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Shipping Automation Parts Internationally: What You Need to Know
In industrial automation, the need for a replacement part doesn’t respect borders. A failed ABB drive in Germany or a discontinued Omron sensor in Brazil can trigger an urgent international shipment. But moving automation components across borders isn’t like sending a laptop—specialized electronics, hazardous materials, and strict export controls turn routine logistics into a regulatory minefield.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the real-world rules, risks, and best practices for shipping automation parts globally—so your component arrives on time, in spec, and without getting flagged at customs. You’ll also learn how U.S.-based partners like Industrial Automation Co. simplify the process by handling global sourcing and domestic fulfillment under one roof.
1. Know Your Commodity: ECCN, HTS, and Dual-Use Red Flags
Every automation part has two key classification codes that determine how it can be shipped across borders:
| Code | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) | Determines import duties | 8537.10.90 → PLCs |
| ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) | Determines export licensing under U.S. EAR | 3A001 → High-performance servo amplifiers |
- Dual-use items: Servo motors >500W or PLCs with encryption may fall under EAR 600-series or ITAR controls.
- License exceptions: Most commercial parts qualify for No License Required (NLR)—but only with accurate classification.
- Anti-boycott compliance: Never sign export docs containing “Israel boycott” clauses—violates U.S. law.
Pro Tip: Use the SNAP-R tool to confirm ECCN classifications. Misclassification can lead to delays, seizure, or fines exceeding $1M per violation.
2. Hazardous Materials: Lithium Batteries and Magnetized Parts
Many automation parts include components that trigger IATA/IMO Dangerous Goods requirements. Ignoring them risks rejections or heavy penalties.
| Component | Hazard | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| PLC Backup Batteries | UN3091 (Lithium Metal) | ≤2g lithium/cell, Section II packaging |
| Servo Motors (Rare-earth Magnets) | Class 9 (Magnetized Material) | Field strength <0.00525 gauss at 4.6m |
| VFD Capacitors | UN3508 (Asymmetric Capacitors) | Special Provision A184 packaging |
Case Example: A U.S. distributor shipped 12 Yaskawa servos via air freight. The magnets triggered IATA rejection and re-routing fees exceeding $14,000. Always screen shipments with a certified Dangerous Goods checklist before sending.
3. Country-Specific Compliance Gotchas
| Destination | Rule | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| China | CCC certification required for electrical equipment | Non-CCC items may be confiscated |
| EU | CE mark + RoHS compliance mandatory | Missing docs = port hold |
| Russia | EAEU TR CU 020/2011 (EMC) | Must ship with Russian-language DoC |
| Brazil | INMETRO certification for >1kV products | 60–90 day clearance delays if missing |
Workaround: For short-term exports or repairs, use an ATA Carnet to classify shipments as “temporary import” and avoid full certification requirements.
4. Documentation Stack (Don’t Skimp)
Customs clearance hinges on accuracy. One mismatch can cause a full inspection.
- Commercial Invoice: Must list ECCN, HTS, country of origin, and value.
- Packing List: Weight, dimensions, and piece count must match exactly.
- Certificate of Origin: Required for tariff reductions (e.g., USMCA).
- SDS (Safety Data Sheet): Needed for chemicals, adhesives, or lithium content.
- Air Waybill (AWB): Mark “Repair/Return” for used parts to speed customs.
5. Incoterms: Who Owns the Risk?
| Term | Risk Transfer | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | Buyer assumes all risk | Lowest cost, highest complexity |
| DAP (Delivered at Place) | Seller handles freight | Balanced for routine shipments |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Seller bears risk and customs | Ideal for urgent downtime repairs |
Pro Tip: For emergency replacement parts, use DDP via DHL or FedEx. They handle export filings and customs brokerage—saving critical hours when downtime costs exceed $5,000/hour.
6. Repair and Return: The Hidden Savings
If you’re shipping a defective part back for warranty repair, you may qualify for Duty-Free Reentry using U.S. Customs Form 3311:
- Applies to U.S.-origin goods re-imported within two years
- Mark clearly: “American Goods Returned – No EEI Required (30.37(a))”
- Can save 0–25% in duties and brokerage fees
7. Checklist: Before You Click “Ship”
- ✅ ECCN and HTS codes confirmed via SNAP-R
- ✅ Dangerous goods (DG) screening complete
- ✅ Country-specific certifications attached (CE, CCC, etc.)
- ✅ Incoterm agreed in writing
- ✅ Courier pre-alert sent to consignee
8. The Industrial Automation Co. Advantage
At Industrial Automation Co., we take the uncertainty out of international logistics. Our team sources parts globally, warehouses them domestically, and provides export documentation and guidance to customers worldwide.
- Global sourcing, U.S.-based stock: Thousands of parts from ABB, Siemens, Mitsubishi, and Allen-Bradley.
- Same-day shipping: Orders ship from our North Carolina warehouse.
- 2-Year Warranty: Confidence in every component we sell.
- Free technical support: Get help choosing replacements and confirming compatibility.
- Custom export assistance: Documentation support for international customers.
Have questions about tariffs, export codes, or shipping documentation? Contact our team—we’ll make sure your part moves across borders safely, quickly, and compliantly.