How to export Surveying instruments to China

Choose the route for your instrument

For surveying and navigation instruments, start with the exact model and intended use. The HS6 group spans compasses, navigation equipment, rangefinders, theodolites, levels, photogrammetrical instruments and parts. These instruments were not listed on the cited cross-border e-commerce retail import list, so plan a commercial shipment with a Chinese importer and establish the model’s entry requirements before offering stock.

HMRC recorded £26.8m of UK goods exports to mainland China under 10 HS6 subheadings in 2025 (2024: £33.2m, -19.2%). Exports to Hong Kong under the same codes were £6.2m. January to July 2026: £11.6m against £16.8m in the same months of 2025 (-31.1%). These are UK exports under HS 9014-9015 (10 subheadings).

The largest UK export line to mainland China was 90159000, covering parts and accessories for surveying instruments, at £7.0m in 2025. That is the UK export total under HS 901590, rather than sales of a particular brand or model. For a parts supplier, it is a useful starting point for discussions with potential distributors.

Price against the Chinese tariff line

Levels under Chinese tariff line 90153000 have a 9% MFN rate; the other listed lines have 0%. Import VAT generally has a 13% rate, subject to exceptions, and uses customs value plus duty plus consumption tax as its base. The importer’s customs broker confirms the model’s VAT treatment and whether consumption tax applies. Border taxes add to landed cost and shape the price the importer can offer.

Prepare the UK export declaration

For exports from England, Scotland or Wales, obtain a GB EORI and classify the instrument under the correct UK commodity code. The online export declaration needs its value, weight, packaging, destination, transport and invoice and packing list references. Agree who will make the declaration and give the carrier the invoice and any required export licences or certificates. Use the instrument’s specification to distinguish complete equipment from separately supplied parts.

Check navigation specifications before quoting

The UK dual-use control list includes navigation and avionics in category 7. Whether your instrument is controlled depends on its technical specification, so classify it against the UK Strategic Export Control Lists before quoting. Give that assessment the actual model specifications rather than relying on the HS code alone. Separately, agree with the importer which Chinese product requirements must be confirmed before shipment.

Find and check a Chinese importer

Ask a prospective importer to identify the models it wants, their intended uses and who will handle Chinese customs clearance. Compare its proposed buying price with the tariff treatment for those models, especially levels. Establish who will confirm Chinese entry requirements and keep the UK control assessment tied to the equipment you will actually supply.

If an importer has already approached you, our staff in China check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed. See our export to China service.