How to export compressors from the UK to China

Start with the model and its import route

For compressors, fans and vacuum pumps, check whether the particular model falls within the CCC reference table, which distinguishes third-party certification from self-declaration. Send the proposed buyer the model specification before agreeing shipment terms so its customs broker can identify the Chinese tariff line. Confirm the applicable conformity route and any timing requirements with the relevant authority or licensed partners.

UK exports under HS 8414-8414 (10 subheadings): HMRC recorded £47.4m of UK goods exports to mainland China under 10 HS6 subheadings in 2025 (2024: £43.8m, +8.2%). Exports to Hong Kong under the same codes were £2.7m.

Under HS 8414-8414 (10 subheadings), UK exports: January to July 2026: £28.6m against £25.2m in the same months of 2025 (+13.6%). The largest UK export line in 2025 was HS 84148011, single-stage turbocompressors, at £17.0m.

Match CCC evidence to the product

The CCC reference table identifies motor-compressors under 8414301100, 8414301200, 8414301300 and 8414301900 with a self-declaration evaluation route. Do not treat every refrigerating compressor under HS 841430 as having the same requirement. Establish which model is covered and what conformity evidence must be ready before import.

Electric fans have a third-party certification route in the reference table, including specified lines under HS 841451 and HS 841459; the latter includes 8414599091. Cooker hoods under 8414601000 also have that route. Allow months, not weeks for applicable approval work; the Chinese authority decides. Resolve the model's scope before committing stock.

Build duty and VAT into the buyer's price

The 2026 Customs Import and Export Tariff gives different rates within this equipment range. In particular, parts under 84149011 and 84149019 have a provisional rate of 5%, while 84149090 has 4%. These border costs shape the landed cost and therefore the price a Chinese importer can offer. Have the importer's customs broker confirm the applicable tariff line and rate.

The VAT Law sets a standard import VAT rate of 13%, subject to the 9% list and other special rules. Import VAT uses the customs value plus customs duty plus consumption tax as its base. The importer's customs broker or adviser confirms whether consumption tax applies to the product.

Prepare the UK shipment file

Classify the equipment using the correct UK commodity code. Exports from England, Scotland or Wales require a GB EORI and an online export declaration. Prepare the value, weight, packaging, destination, transport details, and invoice and packing list references for the declarant. The carrier needs the invoice and any applicable export licences or certificates. Keep the model description consistent with the buyer's classification and CCC assessment.

Use retail cross-border e-commerce only for listed goods

The retail import list covers only part of this range: hand-operated or foot-operated air pumps under 84142000, and fans of no more than 125 watts under 84145110, 84145120, 84145130, 84145191 and 84145192. These entries cover ceiling fans, ventilation fans, rotating-guide-wheel fans, table fans and floor fans. Do not extend that listing to the whole compressor or vacuum-pump range.

Listed goods imported through bonded 1210 or direct 9610 channels are supervised as personal-use articles, without first-import licence, registration or filing requirements, subject to epidemic-area suspensions and emergency risk handling. Consumers must accept a risk notice covering possible differences from Chinese standards, possible absence of a Chinese label, access to a Chinese electronic label, and the prohibition on resale.

The overseas business retains primary responsibility for quality and safety and must appoint a mainland-registered company for customs registration, truthful declarations and shared civil liability. The transaction limits are RMB 5,000 per purchase and RMB 26,000 annually per person. Assess this route against the listed fan or pump model and the intended personal-use customer.

Check the Chinese buyer before committing equipment

Ask a prospective importer to explain which models it wants, their tariff lines, the CCC route and how it intends to sell them. A retail personal-use route cannot support onward resale. If a Chinese importer has already approached your brand, our staff in China check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed.

We prepare registration and label work with licensed partners in China. Regulated roles stay with licensed partners, and your brand's own filings stay yours. We check with licensed partners and give no legal or tax advice.

For help finding a suitable buyer, see our export-to-China service. Our own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands.