Importing from China
China is the world's electronics workshop: phones, headphones, chargers, speakers, wearables and every kind of gadget come from there. Consumer electronics have three traits that set them apart from other goods: high value in little volume (so air freight really does make sense), they almost always carry lithium batteries (dangerous goods with their own rules) and they need CE and RoHS marking to be sold in the EU. Here we explain how it ships, which taxes and certificates apply and the critical points that keep a shipment from being held.
Unlike bulky goods, electronics pack high value into little weight and volume, so air freight is a realistic option: it arrives in days and, against the value of the cargo, the freight cost is small. For large or less urgent orders, sea freight is still the cheapest: a full container (FCL) if you fill one, or groupage (LCL) for smaller quantities.
The factor that drives everything is the lithium battery: it counts as dangerous goods (DG) and air freight applies strict restrictions (loose battery vs. installed in the device, state of charge, approved packaging and UN38.3 documentation). Use anti-static, shock-proof packaging; for air freight with batteries you will need the test report and, where applicable, a dangerous goods declaration.
Electronics are classified under chapter 85 depending on the device: HS 8517 (phones and communication equipment), 8518 (headphones and speakers), 8543 (miscellaneous electrical apparatus), among others. The import duty into the EU is usually low or even 0 % for many IT products (under the Information Technology Agreement), but it depends on the exact heading: confirm it with your broker. Import VAT is recoverable if you import as a business with your EORI and the customs entry is in your name.
To sell in the EU, electronics require CE marking (electromagnetic compatibility and electrical safety) and compliance with RoHS (restriction of hazardous substances). Many devices also need an EU declaration of conformity and, if they emit radio frequency, the RED directive. FCC marking is from the US: it does not replace CE. These are not “customs papers”, but without them the product cannot be sold.
Almost all electronics carry a lithium battery (UN3480 loose / UN3481 installed): it is DG class 9. You need the UN38.3 test report and, for air freight, specific packaging and documentation. It is the first thing to clarify with the supplier.
Without CE marking and RoHS compliance the product is not legal in the EU, even if it clears customs. Ask the manufacturer for the declaration of conformity and test reports; require them in writing before you pay.
The FCC (US) and CE (EU) are different markings. An “FCC certified” product is not automatically valid for Europe: make sure it carries the CE mark and the European documentation.
The plug and voltage must be European; many Chinese devices ship with a type A/US plug. Confirm it so you do not receive goods unusable in your market.
Because of their value, electronics usually travel by air freight (fast) or sea freight (cheaper for large orders). As they carry lithium batteries, watch out for the dangerous goods regime. Not sure which mode suits you? Tell us and we will advise.
Note: duties, thresholds and regulations (CE, RoHS, RED, DG rules for lithium batteries) can change and depend on the exact device and the destination country. This guide describes the general situation as of writing; confirm it with your customs broker before deciding.
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