Sourcing directly from China is the secret weapon of all profitable Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and distributors. It offers higher margins, fast production speeds, and access to top-notch technology.
However, there is one step that makes all importers nervous: Customs Clearance.
You track your shipment online. It arrives in your country. Then… the status freezes: “Exception / Customs Detention”.
Network equipment (routers, wireless access points, switches) is strictly regulated because it involves radio frequencies and encryption technology. If the documentation is filled out incorrectly, your equipment may be confiscated, destroyed, or subject to hefty fines.
Toda exports thousands of containers annually to the US, Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia. We are familiar with the regulations. Here is your survival guide to easily importing network equipment.
1. The “Golden Ticket”: Certificates Are Non-Negotiable
Electronic products are not like T-shirts; you can’t just throw them in a box and ship them out. Every region has strict radio frequency (RF) regulations.
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United States (FCC): If you are importing Wi-Fi devices into the USA, your factory must have an FCC ID. Customs officers will check the FCC label on the back of the device. If this label is missing, the goods will be rejected immediately.
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Europe (CE/RED): Europe requires compliance with the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). Simply affixing the “CE” label is not enough; you also need a complete test report from the factory to prove that the product will not interfere with police radios or air traffic control.
Toda’s Advice: Before paying a deposit, ask the factory to send you a PDF file showing the FCC/CE certification for the specific model. If they hesitate, walk away.
2. The Power Adapter Trap
This is a common mistake for beginners. You order 1,000 routers. The routers themselves are perfect. However, the power adapter in the box has the wrong plug type or lacks safety certification (such as UL in the US or GS in Germany).
The Result: Customs inspects the packaging, finds the power plug is non-compliant, and seizes the entire shipment—even though the router itself was fine.
Toda’s Advice: Be sure to specify the plug type (EU, US, UK, or AU) clearly in your Purchase Order (PO). We also double-check that our power supply partners hold the necessary safety certifications required for your destination.
3. Know Your HS Code (Harmonized System)
The HS Code tells customs what the product is and how much duty (tax) you should pay. If you use the wrong code, two things can happen: either you overpay taxes, or you underpay and get fined for “smuggling.”
For most wireless routers and access points, the common code typically falls into this category:
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8517.62 (Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data…)
Toda’s Advice: Before shipping, confirm the full 6- to 10-digit code with your local customs broker, as sub-codes vary slightly from country to country (e.g., Brazil and India have very specific requirements).
4. Avoid Counterfeit Branding
This should be obvious, but it is critical: Do not try to import routers that look exactly like well-known brands (such as Cisco or Ubiquiti) or use logos that “somewhat resemble” them.
Infringing on Intellectual Property (IP) rights is the fastest way to lose your money and get your company blacklisted by customs.
Toda’s Advice: Stick to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) production. Print your company logo on the equipment. This builds your own brand value and is 100% legal.
5. Shipping Terms: FOB vs. DDP
If you are new to importing, logistics terminology can be confusing.
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FOB (Free On Board): We are responsible for delivering the goods to the vessel in China. You are responsible for the ocean freight and customs clearance in your country. This gives you more control but requires more effort.
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DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): This is the easiest (and safest) option for beginners. Toda entrusts a logistics company to handle transportation, taxes, duties, and customs clearance. The goods are delivered directly to your warehouse door.
Summary
Importing doesn’t have to be a gamble. The difference between a smooth shipment and a customs nightmare usually lies in the preparation of documents and the choice of partners.
When you work with a professional manufacturer like Toda, we do more than just manufacture hardware; we prepare the full “Export Package” (Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificates of Compliance) to ensure your goods pass through the border smoothly.
Ready to place your first import order? Contact us for a consultation. We can help you understand the specific import requirements for your country.
Post time: Jan-26-2026
