Zhejiang province's first cargo under China's newly optimized Two-Step Declaration model was cleared at Qianjiang Customs in Hangzhou on May 6.

The shipment, imported by Zhongce Rubber Group, marks the rollout of the province's new customs clearance model.

Launched by the General Administration of Customs, the Two-Step Declaration streamlines import procedures. Instead of submitting all documentation upfront, importers can first provide key information from the bill of lading before cargo arrival for preliminary clearance. The complete declaration and required documents must be submitted within 14 days of the transport vehicle entering the country.

The pilot, announced in March, is being tested at 11 customs offices, including Hangzhou's Qianjiang Customs. The model improves clearance efficiency and flexibility while ensuring regulatory compliance.

"The new model allows us to complete clearance in minutes, helping us accelerate the use of imported materials in production," said Yang Ying, logistics manager at Zhongce Rubber.

Qianjiang Customs has supported the rollout with dedicated service windows, training for 16 pilot companies, and a new system to match declarations with specialized reviewers, boosting processing speed. Officials say the model will be gradually expanded to benefit more foreign trade firms across the city.