Introduction:
When shipping goods from China to the United States, it’s essential to understand how your cargo is classified. Not all items are treated the same during transportation, and misclassification can lead to delays, fines, or even seizure by customs authorities. In this blog, we’ll break down the three key categories of cargo: General Cargo (普货), Special Cargo (特殊货), and Prohibited Goods (禁运产品).
- General Cargo (普货 | Pǔ huò)
Definition:
These are common, non-restricted goods that do not contain any hazardous components and don’t require special handling or documentation.
Examples:
- Clothing & textiles
- Home decor
- Stationery
- Electronic accessories (non-battery)
- Furniture (non-metallic, non-battery powered)
Shipping Notes:
- No special permits needed
- Can be consolidated or shipped via regular LCL or FCL
- Smooth customs clearance if declared properly
- Special Cargo (特殊货 | Tè shū huò)
Definition:
Special cargo refers to items that require additional attention due to their nature, such as those involving safety concerns, legal regulations, or special storage conditions.
Examples:
- Items with built-in lithium batteries (e.g., power banks, laptops, e-bikes)
- Cosmetics (with alcohol or aerosol content)
- Liquid or powder substances (such as detergents or creams)
- Magnetic goods (like speakers or motors)
- Food items, supplements, or health-related products
Shipping Notes:
- May need MSDS, UN38.3 test reports, or other certifications
- Often classified as Dangerous Goods (DG)
- May require special packaging, labeling, or routing
- Must be declared truthfully to avoid serious customs issues
- Prohibited or Restricted Goods (禁运品 | Jìn yùn pǐn)
Definition:
These are items that are either illegal to export from China or prohibited to import into the United States.
Examples:
- Weapons and ammunition
- Counterfeit products or pirated goods
- Certain chemical substances
- Controlled drugs or narcotics
- Some types of plant seeds or animal products
- Items violating intellectual property rights
Shipping Notes:
- Prohibited items are not allowed under any shipping mode
- Attempting to export or import such items may result in severe penalties or blacklisting
- Always consult with a logistics professional before shipping unknown or gray-area goods
Tips for Shippers:
- Always check your cargo classification before booking space
- Provide complete product information to your freight forwarder
- Be honest and detailed in your customs declaration
- Keep updated with U.S. import restrictions, especially under changing trade policies
- Work with a trusted logistics partner who understands both Chinese and American customs regulations
Conclusion:
Shipping from China to the U.S. is full of opportunity — but also full of responsibility. Understanding the difference between general, special, and prohibited cargo can help you avoid delays, fines, or worse. Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just getting started, staying informed is your first step toward smooth international logistics.