If you source goods from China, you will eventually encounter two customs codes: 9610 and 0110. They may look like obscure filing categories, but they directly affect delivery speed, shipping costs, risk exposure, and how a business scales. Many companies pick one based on habit or copy what others use, which often leads to inefficiencies. The two codes represent different approaches — one built for flexibility and market testing, the other for stable, large-volume operations.
The difference between 9610 and 0110
9610 covers exports via cross-border e-commerce. Goods move as small parcels directly to end customers, often through online marketplaces or direct-to-consumer channels. The key is electronic data — order, payment, and delivery information transmitted digitally to customs, which speeds up clearance. This makes it a good fit for frequent, small shipments, especially when testing new markets without committing to large inventory.
Think of this code as fast iteration; the other as planned delivery.
0110 refers to traditional general trade. It requires standard documentation: invoices, packing lists, and full customs declarations. Consignments are larger, not individual parcels. The process takes more preparation but offers greater predictability when volumes are stable. Firms typically use that model when they have established demand and work with distributors, wholesalers, or overseas warehouses.
Speed and flexibility vs. structure and scale
The most visible difference is operational tempo.
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Under 9610, simplified procedures and digital data flows allow rapid customs clearance. Businesses can respond quickly to demand and test new products with minimal upfront commitment. In contrast, 0110 involves formal paperwork and longer processing times, but it becomes predictable once routines are set.
Cost structures differ sharply. With the first model, goods travel in small consignments, often by air or express services, which drives up per-unit costs. According to industry data, an 85kg shipment can run about $400 by sea and nearly $600 by air, though air is far quicker. Under the second model, larger consolidated loads — especially by sea freight — cut the cost per unit significantly. So the first one buys agility at a premium, while the second gets cheaper as volumes grow.
Shipment type and risk profile
9610 sends small orders straight to the end customer, one parcel per order.
That suits e-commerce.
0110 delivers bigger lots to warehouses, distributors, or retailers, not directly to consumers. The choice shapes everything from logistics partners to warehousing strategy.
Risk also differs. In 9610, data accuracy is critical. If order information doesn’t match the digital transmission, delays or extra checks happen. In 0110, the risks center on traditional documentation — correct invoices, classifications, and declarations. Meanwhile, regulators are paying closer attention to small parcels. The European Commission, for instance, has noted a sharp rise in e-commerce shipments and is tightening oversight.
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The choice between them isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ kind of decision. It’s more like an operational lever you pull depending on what you need at a given time.
When to use each model
9610 works best when speed, flexibility, and direct customer access matter.
E-commerce businesses selling small batches with fast-moving demand use it naturally.
It’s also effective for product testing: send small volumes, gauge response, and scale only after seeing traction. The simplified customs procedures accelerate delivery for short product lifecycles.
0110 fits situations where cost efficiency and supply stability are the main goals. Businesses with predictable volumes that sell through wholesalers or distributors rely on it. Larger cargo consolidation lowers per-unit costs, especially with sea freight.
Formal documentation supports consistency and compliance over long-term supply chains.
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For small and medium-sized enterprises, the decision isn’t always binary. Many companies use both models at different stages, or even in parallel. Early on, 9610 is usually the practical entry point — fast market access, low commitment. As demand stabilizes, shifting to the other code reduces costs through consolidation.
A hybrid approach often works best.
Core volumes move via 0110 to warehouses or distributors, while new or unpredictable products still go through 9610 to test demand and deliver quickly. Firms that use both models strategically get flexibility without letting costs spiral.
Neither code is inherently better.
9610 prioritizes speed and adaptation; 0110 prioritizes scale and predictability. The right choice depends on business model, volumes, and priorities. In practice, the strongest results come from combining both, using each where it makes sense — and that’s not a one-time decision but an ongoing adjustment.