Importing solar panels from China is not as straightforward as shipping ordinary cargo. Today’s tutorial covers all you need to know about import solar panels from China. It focuses on logistics and customs procedures to help you reduce risk and move cargo smoothly.
Overview of importing solar panels from China
Solar imports from China continue to dominate global markets due to mature manufacturing capacity, stable supply chains, and competitive pricing. Chinese factories produce a wide range of products, including photovoltaic (PV) modules, solar cells, and related components for residential, commercial, and utility-scale projects.
However, from a logistics perspective, solar panels are high-value, fragile cargo that often move in large volumes. It makes transportation planning, packaging standards, and customs documentation especially critical. In short, successful imports depend as much on logistics expertise as on product sourcing.
HS codes and product classification
Correct HS code classification is the foundation of customs clearance.
In most countries, solar panels (PV modules) are commonly classified under HS codes related to photovoltaic cells assembled into modules.
Solar cells imported separately may fall under different HS codes, which can affect duty rates and regulatory treatment.
For example:
- The United States commonly classifies solar panels under HS 8541.43, which covers photovoltaic cells assembled into modules or made into panels.
Using an incorrect HS code can trigger:
- Customs inspections
- Delayed clearance
- Reassessment of import duties
- Compliance risks, especially in sensitive markets
For any solar cell imported from China, you should verify the HS code before shipment, rather than after the cargo arrives.
Are solar panels general cargo or regulated cargo?
In most cases, solar panels qualify as general cargo. They do not contain hazardous materials, and you can move them via standard sea freight when properly packed.
But, solar shipments often include additional accessories, such as:
- Inverters
- Energy storage systems
- Controllers or power units
When a shipment includes lithium batteries, it no longer qualifies as ordinary cargo. This distinction is important because it influences documentation requirements, carrier acceptance, and available routing options.
Is MSDS required for solar panel shipments?
For standard solar panels without batteries, you typically do not need an MSDS.
That said, many carriers and customs authorities may still request confirmation documents to prove that:
- The shipment does not include lithium batteries
- The cargo does not fall under the dangerous goods regulations
- Solar products include lithium battery storage
- Hybrid solar systems ship as a complete set
A common mistake involves assuming that all solar-related cargo requires an MSDS. In reality, the requirement depends entirely on the specific product configuration.
How to quickly determine whether you need an MSDS
Step 1: Confirm the product configuration
If the shipment includes only solar panels or photovoltaic modules, it usually does not require an MSDS. If the shipment includes batteries, inverters, or integrated energy storage systems, move to the next step.
Step 2: Check for lithium batteries
Ask the supplier to confirm whether the products contain lithium-ion or lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries. Any shipment that includes lithium batteries typically requires an MSDS or a battery declaration, regardless of the battery capacity.
Step 3: Verify with the forwarder before booking
Before booking space, submit the product details to the carrier or freight forwarder. Carriers make the final acceptance decision, and early verification helps prevent rejected bookings or last-minute documentation requests.
Main shipping methods from China
Sea freight (Most common)
FCL (Full Container Load)
- FCL works best for large projects and bulk orders. It offers better cargo protection, lower unit costs, and reduced handling risks.
LCL (Less than Container Load)
- LCL suits smaller shipment volumes. However, multiple loading and unloading points increase handling risks and the likelihood of cargo damage.
Air freight
Generally, importers rarely use air freight to transport complete solar panels because of the high costs associated with this method. However, air freight can work well for:
- Product samples
- Urgent spare parts
- Small solar components
Most solar imports from China are shipped via sea freight, as this method balances cost, capacity, and cargo safety effectively.
At ASLG, we offer tailored shipping solutions for solar shipments, considering cargo size, destination, and project timelines.
Import duties and trade regulations
Solar panel import duty from China
Import duties vary significantly by destination country. Some regions offer reduced or zero tariffs for renewable energy products, while others impose additional controls.
European Union
The EU generally sets 0% base duty on photovoltaic panels under the standard tariff schedule, but it levies value-added tax (VAT) at local rates (often around ~20%).
Additionally, the EU previously imposed anti-dumping duties on certain Chinese solar modules and cells. Specific company-level additional duty rates (e.g., 41.3% ADD and 6.4% CVD) may still apply, according to trade remedy enforcement and pricing compliance verification.
United States
The U.S. often applies several tariff layers on solar panels and cells imported from China. In recent years:
- Section 301 tariffs on Chinese solar panels and cells can reach up to ~50% above the base rate.
- A Section 201 safeguard tariff has previously applied around 14–15% on crystalline silicon panels.
- Additional anti-dumping and countervailing duties (AD/CVD) may also apply at company-specific rates.
These combined duties can significantly increase landed costs compared with base tariffs.
Australia
Australia typically has low base tariffs on imported solar panels. It currently does not impose specific anti-dumping duties on Chinese modules, making it relatively open for solar imports. VAT or GST (around 10%) still applies.
Canada & Mexico
Canada typically imposes an import duty of 0% to 10% on solar panels, in addition to provincial taxes and GST/HST. Mexico may impose mid-range tariffs and compliance requirements on imports from non-FTA partners.
Other key regulatory considerations
In addition to basic import duties, many countries apply:
- Value-added tax or GST upon import
- Trade remedy tariffs (anti-dumping/countervailing duties)
- Documentation requirements related to origin, product standards, and compliance
You should always verify current duty rates with local customs authorities or brokers before shipping, as tariffs and trade measures are frequently updated.
Customs clearance process and common delays
Typical documents required include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading
- HS code declaration
- Certificate of origin (if applicable)
- MSDS/Un38.3 test (if needed)
For shipments to the EU and the UK, solar panels must comply with relevant product regulations. You may need to provide evidence of CE conformity, including a Declaration of Conformity, to demonstrate that the products meet applicable safety and technical standards.
Additionally, RoHS compliance is often required to ensure that products do not contain restricted hazardous substances.On the other hand, CE marking does not apply to shipments being sent to the United States. Instead, you may need to provide UL certification and FCC compliance, depending on the product configuration and end use.
Common causes of delays:
- HS code inconsistencies
- Misdeclared cargo type
- Missing compliance documents
- Incomplete product descriptions
Most delays are preventable with proper pre-shipment checks.
By working with Airsupply, you can achieve seamless customs clearance for your solar panel shipments from China. Our experienced logistics specialists guide you through every step of the process, from document classification and compliance checks to documentation preparation.
Conclusion
Importing solar panels from China offers strong commercial opportunities, but it also requires careful planning. From HS code classification and MSDS assessment to shipping method selection and customs clearance, every step matters.
Our experienced logistics professionals support you with documentation review, compliance checks, and pre-shipment verification, ensuring all required paperwork is in place before departure. This approach helps you achieve smooth customs clearance and reduces the risk of delays or unexpected costs across global markets.
