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How to Import CO2 Cartridges from China — Step-by-Step Guide for Global B2B Buyers
First time importing CO2 cartridges?
“I’m a soda kit distributor in Australia — what HS code should I use?”“I’m from Germany — can I ship by air?”
“I found a factory, but I’m stuck on documents…”You’re not alone. This guide is based on real questions from global B2B buyers. Whether it’s your first shipment or your fiftieth, the information below is designed to help you import safely, legally, and efficiently — with or without a logistics partner.
Table of Contents
1. Understand the Product Classification
CO2 cartridges used in soda makers, airguns, tire inflators, and industrial tools are classified as:
HS Code: 28112100 (Carbon Dioxide, Compressed)
UN Number: UN1013
Gas Class: 2.2 (Non-flammable compressed gas)
Before placing an order, clarify:
Intended use: Food-grade, industrial, recreational, or defense
Cartridge size: 8g, 12g, 16g, 33g, 88g, etc.
Thread type: threaded (e.g., 3/8″, 5/8″) or non-threaded
Certification requirements: CE, REACH, ISO 11118, gas purity reports (e.g. SGS)
2. Choose Your Shipping Terms
Shipping terms (Incoterms) define who handles freight, insurance, and customs. Common choices:
| Term | Freight | Clearance | Final Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOB | Buyer | Buyer | Buyer |
| CIF | Seller | Buyer | Buyer |
| DDP | Seller | Seller | Seller |
DDP is recommended for first-time importers.
FOB/CIF are better suited for experienced importers with their own freight network.
At AlizeeMetal, we support all three models — and can coordinate based on your preferences.
3. Transport Methods: Sea vs Air vs Courier vs Rail
Air Freight (Highly Restricted)
Only possible for cartridges ≤33g, and even then rarely approved
Requires IATA DG packaging and carrier approval
Generally unsuitable for bulk or commercial shipments
Sea Freight (Recommended)
Widely accepted for all cartridge sizes
IMDG-certified packaging required
Suitable for LCL or FCL shipping
Courier (Not Recommended)
Accepted only for empty shells or non-pressurized samples
Pressurized CO2 is typically prohibited
Rail / Land (Special Cases)
Used for shipping to Europe via China-Europe railway
Must meet inland DG transit rules and carrier restrictions
4. Freight Forwarding: Use Your Own or Let Us Assist
If you use your own forwarder, provide them with:
HS Code: 28112100
UN1013 / Class 2.2 details
Total volume, weight, and CO2 content
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
Packaging specification (IMDG/IATA compliant)
Ensure your freight partner is licensed to handle DG (Dangerous Goods). Many are not.
If needed, we can coordinate freight through licensed DG forwarders on your behalf, or simply support your team with all required documentation.
5. Customs Documentation Checklist
Before the shipment arrives, prepare:
Commercial Invoice (with HS code and declared value)
Packing List
Certificate of Origin
Bill of Lading (or Air Waybill)
Dangerous Goods Declaration (Multimodal or IATA DGD)
MSDS/SDS
CE / REACH / ISO certificates (if required by your country)
Some countries (e.g. Germany, UAE, Brazil) may require:
Gas purity test reports
Food-contact safety documents
Brand registration or labeling compliance
6. Tracking Your Shipment
Once shipped, track your container using:
Carrier website (COSCO, CMA-CGM, Evergreen, etc.)
Container number / vessel name
Bill of Lading info
We provide:
Pallet photos
Packing list
Shipment weight/volume
ETD / ETA updates
7. Customs Clearance and Final Delivery
Clearance procedures vary by country. Typically:
Your customs broker receives arrival notice 3–5 days before docking
Clearance takes 2–7 business days depending on documentation
After clearance, arrange delivery to warehouse or pickup
If you’re using DDP: final delivery is pre-arranged and included in the service.
8. Regulatory References
Use these resources to confirm your country’s requirements:
OSHA Gas Handling (USA) (https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.101)
UN ADR Dangerous Goods Rules (EU) (https://unece.org/transport/standards/transport/dangerous-goods/adr-2023-agreement-concerning-international-carriage
Australia: ADG Code (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Dangerous_Goods_Code)
Summary
Importing CO2 cartridges from China requires attention to classification, packaging, documentation, and regulation. Whether you’re coordinating your own logistics or prefer full-process support, it’s essential to:
Use the correct HS code (28112100) and DG classification (UN1013)
Select a shipping method suited to your volume and country restrictions
Ensure all paperwork is accurate and ready before shipment arrival
Track and prepare for customs clearance and final delivery
If you’d like assistance with document preparation, freight coordination, or dangerous goods handling — we’re here to help, or to support your in-house team as needed.
FAQ: CO2 Cartridge Import Questions — What Buyers Care About Most
Q1: Can I ship CO2 cartridges by air?
No, in most cases. Cartridges over 33g are almost never accepted by air. Even smaller cartridges (like 8g or 16g) require IATA approval, and most airlines won’t accept DG cargo without strict controls.
✔Sea freight is the most reliable option for bulk shipments.
Q2: What documents do I need to clear customs?
You’ll need at minimum:
Commercial Invoice (with HS code 28112100)
Packing List
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin
MSDS / SDS
Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)
Some countries may also require CE / REACH / ISO certificates or gas purity reports for food-contact products.
Q3: When should I prepare my customs documents?
Start before the goods leave the factory. Customs brokers typically need all paperwork 3–5 working days before vessel arrival to file declarations and avoid port storage fees or inspection delays.
Q4: Can I use DHL, FedEx, or UPS to ship CO2 cartridges?
Only for empty cartridges or non-pressurized samples, and even then, only with advance approval.
✔ Full CO2 cartridges are almost never accepted via courier due to DG restrictions.
Q5: What are the most common mistakes first-time importers make?
Using incorrect HS code or undervaluing goods
Booking air/courier without confirming DG eligibility
Not preparing customs paperwork before shipping
Working with freight forwarders not certified for Dangerous Goods
Missing labels like UN1013, Class 2.2, orientation arrows
Q6: What happens if I under-declare value or use the wrong HS code?
You risk:
Clearance delay or rejection
Reclassification by customs
Extra taxes, penalties, or fines
Cargo being held or even seized in strict ports
Use HS Code 28112100 and a realistic declared value.
Q7: What if my freight forwarder is not certified for Dangerous Goods (DG)?
They cannot legally handle pressurized CO2 cargo.
✔ You must work with a DG-licensed forwarder.
If needed, we can help connect you with a suitable partner.
Q8: If I choose FOB or CIF, can my supplier still help with documents?
Yes. Even under FOB/CIF terms, a reliable supplier should support you by providing:
MSDS/SDS
Dangerous Goods Declaration
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
Certification documents (CE, REACH, ISO, etc.)
At AlizeeMetal, we do this routinely for global buyers.
Q9: Is DDP required for my first order, or is FOB still manageable?
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is convenient — we handle freight, paperwork, customs, and delivery to your door.
But it’s not mandatory.
If you prefer more control or already have a logistics team, FOB or CIF can work just fine — as long as you’re ready to manage customs and DG compliance locally.
