When placing an overseas production order, many buyers focus mainly on product specifications, lead time, and shipping schedules. However, one critical step is often overlooked: import license preparation.
Why is the import license so important?
Once production is complete, the goods will be shipped to the port or airport for export. If your import license is not ready at that time, the shipment cannot be cleared through customs in your country. While the goods are waiting, the port/airport will start charging storage fees — and these costs can be surprisingly high if the delay lasts days or even weeks.
Risks of not preparing in advance
High storage fees at ports/airports
Delays in delivery to your warehouse or customers
Extra logistics costs and administrative complications
How to avoid the problem
Check import license requirements for your product category before placing the order.
Work with a local logistics or customs clearance company in your country. They can advise on documents needed and help optimize customs and freight costs.
Coordinate timing: make sure your license is ready by the time production is completed.
Our recommendation
At UMO, we always recommend our customers to prepare their import license well in advance. This ensures that when your order is finished, we can immediately ship without any delays or unexpected costs.
👉 A little preparation now will save you both time and money later.