Import Enamel Pins from China: Complete Customs Clearance Guide 2026
Everything first-time importers need to know — from HS codes and enamel pin tariffs to documentation, shipping methods, and step-by-step customs clearance — so your enamel pin imports arrive on time without surprises.
When you import enamel pins from China, understanding the customs clearance process is essential to avoid delays, unexpected costs, and stressful surprises at the border. Whether you’re launching a pin business, fulfilling a Kickstarter campaign, or ordering promotional merchandise in bulk, smooth clearance ensures your enamel pin imports arrive on time and ready for distribution.
This guide is specifically designed for first-time importers. It covers everything from the correct HS codes for enamel pins and enamel pin tariffs to required documents for enamel pin exports, shipping options, and a complete step-by-step clearance walkthrough — with regional breakdowns for the US, EU, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Why Customs Clearance Matters for Your Enamel Pin Imports
Customs clearance is the official process by which your government authorises imported goods to enter the country. Every commercial shipment — including enamel pin imports from China — must pass through this process before being released to you.
Getting it wrong can mean:
- Shipments held at the port or airport for days — or weeks
- Unexpected enamel pin tariffs, taxes, and storage fees eating into your margins
- Goods returned or destroyed if documentation is seriously incorrect
- Delayed product launches, missed convention deadlines, and disappointed backers
📦 Good News: Enamel pin imports are a relatively straightforward commodity to clear. With accurate paperwork and the right HS codes for enamel pins, clearance is typically fast — often completed within 1–3 business days when everything is in order.
Who Handles Customs: You or a Broker?
As the importer of record, you are legally responsible for ensuring your shipment complies with all import regulations. You have two main options for handling your enamel pin imports:
- ✓ Do it yourself — suitable for experienced importers with time to learn your country’s electronic customs system
- ✓ Hire a licensed customs broker — recommended for all first-time importers; brokers handle all filings, know local enamel pin tariffs, and have established relationships with customs officers
The cost of a customs broker (typically $50–$300 per shipment) is almost always worth it for your first few enamel pin imports, particularly when delays or errors could be far more costly.
Understanding HS Codes for Enamel Pins
The Harmonised System (HS) code is an internationally standardised classification number that identifies your goods for customs purposes. It determines your enamel pin tariffs, any applicable restrictions, and how your goods are recorded in trade statistics. Getting the HS codes for enamel pins right is one of the most important steps when you import enamel pins.
✅ Standard HS Code for Enamel Pins: 7117.19.90
This covers imitation jewelry made of base metal, with or without plating of precious metal — which is exactly what hard and soft enamel pins are.
How the Code Breaks Down
- 71 — Chapter 71: Natural or cultured pearls, precious stones, precious metals, and imitation jewelry
- 7117 — Heading 7117: Imitation jewelry
- 7117.19 — Subheading: Of base metal (whether or not plated with precious metal)
- 7117.19.90 — Further specification: Other (the most common classification for standard enamel pins)
Understanding these HS codes for enamel pins ensures your enamel pin imports are properly classified, which directly impacts your duty rates.
When a Different Code May Apply
- Pins with significant sterling silver or gold content may fall under Chapter 71 precious metal headings
- Pins designed primarily as clothing fasteners (safety pins, tie pins) may have alternative classifications
- Some countries have country-specific subheadings that extend beyond the standard 6-digit HS code
For most standard enamel pin imports, 7117.19.90 remains the correct classification.
⚠️ Never guess your HS code. Using the wrong classification can result in underpayment of enamel pin tariffs (triggering penalties and potential audits), overpayment (reducing your margins), or clearance delays while customs reclassifies your goods. When uncertain, ask your customs broker or contact your country’s customs authority for a binding classification ruling.
Enamel Pin Tariffs and Duty Rates by Country
Enamel pin tariffs are calculated as a percentage of the customs value of your goods — typically the price you paid to the manufacturer (FOB value). Additional taxes like VAT, GST, or sales tax are then calculated on top of the goods value plus shipping and insurance. Understanding enamel pin tariffs is crucial for accurate budgeting when you import enamel pins.
Import duty on HS 7117.19.90. Additional Section 301 China tariffs may apply — check current CBP guidance. GST not applicable.
Customs duty plus VAT (typically 19–25% depending on member state). EORI number required for the importer.
Post-Brexit UK Global Tariff applies. Import VAT at 20% also applies to most commercial shipments.
Customs duty plus GST/HST (5–15% depending on province). Customs broker strongly recommended.
General duty rate plus 10% GST on most imports. Goods valued under AUD 1,000 may qualify for the simplified entry process.
Most countries charge 0–15% duty on imitation jewelry. Always verify current enamel pin tariffs with your local customs authority before ordering.
Enamel Pin Tariff Table by Country
| Country | Duty Rate (HS 7117.19.90) | Additional Taxes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | ~11% | Section 301 tariffs may apply |
| 🇪🇺 European Union | 2–4% | VAT 19–25% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~4% | Import VAT 20% |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ~8% | GST/HST 5–15% |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 5% | GST 10% |
Checking current enamel pin tariffs before you import enamel pins helps you avoid unexpected costs.
Budgeting for Enamel Pin Tariffs: The 15–25% Rule
When planning your import budget, add 15–25% of the product cost to cover enamel pin tariffs, taxes, and customs clearance fees. This buffer ensures you’re not caught short when your invoice arrives from customs or your broker.
💡 Budgeting Example: You order 500 enamel pins at $2 each = $1,000 product cost. At 20% total import burden (duty + VAT/GST), budget an additional $200 for import costs, bringing your landed cost to approximately $1,200 before domestic shipping.
De Minimis Thresholds (Low-Value Exemptions)
Many countries have minimum value thresholds below which no enamel pin tariffs are collected:
- United States: $800 (Section 321 — no duties or formal entry required)
- European Union: €150 for customs duty; VAT now applies to all goods regardless of value
- United Kingdom: £135 for customs duty; import VAT applies to all commercial goods
- Canada: CAD $20 for casual goods; CAD $150 for most courier/postal goods
- Australia: AUD $1,000 for import duty and taxes on most goods
⚠️ Important: De minimis thresholds apply to the shipment value, not individual item prices. Splitting a large order into multiple low-value packages specifically to avoid enamel pin tariffs (known as “splitting shipments”) can be considered customs fraud and carries serious penalties.
Choosing Your Shipping Method for Enamel Pin Imports
The shipping method you choose affects not just transit time and cost, but also the customs clearance process itself. Different shipping methods have different documentation requirements and handling procedures, which can impact your enamel pin imports.
Faster transit, airport customs handling, higher cost per kg. Ideal for urgent or moderate-volume enamel pin imports.
Best: 50–500 pinsMost cost-effective for large volumes. LCL (shared container) for smaller bulk; FCL (full container) for very large enamel pin imports.
Best: 2,000+ pinsDHL, FedEx, or UPS handle door-to-door including customs brokerage. Most convenient for samples and small enamel pin imports.
Best: Samples & small orders💡 First Order Tip: For your very first pin order, express courier (DHL or FedEx) is often the best choice. The carrier handles customs on your behalf, the process is transparent, and you get door-to-door tracking. The higher per-unit shipping cost is worth the simplicity when you’re learning how to import enamel pins.
Step-by-Step Customs Clearance Process for Enamel Pin Imports
Here is the complete customs clearance journey from the moment your order ships from China to the moment your pins are in your hands. Understanding each stage helps you anticipate timelines and respond quickly if any issues arise with your enamel pin imports.
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Documentation Preparation
Proper paperwork is the single most critical factor in smooth clearance for enamel pin imports. Missing or incorrect documents are the leading cause of delays and additional fees. Prepare and review all documents before your shipment departs China.
At CreatePins.com, we provide all required documentation for enamel pin exports, correctly formatted for international shipping — making this step significantly easier for first-time importers.
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Tariff Classification: Getting Your HS Code Right
Correct classification determines how much enamel pin tariffs you’ll pay and whether your goods comply with import regulations. Most enamel pin imports are classified under HS Code 7117.19.90 (imitation jewelry of base metal, plated or not with precious metal).
Using the wrong HS codes for enamel pins can result in incorrect duty payments, customs holds, or penalties. While 7117.19.90 is widely accepted, some countries have country-specific extensions. Always verify with your local customs authority or broker before your first shipment.
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Calculate Enamel Pin Tariffs and Taxes
Each country has its own enamel pin tariffs and tax rules. Calculating your landed cost accurately before ordering prevents budget surprises when your pins arrive.
Typical charges include: customs duty (based on HS code and declared value), VAT/GST or sales tax (calculated on goods value plus shipping and insurance), and processing fees (port, harbor maintenance, or broker fees depending on your country).
💡 Budget Rule: Add 15–25% to your product cost for total import expenses when planning any commercial enamel pin imports.
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Customs Entry Submission
You (or your customs broker) must file a formal customs entry with your country’s customs authority. This involves submitting your documents, declaring the goods, and providing the HS code and declared value for your enamel pin imports.
- Electronic filing — done via your country’s customs portal (ACE in the US, CDS in the UK, etc.), suitable for experienced importers
- Through a licensed customs broker — highly recommended for first-time importers; brokers know the system, have established relationships, and can resolve issues quickly
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Pay Enamel Pin Tariffs and Taxes
Customs will not release your enamel pin imports until all assessed enamel pin tariffs and taxes are paid in full. Payment is typically made through your customs broker or directly to the customs authority via online portal.
Pay promptly — storage fees at ports and airports (known as demurrage or storage charges) accumulate daily and can become very expensive if payment is delayed. Some carriers also charge customs advancement fees on top of the duty amount.
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Customs Inspection (If Selected)
Customs authorities may select your shipment for physical inspection to verify that the contents match your documentation. While inspections are partly random, enamel pin imports are more likely to be selected if documentation is incomplete, values appear inconsistent, or if you are a new importer with no established track record.
You can minimise inspection risk by: ensuring all cartons are properly labelled and sealed, double-checking that invoices and packing lists match the shipment exactly, and including clear, specific product descriptions (e.g., “hard enamel pins, base metal with nickel plating, 3cm diameter”) rather than vague descriptions.
If selected for inspection, expect a delay of 1–3 business days. You cannot speed up an inspection, but accurate documentation significantly reduces the chance of extended holds.
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Release and Final Delivery
Once customs has cleared your shipment and all enamel pin tariffs are paid, your goods are officially released. From here, they move into the domestic delivery network for final delivery to your warehouse, office, or fulfilment centre.
Final mile tips: coordinate with your freight forwarder or carrier for the last delivery leg. Ensure someone is available to receive and sign for the shipment. Upon receipt, inspect all cartons immediately for any transit damage and document any issues with photos before unpacking — this is essential if you need to make a shipping insurance claim.
Key Documents for Enamel Pin Exports
Having all of the following documents accurate, complete, and ready before your shipment departs China dramatically reduces the risk of clearance delays for your enamel pin imports. Here is what each document is, why it matters, and what to watch out for.
📄 Commercial Invoice
The most important customs document for enamel pin exports. It details the description, quantity, unit price, total value, currency, country of origin, and buyer/seller information for your enamel pins. Customs uses this to determine the dutiable value of your shipment. Ensure it is consistent with your packing list and that the value declared accurately reflects what you paid.
⚠️ Never undervalue invoices. Asking a supplier to declare a lower value than you actually paid (known as invoice undervaluation) is customs fraud. Penalties include fines, seizure of goods, and potentially criminal charges. It is also unfair to other importers who declare correctly.
📦 Packing List
Details exactly how goods are packed — number of cartons, dimensions, gross and net weight per carton, and quantities per box. Customs officers use this during physical inspection to verify the shipment matches declared contents. Any discrepancy between the packing list and actual contents will trigger a hold on your enamel pin imports.
🚢 Bill of Lading (Sea) or Airway Bill (Air)
The contract between the shipper (your supplier) and the carrier, serving as proof that goods have been shipped. You need the original or a telex-released Bill of Lading to take possession of sea freight. For air and courier shipments, the Airway Bill number is used to track and claim your goods.
🌏 Certificate of Origin (COO)
Confirms that your pins were manufactured in China. This is required by customs in many countries and can affect your enamel pin tariffs if trade agreements apply. For standard enamel pin imports, a standard COO issued by a Chinese Chamber of Commerce is typically sufficient.
📋 Customs Declaration Form
Filed with your local customs authority by you or your broker, this form declares the goods, their value, HS code, and other relevant details. In the US, this is typically the CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary). Each country has its own equivalent form.
🔐 Customs Bond (US Only)
Required by US Customs (CBP) for formal entry shipments valued over $2,500. A customs bond is a financial guarantee that all applicable enamel pin tariffs, taxes, and fees will be paid. You can obtain a single-entry bond for one shipment or a continuous bond (valid for 12 months) if you import enamel pins regularly.
✅ CreatePins.com provides: commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and properly labelled shipping packages — all formatted to international standards for enamel pin exports and ready for your customs broker to use directly.
Pro Tips for Smooth Enamel Pin Import Clearance
📋 Work with a Customs Broker
Especially for your first enamel pin imports, a licensed broker handles complex paperwork and regulations, reducing delays and costly errors. The fee is a small price compared to storage charges or re-shipment costs from a hold.
✅ Get Documentation Spot-On
Errors in paperwork are the number one cause of delays for enamel pin imports. Double-check every figure, name, and description across all documents before your shipment departs China. Inconsistencies between documents are a red flag for customs officers.
🌍 Research Country-Specific Rules
Each country has specific import regulations, labelling requirements, restricted materials, and prohibited goods rules. Research your destination country’s requirements before you finalise your order — some packaging materials and finishes may have restrictions.
📞 Choose a Documentation-Strong Supplier
Reliable manufacturers like CreatePins.com ensure packaging and documents for enamel pin exports meet international customs requirements from the outset — saving you time and reducing your risk significantly.
⏰ Plan Around Peak Seasons
Chinese New Year (January–February), Golden Week (October), and the pre-Christmas rush all cause significant port congestion and customs processing delays. Order well in advance if your delivery timeline is important — build in an extra 2–3 weeks during peak periods.
💾 Keep Copies of Everything
Retain copies of all import documents for at least 5 years. Customs authorities in most countries have the right to audit past enamel pin imports and may request documentation long after your shipment was cleared. Digital backups in cloud storage are ideal.
Ready to Import Your Custom Enamel Pins?
Don’t let customs complexity hold back your creative project. At CreatePins.com, we specialise in helping first-time importers navigate the process — providing high-quality pins and complete documentation support for enamel pin exports, so your clearance is as smooth as possible.
Get a free quote and discover how easy it can be to import enamel pins from a trusted, documentation-ready manufacturer.
Customs Clearance by Region
While the general clearance process is similar everywhere, each major market has its own specific forms, thresholds, and requirements. Here is a quick reference for the most common destination countries for enamel pin imports.
| Region | Key Form / Requirement | Enamel Pin Tariffs | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary) | ~11% | Customs Bond required for shipments over $2,500. Consider Section 321 for low-value shipments under $800. Check current Section 301 China tariff status. |
| 🇪🇺 European Union | Single Administrative Document (SAD) | 2–4% + VAT | EORI Number required for the importer (apply through your country’s customs authority). VAT rates vary by member state (typically 19–25%). |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | UK Customs Declaration via CDS | ~4% + 20% VAT | EORI number required since Brexit. Import VAT of 20% applies to commercial goods. Use the UK Global Tariff to check current rates. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | B3-3 Canada Customs Coding Form | ~8% + GST/HST | Customs broker highly recommended. GST/HST (5–15% depending on province) applies to most enamel pin imports. CBSA enforces strict documentation requirements. |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | Import Declaration (for goods over AUD 1,000) | 5% + 10% GST | Goods under AUD 1,000 may use the simplified self-assessed clearance process. Check ABF biosecurity requirements for packaging materials. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | Import Declaration via Customs Nashira system | 3.9% | Japanese Consumption Tax (JCT) of 10% applies. Prefer established freight forwarders with Japan experience for first enamel pin imports. |
📌 Note: Enamel pin tariffs are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker before placing your order — especially for US imports, where Section 301 China tariffs have changed frequently.
Common Enamel Pin Import Mistakes to Avoid
Many first-time importers make avoidable errors that cause delays, extra costs, or — in serious cases — legal consequences. Learning from these common mistakes before your first enamel pin imports can save you significant time and money.
- ❌ Undervaluing invoices to reduce enamel pin tariffs — This is customs fraud. Consequences range from fines to seizure of goods and criminal charges. It is never worth the short-term saving.
- ❌ Using a vague product description — Describing goods as “accessories,” “gifts,” or “novelty items” rather than “hard enamel pins, base metal, nickel-plated” gives customs officers reason to inspect and reclassify your shipment, causing delays.
- ❌ Leaving documentation until the last minute — Preparing or requesting documents for enamel pin exports after the shipment has departed often means errors can’t be corrected in time. All documents should be reviewed and ready before goods leave China.
- ❌ Ignoring de minimis rules and splitting shipments — Deliberately splitting one large order into multiple small shipments to stay under duty-free thresholds is considered fraud. Customs authorities track patterns and can penalise this behaviour.
- ❌ Not budgeting for enamel pin tariffs and taxes — Forgetting to include import duties and taxes in your cost calculation can make a seemingly profitable product order become a money-loser once landed costs are factored in.
- ❌ Choosing the cheapest manufacturer over documentation quality — Some low-cost factories provide poorly formatted or inaccurate documents that cause customs problems. A slightly higher factory price for a documentation-strong supplier like CreatePins.com is almost always the better business decision.
- ❌ Not checking for restricted materials — Some countries restrict certain metals, coatings, or chemicals used in jewelry manufacturing. Confirm with your supplier that pin materials comply with your country’s import and safety regulations (e.g., EU REACH regulations, California Proposition 65).
- ❌ Assuming courier companies always handle customs correctly — While express couriers like DHL and FedEx do provide customs brokerage services, errors still happen. Review all customs documents the courier prepares on your behalf and check the duty amount before paying.
FAQ: Importing Enamel Pins from China
The questions most commonly asked by first-time importers of custom enamel pins. Click any question to expand the answer.
- Do I need an import license to import enamel pins?
In most countries, small quantities of enamel pins for personal use do not require an import license. For bulk commercial enamel pin imports — typically over $2,500 in total value — your country’s customs authority may require business registration or an import permit depending on local regulations. The United States, EU, UK, Canada, and Australia do not generally require a specific import license for enamel pin imports, but you do need to be registered as a business for commercial imports. Always check your country’s specific rules before your first shipment.
- What are the correct HS codes for enamel pins?
The standard HS codes for enamel pins is 7117.19.90, covering imitation jewelry made of base metal, with or without precious metal plating. However, if your pins contain significant precious metal content — such as a thick layer of genuine gold or silver — they may fall under a different heading. Country-specific extensions beyond the 6-digit code also exist (e.g., 4-digit extensions in the US HTS system). When in doubt, consult a licensed customs broker or request a binding tariff classification ruling from your country’s customs authority.
- What enamel pin tariffs do I need to pay?
Enamel pin tariffs vary by country and can change. Current typical rates under HS 7117.19.90: United States ~11% (plus potential Section 301 China tariffs — check current status); EU 2–4% plus VAT (typically 19–25% depending on member state); United Kingdom ~4% plus 20% import VAT; Canada ~8% plus GST/HST; Australia 5% plus 10% GST. Always confirm current enamel pin tariffs with your local customs authority before ordering, as rates can be subject to trade policy changes.
- Can CreatePins.com help with documentation for enamel pin exports?
Yes. When you order from CreatePins.com, we provide all required documentation for enamel pin exports: commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and properly labelled shipping packages — all formatted to international standards to make your customs clearance as smooth as possible. Import-side filing is typically handled by you or your appointed customs broker, but our documents are prepared to make that process straightforward. We’re also happy to answer questions about documentation via email.
- How long does customs clearance take for enamel pin imports?
Customs clearance for enamel pin imports typically takes 1–5 business days when documentation is complete and accurate. If your shipment is selected for physical inspection, add 1–3 additional business days. During peak seasons — Chinese New Year (January–February), Golden Week (October), and the pre-Christmas period (November–December) — clearance can take longer due to port congestion and increased import volumes. Working with an experienced customs broker who has established relationships with customs officers can help prioritise processing.
- What is a customs bond and do I need one for importing enamel pins to the US?
A customs bond is a financial surety required by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for all formal entry shipments — those valued over $2,500. It acts as a guarantee to CBP that all applicable enamel pin tariffs, taxes, and fees will be paid. If you’re importing enamel pins in commercial quantities to the US, you will very likely need a customs bond. You can purchase a single-entry bond through your broker for one shipment, or a continuous bond (valid for 12 months, usually more cost-effective) if you import enamel pins multiple times per year. Shipments under $800 qualify for informal entry (Section 321) with no bond required.
- What shipping method is best for importing enamel pins from China?
The best shipping method depends on your order size and urgency. Express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) is ideal for samples and small orders — it’s the most convenient option with door-to-door tracking and integrated customs handling, typically taking 3–7 days. Air freight (5–10 days) suits moderate-volume orders where speed matters but courier costs would be too high. Sea freight (25–40 days via LCL or FCL) is the most cost-effective option for large bulk orders of 2,000+ pins. For your very first order, express courier is usually the best choice — the simplicity and transparency are worth the higher per-unit cost while you learn the process.
- What happens if my enamel pin shipment is held for customs inspection?
If your shipment is selected for physical inspection, customs officers will examine the packages to verify contents match your documentation. You will be notified by customs or your broker. There is no action required from you during the inspection itself — you cannot speed it up. The inspection typically adds 1–3 business days to clearance. Accurate, detailed documentation and properly labelled cartons with matching contents significantly reduce the risk of being selected and minimise the chance of an extended hold. If inspectors find discrepancies, they may reclassify, reassess enamel pin tariffs, or in serious cases seize the goods — which is why honest and accurate documentation is so important.
Final Thoughts: Importing Pins Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Importing enamel pins from China doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right documents, accurate HS codes for enamel pins, a trusted manufacturer, and ideally an experienced customs broker for your first shipment, the process can be smooth and straightforward.
When you source your pins from CreatePins.com, you’re not just getting high-quality custom enamel pins — you’re getting a manufacturing partner who understands international shipping and documentation requirements for enamel pin exports, and who prepares every export correctly from day one.
Key Takeaways for Your Enamel Pin Imports:
- Accurate documentation is the foundation of successful, delay-free clearance for enamel pin imports
- HS Code 7117.19.90 is the standard classification for most enamel pin imports
- Budget 15–25% of product cost for enamel pin tariffs, taxes, and clearance fees
- Hire a customs broker for your first commercial enamel pin imports — it’s money well spent
- Choose a documentation-strong supplier who formats enamel pin exports paperwork to international standards
- Plan around peak seasons to avoid congestion-related delays at ports and airports
Start Your Pin Import Journey Today
Our team at CreatePins.com is ready to help you design, manufacture, and ship custom enamel pins anywhere in the world — with complete documentation support for enamel pin exports to make customs clearance easy.
📚 Further Reading & Official Resources
- US International Trade Commission — HTS Online Reference Tool — Look up US Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes and enamel pin tariffs
- US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — Importer Tips — Official guidance for first-time US importers
- European Commission — EU Customs Tariff (TARIC) — Official EU tariff database and classification tool
- UK Government — Trade Tariff Tool — Look up commodity codes, enamel pin tariffs, and VAT for UK imports
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) — Customs Tariff — Canadian tariff classification and enamel pin tariffs
- Australian Border Force — Importing Goods — Guide to importing into Australia including duty and GST information
- CreatePins.com Blog — More guides on pin design, production, and enamel pin imports from China
