Germany is one of the largest clothing markets in Europe, with strong demand for affordable fashion, workwear, sportswear, and sustainable garments. Importing clothes from China — the world’s leading apparel manufacturer — is a strategic move for German retailers, brands, and e-commerce sellers.
This Clothing Import Guide from China to Germany provides a step-by-step overview of sourcing, shipping, customs clearance, and compliance requirements to help you build a smooth and successful import process.
Why Import Clothes from China to Germany?
China is the world’s largest exporter of garments — and for good reasons:
Lower manufacturing costs help boost profit margins.
From high-end fashion to everyday basics and workwear.
Chinese factories are familiar with EU standards.
Multiple ports and logistics options to Germany.
Step 1: Find Reliable Clothing Suppliers in China
There are several ways to source suppliers:
Online Platforms
- Alibaba
- Made-in-China.com
- 1688.com (requires Chinese-language skills or a sourcing agent)
Trade Fairs
- Canton Fair (Guangzhou)
- CHIC (China International Clothing Expo)
Key Manufacturing Regions
| Region | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Guangzhou | Fashionwear, streetwear, fast fashion |
| Shaoxing | Textiles, knitwear, fabric sourcing |
| Dongguan | Sportswear, outdoor wear |
| Yiwu | Low-cost basics, children’s clothes |
Step 2: Understand EU and German Compliance for Clothing Imports
Labeling Requirements
According to EU textile labeling regulations, clothing must include:
- Fiber composition (e.g., 100% cotton, 80% polyester)
- Country of origin (e.g., “Made in China”)
- Care instructions (not mandatory but highly recommended)
- Size (EU standard)
Product Safety Standards
For children’s clothing and textiles:
- Must comply with REACH regulations (e.g., no hazardous chemicals)
- Avoid items with small parts, drawstrings, or flammable materials
You can use services like SGS or TÜV for third-party lab testing.
Step 3: Choose the Right Shipping Method
Shipping from China to Germany can be done via sea, rail, or air:
| Shipping Method | Transit Time | Ideal For | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 25–40 days | Bulk shipments | Low |
| Rail Freight | 15–25 days | Faster than sea, cheaper than air | Medium |
| Air Freight | 5–10 days | Urgent or lightweight goods | High |
| Courier (DHL/UPS) | 3–7 days | Samples, small parcels | Very High |
Main Entry Points
- Sea Ports: Hamburg, Bremerhaven
- Rail Terminals: Duisburg, Hamburg, Munich
- Airports: Frankfurt, Munich, Leipzig
Step 4: Handle German Customs and VAT
Import Duties
Clothing imports are taxed based on the Combined Nomenclature (CN) code, which aligns with HS codes.
- Duty rates: Usually 0% to 12%
- Textile categories (HS Code 61, 62) have different duty rates based on fabric type and item.
VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer)
- Standard 19% VAT is applied to the CIF value + customs duty
- Payable upon import, but reclaimable if you’re VAT-registered in Germany
Required Documents
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading or Air Waybill
- Certificate of origin (optional but helpful)
- CE declaration (if applicable for safety-regulated items)
Consider working with a German customs broker to ensure compliance and avoid delays.
Step 5: Final Delivery and Distribution
Cost Breakdown Example
| Item | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Product Cost | €4.00 per item (FOB price) |
| Sea Freight (per CBM) | €80–€150 |
| Import Duty (10%) | Based on CIF value |
| VAT (19%) | Applied on CIF + duty |
| Local Delivery | €0.50–€2.00 per unit |
Note: Prices fluctuate depending on season, fuel rates, and freight volume.
Tips for a Successful Clothing Import Business
- Order Samples First: Never skip product checks
- Use Freight Forwarders: Let professionals handle logistics and customs
- Check HS Codes Carefully: Accurate classification avoids delays
- Understand EU Trends: Germany favors sustainable and high-quality apparel
- Use Inspection Services: Pre-shipment inspections reduce risk
Conclusion
Importing clothes from China to Germany offers excellent opportunities for profit and scalability, provided you manage the process carefully. From choosing trusted suppliers and understanding EU regulations to selecting the right freight method and clearing customs—each step is key to ensuring your products arrive safely and legally.
Whether you’re an e-commerce entrepreneur, fashion brand, or wholesaler, this guide will help you set up a successful and compliant supply chain from China to Germany.
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FAQ:
Q1:Do I need a license to import clothes into Germany?
No special license is required, but you must have an EORI number and be VAT registered if importing for commercial purposes.
Q2:What is the best way to ship clothes from China to Germany?
Sea freight for large volumes, rail freight for faster delivery, and air freight for urgent shipments.
Q3:Do I have to pay customs duty on clothes from China?
Yes. Most clothing items are subject to import duties and 19% VAT, unless under the €150 de minimis threshold for personal imports.
Q4:Can I sell imported clothes on Amazon Germany?
Yes. Be sure to comply with product labeling, VAT, and CE (if applicable). Amazon FBA can also handle your fulfillment.