Short answer

When importing ice machines, freezers or ice cream machines from China, confirm the exact voltage and frequency, refrigerant allowed in your market, required certification (UL/ETL, NSF, CE, SASO), Incoterms, pre-shipment inspection with a run test, spare parts and how the goods fit a container. Get every point written on the proforma invoice.

1. Lock down the specification

  • Voltage and frequency: 110–120 V/60 Hz (North America), 220–240 V/50 Hz (most other markets), 220 V/60 Hz (parts of Latin America, Saudi Arabia), three phase where needed.
  • Plug type and cable length.
  • Refrigerant permitted in your market (R290, R600a, R404A, R452A, R134a).
  • Climate class for hot countries (for example, tropical ambient rating).
  • Capacity at your conditions, not only at standard test conditions.

2. Certification

MarketTypical requirements
USA / CanadaUL or ETL; NSF/ANSI for foodservice equipment; energy rules for some categories
EU / UKCE / UKCA; F-gas rules; RoHS
Saudi ArabiaSASO conformity
AustraliaRCM electrical safety; energy rating for some categories

Ask for the certificate of the exact model, not a similar one.

3. Terms and documents

  • Incoterms 2020: FOB, CIF or DDP, and the named port.
  • Payment terms and bank details on company letterhead.
  • Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin.
  • HS code agreed with your customs broker (most equipment falls under heading 8418).

4. Inspection and testing

Request a run test of each model, with photos or video showing temperature reached and the nameplate. For first orders, a third-party pre-shipment inspection is good value. Check packaging: wooden frames or pallets, corner protection and moisture protection for sea freight.

5. Container loading

A 40-foot high-cube container offers about 76 m³ of space. Mixed loads, for example cold room panels plus refrigeration units plus display fridges, cut freight cost per item. Ask for a loading plan before production finishes.

6. Spare parts and support

Order a spare-parts kit with the first container: fan motors, controllers, door gaskets, thermostats, LED drivers, ice machine pumps and sensors. Agree response times for technical questions and video troubleshooting.

Ready to quote? Send your list and we return specs, price, lead time and a loading plan.

Quick answers

Which Incoterm should I use?
FOB is common when you have a forwarder; CIF suits buyers who want the supplier to book sea freight; DDP means the supplier handles import duties and delivery, at a higher price.
What HS code applies to commercial refrigeration?
Most refrigerators, freezers and ice machines fall under HS heading 8418, but subheadings vary. Confirm with your customs broker.
How do I check quality before shipment?
Ask for a run test video and photos of the production batch, or book a third-party pre-shipment inspection.
What payment terms are usual?
A deposit of about 30% by T/T with the balance before shipment is common; letters of credit are used for larger orders.