Shipping furniture from Foshan to Germany
German imports usually enter through Hamburg or Bremerhaven. The container clears into the EU once, so a German EORI and a broker who handles EU import VAT are the two things to have ready before the first shipment.
Direct answer
How do I import furniture from Foshan into Germany?
Ship LCL or FCL from Foshan to Hamburg or Bremerhaven. You need a German EORI and a customs broker for the EU import entry; import VAT is normally 19% and duty depends on the commodity code. Once cleared, the goods move freely within the EU.
- Ports
- Hamburg, Bremerhaven
- Transit
- Roughly 35–45 days door to door.
- Duty / tax
- Import VAT is normally 19%. Duty depends on the commodity code under the EU tariff — your broker confirms the entry.
One entry for the EU
Clearing in Germany puts the goods in free circulation across the EU, so a single import entry can serve several markets. That makes Hamburg and Bremerhaven useful even when your warehouse is elsewhere in the EU.
Documents and product compliance
Commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading, with a description specific enough for the commodity code. Depending on the product, EU rules on materials and labelling may apply — your importer confirms compliance before sale.
LCL and consolidation
LCL to Hamburg is practical for first orders; above roughly 15 cubic metres a 20GP or 40HQ is usually cheaper per cubic metre. We consolidate your order until the container is full.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a German EORI?
Yes — an EORI registered in an EU member state is required for the import entry. Your broker can usually handle the registration.
How much is import VAT?
19% in Germany, charged on the customs value plus duty and freight. It is normally recoverable for VAT-registered businesses — your accountant confirms.
Can the goods be sold elsewhere in the EU?
Yes. Once the entry is cleared, the goods are in free circulation within the EU and can move to other member states without a second import entry.
Duty, tax and transit figures here are indicative only. The rate that applies to your shipment depends on the HS code, the current trade measures in force on the day of import, and your customs broker. We quote freight against the actual container and destination port.