Sourcing robotics parts from China: a compliance checklist
Export control, tariffs and forced-labor rules can stop a shipment at customs. The checks to run before you place a cross-border robotics order.
Export control (ITAR / EAR)
Most robotics parts are commercial, but end-use matters. Defense or dual-use applications can pull a part into ITAR or stricter EAR controls. Confirm the part's classification and the end-use before you source, and document it. Violations are usually about overlooked ordinary components plus weak record-keeping, not exotic technology.
Tariffs and landed cost
The duty rate on a part depends on its HS code, and rates move. A quote that looks cheap at the factory gate can lose its edge once freight and duty are in. Always compare on landed cost, and re-check the HS classification when policy shifts.
Forced-labor (UFLPA) and documentation
US importers must be able to show a part's supply chain is free of forced labor. Keep supplier documentation, certificates and origin records. A supplier with export experience and clean paperwork is worth more than a marginally cheaper one that can't produce it.
Describe it and let the agent bring back ranked, comparable quotes.