A "two-step declaration" reform was officially implemented in Rudong county, Nantong, Jiangsu province on Dec 4, making it more convenient for companies to import goods.

The first order that passed the customs clearance under the "two-step declaration" was declared by Nantong company Sinotrans. It took only 23 seconds for the whole process, from sending the declaration to getting clearance.

In the past, companies have to complete complex procedures and meet strict demands when importing, with a total of 105 items to be declared.

After carrying out the "two-step declaration" reform, only nine items need to be declared and two logistics items to be confirmed during the clearance.

According to a staff member of Rudong customs, companies can just submit the main information on bills of lading for the brief declaration, and then submit other required supplementary information and pay the tax within 14 days from the declaration of vehicles.

The reform will decrease delay times at ports, improve clearance efficiency, and reduce logistics costs for companies. The accuracy of declarations will also be improved, as companies are given more time to gain cargo information.

In addition, the current declaration mode is still being used while the "two-step declaration" is being implemented, and companies can choose the mode they prefer.