China is one of the world leaders in the export of jewelry. Chinese suppliers offer a wide variety of jewelry items, providing an excellent choice for different consumers. In addition, the demand for accessories that complement the daily look remains high. That is why importing these items is popular with international importers. Here’s everything you need to know about importing jewelry from China to the US.
Jewelry production centers in China
Most of the jewelry manufacturers are located in the southern part of the country, in Guangdong province. Cities like Dongguan, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are worth visiting. The smallest but also important jewelry production centers are Jinhua in Zhejiang province and Qingdao in Shandong province. When looking for a Chinese jewelry supplier, be sure to check out what manufacturers from these regions have to offer.
Jewelry importers should also consider Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China. It is one of the commercial and financial centers of the world, home to many international organizations, companies and more. Many jewelery fairs are organized in this area, so it is worth taking a look if you are interested in this product group. It is worth remembering that although Hong Kong is located in China, it has its own legal, economic and monetary system.
Jewelry Importation into the US – Duty Rates
Before importing jewelry into the US, it is crucial to check the duty rates imposed on each product. Harmonized Duty The website allows you to find customs duty rates on goods imported into the United States. Contains import duty rates and HTS Codes for any item. Searching for rates is easy. First, you must enter the product name or the first 4-6 digits of your code in the search bar. Import rates for goods from China are found in the “General” column. Here are some examples of tax rates for your chosen jewelry:
* Manufactures of natural or cultured pearls, natural (7116.10.10) – 3.3%
* Manufactures of natural or cultured pearls, cultured (7116.10.25) – 5.5%
* Manufactures of precious or semi-precious stones, valued at no more than $ 40 per piece (7116.20.05) – 3.3%
* Articles of silver jewelery, even plated or plated with other precious metals (7113.11.10) – 6.3%
* Jewelery of other precious metals, whether or not clad or plated with precious metals (7113.19.10) – 7%
* Necklaces and gold necklaces, rope (7113.19.21) – 5%
* Gold necklaces and necklaces, mixed links (7113.19.25) – 5.8%
* Cufflinks and studs (7117.11.00) – 8%
* Jewelery of base metal, even plated with precious metals – 8%
As presented above, the types of rights on different jewelry items can vary depending, for example, on their material. Therefore, it is important to correctly classify your products. Additionally, US taxes are only required to be paid on orders valued at $ 800 or more. If the total amount does not exceed $ 800, they are tax free. This exemption does not include alcoholic beverages, perfumes containing alcohol, and cigars or cigarettes.
Requirements to import to the United States
The United States does not have a standardized law that establishes the requirements for imported products. However, some of the products still have to comply with the applicable obligations. CBP (Customs Border Protection) can examine any shipment to the US to verify if the goods are safe to enter the country. Therefore, it is essential to know their policies and ensure that the products comply with the relevant requirements.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
When it comes to jewelry, you must also meet the requirements of the Department of the Treasury, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Transportation Security Administration. Each item of jewelry must be labeled and advertised in accordance with the FTC conditions. They provide definitions and thermology to avoid misinterpretation of materials or the manufacturing process. For example, define terms such as “precious,” “semi-precious,” “imitation,” “cultured pearls,” “imitation pearls,” and many more. Compliance with the FTC guidelines for jewelry is essential for its proper classification and avoiding delays, monetary penalties, and other inconveniences.
The PATRIOT Act
Most jewelry companies in the US must comply with anti-money laundering laws and regulations, known as the “PATRIOT Act” or “AML.” If you import jewelry that is 50% of its value from precious stones or metals or buy and sell $ 50,000 or more in metals / precious stones annually, these rules apply to you. In such a case, you are required to institute an anti-money laundering program and familiarize yourself with its requirements.
Children’s jewelry
In the United States, jewelry designed or intended primarily for children 12 and under must meet additional safety requirements. These are set by CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) with respect to chemicals. The act was introduced by the organization of the CPSC. Children’s jewelry must meet the mandatory substance standards of the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials).
Before importing and selling children’s jewelry, such items must be tested by a CPSC-approved testing company to verify that they meet the requirements. The test results allow an importer to issue a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). It is a mandatory certificate to import and sell children’s jewelry in the United States. These items must also be marked with a CPSIA tracking label, showing information such as company name, place and date of production, and lot number.
Remember that the law on children’s jewelry can vary from state to state. Therefore, it is crucial to become familiar with the specific regulations in different states in the US that have their own requirements.
Basic regulations
There are some basic regulations that apply to all products entering the United States. One of the most important obligations is to secure the required documentation, which includes:
A Commercial invoice of the exporter;
Packing list;
Freight guide (B / L, BOL) – for maritime transport;
Air waybill (AWB): for air transport;
Entry manifest (CBP form 7533).
Make sure you have a complete set of documents that will allow products to clear customs. Please note that all products imported into the US must have a COO label (Country of Origin). Accordingly, before shipping, check to see if your products or packaging have a country of origin label attached.
Jewelry trade shows in China and Hong Kong
If you plan to import products from China, we recommend that you attend a specialized trade fair. It is one of the best and most effective ways to find a Chinese supplier. These events are organized throughout the country, allowing importers to negotiate with sellers and test products on site. It is an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with various offers and to speak personally with the suppliers.
WORLD of jewels and gems Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center
Jewelery and Accessories Fair
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center
Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center
HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewelry Exhibition
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center
Nanjing Baimu International Jewelry Fair
Location: Nanjing International Exhibition Center
Jewelry import to the US – overview
Importing jewelry into the US can be a good idea for a profitable business. However, one must remember that jewelry must meet some mandatory requirements and have a full set of required documentation. In the case of jewelry, one of the most important issues is the proper classification. It allows you to find correct HTS codes and tariff rates for various items and avoid the consequences of any misinterpretation.
Before starting the import, we also strongly recommend and recommend verifying with your business partner. Make sure that your provider is trustworthy and therefore avoid fraud.