Certificate of Origin (CO) for African Crane Imports: Which One Saves You Duty?
When importing used cranes from China to Africa, selecting the proper Certificate of Origin directly decides your import cost. We sort out three common certificates clearly.
1. Ordinary Certificate of Origin (CO)
It is the basic document proving goods are manufactured in China, accepted by all African nations.
No tariff reduction, only meets standard customs clearance requirements.
Issued by Customs or CCPIT.
2. RCEP Certificate of Origin
Preferential document under RCEP rules.
Only effective for trade between China and ASEAN countries.
Cannot enjoy tax breaks for direct shipment to Africa, only useful for cargo transiting via Southeast Asia.
3. China-Africa Preferential Zero-Tariff Certificate
The most valuable option for African importers.
Available for 20 eligible African countries including Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Zimbabwe.
Qualified cranes can obtain full import duty exemption.
Apply before loading and ensure HS code matches official tax list.
Core Advice
- Direct import to listed African countries: Choose China-Africa preferential CO to cut huge tariffs.
- Other African destinations: Prepare ordinary CO for clearance.
- Transit through ASEAN ports: Check whether RCEP certificate can be adopted.
All information, serial numbers and codes on invoices, B/L and origin certificates must stay consistent to avoid customs rejection.
Contact us if you need support to confirm eligibility and arrange full set origin documents for your crane shipment.
