What is an EORI number and do I need one?

An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is a unique ID required by all businesses and individuals for importing or exporting goods into the European Union. You must apply for this through the customs authority in the EU country where you are established before your shipment arrives. Without it, your goods will be held at the border and cannot be cleared for entry.

How do I find the correct TARIC code for my Chinese imports?

You can use the official EU 'TARIC Consultation' tool available on the European Commission website. By entering your product description, the tool provides the 10-digit code that determines the customs duty and any additional measures like anti-dumping duties. Selecting the correct code is vital because it dictates the legal tax requirements for your specific product category.

Is Import VAT refundable for EU small businesses?

Yes, if your business is VAT-registered, you can usually claim back the Import VAT paid at the time of entry as 'input tax' on your periodic VAT return. However, it still represents a significant initial cash outflow because it must be paid to the customs authorities before the goods are released. Non-VAT-registered businesses must treat the VAT as a non-refundable cost of the goods.

What is the €150 duty-free threshold in the EU?

For commercial shipments entering the EU, goods with an intrinsic value of €150 or less are exempt from 'Customs Duty' but are still subject to 'Import VAT.' This threshold applies to the value of the goods themselves, excluding transport and insurance costs, unless those costs are included in the price. For shipments above €150, both Customs Duty and VAT are applicable.

What is the CE mark and why is it mandatory?

The CE mark is a mandatory conformity marking for certain products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA), indicating they meet high safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. Many items imported from China, such as electronics, toys, and medical devices, must have this mark. It is the importer's responsibility to ensure the manufacturer has the technical documentation to support the CE declaration.

How long does shipping from China to the EU typically take?

Shipping times vary significantly by mode: Air Express takes 3-7 days, Air Freight takes 7-12 days, and Rail Freight (the New Silk Road) takes 18-25 days. Sea Freight is the slowest but most economical option, typically taking 35-50 days depending on whether the destination is a Southern port like Piraeus or a Northern hub like Rotterdam or Hamburg.

What are anti-dumping duties and how do they affect EU importers?

Anti-dumping duties are extra taxes the EU imposes on specific products that it believes are being sold below fair market value to damage local industry. Common Chinese imports affected include aluminum foil, electric bicycles, and certain ceramic products. These duties can be extremely high (sometimes exceeding 48%), so always check the TARIC database for your specific product before placing an order.

Seo Landing | Import From China

Importing from China offers European Union small businesses a gateway to high margins and scalable product lines that are simply unavailable through local sourcing. Navigating the regulatory landscape of the EU can seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge, it becomes a predictable and highly profitable part of your business growth strategy.

Why Import from China to European Union?

China remains the world's undisputed manufacturing powerhouse, offering unparalleled infrastructure and cost efficiencies that help EU businesses stay competitive. For small businesses in Germany, France, Italy, or Poland, sourcing directly from Chinese factories allows for custom product development and significantly higher profit margins compared to buying from local wholesalers. The sheer variety of suppliers on platforms like Alibaba or Global Sources means you can find a partner for almost any niche imaginable.

Furthermore, the European Single Market provides a massive customer base of over 450 million consumers once your goods have cleared customs. Because of the 'free movement of goods' principle, once your shipment from China enters an EU member state and the duties are paid, you can often ship that inventory to customers in any other EU country without additional internal tariffs. This makes the initial import process from China the single most important hurdle to master for long-term scalability.

Logistically, the connection between China and the EU is more robust than ever. Beyond traditional sea freight, the 'New Silk Road' rail links provide a middle ground for speed and cost, often reaching European hubs like Duisburg or Warsaw in under 20 days. This logistical flexibility allows EU small businesses to manage their inventory levels effectively, keeping enough stock on hand to meet demand while minimizing the capital tied up in slow-moving sea shipments.

Step-by-Step Import Process for European Union

Find a Reliable Supplier: Start by identifying manufacturers who have experience exporting to the European Union. Check for their 'Business License' and look for certifications like ISO 9001. At HowToImportFromChina.com, we always recommend verifying if the supplier can provide laboratory test reports (like SGS or TUV) that prove their products meet EU safety standards like REACH or RoHS.
Negotiate Terms and Prices: When discussing pricing, pay close attention to Incoterms. For EU imports, you will typically work with FOB (Free on Board) or EXW (Ex Works). Make sure you understand exactly where the supplier's responsibility ends and yours begins. Negotiate not just on the per-unit price, but on the packaging quality to ensure goods survive the long journey across the ocean or via rail.
Place Your Order and Arrange Samples: Never commit to a mass production order without a 'Golden Sample.' Inspect this sample against EU quality expectations. Once satisfied, use a secure payment method like Alibaba Trade Assurance or a Letter of Credit. Ensure your proforma invoice clearly lists the product specifications and the agreed-upon quality standards to protect your investment.
Arrange Shipping: Choose a freight forwarder that specializes in China-to-EU routes. They will help you decide between LCL (Less than Container Load) for smaller volumes or FCL (Full Container Load). For high-value, lightweight items like electronics, air express via DHL or FedEx is often the best choice, as they handle the customs clearance as part of their service, though at a higher cost.
Clear Customs in European Union: This is the most critical step for tax compliance. You must have an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) which is a unique ID for businesses importing into the EU. You will also need the correct TARIC code (an 10-digit classification) to determine your duty rate. Your customs broker will submit the Single Administrative Document (SAD) to the local customs authority.
Receive, Inspect and Sell Your Goods: Once the goods are released by customs and the VAT and duties are settled, the shipment will be delivered to your warehouse or Amazon FBA center. Perform a thorough quality inspection immediately. If there are discrepancies, having a clear contract and using HowToImportFromChina.com's inspection checklists will be your best defense in negotiating compensation with the factory.

Costs and Customs Duties in European Union

Calculating your total landed cost is the difference between a profitable venture and a financial loss. In the EU, customs duties are calculated based on the CIF value (Cost of goods + Insurance + Freight). This means you pay tax not just on the product, but also on the cost of getting it to the European border. It is essential to factor these expenses into your retail pricing from the very beginning.

Import VAT is the other major component. While the duty is a cost, VAT is often a flow-through for VAT-registered businesses, as you can claim it back as input tax. However, you must have the liquidity to pay it upfront at the port of entry. Note that as of July 2021, the €22 VAT exemption for small parcels was abolished, meaning every commercial shipment from China to the EU is now subject to VAT.

Duty Rate: Typically between 0% and 12% for most consumer goods; electronics are often 0%, while clothing can be 12%.
VAT/Sales Tax: Ranges from 17% in Luxembourg to 27% in Hungary; most major hubs like Germany (19%) or France (20%) sit in the middle.
Shipping Cost: Expect to pay $150 - $300 per cubic meter (CBM) for sea freight LCL, or $5 - $9 per kg for air express.
Customs Brokerage: Professional agents usually charge €50 - €150 per entry for filing the necessary paperwork and managing the clearance.

Best Products to Import from China to European Union

Focusing on high-demand, low-complexity items is the best strategy for small businesses starting their import journey.

Sustainable Packaging: With the EU's strict 'Green Deal' policies, biodegradable and recycled packaging materials from China are in extremely high demand.
Electric Bike Components: The European shift toward green mobility has created a massive market for e-bike conversion kits, batteries, and accessories.
Home Office Ergonomics: Standing desk converters and ergonomic chairs continue to sell well as hybrid work becomes the norm across the EU.
Pet Technology: Smart feeders, GPS collars, and automated toys are high-margin items with a passionate consumer base in Western Europe.
Kitchen Gadgets: Specialty coffee accessories and silicone baking mats are lightweight, low-duty, and have high perceived value.
Smart Home IoT: Energy-monitoring plugs and security sensors are trending as European households look to optimize energy consumption.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Importing to European Union

Ignoring CE Marking: Many products, especially electronics and toys, require a CE mark to be legally sold in the EU; importing without it can lead to seizure.
Incorrect TARIC Classification: Using the wrong code to lower your duty rate is considered tax evasion and can result in heavy fines and retrospective audits.
Neglecting Product Liability: As the importer of record, you are legally responsible for the safety of the goods; ensure you have appropriate business insurance.
Not Checking Anti-Dumping Duties: The EU imposes massive extra duties (up to 70%+) on specific Chinese goods like ceramics or bicycles to protect local industry.
Poor Documentation: Missing commercial invoices, packing lists, or certificates of origin will cause your goods to be stuck in customs, racking up expensive storage fees.

Why Import Mastery Is Your Best Shortcut

At HowToImportFromChina.com, we have spent decades refining the process of international trade so that you don't have to learn through expensive mistakes. Our Import Mastery course is specifically designed for EU small business owners who want to bypass the confusion of customs codes and find 'Gold Supplier' partners who actually deliver on their promises. We provide the exact templates and workflows used by top-tier importers to secure their supply chains.

By joining our community, you gain access to a network of vetted freight forwarders and legal experts who understand the nuances of the European Union's Union Customs Code (UCC). We don't just teach you how to find products; we teach you how to build a sustainable, scalable business that leverages the power of Chinese manufacturing to dominate your local European market. Stop guessing and start importing with the confidence of a professional.

Take the first step toward securing your business's future by learning from the best in the industry. Join the Import Mastery Masterclass Browse Country Guides

China Import Tax Guide for EU Small Businesses