Importing power generators from China — from the factory to an EU-compliant product

Why generators are an import for the experienced

A container of generators that can't be legally sold in the EU is the most expensive container in a company's history. Generators are where a costly mistake is easiest: an engine without Stage V type-approval, a missing declaration of conformity, the wrong tariff code, or no noise-level marking. We've been importing power generators from China for over a decade — for our own sales and for B2B clients — and we know where the pitfalls are.

What our service covers

• selection and vetting of the factory — a real manufacturer, not a middleman; EU export history and references,
• price and terms negotiation, ordering and sample comparison,
• verification of the engine and type-approval for Stage V before production even starts,
• quality control and pre-shipment inspection (AQL) — start-up test, photos and a report,
• complete documentation: EU declaration of conformity, technical file, Polish-language manual,
• sea, rail or air freight with insurance, customs clearance and delivery to your warehouse.

Duty, VAT and tariff codes

Generating sets are classified under CN heading 8502. The duty rate on imports from China is normally 2.7%, and import VAT is 23% on the value of the goods plus freight and duty.

The right code depends on the engine type and power — at the quote stage we confirm the classification and calculate the full landed cost, so nothing surprises you at customs.

Standards you must comply with

Exhaust emissions — Stage V

Portable and mobile generators with a combustion engine fall under Regulation 2016/1628 (Stage V) and must be fitted with an engine holding the relevant type-approval. Some stationary generators are exempt from this requirement. It's the first thing we check with the manufacturer — because swapping the engine after the fact is impossible.

CE marking

A generator is subject to New Approach directives (Machinery, EMC, Low Voltage and others). The basis for CE marking is an EU declaration of conformity together with the technical file and an operating manual in Polish.

Noise — Directive 2000/14/EC

Generators intended for outdoor use require marking of the guaranteed sound power level (L_WA) and the appropriate conformity assessment procedure.

Product safety — GPSR

For sales to consumers, the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) applies. We make sure the labelling, warnings and manufacturer/importer details are complete.

Diesel, petrol or inverter — we'll match it to the use case

A 20–100 kVA construction generator has different requirements than a portable inverter generator up to 3 kW for e-commerce sales. We help choose the type, power and features (AVR, ATS, soundproof canopy) for the intended use and sales channel — including under the OEM and private-label model.

More than a one-off import — we build distribution

We don't stop at a single container. We help you move from a one-off import to steady, high-margin distribution: your own generator brand made in China, repeatable quality, warehousing and B2B plus e-commerce sales. CargoNet Polska is steadily building its position as one of the leading importers and distributors of power generators in Poland — if you're serious about this market, we're the partner that walks the whole way with you: from the idea, through the factory, to the end customer.

And most importantly — the category on an exclusive basis. When we run the generator import for you, we handle that category for you exclusively: we do not source the same goods for your competitors. It's loyalty and a long-term relationship, not brokerage — you're working with a partner who is on your side.

Frequently asked questions

See also: container transport from China and sourcing and manufacturer vetting in Asia.