1. Customs & Duties
- Check duty-free limits (e.g., China: ≤¥5000 per order)
- Excess may incur taxes based on item + shipping + insurance value
- Choose platforms offering "pre-paid duties" to avoid surprises
2. Compliance Matters
- Required certifications: CE (EU), FDA (US), PSE (Japan for electronics)
- Avoid restricted materials (e.g., certain PVC in Japan)
- Use caution with remote-control or drug-containing products (may be seized)
3. After-Sales Challenges
- International returns are costly and complicated
- Legal protection is difficult across borders
- Privacy risks increase with multi-stage shipping
4. Shipping & Privacy
- Choose "discreet shipping" with vague package descriptions
- Avoid couriers requiring ID for customs clearance
- Destroy shipping labels after delivery
5. Smart Shopping Tips
- Beginners: Choose products from bonded warehouses (pre-cleared, fast delivery)
- Payment: Use PayPal or Alipay for buyer protection
- Avoid:
❌ Suspiciously low-priced items (may be fake)
❌ Overly novel products (higher compliance risk)
❌ Bulk purchases (may be seen as commercial import)
Remember:
Buying abroad requires extra care. Check certifications, respect value limits, and choose reliable sellers to shop safely and confidently.
Note: Policies change often. Always verify latest regulations before ordering. Consult a customs expert for high-value purchases.