China continues to see strong demand for high-end copper materials and decorative copper products, especially in the fields of interior design, luxury hotels, architecture, and cultural displays. Common imports include refined copper plates, brass components, and artistic copper sculptures from Germany, Japan, Italy, and Southeast Asia.
However, copper imports can trigger multiple layers of customs scrutiny, due to product variations in metal content, processing method, surface finish, and usage. Without proper documentation, your shipment may face clearance delays, classification disputes, or even rejection.
This guide by LOGICUS outlines key points for importers looking to bring copper-based goods into China—ensuring fast, compliant, and cost-efficient customs clearance.
一. Common Types of Imported Copper Products
| Product Category | Examples | Key Regulatory Focus |
| Refined Copper Materials | Copper plates, rods, tubes | Content must be ≥99.85% for refined classification |
| Brass or Copper Alloy Parts | Handles, fittings, plumbing pieces | Must disclose alloy composition |
| Decorative Copper Items | Wall panels, carvings, sculptures | May trigger CIQ or cultural review |
| Plated / Coated Copper | Electroplated, painted, colored items | SDS required if coatings contain chemicals |
二. Key Documentation for Copper Imports
| Document | Required | Purpose |
| Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Contract | ✅ | Must clearly describe product name, copper content, and usage |
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | ✅ | Needed for cargo release at the port |
| Customs POA | ✅ | Authorizes LOGICUS or broker to declare on your behalf |
| Product Datasheet or Tech Sheet | ✅ | Must state if it’s refined copper or alloy, plus intended use |
| Alloy Composition Report (if applicable) | ✅ | For brass, bronze, or mixed-metal copper products |
| Chinese Label Sample (for retail items) | Recommended | Must include material, origin, safety statements |
| Certificate of Origin (e.g. Form E, RCEP) | Recommended | May reduce duties under trade agreements |
| SDS (if plated/painted/coated) | Conditional | Required if chemical coatings or surface treatment involved |
三. Core Customs Compliance Questions
1. Is it Refined Copper or Copper Alloy?
- ≥99.85% Copper → Classified under HS 7409, lower duty, smoother clearance
- Brass/Bronze (copper + zinc/lead/etc.) → Classified under HS 7411 / 7412 / 7415
- Must submit composition analysis or manufacturer’s metal content declaration
2. Are SDS & Chemical Declarations Required?
For copper items that are:
- Electroplated
- Painted or colored
- Coated with protective film
You should provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stating:
- Whether coatings contain solvents, heavy metals (e.g. lead, chromium)
- GHS classification and transport condition
- Whether the item qualifies as hazardous under China’s import law
3. Any Risk of Cultural or Art Restrictions?
If your item is a:
- Copper statue or sculpture
- Antique-style decorative panel
- Religious figure or art replica
It may be flagged as cultural goods or artwork, especially if handmade or aged. You must prepare:
- A declaration that the product is modern and mass-produced
- Photos, catalog pages, and invoice notes confirming it’s not antique
四. LOGICUS Expert Recommendations
| Scenario | Suggested Action |
| Bulk refined copper (plates/tubes) | Confirm purity level; classify as HS 7409 |
| Brass fittings or copper alloy parts | Submit composition breakdown |
| Plated / Coated decorative items | Submit SDS and declare surface treatment |
| Wood + copper or mixed-material items | Submit detailed material ratio declaration |
| Copper home décor (lighting, sculptures) | Prepare full Chinese label + photos + tech sheet |
五. Why LOGICUS?
LOGICUS Supply Chain specializes in customs and regulatory compliance for metal building materials, copper art objects, and architectural hardware. We offer:
✅ HS code classification
✅ Tariff and tax planning
✅ SDS and composition file support
✅ Label design and translation
✅ End-to-end customs clearance in China
Planning to import copper plates, brass fittings, copper sculptures, or decorative home products into China?
Contact LOGICUS Supply Chain today for expert guidance on classification, documentation, and efficient customs clearance tailored to your copper products.
