(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Many overseas brands still pay full general-trade duties when they could be saving 15–40% using China’s bonded warehouses and cross-border e-commerce schemes. With bonded stock now supporting same-day delivery nationwide, the old “slow bonded” excuse no longer exists. Here are the exact playbooks and SaaS tools that leading brands use to cut costs dramatically.
- The Six Bonded Import Models Explained
1.1 Bonded Warehouse (Model 1210/9610) Stock in Shanghai, Ningbo, or Zhengzhou bonded zones → pay duty only when goods leave for consumer. SaaS WMS integrates directly with Cainiao and SF bonded logistics for 1–3 day nationwide delivery.
1.2 Comprehensive Bonded Zones + CBEC (9810) Newest model launched 2023—allows overseas brands to sell directly from bonded zone to consumer with zero tariff + 9.1% VAT. SaaS platforms auto-split inventory between 9810 and general trade based on real-time demand.
- Positive List Mastery
2.1 1,400+ SKUs Eligible for Zero Tariff 2025 list expanded to include more baby formula, pet food, and mid-range cosmetics. SaaS positive-list checkers flag every new SKU instantly and suggest reformulation paths when needed.
3. Inventory & Order Routing Automation
3.1 Smart Stock Allocation SaaS systems decide in real time whether an incoming container should enter bonded stock or general trade based on forward sales forecasts—maximizing duty savings without stockouts.
Case Study: L’Oréal’s Bonded Revolution
L’Oréal moved 80% of Tmall Global volume into Shanghai Yangshan Comprehensive Bonded Zone in 2024. Combined with 9810 direct shipping, they reduced average duty + VAT from 32% to 7.8%, saving over US$120 million annually while achieving 2-hour delivery in Tier-1 cities.
Conclusion
The gap between brands paying full duties and those paying almost nothing is now measured in hundreds of millions. Don’t leave money at customs—let us run a free bonded & CBEC eligibility audit on your product range today.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation! info@pltfrm.cn
