Italy, a key market within the European Union, offers excellent business opportunities for companies and resellers looking to import toys from China. China is the global leader in toy manufacturing, known for its competitive prices and wide selection. However, successfully importing toys to Italy requires careful planning and compliance with strict EU standards.
This guide covers everything you must know — from regulations to shipping options — before shipping toys from China to Italy.
Why Import Toys from China?
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cost Efficiency | Lower manufacturing and labor costs make Chinese toys more affordable. |
| Large Product Variety | You can source everything from educational toys to plush, plastic, or tech toys. |
| Private Label Services | Most Chinese suppliers offer OEM/ODM customization. |
| Experienced Exporters | Suppliers are familiar with EU import processes and can provide certificates. |
Italian & EU Toy Import Requirements
As an EU member, Italy follows the European Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC). Importers are responsible for product compliance, even if buying from a supplier.
Toy Compliance Checklist:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| CE Marking | Mandatory on all toys sold in the EU. Must be visible on the packaging. |
| EN71 Test Reports | Covers mechanical safety, flammability, and chemical composition. |
| REACH Compliance | Ensures no dangerous chemicals are used. |
| Declaration of Conformity | Formal document showing product meets EU directives. |
| Labeling in Italian | Instructions and warnings must be in Italian. |
| Age Appropriateness | Proper symbols and age warnings must be displayed. |
🔍 Tip: Always ask your supplier for EN71 test results and CE documentation before placing your order.
Best Shipping Options from China to Belgium
Your shipping method depends on volume, urgency, and budget.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 25–35 days | Cheapest | Large orders |
| Rail Freight (China–Europe) | 18–22 days | Moderate | Mid-size shipments |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Expensive | Urgent deliveries |
| Express Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) | 3–7 days | Costly | Samples or small parcels |
Common Shipping Routes:
- Sea Port in China: Shenzhen, Ningbo, Shanghai
- Italian Port: Port of Genoa or Port of La Spezia
- Major Airport: Milan Malpensa (MXP)
Required Documents for Italian Customs
To clear customs efficiently, prepare:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- EN71 Test Reports
- CE Certificate
- Declaration of Conformity
- EORI Number (for Italian/EU importers)
Import Duty & Taxes for Toys in Italy
| Charge Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Import Duty | 0% – 4.7% depending on toy type (HS Code 9503) |
| VAT (IVA) | 22% (calculated on CIF + duty) |
| Broker/Clearance Fee | Charged by customs or courier |
💡 Use the EU TARIC system to check your toy’s exact import duty.
Why Work With a Freight Forwarder?
Hiring a professional freight forwarder streamlines your toy importing process:
| Service | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Customs Handling | Ensures paperwork is accurate and compliant with EU laws |
| Route Optimization | Finds the best balance between speed and cost |
| Supplier Coordination | Manages pickup, warehousing, and loading |
| Door-to-Door Delivery | Gets your toys from the Chinese factory to your Belgian warehouse or Amazon FBA |
Choose a forwarder experienced in EU toy regulations and Italian customs.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
| Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Missing CE mark or EN71 test | Always verify compliance before buying |
| Wrong HS Code | Confirm with customs or your freight forwarder |
| Skipping insurance | Protect your shipment during long-distance transit |
| Poor packaging | Toys must be secure and labeled clearly |
Final Tips for SuccessFinal Tips for Success
- Ask for CE and EN71 certificates before purchase
- Label in Italian with correct safety warnings
- Calculate full landed cost including duty + VAT + freight
- Use a freight forwarder for compliance and logistics
- Choose shipping based on urgency and cost
Need a Shipping Quote?
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We’ll respond within 24 hours with the best shipping options for your cargo.
FAQ:
Q1:Does Alibaba ship to Italy?
Yes, but Alibaba itself is a B2B platform, not a shipping company.
- Many sellers on Alibaba offer shipping services to Italy, via express courier (DHL, FedEx), sea freight, or air freight.
- You can choose FOB, CIF, or DDP terms depending on how much control you want over logistics and customs.
🔹 Always check if taxes and customs duties are included in the quote.
Q2:Do I need a license to import toys into Italy?
No import license is required, but you must:
- Register for an EORI number
- Ensure the toys meet all EU product safety standards
- Keep all compliance documentation (CE, EN71, Declaration of Conformity)
Q3:How do I check the HS code and tax rate for my toy product?
You can search the EU TARIC database using keywords or product descriptions to confirm the correct HS code and associated duties.
Q4:Is CE marking required for toys imported into Italy?
Absolutely. All toys sold in Italy must carry CE marking and comply with the EU Toy Safety Directive. Lack of CE marking can result in fines or your goods being held at customs.
Q5:Do I need to pay customs if I buy toys directly from China (e.g., AliExpress)?
Yes. Even small orders are subject to VAT, and possibly customs clearance fees, especially if the value exceeds €150. Most couriers collect these charges before delivery.