communication process, and complete communication records should be kept.
II. Misconceptions about Product Quality
2.1 Misconceptions about EU Market Quality Standards
The EU market has extremely strict quality standards for disposable plastic restaurant take-out food containers, the most important of which is the EU food contact materials regulation EC 10/2011. Many importers have serious misconceptions about this regulation, believing that simply passing basic tests is sufficient to enter the EU market. In reality, the requirements of the regulation far exceed what most people imagine.
The total migration test is the most problematic aspect. The regulation requires that the total migration of plastic materials into food simulants must not exceed 10 mg/dm² or 60 mg/kg. However, many importers are unaware that the test requires the use of specific food simulants, including water, 3% acetic acid solution, 10% ethanol solution, and olive oil, to simulate aqueous, acidic, alcoholic, and fatty foods, respectively. More importantly, the testing conditions are also strictly regulated: typically, 40°C for 10 days is chosen as the testing condition to simulate long-term storage at room temperature; for high-temperature applications, testing is required at conditions such as 70°C for 2 hours or 100°C for 1 hour.
The ban on bisphenol A (BPA) is the latest change in 2025. The EU officially published the bisphenol A ban (EU) 2024/3190 on December 31, 2024, which officially came into effect on January 20, 2025, prohibiting the use of bisphenol A and its salts in all food contact materials. Although there is a transition period for disposable food contact products, allowing them to be sold until July 20, 2026, importers must prepare in advance to avoid purchasing products containing BPA.
The "positive list" system is the core of the EU regulation. Only substances listed on this list can be used to manufacture food contact plastic materials; currently, the list contains approximately 900 permitted substances. Many importers mistakenly believe that using "food-grade" materials is sufficient, but in reality, they must ensure that all substances used are on the positive list and comply with the corresponding usage conditions.
The total migration test is the most problematic aspect. The regulation requires that the total migration of plastic materials into food simulants must not exceed 10 mg/dm² or 60 mg/kg. However, many importers are unaware that the test requires the use of specific food simulants, including water, 3% acetic acid solution, 10% ethanol solution, and olive oil, to simulate aqueous, acidic, alcoholic, and fatty foods, respectively. More importantly, the testing conditions are also strictly regulated: typically, 40°C for 10 days is chosen as the testing condition to simulate long-term storage at room temperature; for high-temperature applications, testing is required at conditions such as 70°C for 2 hours or 100°C for 1 hour.
The ban on bisphenol A (BPA) is the latest change in 2025. The EU officially published the bisphenol A ban (EU) 2024/3190 on December 31, 2024, which officially came into effect on January 20, 2025, prohibiting the use of bisphenol A and its salts in all food contact materials. Although there is a transition period for disposable food contact products, allowing them to be sold until July 20, 2026, importers must prepare in advance to avoid purchasing products containing BPA.
The "positive list" system is the core of the EU regulation. Only substances listed on this list can be used to manufacture food contact plastic materials; currently, the list contains approximately 900 permitted substances. Many importers mistakenly believe that using "food-grade" materials is sufficient, but in reality, they must ensure that all substances used are on the positive list and comply with the corresponding usage conditions.
2.2 Misconceptions about US Market Quality Standards
The quality standards for the US market are primarily set and regulated by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), with its core regulations found in 21 CFR Parts 170-189. Many importers have fundamental misconceptions about the FDA, believing that FDA certification signifies excellent product quality. However, FDA certification is primarily an assessment of material safety and does not represent an endorsement of product quality or performance.
The FDA has extremely strict restrictions on different plastic materials. Polycarbonate (PC) materials are prohibited from containing bisphenol A, and the migration amount must be less than 0.1 ppm; the total amount of phthalate plasticizers in PVC materials must not exceed 0.1%; and all plastic materials are prohibited from containing harmful substances such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA). These restrictions are much stricter than many importers imagine.
Migration testing requirements are equally stringent. The FDA requires all materials to undergo migration testing simulating actual use conditions, with migration levels not exceeding 0.5 ppb (carcinogens) or 50 ppb (non-carcinogens). The tests must use FDA-approved food simulants (water, alcohol, oils, etc.) and be conducted under specific conditions. Many importers mistakenly believe that domestic test reports can be directly used for FDA compliance, but it is crucial to ensure that the laboratory uses FDA methods, such as USP <87> biocompatibility testing.
The FDA has extremely strict restrictions on different plastic materials. Polycarbonate (PC) materials are prohibited from containing bisphenol A, and the migration amount must be less than 0.1 ppm; the total amount of phthalate plasticizers in PVC materials must not exceed 0.1%; and all plastic materials are prohibited from containing harmful substances such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA). These restrictions are much stricter than many importers imagine.
Migration testing requirements are equally stringent. The FDA requires all materials to undergo migration testing simulating actual use conditions, with migration levels not exceeding 0.5 ppb (carcinogens) or 50 ppb (non-carcinogens). The tests must use FDA-approved food simulants (water, alcohol, oils, etc.) and be conducted under specific conditions. Many importers mistakenly believe that domestic test reports can be directly used for FDA compliance, but it is crucial to ensure that the laboratory uses FDA methods, such as USP <87> biocompatibility testing.
2.3 Misconceptions about Quality Inspection Items
In terms of quality inspection, many importers have serious misconceptions. The most common misconceptions include: only testing the main material and neglecting accessories; believing that biodegradable materials do not require migration testing; incorrect testing conditions, such as neglecting the actual usage temperature (hot beverage cups should be tested at 70°C), not setting the test duration according to contact time, and incorrectly selecting the type of food simulant; neglecting sensory testing (odor assessment); and failing to test for primary aromatic amines (AA) substances.
Using inferior materials is the most serious quality problem. Some suppliers use industrial-grade PP and PET to impersonate food-grade materials. These materials may contain residual plasticizers, heavy metals, and other harmful substances, and long-term contact with food can pose safety risks. Even worse, some manufacturers use 201 stainless steel to impersonate 304 stainless steel. 201 stainless steel contains only 15%-17% chromium (compared to 18%-20% for 304 stainless steel) and does not contain nickel, resulting in poor corrosion resistance. When in contact with acidic foods (such as tomatoes and lemons), chromium ions are easily released.
The lack of proper surface treatment processes can also lead to serious quality problems. For example, if 304 stainless steel cutlery is not "passivated," a dense oxide film cannot be formed on the surface, preventing the migration of metal ions. These seemingly minor process details are actually directly related to product safety.
Using inferior materials is the most serious quality problem. Some suppliers use industrial-grade PP and PET to impersonate food-grade materials. These materials may contain residual plasticizers, heavy metals, and other harmful substances, and long-term contact with food can pose safety risks. Even worse, some manufacturers use 201 stainless steel to impersonate 304 stainless steel. 201 stainless steel contains only 15%-17% chromium (compared to 18%-20% for 304 stainless steel) and does not contain nickel, resulting in poor corrosion resistance. When in contact with acidic foods (such as tomatoes and lemons), chromium ions are easily released.
The lack of proper surface treatment processes can also lead to serious quality problems. For example, if 304 stainless steel cutlery is not "passivated," a dense oxide film cannot be formed on the surface, preventing the migration of metal ions. These seemingly minor process details are actually directly related to product safety.
2.4 Differentiated Requirements in Different Countries
In addition to the basic requirements of the EU and the United States, European countries also have their own specific standards, which is often overlooked by many importers. Germany's LFGB (Lebensmittel- und Futtermittelgesetzbuch) regulations have extremely strict requirements for food contact materials. They must not only meet EU Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004, but also comply with the requirements of German LFGB §30/§31.
The testing items under German LFGB far exceed the basic EU requirements. In addition to conventional overall migration and specific migration tests, it also includes sensory tests (evaluating whether it causes changes in the taste, odor, and color of food), heavy metal tests (lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, tin, etc.), volatile substance tests (solvent residues, monomers), and surface coating release tests. In particular, LFGB sets a strict limit of 0.01 mg/kg for nitrosamine compounds in materials such as silicone and rubber.
France's DGCCRF (Direction Générale de la Concurrence, de la Consommation et de la Répression des Fraudes) certification requirements are even stricter. France not only requires compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, but also requires compliance with additional local regulations for plastics, rubber, and metal products. France has stricter restrictions on bisphenol A (BPA) than general EU regulations, prohibiting its use in all food packaging materials. In addition, France has additional requirements for fluorescent whitening agents in paper and cardboard, and nickel release from metal materials.
The testing items under German LFGB far exceed the basic EU requirements. In addition to conventional overall migration and specific migration tests, it also includes sensory tests (evaluating whether it causes changes in the taste, odor, and color of food), heavy metal tests (lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, tin, etc.), volatile substance tests (solvent residues, monomers), and surface coating release tests. In particular, LFGB sets a strict limit of 0.01 mg/kg for nitrosamine compounds in materials such as silicone and rubber.
France's DGCCRF (Direction Générale de la Concurrence, de la Consommation et de la Répression des Fraudes) certification requirements are even stricter. France not only requires compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, but also requires compliance with additional local regulations for plastics, rubber, and metal products. France has stricter restrictions on bisphenol A (BPA) than general EU regulations, prohibiting its use in all food packaging materials. In addition, France has additional requirements for fluorescent whitening agents in paper and cardboard, and nickel release from metal materials.
III. Common Misconceptions in Certification Systems
3.1 Misunderstandings about the Nature of Certification
The biggest misconception regarding certification systems is a misunderstanding of the nature of certification itself. Many importers mistakenly believe that FDA certification is a mark similar to quality certification. In reality, FDA certification is primarily an assessment process of material safety and does not represent an endorsement of product quality or performance. More importantly, FDA certification for food contact materials is a declaration of conformity (self-certification by the company), not mandatory registration.
Misconceptions about FDA registration and listing are also common. Many people believe that FDA registration and listing represent FDA's "safety approval" of the product, but in fact, these are merely "company filing" and "product information registration," and do not represent any form of approval. Furthermore, FDA certification is not valid indefinitely and requires regular renewal; many importers neglect this, leading to expired certifications.
Misconceptions about FDA registration and listing are also common. Many people believe that FDA registration and listing represent FDA's "safety approval" of the product, but in fact, these are merely "company filing" and "product information registration," and do not represent any form of approval. Furthermore, FDA certification is not valid indefinitely and requires regular renewal; many importers neglect this, leading to expired certifications.
3.2 Common Errors in CE Certification Applications
The complexity of CE certification far exceeds most people's expectations. Many companies mistakenly believe that CE certification is a single standard, but in reality, it covers multiple EU directives (such as the EMC Directive, Low Voltage Directive, RoHS Directive, etc.), requiring matching the corresponding directive requirements based on product characteristics. For example, products with wireless functions must comply with the RED Directive, while ordinary electronic products need to meet the EMC and LVD directives.
Insufficient preparation of technical documentation is a major reason for CE certification failure. Common problems include: providing only partial test data, lacking key items (such as electromagnetic compatibility testing); documents not written in the EN standard format, leading to inefficient review; failure to update document versions, resulting in discrepancies with the actual product; technical drawings with missing information, unclear markings, or inconsistencies with the actual product; test reports not covering all applicable standards, incomplete test items, or test methods that do not meet requirements.
Neglecting factory audits and subsequent supervision is also a serious misconception. Some CE certification directives require factory audits of manufacturers to ensure the continuous conformity of the product manufacturing process. Many companies become complacent after obtaining CE certification, neglecting subsequent supervision and renewal obligations. If the product changes (such as changing suppliers or modifying circuits), compliance must be re-evaluated; otherwise, the certificate may be revoked.
Insufficient preparation of technical documentation is a major reason for CE certification failure. Common problems include: providing only partial test data, lacking key items (such as electromagnetic compatibility testing); documents not written in the EN standard format, leading to inefficient review; failure to update document versions, resulting in discrepancies with the actual product; technical drawings with missing information, unclear markings, or inconsistencies with the actual product; test reports not covering all applicable standards, incomplete test items, or test methods that do not meet requirements.
Neglecting factory audits and subsequent supervision is also a serious misconception. Some CE certification directives require factory audits of manufacturers to ensure the continuous conformity of the product manufacturing process. Many companies become complacent after obtaining CE certification, neglecting subsequent supervision and renewal obligations. If the product changes (such as changing suppliers or modifying circuits), compliance must be re-evaluated; otherwise, the certificate may be revoked.
3.3 Misconceptions in Choosing a Certification Body
Choosing the wrong certification body is one of the most fatal mistakes. Many companies, in an effort to save costs, choose laboratories that are not recognized by the EU for testing. As a result, the test reports are not accepted by the Notified Body, leading to certification failure. Even worse, some companies are misled by illegal intermediaries who claim to provide certification in "three days," ultimately receiving fake CE certificates.
It is recommended that companies verify the certification body's number in the NANDO database to confirm that it is an EU-approved Notified Body. At the same time, be wary of certification services with excessively low prices, as legitimate certification requires extensive testing and auditing, and low prices often indicate a reduction in service quality.
It is recommended that companies verify the certification body's number in the NANDO database to confirm that it is an EU-approved Notified Body. At the same time, be wary of certification services with excessively low prices, as legitimate certification requires extensive testing and auditing, and low prices often indicate a reduction in service quality.
3.4 Special Requirements for Certification in Other Countries
In addition to CE and FDA certification, different countries have their own specific certification requirements. For example, the Japanese market requires testing according to the JFSL370 standard and the selection of a laboratory accredited by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare or with ISO 17025 certification. Product labels must clearly indicate material composition and usage restrictions (such as "not microwaveable"), and the "food grade" label must have a font height of ≥3mm, prohibiting misleading claims such as "additive-free."
The costs and timelines for German LFGB certification also require special attention. According to 2025 industry data, the testing cost for single-material metal and ceramic products is approximately 1000-2000 RMB per set, while non-metallic materials such as plastics and coatings require testing for phthalates, bisphenol A, etc., costing as much as 3000-5000 RMB per set, with a testing period of 3-6 weeks. French DGCCRF certification usually takes 5-7 working days, and complex products may require 10 days.
The costs and timelines for German LFGB certification also require special attention. According to 2025 industry data, the testing cost for single-material metal and ceramic products is approximately 1000-2000 RMB per set, while non-metallic materials such as plastics and coatings require testing for phthalates, bisphenol A, etc., costing as much as 3000-5000 RMB per set, with a testing period of 3-6 weeks. French DGCCRF certification usually takes 5-7 working days, and complex products may require 10 days.
V. Common Misconceptions in Logistics and Transportation
4.1 Neglecting Packaging Requirements
In the logistics and transportation process, packaging is the most easily overlooked but most critical aspect. Many importers only focus on the quality of the product itself, neglecting the importance of packaging in protecting the product. For products like plastic restaurant take-out food containers, packaging must consider not only protective functions but also various special requirements during transportation.
Moisture-proof packaging is the most basic but most easily overlooked requirement. Both plastic granules and plastic products are susceptible to moisture absorption, especially during sea transport, where the humidity inside containers can reach as high as 85%. If improperly packaged, the products may experience mold growth or performance degradation. It is recommended to use double-layer inner film packaging and lay moisture-proof mats inside the container.
Temperature control requirements vary depending on the material. Many importers underestimate the temperature control requirements for transporting French plastic products, especially since some bio-based materials require constant temperature transportation. For example, PLA (polylactic acid) material is temperature-sensitive, and excessively high temperatures can cause material deformation or changes in performance. For international air freight requiring refrigeration (0-10℃), EPS insulated containers (thickness ≥5cm) or PU insulated containers should be used with ice packs inside; for freezing (-18℃ or below), dry ice is required, but it should be noted that dry ice is a Class 9 dangerous good and requires special declaration.
Moisture-proof packaging is the most basic but most easily overlooked requirement. Both plastic granules and plastic products are susceptible to moisture absorption, especially during sea transport, where the humidity inside containers can reach as high as 85%. If improperly packaged, the products may experience mold growth or performance degradation. It is recommended to use double-layer inner film packaging and lay moisture-proof mats inside the container.
Temperature control requirements vary depending on the material. Many importers underestimate the temperature control requirements for transporting French plastic products, especially since some bio-based materials require constant temperature transportation. For example, PLA (polylactic acid) material is temperature-sensitive, and excessively high temperatures can cause material deformation or changes in performance. For international air freight requiring refrigeration (0-10℃), EPS insulated containers (thickness ≥5cm) or PU insulated containers should be used with ice packs inside; for freezing (-18℃ or below), dry ice is required, but it should be noted that dry ice is a Class 9 dangerous good and requires special declaration.
4.2 Misconceptions about Transportation Condition Control
Stacking specifications are crucial for ensuring product safety. Many importers neglect stacking limitations when arranging transportation, leading to damage to the bottom layer of products. According to industry standards, the weight of a single pallet should not exceed 1.5 tons, and the stacking height should be controlled within 2.5 meters. The continuous vibration (over 500 times per day) and stacking pressure (the bottom layer bears 3-5 times the weight of the upper layers) in sea freight containers place extremely high demands on product packaging, requiring a "rigid outer, flexible inner" packaging effect.
The differences in transportation methods also require special attention. The transportation environments of sea and air freight differ significantly: sea freight requires dealing with long-term bumps and humidity, while air freight requires resistance to impact and pressure changes. During sea transport, special attention should be paid to inspecting the container to ensure it is undamaged and free from contamination; during air transport, attention should be paid to the impact of pressure changes on packaging, especially when using dry ice, where the packaging needs to have ventilation holes to prevent carbon dioxide gas accumulation from causing the container to burst.
The differences in transportation methods also require special attention. The transportation environments of sea and air freight differ significantly: sea freight requires dealing with long-term bumps and humidity, while air freight requires resistance to impact and pressure changes. During sea transport, special attention should be paid to inspecting the container to ensure it is undamaged and free from contamination; during air transport, attention should be paid to the impact of pressure changes on packaging, especially when using dry ice, where the packaging needs to have ventilation holes to prevent carbon dioxide gas accumulation from causing the container to burst.
4.3 Common Errors in Customs Clearance Procedures
Customs clearance is the most problematic link in the entire import process. According to statistics, the core problems of customs clearance delays are concentrated in four areas: documents, declarations, policies, and logistics coordination. The most common errors include: discrepancies between the declared goods' name, quantity, value, and specifications and the actual goods; omission or incorrect reporting of commodity codes (HS codes); inconsistencies in documents such as invoices and packing lists; missing necessary documents (such as commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, quarantine certificates, licenses, etc.); and document formats and signatures not complying with the importing country's regulations.
Consistency of document information is crucial for successful customs clearance. The markings on the packaging (such as product name, quantity, weight, and origin) must be completely consistent with the customs declaration and bill of lading information; otherwise, the goods may be inspected and detained by customs due to "discrepancies between packaging markings and declarations." For example, if the packaging is marked "plastic products," but declared as "metal parts," it will trigger customs inspection and lead to cargo delays.
Consistency of document information is crucial for successful customs clearance. The markings on the packaging (such as product name, quantity, weight, and origin) must be completely consistent with the customs declaration and bill of lading information; otherwise, the goods may be inspected and detained by customs due to "discrepancies between packaging markings and declarations." For example, if the packaging is marked "plastic products," but declared as "metal parts," it will trigger customs inspection and lead to cargo delays.
4.4 Special Customs Clearance Requirements in European and American Markets
Customs clearance requirements in the US market are extremely strict. In addition to the usual commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading, it is also necessary to provide FDA certification (food contact materials require an FDA registration number and product listing), Importer Security Filing (ISF) or "10+2" filing (importers must submit this 24 hours before the goods are loaded), and country of origin marking (goods must be marked with the country of origin "Made in China").
It is particularly important to note that the US imposes high anti-dumping duties on plastic restaurant take-out food containers. According to the latest data, the anti-dumping duty rate for Chinese paper plates is as high as 267.63%-515.40%, and the anti-dumping duty rate for thermoformed molded fiber products (including paper cups, bowls, and plates) is 47.44%-477.97%, with a countervailing duty rate of 62.66%. These high tariffs can increase import costs several times over, and importers must fully consider these costs before purchasing.
Customs clearance requirements in the EU market are equally complex. In addition to the basic commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading, it is also necessary to provide an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number), CE certification, REACH compliance declaration, food contact material test reports, DoC (Declaration of Conformity), and certificate of origin (if preferential tariffs are to be enjoyed). It is particularly noteworthy that the EU imposes anti-dumping duties of 6.6%-24.2% on Chinese PET materials and 17.3%-33.0% on epoxy resins. In addition, the EU also levies a plastics tax, at a rate of €0.80 per kilogram of unrecycled plastic, with some countries like Italy imposing even higher rates of up to €0.45 per kilogram.
It is particularly important to note that the US imposes high anti-dumping duties on plastic restaurant take-out food containers. According to the latest data, the anti-dumping duty rate for Chinese paper plates is as high as 267.63%-515.40%, and the anti-dumping duty rate for thermoformed molded fiber products (including paper cups, bowls, and plates) is 47.44%-477.97%, with a countervailing duty rate of 62.66%. These high tariffs can increase import costs several times over, and importers must fully consider these costs before purchasing.
Customs clearance requirements in the EU market are equally complex. In addition to the basic commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading, it is also necessary to provide an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number), CE certification, REACH compliance declaration, food contact material test reports, DoC (Declaration of Conformity), and certificate of origin (if preferential tariffs are to be enjoyed). It is particularly noteworthy that the EU imposes anti-dumping duties of 6.6%-24.2% on Chinese PET materials and 17.3%-33.0% on epoxy resins. In addition, the EU also levies a plastics tax, at a rate of €0.80 per kilogram of unrecycled plastic, with some countries like Italy imposing even higher rates of up to €0.45 per kilogram.
4.5 Misconceptions about Logistics Cost Control
Many importers severely underestimate the cost of international transportation. Besides basic freight charges, there are numerous other costs, including customs duties, value-added tax, port charges, inspection fees, customs clearance fees, warehousing fees, and insurance premiums. According to statistics, these additional costs can account for 20%-30% or even more of the goods' value.
The additional costs caused by customs clearance delays are even more staggering. If goods are held up at customs, the daily demurrage charges can reach hundreds of dollars, and coupled with potential warehousing fees and lost productivity, the losses can be enormous.
The additional costs caused by customs clearance delays are even more staggering. If goods are held up at customs, the daily demurrage charges can reach hundreds of dollars, and coupled with potential warehousing fees and lost productivity, the losses can be enormous.
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