Duty, VAT and formalities — without them goods won't reach the market
Formalities are the most common reason companies put off importing from China. In practice they come down to a few things: an EORI number, the correct CN code, the right documents, settling duty and VAT, and product compliance (CE, GPSR). Below we explain each in plain terms — and in practice we simply handle clearance for you.
EORI number — nothing moves without it
EORI is a European identification number for companies in the movement of goods. Without it you can't legally clear goods in any EU country. You apply online via the PUESC platform; the procedure is free and usually takes a few working days. If you don't have an EORI yet, we'll help you set one up.
CN code and tariff — this determines the duty
Every product has an 8-digit CN code (Combined Nomenclature). It decides the duty rate and any restrictions. A wrong code means wrong duty, corrections and a risk of inspection. Rates are checked in the EU's TARIC tariff. Duty on goods from China ranges from 0% to a dozen or so percent — e.g. power generators (CN 8502) are usually 2.7%. We set the correct code at the quote stage.
How duty and VAT are calculated
The scheme is fixed: first duty as a percentage of the customs value (goods value + transport to the EU border), then import VAT of 23% on the sum: customs value + duty + costs to the border. That's why duty “enters the VAT base” — worth calculating in advance so the margin is real, not on paper.
Documents for clearance
- Commercial invoice — goods description, value, quantity, currency, country of origin, party details.
- Packing list — contents, weights, dimensions, number of packages.
- Transport document — bill of lading B/L (sea), CIM/rail waybill or AWB (air).
- CN code and EORI number — they determine the duty and the course of clearance.
- Certificates and declarations — depending on the goods: CE, declaration of conformity, certificate of origin.
Product compliance: CE and GPSR
Importing isn't everything — the goods must comply with EU law. Many products require CE marking and technical documentation. In addition, since 13 December 2024 the GPSR (general product safety) applies: every consumer product from outside the EU must have a “responsible person” in the Union — which can be the importer — whose details must appear on the product, packaging or documents. Non-compliance means goods held up or withdrawn from the market.
Why use a customs agency / forwarder
A well-prepared shipment clears in 1–5 working days; with an experienced agent often in one day and with less risk of a hold. We take on setting the CN code, the full set of documents, the customs declaration and contact with the office — you get a ready landed cost and goods with no hold-ups at the border.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the duty on imports from China?
It depends on the CN code — from 0% to a dozen or so percent. There's no single “China rate”. We check the correct code and TARIC rate for your goods at the quote stage.
Is VAT always payable?
On a commercial import, yes — normally 23%. Active VAT payers can settle it in their return (Art. 33a), without paying cash at clearance.
Do I need an EORI before the first shipment?
Yes — without EORI goods can't be cleared. If you don't have one, we'll help file the application on PUESC before the goods arrive.
What is GPSR and does it apply to me?
It's the EU product safety regulation, in force since 13 Dec 2024. If you import consumer products, it applies to you — you need, among other things, a “responsible person” in the EU and the right markings.
This is not tax or legal advice but a practical overview of the process — we set the exact classification and settlement for your goods. See also: how much transport from China costs and importing from China step by step.
We'll walk you through clearance
Tell us what you're importing — we'll set the CN code, calculate duty and VAT and run the formalities.
Send inquiry Call: +48 502 406 787