Navigating the cost of importing cars from China
Bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport, with some cyclists even referring to their bikes as a “second car.” China, as the largest producer, dominates the global e-bike market. So, how can you import bicycles from China to the EU, US, or other countries? Read this comprehensive guide to get all the essential information you need!
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How to import bikes from China？
When importing bicycles from China, several models are particularly in demand. The six most popular types of bikes imported globally are:
- City bicycles
- Electric bikes
- Competition bicycles
- Off-road bicycles
- Mountain bikes
- Folding bicycles
These types cover most cycling needs, from competitive racing to everyday commuting and off-road adventures. Once you’ve selected the type of bike you want to import, you can begin sourcing reputable suppliers. Platforms like Alibaba and 1688.com are great places to connect with manufacturers.
Or, working with a sourcing agent in China can simplify the process, offering competitive prices and tailored solutions.
After identifying your supplier, the next step is to choose your preferred shipping method (by sea or air). Confirming the delivery timeline and shipping cost is crucial to ensure your bikes arrive on schedule and within the budget.
In the next section, we’ll dive into the costs, regulations, and the best shipping solutions for importing bicycles from China.
How much do bicycles from China cost?
Shipping costs for bicycles from China depend on several factors, including size, weight, destination, and the delivery method. Additional services like insurance or expedited shipping can also impact the final price.
For example, a 40ft container from major Chinese ports like Shenzhen to the U.S. West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles) typically ranges from $5,500 to $6,500. Conversely, delivering a 40ft container from China to the UK generally costs between $5,300 and $6,850.
As a rough guide, air freight from China’s major airports to Los Angeles (LAX) typically costs between $7 and $11 per kg. For shipments to the UK, the cost ranges from $6.39 to $8.99 per kg.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s best to consult our forwarding experts.
Understanding import duties for cycles from China
Duty rates can vary depending on the destination, and you can typically find these rates on the respective customs websites. Below is a breakdown of the tariff for importing bicycles into the EU and the US:
Duty rates in the EU
The European Union applies import tariffs to all goods entering from third countries, and the TARIC system helps determine the duty rates for specific products using their CN codes.
- Standard bicycles (such as mountain, city, and racing bikes) are generally subject to 0% duty.
- Electric bicycles:The customs code for electric bikes is 8711601000 (bicycles with pedal assistance and an auxiliary motor with a continuous rated power not exceeding 250 watts) and 8711609010 (bicycles with pedal assistance and an auxiliary motor). The standard duty rate for electric bikes is 6%.
- Parts and accessories for bicycles can have varying duty rates, typically ranging between 2% and 5%, depending on the specific part.
In addition, you should pay attention that anti-dumping duties are typically applied when importing electric bikes from China to the EU. These can reach as high as 79%, aimed at protecting local manufacturers from Chinese competition.
Customs duty in the US
In the US, the tariff system follows the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), which classifies products into specific groups. They imposed a 2%~25% tariff increase on Chinese-made bicycles, including nearly all bicycle-related products, from complete bicycles to parts, accessories (helmets, lights, tools, computers), and even trailers.
If you’re uncertain about the exact duties on your bike shipment from China, feel free to reach out to our experts. We’ll provide an instant quote tailored to your needs.
Best ways to ship bicycles from China
Selecting the right shipping method is crucial to balancing costs, delivery times, and efficiency when importing bikes from China.
Sea Freight from China
Sea freight is ideal for bulk shipments, offering cost-effective rates and the capacity to transport large quantities. Although transit times are longer (typically 20–50 days, depending on the destination), it remains the preferred choice for businesses aiming to minimize shipping costs. Flexible options like FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) make sea freight suitable for companies of all sizes.
Air freight from China
For speed, airfreight is unbeatable. Deliveries usually take 3–10 days, making it the top choice for smaller, high-value shipments or urgent orders. However, the higher costs associated with air freight may not be practical for bulk quantities or low-margin products. And there are more restrictions on electric bikes.
By evaluating your budget, timeline, and shipment size, you can select the optimal shipping method. Alternatively, share your shipment details with our forwarding experts, who will provide tailored solutions.
Customs laws and regulations you should care
Successfully importing bicycles requires compliance with destination-specific laws and standards. Below, we’ve highlighted essential regulations you should know:
1. Product standards and certifications
For the EU:
- EN standards: City bikes must comply with EN 14764, while e-bikes must meet EN 15194.
- CE marking: Electric bikes require CE certification, confirming conformity with EU safety and environmental laws.
For the US:
- CPSC standards: The Consumer Product Safety Commission enforces strict safety standards for brakes, reflectors, and other components.
- FCC compliance: E-bikes with wireless or electronic parts must adhere to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations.
- Additional note: Shipments exceeding $2,500 require cargo bonds (single or continuous) to clear U.S. customs.
2. Restricted or prohibited items
- Battery regulations: Lithium-ion batteries used in electric bikes often need specialized packaging and labeling due to safety risks.
- Material restrictions: Certain coatings or alloys might violate import rules in specific regions.
Sometimes, the buyer’s specific configuration requirements may exceed the legal speed limits in certain countries. For instance, in most European countries, the speed limit for e-bikes is 20 km/h. E-bikes that exceed this speed, especially those equipped for on-road use, may be classified as motorcycles. In Australia, the motor power of e-bikes must not exceed 200W.
With Airsupply’s extensive experience in international shipping, we ensure compliance with the import regulations of various countries. Contact us for competitive pricing and expert guidance on your bicycle imports.
Documents needed for importing bicycles from China
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Import contract
- Bill of lading
- 3C import license (if applicable)
- Bicycle photos and specifications (including brand, model, year, origin, etc.)
After submitting the required documents and paying the applicable taxes and fees, customs authorities will conduct an inspection. Once approved, you will receive the necessary certification for your imported bicycles.
Get the shipping deals to import bikes from China!
Are you considering importing bicycles from China to your country? If so, this could be a promising opportunity for your business. Airsupply offers cost-effective, reliable shipping solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re importing bikes, parts, or accessories, we ensure competitive rates and smooth, hassle-free delivery.
