France is the largest country in the EU, holding significant positions as the second largest economy, exporter, and importer. China is France’s primary trading partner in Asia. If you’re considering importing to France, understanding the various transport modes, costs, transit times, and customs procedures is crucial. This guide provides essential details for ocean and air shipping to France.
France Customs Entry
For imports into France, a summary entry declaration (ENS) must be submitted to the first EU entry point. France adheres to EU and international trade agreements. Make sure you’re familiar with both EU and French regulations to ensure smooth customs processing.
France EORI Number
An EORI number is required for all international transactions within the EU. Register for your EORI number via the SOPRANO EORI online service. If your business has a SIRET number in France, the EORI number format is FR + SIRET. Verify your EORI status at ec.europa.eu.
France Tariff Code
Goods are classified under the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS). The HS code determines customs duties, trade policies, and technical standards. Obtain the HS code from your supplier and verify it through RITA of France Customs.
France Duties and VAT (20%)
Imported goods are subject to customs duties and VAT. Customs duties apply from a value of €150, while VAT is applicable to all imports. VAT recovery depends on your business structure—EURL, SARL, or SAS can reclaim VAT, while autoentrepreneurs cannot. Customs duties are based on the good’s value plus related fees, and VAT includes the value plus shipping and insurance costs.
Customs clearance can be handled by your shipping provider, who will invoice you for duties, VAT, and any additional fees.
Sea Freight to France
For container shipments, EU-size pallets (120 cm x 80 cm or 120 cm x 100 cm) are standard, and ISPM 15 compliance is required for wood pallets. Contact TCF for tailored quotes and solutions for sea freight to France.
Top Container Ports in France
France has 66 commercial seaports. Key ports include:
- Le Havre: France’s largest container port, part of HAROPA PORT, handling significant trade volumes with China.
- Port of Lyon
- Port of Deauville
- Port of Brest
- Port of La Pallice
- Port of Calais
- Port of Gennevilliers
- Port of Trouville-sur-Mer
Best Shipping Companies
Leading international carriers for shipping from China to France:
| Ocean Carrier | Description |
|---|---|
| MSK | Global leader with a broad network. |
| MSC | Competitive rates and extensive services. |
| COSCO | Key player with a strong presence in major trade lanes. |
| CMA CGM | Innovative solutions and global reach. |
| Hapag-Lloyd | High customer satisfaction. |
| ONE | Efficient shipping routes. |
| ZIM | Customizable shipping services. |
| EMC | Focus on environmental sustainability. |
| Yang Ming | Customer-centric services. |
| OOCL | Advanced technology in transport. |
Sea Freight Costs to France
Sea freight costs vary based on factors such as cargo type, weight, and dimensions, and the chosen transport mode (FCL or LCL). Additional destination fees include:
| Charge Description | Unit Price |
|---|---|
| Customs Clearance | 80 € |
| BL Fee | 60 € |
| DTHC & ISPS | 250 € |
| Handling Fee | 50 € |
TCF provides competitive rates for FCL and LCL shipments. Contact us for a personalized quote.
Sea Freight Transit Time
Shipping a container from China to France typically takes about one month. The exact duration depends on container size and route. For specific quotes, contact our team.
Air Freight to France
Air freight offers faster transit times but at a higher cost compared to sea freight.
Top Airports in France
Key airports include:
| Airport Code | Airport Name | Airport City |
|---|---|---|
| CDG | Charles de Gaulle International Airport | Paris |
| NCE | Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport | Nice |
| LYS | Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport | Lyon |
| MRS | Marseille Provence Airport | Marseille |
| TLS | Toulouse-Blagnac Airport | Toulouse/Blagnac |
| ORY | Paris-Orly Airport | Paris |
| BSL | EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport | Bâle/Mulhouse |
| BOD | Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport | Bordeaux/Mérignac |
| NTE | Nantes Atlantique Airport | Nantes |
| SXB | Strasbourg Airport | Strasbourg |
Top Express Companies
Leading express services for fast shipping include DHL, FedEx, UPS, GLS, and La Poste.
Air Freight Costs
Air freight costs are influenced by cargo type, fuel prices, weight, and destination. Additional charges include:
| Airport Charges (Paris) | Unit Price |
|---|---|
| Airline Fees | 80 € |
| Handling Charges | 0.19 €/kg – Minimum 19 € |
| Customs Clearance | 100 € |
| Import Customs Tax | 20 € |
| Documentation Fees | 50 € |
| Storage Fees | 4 free days, then 3.75 €/day/100 kg (Min.15 €) |
| Customs Control (if required) | 40 € |
| Delivery Charges | At cost |
| Insurance Fee | At cost |
Air freight transit times from China to France range from 2 to 10 days, with direct flights taking around 12 hours.
Working with TCF
Navigating international shipping from China to France can be complex. Partner with TCF for cost-effective and efficient logistics solutions. Our extensive network ensures timely and secure deliveries. Contact us for a quote and enhance your shipping experience.