Spain is one of the fastest-growing markets for toys in Southern Europe, and China remains the world’s largest toy manufacturing hub. If you’re considering importing toys from China to Spain, this guide will walk you through the shipping methods, customs duties, compliance requirements, and cost-saving tips to make your toy business a success.
Why Import Toys from China to Spain?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost Advantage | Competitive manufacturing prices help maximize your profit margins. |
| Massive Selection | Plush toys, plastic toys, educational sets, electronic toys – all available in bulk. |
| Custom Branding | Chinese suppliers support OEM/ODM for packaging and private labels. |
| Global Export Expertise | Chinese ports and logistics companies are well-versed in toy exports to Europe. |
Compliance & Safety: Toy Regulations in Spain
Since Spain is part of the European Union, all toy imports must meet EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
What You Must Ensure:
- CE Marking: Mandatory for all toys entering the EU market.
- EN71 Certification:
- Part 1: Mechanical and physical properties
- Part 2: Flammability
- Part 3: Toxic substances like lead or cadmium
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC): Confirms compliance with EU standards.
- REACH Regulation: Controls use of restricted chemicals in materials.
Tips:Labels and safety instructions must be translated into Spanish if the toys are to be sold in Spain.
Shipping Options from China to Spain
Choose a shipping method based on your volume, budget, and delivery timeline:
| Mode | Transit Time | Best For | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL or LCL) | 25–35 days | Large-volume imports | Lowest |
| Rail Freight (China–Europe Train) | 18–22 days | Mid-size, semi-urgent orders | Medium |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Urgent, small batches | High |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 3–7 days | Samples or lightweight parcels | Highest |
Major Ports:
- China: Shenzhen, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai
- Spain: Port of Valencia, Port of Barcelona
Major Airports:
- China: Guangzhou (CAN), Shanghai (PVG), Shenzhen (SZX)
- Spain: Madrid-Barajas (MAD), Barcelona-El Prat (BCN)
Customs, Duties & VAT
Documents You’ll Need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- CE Declaration of Conformity
- EN71 Testing Reports
- EORI Number (EU Importer ID)
Import Costs in Spain:
| Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Import Duty on Toys | Typically 0% to 4.7% (depending on HS code, usually under 9503) |
| VAT (IVA) | 21% (applied to CIF value + duty) |
Importance of Freight Forwarders
Working with a freight forwarder makes your shipping process easier and safer. Here’s what they do:
| Service | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Shipment Coordination | Picks up goods from supplier, books transport, arranges customs |
| Documentation | Handles invoices, test reports, and clearance papers |
| Route Optimization | Helps you choose air, rail, or sea for the best time/cost |
| Door-to-Door Delivery | From Chinese factory to your warehouse in Spain or Amazon FBA |
💡 Choose a freight forwarder who specializes in toys and EU imports.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Missing CE or EN71 certification | Confirm with your supplier and request documentation before payment |
| Incorrect HS code classification | Use the correct code to avoid overpaying duties |
| No cargo insurance | Always get insurance, especially for sea shipments |
| Labeling not in Spanish | Translate safety info and user guides into Spanish before shipment |
Conclusion
Importing toys from China to Spain can be a profitable venture if done right. From choosing the right supplier and shipping method to ensuring CE/EN71 compliance and navigating customs — each step is crucial.
Key Tips:
- Partner with a reliable freight forwarder
- Ensure all certifications (CE, EN71) are valid and complete
- Budget for VAT and import duties
- Choose shipping based on urgency and cost efficiency
Need a Shipping Quote?
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FAQ:
Q1: Are CE and EN71 certificates mandatory?
Yes. CE marking and EN71 compliance are mandatory for all toys imported into the EU, including Spain.
Q2: Can I use China–Europe rail freight to ship toys to Spain?
Yes, rail freight via central Europe (e.g., through Germany or Poland) offers a faster and more cost-effective alternative to sea shipping.
Q3:Do toys need to have Spanish instructions?
Yes. All warnings, manuals, and packaging must include Spanish translations for retail in Spain.
Q4: Do I need a license to import toys to Spain?
No license is needed, but an EORI number and full product compliance are required.
Q5:Why do I have to pay to receive a package in Spain?
You may be asked to pay customs duties, VAT (IVA), or handling fees when receiving a package from outside the EU—like from China.
Even for small parcels, if the declared value exceeds €150, you’ll typically pay:
- Import duties (0%–4.7% for toys)
- 21% VAT
- Courier clearance fees (charged by DHL, FedEx, etc.)
If duties and VAT were not prepaid by the sender, the courier will collect them before delivery.