Importing sex toys

Step-by-Step: How to Buy Wholesale Adult Toys from China and Handle Customs & Fees

When diving into the world of importing wholesale adult toys from China, understanding customs procedures and duties is paramount. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown for major markets: the USA, the UK, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and South American nations.

1. Key Terms to Know:

  • HS Code: A system classifying traded products. Each product has a specific HS Code determining its duty rate.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): A consumption tax added at each supply chain stage.
  • Duties/Tariffs: Taxes on imported goods.

2. USA:

  • HS Code: Various codes for adult toys. For example: 9019.10.2020.
  • Duties: Rates vary. Check the US International Trade Commission (USITC).
  • Special Note: Invoices under $800 are duty-free due to the de minimis value rule.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Duties are typically paid by your air courier.
    • Sea Freight: Duties are paid during customs clearance, either by your freight forwarder or directly to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

3. UK:

  • HS Code: 8-digit code 9019.10.1000.
  • VAT: 20%.
  • Duties: Vary. Check the UK’s Trade Tariff tool.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Duties and VAT are usually handled by your air courier.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival, through a customs broker or directly to HM Revenue & Customs.

4. EU Countries:

The EU consists of 27 member countries, each with its own VAT rate. However, they all follow a unified customs code, which means that the import duties are generally consistent across all member states, though there might be some exceptions.

  • HS Code: 9019.10.1000.
  • VAT: Varies. Germany (19%), France (20%), Italy (22%), Spain (21%), Netherlands (21%), Belgium (21%), and more.
  • Duties: Vary. Check the EU’s TARIC database.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Air couriers typically handle duties and VAT.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival in the importing country.

5. Australia:

  • HS Code: 8-digit system.
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax): 10%.
  • Duties: Vary. Check the Australian Border Force website.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Your air courier will usually handle GST and duties.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival, either through a customs broker or directly to the Australian Border Force.

6. New Zealand:

  • HS Code: 8-digit system.
  • GST: 15%.
  • Duties: Vary. Check the New Zealand Customs Service website.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Handled by your air courier.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival.

7. South Africa:

  • HS Code: 8-digit system.
  • VAT: 15%.
  • Duties: Vary. Check the South African Revenue Service website.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Your air courier typically manages VAT and duties.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival.

8. South America:

South America is a diverse continent with various countries, each having its own import regulations and tax structures.

  • HS Code: Varies by country.
  • VAT: Varies. Brazil (19%), Argentina (21%), Chile (19%), Peru (18%), Colombia (19%), and more.
  • Duties: Vary by country and product type.
  • How to Pay:
    • Air Freight: Typically managed by your air courier.
    • Sea Freight: Pay upon arrival in the importing country.

Additional Tips:

  • Building Relationships: Cultivating a good relationship with your supplier can lead to better terms and smoother transactions.
  • Stay Updated: Regulations and rates change. Regularly check official sources or consult a customs broker.
  • Consider Insurance: Protect your shipment against potential damages or losses during transit.

Conclusion:

Successfully importing adult toys from China requires a deep understanding of customs and duties. By staying informed, you can budget accurately and avoid unexpected costs. This guide aims to be a starting point, but always consult a local customs broker or freight forwarder for the most current and specific information.

Here’s a comprehensive guide for two major markets: the European Union and South America.

European Union (EU):

The EU consists of 27 member countries, each with its own VAT rate. However, they all follow a unified customs code, which means that the import duties are generally consistent across all member states, though there might be some exceptions.

  • Austria: VAT: 20%
  • Belgium: VAT: 21%
  • Bulgaria: VAT: 20%
  • Croatia: VAT: 25%
  • Cyprus: VAT: 19%
  • Czech Republic: VAT: 21%
  • Denmark: VAT: 25%
  • Estonia: VAT: 20%
  • Finland: VAT: 24%
  • France: VAT: 20%
  • Germany: VAT: 19%
  • Greece: VAT: 24%
  • Hungary: VAT: 27%
  • Ireland: VAT: 23%
  • Italy: VAT: 22%
  • Latvia: VAT: 21%
  • Lithuania: VAT: 21%
  • Luxembourg: VAT: 17%
  • Malta: VAT: 18%
  • Netherlands: VAT: 21%
  • Poland: VAT: 23%
  • Portugal: VAT: 23%
  • Romania: VAT: 19%
  • Slovakia: VAT: 20%
  • Slovenia: VAT: 22%
  • Spain: VAT: 21%
  • Sweden: VAT: 25%

For each EU country, the duties on adult toys can vary based on specific product classifications. It’s crucial to consult the EU’s TARIC database or a local customs broker for precise and up-to-date information on duties and other import regulations for each EU country.

South America:

South America is a diverse continent with various countries, each having its own import regulations and tax structures.

  • Argentina: VAT (IVA): 21%
  • Bolivia: VAT (IVA): 13%
  • Brazil: VAT (ICMS): Varies by state, typically between 17% and 19%.
  • Chile: VAT: 19%
  • Colombia: VAT: 19%
  • Ecuador: VAT: 12%
  • Guyana: VAT: 16%
  • Paraguay: VAT: 10%
  • Peru: VAT: 18%
  • Suriname: Turnover Tax: 10%
  • Uruguay: VAT: 22%
  • Venezuela: VAT: 16%

For each country in South America, the duties on adult toys can vary based on specific product classifications and trade agreements. It’s crucial to consult the respective country’s customs website or a local customs broker for precise and up-to-date information on duties and other import regulations.


Remember, while this guide provides a broad overview, the specifics can change based on international trade agreements, local regulations, and other factors. Always consult with a customs broker or the local customs authority to get the most accurate and current information.

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