How to Clear China-Made Goods (formerly Section321) Using ShipSavvy

Created by Tony Holbrook, Modified on Fri, 2 May at 7:37 PM by Mark Morales

This article explains how to use ShipSavvy's new clearance process for shipments impacted by the May 2025 Section 321 changes for China-made goods. Screenshots are recommended at the timestamps noted below.


Overview


As of May 2nd, 2025, goods originating from China and Hong Kong no longer qualify for Section 321 clearance if valued under $800 USD. These shipments must go through formal entry or informal entry (Type 11).

ShipSavvy’s platform now automatically flags shipments requiring clearance and guides you through selecting a clearance method.


✅ Step-by-Step Instructions


1. Select Clearance Method

When creating a shipment:

  • Enter product details and country of origin.

If the product value or country triggers clearance, the UI will switch from "No Broker Needed" to "Savvy Broker" by default. You can’t revert to "No Broker Needed" unless you remove the condition.




2. Choose Broker Option

You’ll see 3 clearance options:

  • Savvy Broker (ShipSavvy handles clearance - Learn More)

  • Use Own Broker

  • Recipient Pays Duties (RPD)

If "Use Own Broker" is selected:

  • Upload proof of brokerage or provide a link to a broker’s proof page.


If "Recipient Pays Duties" is selected:

  • Only services that are “Deliver Duty Unpaid” (DDU) are available.

System limits weight to ≤ 2kg.



3. Enter Product’s HTS Code

  • Input or search for the HTS code.

  • The platform shows description and duty estimate.


4. Understand Duty Calculations

Duty rates display a breakdown:

  • General Rate

  • Section 301 Tariff

  • IEPA Tariff (applies to China/HK goods)

Example: If general = 5.5%, 301 = 25%, IEPA = 125%, total = 155.5%.


5. Unsupported or Invalid HTS Codes

If an unsupported HTS code is entered:

  • User sees a UI error indicating manual clearance required.

  • Admin sees the HTS code highlighted red in product details.

If invalid HTS code is entered:

  • User sees "Invalid Code" message.



Notes

  • If a customer’s HTS code is unsupported, ShipSavvy will notify them to expect a manual charge.

  • ShipSavvy will manually assign missing duties via part of our clearance process with the appropriate taxes added where necessary.


Need Help?

Email customerservice@shipsavvy.com for any questions









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