Importing from china - licenses, tax etc

[Cherbz]

Hi,

I want to import some good from china into the uk. Is there a way where you can just get it door to door so you don't have to go and collect - as the items i will be importing will not weigh alot and not be big - so it will be sent by air. Has anyone got a step by step easy to understand guide for this? Also do you need a license to import unbranded electronics - such as mp3 players? What is the duty tax on items like this?

thanks

Herbz

 

[Paul Kelly ICHYB]

Herbz,

some pointers:

If you use a courier like UPS, it will be delivered to your door. This is OK if the weight is +/- 20kgs. If using this method, get the supplier to prepay shipping and ensure the invoice is marked with C&F, CFR, or ideally, DDU.

If heavier, consider using airfreight. Get the supplier to put it on a plane and find a freight forwarder. They will process the shipment through customs and can arrange delivery to your door.

You do not need a licence to import unbranded CE.

You DO need to make sure they meet EU standards.

Also, if my memory is correct, there are also licence fees/royalties to pay on MP3 technology.

For duty, see here

For VAT, do you know how this is calculated.

What you will find is that that great price quoted by the supplier, with all add-ons, suddenly becomes not as appealing, however, may still be good!

Good luck

 

[Cherbz]

Hey, thanks

Great advice - with UPS and other courier services - do they clear the customs and everything for you? Also which other courier companies are there?

Do you recommend any forwarders? Also how do you find out if they meet EU standards? I know they meet canadian standards - but i dont know about EU - how do i find this out?

Herbz

 

[Paul Kelly ICHYB]

Also which other courier companies are there?
UPS, HK SPeedpost, DHL, TNT...

Do you recommend any forwarders?
I tend to use Signet at Heathrow, but there are many others.

Also how do you find out if they meet EU standards?
The nest way si to get the goods compliance tested, however, this can cost $k's! You could always ask the supplier and hope they are not lying!

 

[The Chief]

Been doing this for years. DHL are quit egood as are UPS, make sure you get an online quote first though.

How big is your package as a lot of shippers go off volume weight.

for heavy stuff i can reccommend Arends International for anything over 100kg it may be worth shipping it by sea!

 

[dkfashion]

Hi Cherbz,

I'm a exporter for fashion accessories in China. But we do not do unbranded electronics. Sorry can not help you .
But my suggetion of the shipping way for door to door is Express ,such as Fedex,DHL,TNT,UPS ....
That's fast and safe .Our customer usually use this way if the goods is not very big or heavy. There is no tax but for air freight.

 

[NW Law]

Try Skymart - Caroline Thomas is my contact there - she has been helping me with some importing and is so helpful - their number is 0845 345 7745.

They have a really handy guide on their website too.