Importing toys from China to the Czech Republic can be a highly profitable venture—if done right. With China being the global manufacturing hub for toys and the Czech Republic offering growing demand across retail and e-commerce, this trade route is an ideal opportunity for resellers, retailers, and distributors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step, from sourcing to shipping, customs clearance, and legal compliance.
1.Why Source Toys from China?
China’s toy industry provides:
- Competitive pricing due to mass production
- An enormous variety of OEM and branded toys
- Access to specialized factories in Shantou, Yiwu, Dongguan, and Ningbo
- Flexible production capabilities for both large and small batches
You can find suppliers through:
- Alibaba / Made-in-China / Global Sources
- Chinese toy expos like Canton Fair and China Toy Expo
- Local sourcing agents who inspect and negotiate on your behalf
2.Legal & Compliance Requirements in the Czech Republic
Toys imported into the Czech Republic (as an EU member) must carry the CE mark, proving conformity with EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
Ensure your toys meet EN71 testing standards, especially if they are for children under 14 years old.
- CE mark
- Warnings (e.g., choking hazards)
- Manufacturer/importer details
- Age recommendation (translated into Czech)
You must register for an EORI number to import goods into the EU.
3.Shipping Options: From China to Czech Republic
Your shipping method depends on volume, urgency, and budget.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Cost | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (FCL/LCL) | 30–40 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 Routes:
- Sea Freight: Shanghai / Ningbo → Hamburg or Koper, then trucked to Czech Republic
- Rail Freight: Xi’an / Chengdu → Małaszewicze, Poland → Czech Republic
- Air Freight: Guangzhou / Shenzhen → Prague (PRG)
4.Duties, VAT, and Customs in Czech Republic
| Charge Type | Rate / Description |
|---|---|
| Import Duty | 0%–4.7% depending on the toy type (HS Code 9503) |
| VAT (DPH) | 21% of the CIF (cost + insurance + freight) value |
| Customs Broker | Optional, but helpful for paperwork and clearance |
Use the EU TARIC database to check exact duties and HS codes.
5.Working with a Freight Forwarder
A professional freight forwarder helps you:
- Choose the most cost-effective and reliable shipping method
- Manage customs paperwork and CE documentation
- Coordinate door-to-door or port-to-door delivery
- Avoid shipment delays or compliance issues
✅ Tip: Many Czech importers prefer rail freight + local trucking to balance time and cost.
Final Thoughts
Importing toys from China to the Czech Republic is a rewarding business when you follow the right process. Ensure product compliance, use experienced freight partners, and prepare for customs and VAT obligations.
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FAQ:
Q1:What is the import duty on toys from China to Czech Republic?
Generally between 0% and 4.7% depending on the specific product classification.
Q2:Do toys need CE certification to enter the Czech Republic?
Yes. CE marking is mandatory for toys under EU law, along with proper labeling and testing reports (e.g., EN71).
Q3:Can I buy toys from Alibaba and ship them to Czech Republic?
Yes. Most suppliers on Alibaba offer international shipping, but always confirm if they provide CE compliance and include customs duties in the quote (especially under DDP terms).
Q4:Do I need to pay customs if I buy from China?
Yes. All imports over €150 are subject to import duties and VAT. Even smaller parcels may incur VAT or handling fees from the courier.
Q5:Do I have to pay import tax from China to the EU?
Yes. All EU countries, including the Czech Republic, require importers to pay:
- Customs duties (depending on HS code)
- 21% VAT
- Customs clearance charges