The customs declaration form is a crucial document in import and export trade; errors or omissions in its completion can lead to goods being detained, delayed, or even fined. Below are key points to note when filling out the customs declaration form, illustrated with examples:

1. Product Name and Specifications

注意事項: The product name must be accurate and specific; vague or general descriptions are not allowed. Specification details (such as model, material, dimensions, etc.) must be filled in thoroughly.

Case Study：

• Error example: Product name: enter "Machine Parts"; leave specifications blank.
• Correct Example: Product Name: "Stainless Steel Valve, Model ABC-123"; Specifications: "Material: Stainless Steel, Size: DN50".

2. HS Code

注意事項: The HS code (commodity code) must be accurate; incorrect classification may lead to miscalculated duties or customs inspection.

Case Study：

• Error example: Export stainless steel valves; enter HS code “7326.90” (articles of iron or steel, ordinary).
• Correct Example: Based on the valve’s specific purpose and material, correctly enter the HS code as “8481.80” (valves and parts thereof).

3. Quantity and Unit

注意事項: The quantity must match the actual goods, and the unit must comply with international standards (e.g., "piece," "kilogram," "liter," etc.).

Case Study：

• Error example: Enter "100" for Quantity and leave the Unit field blank.
• Correct Example: Quantity should be entered as "100 units," with the unit clearly labeled as "units."

4. Value of Goods

注意事項: The value of the goods must be declared truthfully, including the FOB (Free On Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) amount, to avoid underreporting or misreporting.

Case Study：

• Error example: The declared value of the goods is listed as “USD 1,000,” whereas the actual invoice amount is “USD 1,500.”
• Correct Example: Declare the goods value as "USD 1,500," consistent with the amount on the commercial invoice.

5. Country of Origin

注意事項: The country of origin must be filled in truthfully; if tariff preferences are involved, a certificate of origin must be provided.

Case Study：

• Error example: Country of origin is listed as “China,” but the goods were actually assembled in Vietnam.
• Correct Example: Indicate "Vietnam" as the country of origin and provide a Vietnamese certificate of origin.

6. Consignor and Consignee Information

注意事項: The consignor/consignee's name, address, and contact information must be accurate to avoid communication failure due to incorrect details.

Case Study：

• Error example: The consignee name is listed as "ABC Company," but the actual name is "ABC Co., Ltd."
• Correct Example: Consignee name to be filled in as “ABC Co., Ltd.”, consistent with the contract and the bill of lading.

7. Transport Information

注意事項: The mode of transport (sea freight, air freight, land transport), vessel name/flight number, bill of lading number, and other details must be filled in accurately.

Case Study：

• Error example: The mode of transport was listed as "Sea Freight," but it was actually shipped by air.
• Correct Example: Indicate "Air Freight" as the mode of transport, and accurately enter the flight number and the air waybill number.

8. Packaging Information

注意事項：Type of packaging (e.g., carton, wooden case, pallet, etc.) and the number of packages must be filled in truthfully.

Case Study：

• Error example: The packaging type was declared as "carton," but it was actually a wooden crate.
• Correct Example: Package type: "Wooden case"; Quantity: "20 cases".

9. Special Requirements

注意事項: If there are any special requirements (such as dangerous goods, refrigerated items, etc.), they must be indicated on the customs declaration and relevant supporting documents must be provided.

Case Study：

• Error example: Hazardous goods for export were not declared on the customs declaration form, and no hazardous goods transport certificate was provided.
• Correct Example: Indicate "Dangerous Goods" on the customs declaration and provide the dangerous goods transport certificate and the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).

10. Signature and Seal

注意事項: The customs declaration must be signed by the customs broker or an authorized representative of the company and stamped with the official seal to ensure its legal validity.

Case Study：

• Error example: The customs declaration was returned by Customs because it was neither signed nor stamped.
• Correct Example: The customs declaration form must be signed by an authorized person and stamped with the company’s official seal.

結論

Filling out the customs declaration is a critical step in import and export trade; any error or omission can lead to goods being detained, delayed, or subject to fines. Companies should ensure:

1. Accurate information: All information must be consistent with the contract, invoice, bill of lading, and other documents.
2. All documents are complete.: Provide the necessary supporting documents, such as a certificate of origin, dangerous goods declaration, etc.
3. Professional Review: The customs declaration form is reviewed by professional customs brokers or agents to ensure accuracy.

By rigorously completing and reviewing customs declarations, companies can effectively reduce clearance risks and ensure smooth import and export of goods.