Reference library
Guides
Step-by-step playbooks, checklists, and practical explainers for buying from Alibaba and importing from China — from supplier vetting and sampling to freight, customs, and final delivery.
What 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 → China Customs & TariffsChina Tariff by HS Code 2026: China’s Import Tariff Updates for Foreign Suppliers
On January 1, 2026, China implemented its annual tariff adjustment. While the U.S. continues to raise tariffs on Chinese goods, China moved in a different direction—lowering duties on 935 items while removing temporary reductions on others. For Alibaba buyers, these changes matter. China’s import tariffs affect what Chinese manufacturers pay for raw materials and components. ... <a title="China Tariff by HS Code 2026: China’s Import Tariff Updates for Foreign Suppliers" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/chinas-import-tariff-updates-in-2026" aria-label="Read more about China Tariff by HS Code 2026: China’s Import Tariff Updates for Foreign Suppliers">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 → Operations & FreightTransit Time from China to USA: Air, Sea & Rail Timelines
China to US shipping transit time decides everything downstream: when you can list inventory, how fast cash turns over, and how much working capital sits trapped in transit. This guide outlines realistic 2026 timelines across ocean, air, and express freight—plus the hidden bottlenecks that quietly add days to your schedule. Ocean freight transit times Ocean ... <a title="Transit Time from China to USA: Air, Sea & Rail Timelines" class="read-more" href="https://www.alibabatrack.com/transit-time-china-to-usa" aria-label="Read more about Transit Time from China to USA: Air, Sea & Rail Timelines">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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