Reference library
Customs & Compliance
Practical guidance on customs rules, HS codes, import duties, and compliance paperwork, so your Alibaba shipments clear borders without surprises.
Section 321 vs a formal entry
US Section 321 lets low-value shipments clear without duty or a formal entry. Know when it applies — and when it does not.
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceIncoterms, in ten minutes
Incoterms decide who pays, who carries the risk, and where ownership transfers. The three that matter most for Alibaba buyers are EXW, FOB, and CIF.
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceWhat a commercial invoice must show
The commercial invoice is the document customs uses to assess duty and release your goods. Here is every field that has to be correct.
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceSection 301 Tariff Exclusions: Which HS Codes Are Exempt in 2026?
The new Section 301 tariffs that took effect July 24, 2026 apply to imports from 60 economies—including China—at rates of 10% to 12.5% . But not every product is covered. The USTR included a broad exemption framework that continues the approach used under the previous Section 122 tariff program . For Alibaba buyers, the critical ... <a title="Section 301 Tariff Exclusions: Which HS Codes Are Exempt in 2026?" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/section-301-tariff-exemptions-2026" aria-label="Read more about Section 301 Tariff Exclusions: Which HS Codes Are Exempt in 2026?">Read more</a>
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceSample Orders from Alibaba: Do Small Shipments Need HS Codes?
You have found a promising product on Alibaba. The supplier offers samples at a low price. You want to test quality before placing a bulk order. Do sample orders from Alibaba need HS codes? Yes. Even small shipments need proper product classification. This guide explains why HS codes matter for sample orders, how courier clearance ... <a title="Sample Orders from Alibaba: Do Small Shipments Need HS Codes?" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/sample-orders-from-alibaba-hs-codes" aria-label="Read more about Sample Orders from Alibaba: Do Small Shipments Need HS Codes?">Read more</a>
Read guide → Country Import RulesUnderstanding US-China Tariff Stacking: Section 301 and Section 122 Replacement
Tariff stacking is the new normal for Chinese imports in 2026. Here is what changed: the 10% Section 122 surcharge expired on July 24, 2026. A new 12.5% Section 301 “forced labor” tariff replaced it for Chinese goods . But the old Section 301 tariffs on EVs, semiconductors, and batteries did not go away. They ... <a title="Understanding US-China Tariff Stacking: Section 301 and Section 122 Replacement" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/us-china-tariff-stacking-301-122-guide" aria-label="Read more about Understanding US-China Tariff Stacking: Section 301 and Section 122 Replacement">Read more</a>
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceHS Codes for Import From China: A Buyer’s Guide for Alibaba and 1688 Imports
When buying products from Alibaba or 1688, many international buyers focus on supplier prices, shipping costs, and delivery times. However, one important detail can directly affect your import cost and customs clearance: finding the correct HS codes for import from China. An HS code is not just a number written on shipping documents. It determines ... <a title="HS Codes for Import From China: A Buyer’s Guide for Alibaba and 1688 Imports" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/hs-codes-for-import-from-china-a-buyers-guide" aria-label="Read more about HS Codes for Import From China: A Buyer’s Guide for Alibaba and 1688 Imports">Read more</a>
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceHS Code List by Category: Electronics, Apparel, Furniture
Quick HS code list by product category: electronics, apparel, furniture and more, with US MFN rates. Find your 6-digit code, then get the full HTS free.
Read guide → Customs & ComplianceImport Duty Calculator China: Estimate Landed Cost 2026
Estimate import duty from China before you ship: MFN + Section 301 + MPF/HMF. Use our free formula and worked example to price landed cost correctly.
Read guide → Customs & Compliance7 HS Code Classification Mistakes That Trigger Fines & Delays
Wrong HS code? US penalties run 20%–40% of value. Avoid these 7 common classification mistakes that trigger fines, holds, and back duties on China imports.
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