Import from China to the UK: A to Z Guide | Products, Shipping, VAT and EORI
If you want to import from China to UK, this is the most complete how-to guide you should check. In this article you will learn how to start an import business in UK, what is the most popular products to import, how to ship from China to UK, as well as VAT and EORI.
Ready to go? Let’s get started!
CHAPTER ONE: STARTING AN IMPORT BUSINESS IN THE UK
The import business is gradually becoming one of the most lucrative businesses in the UK. Though it could be frustrating and difficult if you do not make the right research before starting if you take the time to gather enough knowledge such as is contained in this article and if you apply the tips and strategies explained, you’ll find the experience rewarding. Usually, the first thing you should do is to determine the product(s) you wish to sell. After that, you can then move to the next few steps.
1)Check if your goods are allowed or whether you’ll need a license to import from China to the UK.
After choosing the product you wish to import, it is very important to check if the goods are allowed or whether you’ll need a license.
While some goods can be imported freely into the country without the need for a license, you may be required in some cases to get a license in order to import some goods. You should, however, note that some products have been completely banned, so if your goods fall under that category, the best thing would be to get an alternative.
The three major types of restrictions are Bans, Quotas, and Surveillance.
Under bans, the product should not be imported at all, under the quota restriction, you can import some goods but the volume would be restricted. Under surveillance, you’ll need a license to import the goods but would be free to import any amount once you get the required license. To be sure, you can contact the Department for International Trade in the UK to confirm if your goods are allowed or if you’ll need a license. Currently, banned goods include Animal skins, Asbestos, Torture Equipment, Firearms, Ivory, Military equipment, and perishable goods.
Some products you can import freely include Toys, Clothing, Computers, Vehicles, Household items, Furniture, etc. After checking whether your goods are allowed or if you’ll need a license, you can then move to the next step.
2)Find out the commodity codes to classify your goods for tax and regulations
Legally, all imports must be declared and classified using a commodity code.
It is necessary to find out the commodity codes for your product in order to be able to fill in other declarations and complete any other paperwork required.
You’ll also need a commodity code to check for the VAT and any other fee.
It is important to get the right commodity codes for your product as using wrongs can lead to fines or your product could be either seized or delayed.
Some goods could be classified easily but if you encounter any problem with that, you can use the Trade Tariff tool to help you get the correct commodity codes for your product.
If that doesn’t help still, you can get across to the HMRC through an email and you’ll receive a response within three working days.
3)Check if you need to register for VAT
The next important thing to check for is if you need to register for the Value Added Tax and how much you are to pay if you are required to.
You are required to register for VAT if your VAT taxable turnover is over £85000. By law, you are also required to register for VAT if your VAT taxable turnover will be more than £85000 in the next 30 day period or if it has exceeded that amount over the last 12 months.
If you have questions or problems with the VAT, you can write to HMRC and you’ll be sure to get a response within three working days.
This then takes us to the next step which is to register for an EORI number.
4)Register for an EORI number
The EORI number in full means the Economic Operators Registration and Identification Number.
This is required regardless of whether you registered for VAT or not.
Regardless of the means of transportation, you are required to get an EORI number which will be used for future shipments.
To get the EORI number, you’ll need to submit an application form, the C220.
The C220 is for those who have registered for VAT. If you are not VAT registered, you will be required to get the C220A form instead.
The form is available for download online. After you fill the trading details and the shipment details, send the form through an email to the EORI department at HMRC and it would be processed within 48 to 72 hours. You can reach them at [email protected], your EORI number would then be sent to you and can now be used to clear your products once they arrive.
CHAPTER 2: WHAT TO IMPORT FROM CHINA TO THE UK
There are many manufacturing companies in China because of the cheap cost of production compared to most countries.
This, in turn, leads to cheaper goods with the option to choose from different manufacturers and products.
The most common products usually imported from China to the UK are electronics, mobile phones, led lights, cosmetics, clothes, vehicles, furniture, etc. It is advisable to choose products from the category of goods that can be imported in any volume without restriction or the need to get a license.
Also, the best thing to do is to import products with many consumers and suppliers, go for quality products with good design which would be sold at a decent price to gain an advantage over other competitors. Below are the best products to import from China to the UK
Importing Electronics From China to the UK
Electronics are one of the many products you can import from China. They are very easy to sell and are in high demand basically because of the cheap price and reliable quality. Most world-class brands have production bases in China and their products are mostly cheaper over there. Before importing electronics, you should make sure the products will function well with the UK voltage since China has different voltage specifications for their electronics than those made in the UK.
Also, you have to make sure the electronics you want to import meet the required standards for use in the UK. To get an idea of the electronic products that are in high demand, you can visit other competitors or online sales websites and take note of the products which have the most sales.
Importing Mobile Phones From China to the UK
Mobile phones are one of the main imports from China to the UK. China has the largest phone market with many phone brands from many mobile phone companies. While popular phone brands like Apple, Samsung, and LG might cost a lot in the UK, there are Chinese phone brands which are almost half the price of the popular phone brands albeit with the same specs, if not better. By importing mobile phones from China, especially Chinese brands, you are sure to save a lot of money and make a lot of sales.
Though mobile phones are very easy to get at cheap prices from China, there are still things you need to make sure of.
First, you should check if the supported network bands are available in the UK. A simple way to do this is to search for the mobile phone brand and name on popular phone review websites. You’ll find out whether the phone has been optimized for international usage. Xiaomi is relatively the most popular Chinese phone brand and the phone works well in most countries.
Importing Electrical Goods From China to the UK
There are tons of electrical goods you can import from China to the UK at very cheap prices. Once you make sure the product you want to import is allowed for importation, make sure the product has strict compliance with the electrical standards for electrical products in the UK. Making sure the goods are up to standard is very important as the Customs will seize or destroy fake goods. There are also some safety tests and certifications that are necessary for the goods to be brought into the country. An example of this is the CE certificate for electronics. You can also get a third party quality inspection just to make sure the product is of high quality.
Importing LED Lights from China to the UK
LED lights are getting more popular each day due to their low cost and energy-saving feature. They also have a longer life span than the traditional bulb and tube lights. LED lights are in great demand as most people will need a source of artificial light either at home, at the workplace, at restaurants, bars, and at many other locations.
There are different types of LED lights so it’s good to make a specific choice. You can also contact the manufacturer or supplier directly to get the full details and specs. Once the features conform with the UK standards, you can then begin importation.
Importing E-cigs from China to the UK
Electronic cigarettes, commonly known as e-cigs are commonly used to stop, reduce, or to minimize the effect of smoking.
E-cigs first appeared in China in 2004 and is largely popular there till this day. There are as much as 450 brands of e-cigarettes due to the large demand for them.
For e-cigs, you need to pay a lot of attention to how safe the product is. They can turn dangerous if they are not manufactured to safety standards.
You should also know about the types of electronic cigarettes namely: Rechargeable e-cigs, Disposable E-cigs, E-Go e-cigs, and Personal vaporizers.
You can choose between the types or select all of them depending on your preference.
The other things you need to consider are the features such as battery capacity, body material, voltage, and size.
There are also some restrictions placed on e-cigs in the UK which you must consider. All these are contained under the Tobacco Products Directive. They also have a list of certified products which you can check to choose the best to import.
Importing Cosmetics From China to the UK
Though this can be highly profitable, there are lots of regulations and requirements to follow. There are some substances in cosmetics which are prohibited in the UK. These rules apply to body creams, perfumes, face masks, powder, toilet soaps, hair products, shaving products, and all other cosmetic products. You can check the Cosmetic Products Enforcement regulations page for more information about the rules.
There are also some labeling requirements placed on cosmetic products. The products should have a label in English and should also give other information such as the manufacturer, the production date, expiry date, how to use, etc. You may also be required to provide a sample of the product for testing at the point of entry into the UK. You are expected to comply with the EU Cosmetics Directive, the New EU Cosmetics Products regulation and the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and restriction of Chemicals(REACH) directive. The regulations are very strict so it’s necessary you pay attention to them.
Importing Cars From China to the UK
To import cars from China to the UK, there are some steps you must take before you complete the process. You must first inform the HM Revenue and Customs, then you’ll pay the VAT and duties necessary, you must also get approval which shows the vehicles meet safety standards. Then you’ll register the vehicles after that.
Importing Clothes from China to the UK
Clothes are one of the products in high demand, everybody wears and needs them. Since the manufacturing costs in China are low, this has translated to a low price of clothes among many other products compared to other countries. Since clothing can be imported freely, what you need to do after getting an EORI number and paying the necessary tax is to select a tested and trusted manufacturer or several trusted manufacturers.
Importing Furniture From China to the UK
China is a good place to source for durable furniture. There are many furniture trade fairs that take place each year such as Furniture China and China International Furniture Fair which takes place twice a year in Guangzhou or Shanghai. To get more knowledge, you can watch the trade fairs online and get yourself familiar with the brands.
Importing Tea From China to the UK
China is commonly referred to as the home of tea, there are lots of tea manufacturers and suppliers to choose from. You will need to make sure the tea is safe before you import. There are regulations set by the Food Standards Agency which you have to check before making the move.
Importing Toys From China to the UK
Importing toys from China to the UK might look easy, but there are some strict regulations you need to follow. One strict rule you must follow is the rule that prohibits the importation of licensed toys i.e toys based on trademarked characters that are not from the licensed company. The toys must also meet the safety requirements and should show the manufacturer’s address. It must also bear the correct labels for use and warnings.
Importing Tyres From China to the UK
Importing tires from China to the UK involves a lot of paperwork and safety tests. The product should follow the EU safety regulations and also the specifications. You need to get a trusted supplier to do this.
Importing bags from China to the UK
Bags are one of the products that are not accompanied by many regulations. However, you should make sure the product is of good quality and you should also pay the necessary taxes and rates.
Importing Batteries From China to the UK
Depending on the size and type of batteries you are importing, you may be required to classify your shipment as “dangerous goods”. This is because the batteries must be transported carefully to avoid explosion or any other damage. They are also rules which specify how the batteries are to be transported. You are expected to take responsibility for the safety of the shipment and would bear the full effect if anything goes wrong.
Importing Bicycles From China to the UK
Non-powered bikes must have the required CE certification before they are allowed into the UK.
Importing Motorcycles From China to the UK
Motorbikes must meet the EU standards before they are imported into the UK. There are lots of motorcycle manufacturers and assemblers to choose from. In the case of fuel-powered motorcycles, they must be within the set emission limit and should have the required safety certifications.
Importing Jewellery From China to the UK
The United Kingdom imports more than $450 million of jewelry from China every year. The products will also have to go through physical and chemical tests to make sure they are safe for use.
Importing Machinery From China to the UK
Machinery includes power tools, agricultural machinery, heavy machinery, forklifts, etc. Most of these machineries are manufactured in China and are available for exportation. There are some specifications you need to take note of and make sure they are allowed for use in the UK. These include the model, voltage, power, protection class, software, weight, and certification. You as the importer must make sure the products are made for use in other countries. The two options you have is to either pay for testing by a third party or select products that have already been tested.
Importing Solar Panels From China to the UK
The world’s attention is now shifting towards sources of renewable energy, and the major focus is on solar power. Most solar panel manufacturers in China usually follow a preset product specification. However, you still need to check if the product follows the required specification for use in the UK. You should check the components such as trackers, connectors, switches, etc and make sure they follow the required safety regulations. The panels should have undergone lab testings and other quality tests before being imported.
Importing Steel From China to the UK
In recent times, there have been increases in import duties on steel imports so importing steel from China might cost more than it used to in the past. Regardless, if you are ready to pay for the increased rates, make sure you get high-quality steel from trusted companies.
Importing Wood From China to the UK
According to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, you must meet a number of phytosanitary requirements and must get the product verified before importing the wood. The product will also undergo inspection once it arrives before it is released. You are also required to get an import license from the Forestry Commission.
CHAPTER 3: HOW TO FIND RELIABLE MANUFACTURING COMPANIES FOR IMPORTING FROM CHINA TO THE UK
This is one of the most important aspects of the importation business you do not want to import substandard products or get ripped off by suppliers. This is why it is very important to get reliable manufacturing companies. We’ll teach you how to do that in this article.
Where Do You Begin Your Search To Find A Manufacturer In China?
Depending on your business model, it may be better at times to work with factories instead of the trading company though this doesn’t work in all cases. If you prefer working with a manufacturer directly, then you should take your time to search for a perfect partner. Most times, a manufacturer only focuses on a specific type of product, so if you have a variety of products you want to import, you may need to get in contact with many manufacturers.
There are many ways to get a manufacturer for your product:
1.Online Marketplaces
This includes places like Alibaba.com, Global-sources.com, Made-in-China.com, and Dhgate. Though this might seem easy, you still need to dig deep to get real manufacturers who specialize in making your desired product.
2.Social Media
Most manufacturers have media accounts and you can get access to them through that. Usually, people will also leave reviews which you should read before selecting any company.
3.Search Engines
You can also locate manufacturers by making a search on the internet. However, you should use very simple keywords to get the best results when making a search.
4.Recommendation
You can get recommendations from other people who have information about the business, usually friends, family or business partners.
5.Trade Fairs
Even if you can’t be physically present, you can still view these events online to get familiar with popular and reliable brands.
There are also many industrial hubs in China, for example, Electronics hub in Shenzen, Home textile supply in Nantong, Lighting in Zhongshan, etc. You can also check the size of each factory and their product specifications to make sure they suit your requirements. The company should have a reliable communication line and must be ready to provide samples before you sign a contract with them.
CHAPTER 4: HOW TO SHIP PRODUCTS FROM CHINA TO THE UK
Each method of shipping has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your preference. So we’ll list each one and explain the features.
1.Sea Freight
This refers to shipping your goods through the ocean. This is helpful if you have a lot of goods to ship and you are willing to wait for the long period it takes. It usually takes about 38 days to ship goods by sea from Guangzhou port to the UK. You can ship goods at low prices through sea freight compared to other means of transportation.
2.Air Freight
This is helpful if you want to import a small number of goods and want them to get delivered quickly. This shipping method is very expensive, however. There are two types of air freight, the classic air freight, and the express air freight. The express air freight is quite faster than the classic, shipping goods from Guangzhou to the UK usually takes a maximum of two or three days. The classic freight will take up to a week instead. The customs clearance is also automatic in the express air freight.
3.Rail Freight
As the name implies, it refers to shipping goods by rail. It is the balance between speed and cost. Shipping from China will usually take between 18 to 27 days.
LCL or FCL?
LCL refers to Less than a Container Load. This can be used when your goods are not enough to fill up a container, you can then share the space with other buyers to save costs. This is particularly helpful if your goods aren’t much. FCL refers to Full Container Load, this refers to renting a whole container regardless of whether your goods fill it up or not. This is only useful if your goods are many.
CHAPTER 5: IMPORT TAX/DUTY FROM CHINA TO UK & CUSTOM CLEARANCE
By law, when buying goods from countries outside the EU, of which China is one, you must pay some duties and taxes before your goods can be cleared. The amount of duty to pay on imported goods depends on the value and type of goods. You will be required to declare the goods and the value so as to pay the necessary duty. Do not however try to trick the system, this can result in your goods being seized.
The VAT includes a percentage of the total amount it takes to ship your goods from China. You’ll also need a tariff code to enable you to declare your products to the customs. Th
ese codes are usually known as HS codes.
CHAPTER 6: COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATIONS YOU NEED TO IMPORT FROM CHINA TO UK
To import goods from China to the UK, there are lots of certifications and regulations you need to follow. You must first get an EORI number as stated previously in this article, and depending on your product you may need to get a license if required. The REACH certification covers a range of products like Clothing, toys, furniture, electronics, etc. You can reach out to them to help you get your product certified. There are also other certifications like CE, RoHS, EN 71.
The product must also meet some labeling requirements such as the WEEE marking, the CE marking and others. For most products, there must be a label attached in English that contains the product details, manufacturer details, Usage, Expiry date, and warnings.
CHAPTER 7: RISKS AND PROBLEMS WHEN IMPORTING FROM CHINA TO UK
Importing from China isn’t always a smooth ride, there are risks involved and you should prepare to face some problems and learn how to effectively tackle them. These risks and problems include:
Supplier Scams: You may come across some suppliers who might either overcharge you, send you the wrong goods or even run off with your money. This why we are playing the role as importers’ eyes and ears in China.
Language barrier:
Most of the trading companies have English speaking sales person, however that’s not the case for real factories and wholesale markets. Suppliers don’t know much about the product standard: Some suppliers may not know about the necessary product certifications and standards required for use in the UK, we can assure you we are not one of them.
Quality issue:
You may be sent substandard goods, this is why you should always check the product quality before you pay the balance and have container loading supervision.
High price & cost:
You may be overcharged at times, to prevent this, make sure you build a relationship with the manufacturer or supplier.
Time-consuming:
You may need to spend a lot of time and money searching for the right manufacturer and supplier. Find someone who is experienced and local to help you so you can focus on marketing to grow your business.
Your product may be copied:
NDA is an effective method only if you’ve found a decent supplier. Make sure you’ve gone through the necessary IP protection procedure before sharing too much info to your suppliers.
CHAPTER 8: FamiSourcing One-stop Supply Management Service
When you’re importing products from China to the UK , you need a reliable and professional agent to help you with.
FamiSourcing will help you manage everything when it comes to source products from China to arrange shipment to your destination.
We are good to manage the entire importing process for you including
- Product sourcing
- Supplier evaluation
- Onsite factory visit
- Price & terms negotiation
- Sample check
- Contract review
- Order follow-up
- Shipment arrangement
- Shipping cost control
- Product Inspection
- Container loading inspection
This way, you would have more time and energy to deal with your core business.
If you’re wondering you should partner with FamiSourcing, well here’s is why:
At FamiSourcing we have a reliable and quality customer service team that is ready to response you in a short time
Our company has been in the supply chain management industry for over 10 years now.
We are familiar with some specific industry, we assure that can offer you speedier of your requirement.
We have rich experience to source your goods from China to deliver any destination in the world efficiently and cost-effectively.
Also, our rates are affordable. Our service is professional and reliable.
Contact us now for a free quote!
Conclusion:
We hope that you can have a good sense of comfort when importing products from China to the UK from this article.
You may make a few mistakes especially for the first time, don’t be a shame with that. You would gain experience from the process.
Just make sure that you are in the right direction, and don’t hesitate to find someone to help.
keep referring to this complete guide for any information that you may need on importing from China to the UK.
If what you need is not covered here, feel free to comment below or contact us directly. We are happy to help.