IMPORT PROCEDURES FOR MASSAGE CHAIRS

IMPORT PROCEDURES FOR MASSAGE CHAIRS AND HANDHELD MASSAGERS BY IPOLOGISTICS

I. Introduction

With the increasing demand for health care and relaxation, massage chairs and handheld massagers have become popular products in daily life. Importing these products not only meets consumer demand but also provides business opportunities for companies in the health care industry. However, the import process can be complex, requiring businesses to comply with legal regulations, customs procedures, and to execute the process professionally. This article will provide detailed information on the import procedures for massage chairs and handheld massagers executed by Ipologistics, including descriptions of HS codes and relevant legal aspects.

II. Legal Basis

1. Vietnam Trade Law 2005
   • This law regulates commercial activities, including the rights and obligations of parties in trade contracts, the importation of goods, as well as consumer protection regulations.
2. Vietnam Customs Law 2014
   • This law details customs procedures, the responsibilities of the parties involved in import and export activities, and customs inspection and supervision for imported goods.
3. Circular No. 38/2015/TT-BTC
   • This circular regulates customs procedures for imported and exported goods, including customs declaration procedures, goods inspection, and customs tax obligations.
4. Circular No. 14/2021/TT-BYT
   • This regulation manages medical equipment, applicable to products like massage chairs and handheld massagers. These products may belong to the category of medical equipment and thus must meet quality standards.
5. Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP
   • This decree regulates the management, use, and maintenance of medical equipment, requiring products to meet technical and safety standards.
6. Other Regulations
   • In addition to the above legal documents, businesses should also pay attention to local regulations and requirements from other state management agencies regarding the importation of goods.

III. Goods Classification (HS Code)

The goods classification (HS code) is an essential part of the import process, helping to determine taxes, legal regulations, and quality inspection requirements. For massage chairs and handheld massagers, the HS codes are as follows:

1. HS Code for Massage Chairs: 9402.90.00.00
   • Description: Chairs without sitting function, including types of massage chairs designed for relaxation, helping to reduce pain and muscle tension. This product is commonly used in spas, beauty salons, or homes.
2. HS Code for Handheld Massagers: 9019.10.00.00
   • Description: Medical devices and handheld tools used for massage and body care. Handheld massagers are typically used to relieve muscle pain, relax, and improve blood circulation.

Using the correct HS codes is crucial for accurately completing customs declarations and related documents to ensure the legality of imported goods.

IV. Import Process

1. Prepare Necessary Documents

Before proceeding with the import procedures, businesses need to prepare the following documents:

• Import License (if required): Depending on the product type and country of origin, some items may need an import license before proceeding with the transaction.
• Commercial Invoice: This document is necessary to determine the value of the imported goods.
• Packing List: Includes detailed information about the quantity, weight, and dimensions of the goods.
• Certificate of Origin (C/O): Helps determine the origin of the goods, which may affect the tax rate.
• Quality Certificate: For massage chairs and handheld massagers, a certificate from a health management authority is required if the product falls under the category of medical equipment.

2. Execute the Import Procedures

Step 1: Place an Order with the Foreign Supplier

• Businesses need to select a reputable supplier and place an order for massage chairs and handheld massagers. It is essential to perform quality checks on the products and negotiate delivery terms.

Step 2: Transport the Goods

• Ipologistics will handle the transportation of goods from the supplier to Vietnam. Common transportation methods include:
  • Sea Freight: Suitable for large volumes of goods and lower costs.
  • Air Freight: Appropriate for urgent goods; however, it is more expensive.

Step 3: Customs Declaration

• Prepare Declaration Documents: Businesses must provide all necessary documents to Ipologistics for customs declaration.
• Electronic Customs Declaration: The company will use the electronic customs declaration system to submit the customs declaration.

3. Customs Clearance

Document and Physical Inspection

• Customs officials will conduct document checks and may perform physical inspections of the goods. Businesses and Ipologistics must be prepared for this:
  • Document Check: Includes reviewing the validity of documents such as invoices, quality certificates, and related papers.
  • Physical Inspection: The goods will be checked for quantity, quality, and condition.

Customs Clearance

• Once the inspections are complete, the goods will be cleared by customs. Businesses will receive notifications from customs regarding successful clearance.

4. Receive Goods and Distribute

• After customs clearance, Ipologistics will transfer the goods to the company’s warehouse.
• Businesses should verify the goods upon receipt before storing them and proceed with distribution to the market.

V. Important Notes on Importing

1. Choose a Reputable Supplier
   • Businesses should seek and partner with experienced and reputable suppliers to ensure product quality and the legality of related documents.
2. Monitor Legal Regulations
   • Legal regulations regarding imports may change. Businesses need to regularly update information to avoid violations and complications in the import process.
3. Collaborate with a Professional Logistics Company
   • Ipologistics has expertise in the logistics field, providing support to businesses throughout the import process, minimizing risks, and saving time.
4. Quality Inspection of Goods
   • Businesses should request quality inspections of goods from suppliers and require quality certificates that meet Vietnamese standards.

VI. Conclusion

The import procedures for massage chairs and handheld massagers are complex and require businesses to understand legal processes and customs requirements. Collaborating with Ipologistics will help businesses carry out these procedures professionally and effectively, meeting market demands. To succeed in importing, businesses need to prepare complete documentation, comply with legal regulations, and select reputable suppliers, along with a reasonable transport plan.