Don’t risk export — phytosanitary inspection is mandatory

Exporting goods containing wood (e.g. laptop stands, organizers, decorative elements) requires mandatory phytosanitary inspection. In 2024–2025, customs control has become even stricter — now the absence of phytosanitary certificates can lead to cargo delays, fines, or even export bans.

What you need to know:

• Any cargo containing elements made of untreated wood is subject to phytosanitary control.
• The inspection is carried out on the territory of China by the shipper (sender) together with representatives of customs authorities.
• The supplier must provide a phytosanitary certificate confirming that the wood has undergone proper thermal or chemical treatment, but if you do not have such documents, we can help you with the registration.

What happens if there is no certificate:

• The cargo is not allowed for customs clearance and export.
• It may be sent for additional inspection, which delays delivery times.
• In some cases — possible return of the cargo or even disposal.
• Problems also arise with shipping lines that refuse to accept cargo without a complete set of documents.

Why this is important now:

Recently, customs authorities have been more strictly controlling compliance with international regulations on wood export — especially when shipping to the USA, EU, and Middle Eastern countries. Any non-compliance can disrupt the delivery, even if the goods are fully ready.

If your supplier lacks experience or does not know how to properly organize phytosanitary inspection, there is a risk that the documents will be incorrectly issued — or not issued at all.

How DiFFreight works in such situations

• We clarify in advance whether the cargo contains wooden elements.
• We check with the supplier for the presence of a phytosanitary certificate.
• If documents are missing — we help organize a full phytosanitary inspection of the cargo through trusted partners.
• We control the process until the official certificate is obtained to avoid any customs risks.

The cost of this service is calculated individually — it depends on the type of goods, volume, port of departure, and other factors.

Who this information is relevant for

• If you are ordering furniture, appliances, equipment, or any product that is made of wood or has any wooden parts.
• If your supplier is new or has no experience in international logistics.
• If you plan regular shipments to the USA, Europe, Canada, UAE, Saudi Arabia, etc.

Summary:

Phytosanitary inspection is not just a formality. It is a mandatory requirement, the violation of which can lead to serious financial and reputational losses.

If you have questions or doubts about documents or just want to be sure of proper preparation — contact DiFFreight. We know all the requirements and formats of certificates, we work with phytoservices and will always help pass the inspection without delay and deliver goods from China and beyond.