In international express logistics, especially when shipping from China, you may often hear the term “Chong Huo” (冲货). But what does it really mean? Is it a recommended practice? Let’s break it down.
What Does “Chong Huo” Mean?
In simple terms, “Chong Huo” refers to the act of sending restricted or sensitive goods through express channels without proper declaration or customs clearance. It’s a high-risk shipping approach that skips formal compliance, often used to “test” whether the parcel can slip through customs unnoticed.
It’s essentially a gamble — if the shipment passes customs smoothly, it’s delivered. If not, you’re on your own.
Common Examples of “Chong Huo” Shipments:
- Battery-powered devices (e.g., power banks, electronics)
- Liquids or powders (e.g., cosmetics, skincare products)
- Branded or replica items
- Prohibited items in the destination country
- Goods exceeding de minimis value but underdeclared intentionally
Why Is “Chong Huo” Risky?
Here’s what could happen if you choose to ship this way:
| Situation | Possible Result |
| Seized by Chinese customs | Parcel gets returned. You may need to pay to re-send. |
| Blocked by destination customs | Goods are detained, destroyed, or fined. |
| Courier detects the issue | Shipment may be halted, discarded, or marked risky. |
| E-commerce account impact | Frequent “Chong Huo” can risk your store or platform bans. |
Is It Recommended?
No. While some freight forwarders may offer “Chong Huo” as an option, it’s not a sustainable or legal shipping practice. It might save time or paperwork upfront, but the long-term risks far outweigh any short-term gain.
You could face:
- Loss of goods
- Fines or legal issues
- Damaged customer relationships
- Platform penalties (for sellers)
Safer Alternatives to “Chong Huo”:
- Use proper shipping channels for sensitive goods (e.g. battery-specialized lines, cosmetics lines)
- Declare goods truthfully to avoid customs issues
- Choose a freight forwarder who offers DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services, where they take care of customs clearance and tax
- Work with experienced agents who can advise on compliance, packaging, and documentation
Final Thoughts
“Chong Huo” may sound like a clever workaround — but in reality, it’s a ticking time bomb. If you’re serious about building a long-term international business, compliance is always better than gambling.
At ZCYT Logistics, we’re committed to providing safe, compliant, and cost-effective logistics solutions for all kinds of goods — including sensitive items. We help you avoid the risks of “Chong Huo” and ensure smooth delivery every step of the way.