Import taxes from China: duties and VAT
When you import from China, customs charges the duty and VAT. We explain how they're calculated, with an example, so you estimate your cost well.
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Guides and resources for importing from China
Customs
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What is customs clearance and how does it work?
Customs clearance is the procedure that lets your goods legally enter the EU. We explain what it involves, its stages and what you need.
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How to tell if your shipment is held at customs (and what to do)
A shipment being held at customs is more common than it seems. We explain why it happens, how to detect it and the steps to resolve it.
Read more →Quality control
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The 4 types of quality inspection in China: when to use each one
Pre-production inspection, during production (DUPRO), final (PSI) and container loading check: what each one controls and at which stage of the order it should be applied.
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How to write a spec sheet so your Chinese supplier gets it right the first time
Most quality problems start with ambiguous instructions. Learn how to prepare a spec sheet that leaves nothing open to interpretation.
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The golden sample: your best quality insurance
A reference sample approved by both parties prevents arguments about what is 'acceptable'. We explain how to use the golden sample to protect your orders.
Read more →Regulations & certifications
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CE marking: what it is and how to import from China compliantly
CE marking is mandatory to sell many products in the EU. What it means, who is responsible and how to secure it when importing from China.
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RoHS marking: the directive that affects your electronic products
RoHS restricts hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. If you import electronics from China, here's what you need to know.
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Certifications and regulations to import from China: the essential guide
CE, RoHS, REACH, ISO, BSCI... a map of the certifications you must know and how to check they are genuine.
Read more →Logistics
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What is the DDP Incoterm and when it suits you
DDP means the seller delivers the goods to your door with all procedures and costs included. We explain its advantages.
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Sea containers: types, sizes and how to choose when importing from China
20', 40', High Cube, FCL or LCL: which container suits your volume to optimise your import cost.
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Incoterms 2020: what they are and which to choose when importing from China
Incoterms define who pays and who bears the risk on each transport leg. The most used ones and how to choose.
Read more →Suppliers
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Manufacturer or trading company: which suits you when importing from China
Not everyone who sells in China manufactures. Learn to tell a factory from a trading company and which one suits you in each case.
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How to verify a Chinese supplier and avoid fraud
Before paying a supplier in China, verify it. We explain how to check its legitimacy with official sources and which warning signs to watch for.
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Where to find suppliers in China: Alibaba, alternatives and how to filter them
Alibaba is not the only place, and 'Gold Supplier' does not mean reliable. We review where to look for manufacturers in China and how to screen candidates.
Read more →Importing
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How to calculate the cost of importing from China
Duties, VAT, freight, insurance and fees: every cost you must add to the factory price to know the real cost of importing.
Read more →Products
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How to import mobile phone parts from China wholesale: the complete guide
Screens, batteries, back covers, charging boards and accessories: which grades exist, how to choose a supplier in Shenzhen, how lithium batteries are shipped and what to check before paying for the batch.
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Coconut Fibre: The Natural Material Revolutionising Agriculture, Construction and Sustainability
Coconut fibre has become one of the most versatile and sought-after eco-friendly materials in sectors such as agriculture, construction, decoration and industry. Its strength, durability and natural origin position it as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials.
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Prefab Homes from China: A Modern, Fast and Cost-Effective Solution
A professional guide to importing and building prefab and modular homes from China: housing types, expandable modules, space capsules, LGS light steel and customs management.
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