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Importing from China to Europe involves more than just the product price. From shipping costs and customs duties to VAT and brokerage fees, the true cost of sourcing from China can surprise many first-time importers.
In this article, we break down the real import costs from China to Europe — explaining how Incoterms, HS codes, and freight choices affect your bottom line. You’ll learn how to calculate import VAT, what fees to expect at EU borders, and how to optimize shipping routes and methods.
Whether you’re using sea, rail, air, or courier services, understanding the full landed cost is essential to building a profitable sourcing strategy. With over 12 years of experience, CBIC Europe helps businesses across the EU navigate the financial side of China imports with clarity and control.
Importing products from China to Europe can be highly profitable — but only if you understand the full cost picture. Many first-time importers underestimate the total landed cost of their goods, which leads to surprises, delays, or even lost margins. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors to consider when importing from China to the EU.
1. Product Cost (Ex-Factory Price)
This is the base price your supplier quotes — typically excluding shipping and taxes. Make sure you clarify whether the price is FOB (Free on Board), EXW (Ex Works), or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight).
Each term defines who’s responsible for what in the shipping process.
2. Shipping Costs
Shipping from China to Europe can be done via air, sea, rail, or courier (e.g. DHL, FedEx).
- Sea freight is the most common for bulk shipments. It’s cost-effective but slow (typically 30–45 days).
- Rail freight offers a middle ground in terms of speed and cost, especially for Eastern Europe.
- Air freight is fast (5–10 days), but significantly more expensive.
- Courier is used for small parcels or samples.
Don’t forget the cost of container consolidation, freight forwarders, and local delivery (last mile) to your warehouse or fulfillment center.
3. Customs Duties
Every product imported into the EU is assigned a commodity code (HS code), which determines the duty rate.
Duty rates typically range from 0% to 12%, depending on the product category.
You can check applicable rates using the EU TARIC database.
Correct classification is crucial. Mislabeling or under-declaring values can lead to delays, fines, or even seizure of goods.
4. Import VAT
In addition to customs duties, you’ll need to pay import VAT. The rate depends on the destination country — typically between 19% and 25% in most EU states.
Import VAT is calculated as:
(Product Cost + Shipping + Duty) × VAT Rate
In many EU countries, registered businesses can later reclaim import VAT through their VAT returns — but only if all documentation is correct and the importer of record is properly registered.
5. Brokerage & Handling Fees
If you’re using a courier or freight forwarder, there are usually customs clearance or brokerage fees, often ranging from €30–€100+ depending on the complexity and shipment size.
6. Documentation & Compliance
Ensure you have all required documentation:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- CE certificates, test reports, or other compliance documents (if applicable)
Missing or incorrect documents can delay clearance or result in additional inspection fees.
Conclusion
The total cost of importing from China to Europe is more than just the supplier’s quote. When planning your sourcing strategy, always include shipping, duties, VAT, and handling fees in your calculations. Working with experienced logistics partners or import consultants can help you navigate the process smoothly — and avoid costly mistakes.