I know there is no sure fire way, but is there things to do. e.g. ask seller to put that item is under 18.00? I would like to buy in bulk but not sure if this is the right way to do it? Is there anyone who is currently buying from china who can offer advice. I hope I have made sense?
      Answer1:hi,.great to meet, your answer is in my area,i think i can help you to make it clear.U know although the customs ask the items value under $18.but people always to overtake the items in package,cause the costoms only do spot check when the package passing the costoms,it just by you luck,and if the items would be stopped,.u just need to add some import tax as the costoms asked.As what i do, i will note the words"personal gift package under USD 18" on the paperbox. To make sure the order status and track it you can use the tracking number your seller gave you. If the package sihpped by EMS, you can have the details delivery info on www.ems.com.cn Idk what you wanna buy in bulk from china, maybe i can also do it for you and more cheaper, try to contact me. I am a local chinese buy agent, i can do purchase for foreigners with chinese items to help their small business or daily life use,things could be from taobao.com and other china online shopping sites or china wholesale market or directly from factories.If you are interested in it,pls my msn messager:raymondpy35@hotmail.com for further chatting.
      Answer2:one thing: your order always can pass customs if there is no special regulations for merchants ordered by you. so i don think it is good idea to play around with price in order to pass Chinese customs;if you want to pass your local customs: you have to know what is the max value mentioned on invoice can pass your customs, for example, the max value is 500$ if the shipment is done by fedex. so you have to do it according to your customs requirements; but, you have to check it according to which merchants you are dealing with. you always have to pass customs if it is sensible merchant, like gold jewelery, pc parts, etc.i am from china with 18 years experiences. i would like to give you some advice if you need .good luck!