As a senior consultant who has been deeply engaged inforeign tradeservice expert with 20 years of industry experience, this article will systematically analyze the core points of clothingExport RepresentationWith 20 years of experience in the industry, I have witnessed the explosive growth in demand for imported auto parts in China's automotive aftermarket. As a core component of vehicle power transmission, the import business of drive shafts involves complex qualification reviews and technical compliance requirements. This article will systematically analyze drive shafts based on practical experience.Import RepresentationKey Points of License Application and Comprehensive Risk Control Strategies for the Entire Process.

I. The Core Value of the Drive Shaft Import License

In accordance with the "People's Republic of China Goods"import and exportManagement Regulations", the import of automotive drive shafts (HS code 8708.99) requires the completion of the following qualification filings:
1.Compulsory product certification (3CLarge batches:: Transmission shafts involving power transmission safety must undergo testing by laboratories designated by the China National Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA). Required documents include product structural drawings, material certifications, and test reports.
2.Import License for Mechanical and Electrical Products (O Certificate): When the drive shaft is a second-hand refurbished part or a product for special purposes, an "Import License for Mechanical and Electrical Products" must be applied for from the provincial-level commerce department.
3.Environmental Compliance Certificate: Some drive shafts containing hydraulic devices need to provide RoHS test reports to ensure compliance with the "Management Measures for the Restriction of the Use of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Products."

Case study: In 2023, a certain German car model's imported drive shafts were detained at Tianjin Port for 28 days due to failure to submit the equivalence evaluation report certified by German TüV, resulting in demurrage fees exceeding 120,000 yuan.

II. Comprehensive Breakdown of the Import Agency Process (Including Time Control)

Phase 1: Preliminary Technical Compliance Confirmation (5-7 working days)

• Verify the product HS code (pre-classification service is recommended).
• Confirm whether a 3C certification exemption is required (e.g., spare parts for maintenance may apply for exemption).
• Collect the manufacturer's ISO/TS 16949 quality system certification documents.

Phase 2: License Processing (10-15 working days)

• 3C Certification Application Process:

Type Test → Factory Inspection → Certificate Issuance (Cycle approximately 45 days, can be expedited to 30 days)
 

• Application materials for import license:
  • Original and translated copies of the sales contract
  • Manufacturer's Authorization Letter (requires certification by the embassy or consulate)
  • Product Technical Parameter Specification (including key data such as torque, material, etc.)

Phase 3: Practical Customs Clearance Operations

• Key elements for declaration:
  • Drive configuration (FWD/RWD/4WD)
  • Applicable models (must specify the exact model year)
  • Does it include the universal joint assembly?
• Pricing Dispute Resolution: It is recommended to prepare the original manufacturer's price list and payment documents in advance.

III. High-Risk Areas and Solutions

1.Technical standard conflicts
EU countries commonly adopt the DIN 808 standard for drive shafts, which differs from the Chinese national standard GB/T 14691 in dimensional tolerances. It is recommended to request the foreign party to provide a compatibility test report from a CNAS-accredited laboratory.

2.Intellectual Property Infringement
In the cases of infringement detected by customs in 2022,Automotive partsThe proportion reaches 37%. Verification required:

• Does it involve OEM original brand trademarks?
• Patent status (can be checked through the China Patent Publication Announcement System)

3.Logistics link losses
The drive shaft is a precision component. It is recommended that:

• Choose temperature-controlled container transportation (temperature maintained between 15-25°C).
• Require suppliers to use anti-corrosion vacuum packaging.
• Please insure against "Clash & Breakage" (not covered under FPA clause).

IV. The Core Value of Choosing a Professional Agent

Mature import agency service providers can help enterprises reduce overall costs by 18%-25%, specifically reflected in:
1.Application of Policy Dividends
Leverage free trade agreements (such as RCEP) to secure tariff preferences, with the agreed tariff rate for imported drive shafts from ASEAN reduced to 5% in 2023.

2.Supply Chain Financial Support
the ASEAN Single Window (ASW)L/CFinancing, tariff guarantee insurance, and other tools to alleviate financial pressure.

3.Emergency response mechanism
In an urgent case handled by our company in 2023, the "two-step declaration" model reduced the resolution time for a production line supply crisis of an automaker from the conventional 14 days to just 72 hours.

Conclusion

The technical barriers and policy thresholds for the import business of drive shafts continue to rise. When selecting partners, enterprises should focus on evaluating:
? Does it have a dedicated customs clearance team for automotive parts?
? Are there any successful cases of handling Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)?
? Can you provide a full-chain digital tracking system?