How to Import Power Cables from China

By Jianyun Cable – Professional Manufacturer of Quality Electrical Cables

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of power cables – offering unmatched production capacity, competitive pricing, and a full range of low, medium, and high-voltage cables. Whether you’re importing for construction, distribution, solar projects, or industrial use, China provides excellent quality options when you choose the right supplier.

This 2025 step-by-step guide teaches you exactly how to import power cables from China safely, cost-effectively, and compliantly – from supplier selection to final customs clearance.

1. Why Import Power Cables from China?

Key advantages of importing from China in 2025:

• Lowest production costs worldwide
• Huge capacity (many factories >1000 tons/month)
• Advanced equipment (Rosendahl, Maillefer, Troester lines)
• Full range: LV (0.6/1 kV), MV (6–35 kV), HV (66–500 kV)
• Strong export experience to 150+ countries
• Compliance with IEC, UL, VDE, CPR, SASO, SONCAP, etc.

2. Step 1: Find Reliable Power Cable Suppliers in China

• Use professional B2B platforms (Alibaba, Made-in-China, Global Sources)
• Search for “power cable manufacturer China” + specific type (XLPE, SWA, solar PV)
• Filter for Gold/Verified Suppliers with ≥5 years export experience
• Look for factories in major cable hubs: Jiangsu, Anhui, Henan, Shandong
• Shortlist 5–8 suppliers with own factory (avoid pure traders)

3. Step 2: Verify Supplier Credentials & Certifications

Essential checks:

• Business license & production permit
• ISO 9001:2015 & ISO 14001
• IEC 60502 / IEC 60227 / IEC 60840 product compliance
• Third-party certifications: UL, VDE, TÜV, CPR (Cca/B2ca), SASO, SONCAP
• Recent factory audit reports (TÜV, SGS, BV, Intertek)
• Export records & customer references

4. Step 3: Request Samples & Test Reports

• Ask for 5–10 meter samples (pay freight if needed)
• Request latest type test reports (IEC 60502) from accredited labs
• Send samples to independent lab for verification (resistance, insulation thickness, HV test)
• Check conductor purity, insulation uniformity, sheath marking

5. Step 4: Negotiate Price, MOQ, Lead Time & Payment Terms

Typical terms:

• MOQ: 1000–5000 meters (depending on size)
• Lead time: 15–45 days (standard sizes), 60–90 days (custom)
• Payment: 30% T/T deposit, 70% before shipment or L/C
• Price basis: FOB Shanghai/Ningbo or CIF destination port
• Negotiate better terms for repeat/large orders

6. Step 5: Understand Import Duties, Taxes & Compliance

Key considerations by country:

https://www.jianyuncable.com

7. Step 6: Arrange Shipping & Logistics from China

• Sea freight (LCL/FCL) – most common for cables
• FOB vs CIF: FOB gives more control over freight
• Choose reputable forwarder with cable export experience
• Ensure proper fumigation & packing (wooden drums on pallets)
• Insure cargo (0.3–0.5% value recommended)

8. Step 7: Customs Clearance & Import Documentation

Essential documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
• Certificate of Origin (Form A/E for preferential duty)
• Quality/Inspection Certificate
• Test Reports & Certifications (IEC, UL, etc.)
• Import License (if required)

9. Step 8: Pre-Shipment Inspection & Quality Control

• Arrange third-party inspection (SGS, BV, TÜV, Intertek)
• Check: visual appearance, dimensions, labeling, resistance
• Perform random sampling & lab testing
• Release payment only after satisfactory report

10. Final Checklist & Tips for Successful Import

1. Shortlist 3–5 verified factories with IEC/UL certifications
2. Verify recent test reports & factory audit
3. Order samples & test independently
4. Negotiate clear contract with specifications & penalties
5. Use reputable forwarder & insure shipment
6. Arrange pre-shipment inspection
7. Prepare all customs documents early
8. Start small & build long-term relationship

Importing power cables from China can save 30–50% compared to local sources while maintaining high quality – if you follow the right process and partner with reliable manufacturers.

For high-quality power cables (LV, MV, HV, XLPE, armored, solar PV) with full international compliance, strict quality control, and excellent export support, contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. – your trusted partner for successful cable imports from China.