China's first integrated cargo terminal with dual pre-clearance has helped nearly 5 million cross-border e-commerce parcels reach global markets since opening last year. The terminal allows parcels to clear both customs inspections and civil aviation security checks on site.

Located in the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Comprehensive Bonded Area, the terminal had handled more than 4,800 tons of export cargo worth about 760 million yuan ($112 million) as of August 4.

The South Zone of the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Comprehensive Bonded Area (Photo: Guangzhou Customs)

The facilities officially opened on March 6, 2025. Under the new model, businesses can complete all customs clearance and aviation security procedures at the bonded area terminal, eliminating the need to move cargo to the airport's cargo terminal for a second security screening before it is loaded onto outbound flights.

Previously, aviation security screening was conducted at the airport's cargo terminal, about a 40-minute drive from the bonded area. Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Customs worked with the airport operator and civil aviation authorities to establish the on-site customs inspection facilities.

Customs officers inspect cross-border e-commerce parcels at the dual pre-clearance cargo terminal. (Photo: Guangzhou Customs)

Overall, waiting times have been cut by more than 50 percent, while customs clearance efficiency has improved by more than 70 percent. The dual pre-clearance model streamlines the logistics chain, gives exporters greater flexibility in cargo allocation and improves overseas delivery efficiency.