A Comprehensive Guide to Shipping from China to Europe with Splygo Sourcing

Popular Products Imported from China to Europe

China’s manufacturing capacity across many sectors makes it an ideal source for European importers. Here are some of the most popular products imported from China to Europe:

エレクトロニクス: Consumer electronics like smartphones, laptops, tablets, computer parts, etc. Major brands that manufacture in China.

Machinery: Industrial machinery, machine tools, engines, pumps, and parts used in manufacturing.

Automotive Parts: A wide range of auto parts and components like tires, lights, batteries, accessories.

Textiles and Clothing: 衣服, clothing, footwear, fabrics and other textile products. Both finished goods and raw materials.

Plastics: Plastic household items, toys, sports equipment. Also industrial plastic parts and components.

家具: Inexpensive ready-to-assemble furniture and other wooden furniture products.

Medical Products: Medical devices, instruments, protective equipment imported by hospitals and healthcare sector.

Chemicals: Organic and inorganic chemicals used in industrial processes and manufacturing.

Metals: Steel, aluminum, copper and other metal materials used in construction and factories.

Lights: Lighting fixtures, lamps, LED strips used in homes and offices.

Bicycles: Bicycle parts and accessories manufacturing is heavily based in China.

Handbags: Many major European fashion brands produce handbags in China.

The huge range of products exported from China provides European importers access to low-cost goods for both consumer and industrial needs.

Import Regulations and Duties

Most Chinese imports face duties of 2-10% depending on the product when entering the EU. VAT at approximately 20% also applies. Here is an overview of import regulations and duties when importing into Europe in a table format:

Regulation	Description
Customs Declarations	- Imports must be declared to customs using an Import Declaration form
Import Duties	- Most non-EU imports subject to customs duties based on product and trade agreements
VAT	- Value-added tax applied to imports, usually around 20%
Product Standards	- Imports must comply with EU safety, testing, labeling standards
Restricted Goods	- Some products prohibited or require special permits
Intellectual Property	- Trademarks, patents, copyrights must be respected. Licenses may be required.
Shipping Documentation	- Packing lists, commercial invoices, origin certificates required
EORI Number	- Registration and identification number required by EU customs
Harmonized System Codes	- Appropriate HS commodity codes must be provided
Record Keeping	- Import documentation must be maintained for audits and taxes
CE Marking	- Imports must have CE markings and paperwork when applicable
Customs Brokers	- Recommended for guiding import process and customs clearance

Customs Clearance into Europe

Import customs clearance processes vary slightly between European countries but generally involve:

• Obtain an EORI Number – Every business importing into the EU needs an Economic Operator Registration and Identification number for customs clearance.

• Submit Import Declaration – Declare your import shipment to customs by submitting an Import Declaration form with product details, values, origin, etc. This can be done electronically.

• Pay Import Duties – Calculate and pay any required customs duties on the imported products based on tariff codes, value and quantity.

• Pay VAT – The relevant Value Added Tax (VAT) needs to be paid on imports into the EU. Rates vary by country.

• Provide Supporting Documents – Shipping paperwork like commercial invoices, packing lists, origin/safety certificates must be presented.

• Clear Inspections – Shipment inspections, document checks, and product examinations may be conducted by customs authorities.

• Obtain Release Order – After paying duties/VAT and passing inspections, customs will issue a release order for the goods to enter the EU.

• Arrange Inland Transport – Once cleared, arrange trucking, rail or other transport to move your shipment from the port to its final EU destination.

• Maintain Records – Keep all paperwork related to the import for compliance and tax audit purposes.

• Use a Customs Broker – Hiring a licensed broker can help navigate each step of the customs clearance process efficiently.

Shipping Options from China to Europe

Sea freight is used for most standard imports from China to Europe given the large quantities and lower cost.

Shipping Method	Transit Time	Cost	Notes
Ocean Freight	30-45 days	Low	Most common for large volumes. Major China ports used.
Air Freight	5-10 days	High	Fastest option. Air hubs in China to Europe airports.
Rail Freight	15-20 days	Medium	China Railway Express to Europe via Central Asia.
Road Freight	20+ days	Low	Feasible from Western China to Europe. Complex customs.
Multimodal	Varies	Medium	Combining sea, air, rail and road legs.
Consolidated	Varies	Low	Combining LCL cargo from multiple shippers.