Practical guide
China customs: use the red channel when you need to declare—or are unsure
A practical decision rule for an arrival or departure customs checkpoint.
The State Council’s English customs guide describes the Red Channel as “Goods to Declare” and the Green Channel as “Nothing to Declare.” At a port with the dual-channel system, it says travelers carrying items that should be declared—and travelers who do not know which channel to choose—should use the Red Channel. It also explains that declaration can require the luggage declaration form, travel documents and other relevant authorized documents.
A clear next step
- Before reaching the checkpoint, review whether you are carrying items that may need declaration.
- If you have declarable goods or are unsure, choose the Red Channel and follow Customs instructions.
- Keep relevant purchase, permit and travel documents accessible if Customs requests them.
Sources & verification
Last verified
- Customs — The State Council of the People’s Republic of China Red Channel / Goods to Declare and Green Channel / Nothing to Declare system · instruction for travelers who are unsure which channel to choose · declaration-document context