How to transport work clothes from China to Israel

Shipping work clothes from China to Israel requires attention to customs regulations, documentation, and optimized shipping methods. Below is a concise guide to ensure efficient delivery:

1. Key Requirements & Regulations

• Product Compliance:

  • Work clothes must meet Israeli SI standards (especially safety gear like flame-resistant clothing).

  • Labels in Hebrew/English (fiber content, care instructions, size, origin).

• Customs Duties:

  • Import duty: 0–12% (based on material; e.g., cotton = 6%).

  • VAT: 17% on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).

• Banned Items:

  • Used clothing (without special permits).

  • Items with military/counterfeit branding.

2. Shipping Methods Compared   Calculator

 CBM Calculation:
Volume = Length × Width × Height (meters) × carton count.
*Example: 30 cartons (0.4m³ each) = 12 CBM.*

3. Essential Documents

• Commercial Invoice (with HS code, e.g., 6203.29 for men’s work jackets).

• Packing List (carton dimensions, weight, contents).

• Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill.

• Certificate of Origin (Chamber of Commerce certified).

• Import License (if applicable; required for industrial safety gear).

• Importer’s TAX ID (Israeli receiver).

 Incoterms: Use FOB Shanghai (buyer handles Israel costs) or DDP Tel Aviv (seller pays all fees).

4. Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose a Forwarder:

   • Opt for Israel-specialized agents (e.g., ZIM Logistics, DHL Global).

2. Packaging:

   • Use waterproof wrapping + reinforced cartons. Label in Hebrew.

3. Export Customs (China):

   • Forwarder submits China export docs (no textile export restrictions).

4. Shipping & Tracking:

   • Monitor via BOL/AWB. Major Israeli ports: Haifa (fastest), Ashdod.

5. Israel Customs Clearance:

   • Submit docs via MATIEF system. Pay duties/VAT.

   • Inspection likely for safety gear (e.g., EN/ISO compliance).

6. Last-Mile Delivery:

   • Forwarder trucks goods to final address (e.g., Tel Aviv, Jerusalem).

5. Cost-Saving Tips

1. Consolidate Shipments: Combine orders for LCL discounts.

2. Pre-Clear Customs: Use a customs broker to submit docs pre-arrival.

3. Ship to Haifa: Lower congestion vs. Ashdod.

4. Duty Exemptions: Claim if goods are for "industrial use" (provide end-use certificates).

6. Prohibited/Restricted Items

• Clothing with:

  • Nazi/terror-linked symbols.

  • Counterfeit brand logos.

  • Non-compliant safety gear (e.g., lacking CE/ISO marks).

7. Recommended Forwarders (China-Israel)

Key Checklist

•  Verify SI standards for workwear (e.g., flame resistance).

•  Label all items in Hebrew.

•  Insure shipments at 110% value.

•  For first-time shipments: Send samples via courier to test compliance.

 Note: Israel has strict inspections for textiles. Include a test report (e.g., SGS) for safety-critical work clothes to avoid delays. For large shipments (>5 CBM), request a door-to-door quote including Haifa port fees and VAT.