In the world of business, deadlines are sacred. But when that deadline involves the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and you are stuck in Shanghai, panic can set in quickly.
Recently, a client based in Shanghai reached out to us in a bit of a state. They operate a registered company in Hong Kong and had received their Profits Tax Return forms. However, time had slipped away, and the Hong Kong tax filing deadline was dangerously close. Flying to Hong Kong just to hand in a piece of paper seemed like a waste of time and money, but mailing it felt too risky given the tight timeframe.
They asked, “Can you guys physically take this to the tax center for us?”
Absolutely. This is exactly what our Shenzhen-Hong Kong runner service is designed for.
The Logistics: From Shanghai to Shenzhen
Once we confirmed the details, the client sent the documents via SF Express from Shanghai. The efficiency of logistics in China never ceases to amaze me—the package arrived at our Shenzhen office early the next morning.
Before heading to the border, I double-checked the documents. A quick tip for anyone in this situation: If you are simply submitting a tax return, you generally do not need a formal Letter of Authorization. However, if you ever need us to pick up documents (like Business Registration certificates or past tax records), a signed authorization letter is mandatory.
Destination: The New Kai Tak Inland Revenue Centre
For those who haven’t been to Hong Kong recently, the Revenue Tower in Wan Chai is no longer the main hub. Most departments have moved to the new Inland Revenue Centre in Kai Tak.
I crossed the border from Shenzhen around noon. Traveling between Shenzhen and Hong Kong is incredibly smooth these days, making cross-border errands very efficient.
I arrived at the Kai Tak centre (5 Concorde Road) around 2:00 PM.
For those planning to visit, here are the opening hours for the Kai Tak Inland Revenue Centre that our team verified:
- Monday to Friday: 08:15 – 12:30 & 13:30 – 17:30
- Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays: Closed
Note the lunch break from 12:30 to 1:30 PM—the counters are closed, so plan accordingly!
The Submission Process
Walking into the new building, everything felt modern and spacious. I asked the service desk for directions and was pointed towards the Central Enquiry Counter.
Despite it being tax season, the queue moved fast. When it was my turn, I simply handed the envelope to the officer at the first window. They checked the document type, accepted it, and that was it.
A Common Question: Is there a receipt?
Clients often ask if we get a stamped receipt. The answer is usually no. Unlike some systems where you get a filing acknowledgment receipt immediately, submitting paper returns at the counter in Hong Kong is a simple drop-off process. Rest assured, once it’s in their hands, it’s in the system.
Why Use a Runner Service?
You might wonder, why not just use an international courier directly to the IRD?
While possible, our Hong Kong Local Errands service offers peace of mind that a courier tracking number can’t provide:
- Guaranteed Delivery: No “delivery failed” or “address not found” issues. We put it directly on the counter.
- Immediate Problem Solving: If there’s a glaring error on the envelope or form that the officer notices, we can call you immediately to discuss a fix.
- Cross-Border Speed: We bridge the gap between the Mainland Chinese logistics network and Hong Kong’s government offices seamlessly.
We are essentially your physical presence in Hong Kong.
By the way, our network isn’t limited to documents. If you have family in the Mainland requiring medical assistance, our China Medical Escort Service offers professional companionship and support for hospital visits.
Mission accomplished. The client avoided late penalties and saved the cost of a flight. Just another day in the life of a cross-border runner!
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