It shouldn't be long before some Korean/Chinese factory starts selling these for half price on ebay.
If it can't fit in my carry on, it is very difficult to just ship to China.
Flying I've never had my bag even run through a scanner (8-9 times flying in) - unless they are doing it between plane and baggage collect, in which case they are really fast!.
Train, you run your bags through scanners, but no one seems to care (I've bought HEAPS of electronics in from Hong Kong ($2-4k worth at different times).
Beijing and Shanghai - I would say you are right, they seem to be a bit more uptight there.
I'm not sure what they're looking for, though, as I've never seen them open a bag after it went through the scanner.
I was quizzed about my road bike (which was obvious as it was packed separately) but after I explained it was old, and 'just a normal bicycle' and not 'for competitions', they let me through without a fuss.
You're right, though. Definitely not worth the risk to check it in.
Is there a way to be contacted through HN?