How to export electrical measuring kit from the UK to China

Start with the instrument’s function and the import route

For electrical measuring and test instruments, establish the exact model, measuring function and recording capability before agreeing the import route. These instruments have no matched entry on the cross-border e-commerce retail import list; plan a commercial shipment with the Chinese importer and confirm the model’s import requirements.

Under HS 9030-9030 (11 subheadings), HMRC recorded £84.7m of UK goods exports to mainland China under 11 HS6 subheadings in 2025 (2024: £73.1m, +15.9%). Exports to Hong Kong under the same codes were £13.9m. January to July 2026: £42.7m against £55.0m in the same months of 2025 (-22.3%).

The largest UK export line to China was 90301000, for instruments measuring or detecting ionising radiation: £36.2m in 2025 under HS 903010. That makes the combined total a poor substitute for assessing demand for your particular meter or oscilloscope. Give a prospective importer the model specification and intended application so discussions concern the instrument you actually supply.

Price against the Chinese tariff line

The listed Chinese lines have 0% MFN duty except 90303320, which has 10%. Do not price all instruments under HS 903033 alike: its Chinese lines have different rates. Have the importer’s customs broker confirm the exact classification before using a duty rate in a quotation.

The VAT Law’s standard import rate is 13%, subject to its exceptions and 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 instrument. Border taxes add to landed cost and shape the price the importer can offer.

Assess UK controls before accepting the order

The UK dual-use control list includes electronics in category 3. Whether your instrument is controlled depends on its technical specification: assess it against the UK Strategic Export Control Lists before quoting. A customs code alone does not settle that assessment. Keep the specifications used for the assessment tied to the exact model offered.

Export and trade licence applications for mainland China are assessed case by case against the UK Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. Where a licence is needed, make the order and shipment arrangements reflect that requirement. Do not treat the Chinese buyer’s willingness to purchase as evidence that the UK export can proceed.

Prepare the UK declaration for the exact shipment

For exports from England, Scotland or Wales, obtain a GB EORI and classify the instrument with the correct commodity code. The online export declaration needs the value, weight, packaging, destination, transport and invoice and packing list references. Give the carrier the invoice and any required export licences or certificates. Make the model description consistent with the specification used for your control assessment.

Find and check the Chinese trading partner

Ask a prospective importer which instrument models it wants, how it will confirm their Chinese tariff lines and who will resolve model-specific import requirements. Our own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands. If an importer has already approached you, our staff in China check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed.

We check any registration and label work with licensed partners in China. The importer of record stays with licensed partners in China, and any brand filings stay the brand’s. Use our export-to-China service to arrange importer checks around the instruments and specifications you intend to supply.