How to Import from China to Poland?
Are you a Polish business owner looking to import products from China? You’re not alone. Thousands of entrepreneurs in Poland are sourcing directly from China to reduce costs and expand their product range.
However, many first-time importers struggle with how to find reliable suppliers, negotiate small quantities, and manage logistics efficiently.
Table of Contents
1. Why Import from China to Poland?
China remains the world’s manufacturing hub — offering an unbeatable mix of low production cost, diverse products, and flexible customization. For Polish importers, China’s strong logistics network and Poland’s strategic location in Europe make trade increasingly convenient.
- Poland is a key hub in the China–Europe Railway Express, connecting Chinese cities like Yiwu, Chongqing, and Chengdu directly to Łódź, Małaszewicze, and Warsaw.
- Many Polish e-commerce sellers and wholesalers import from China for resale on Allegro, Amazon EU, and Shopify stores.
2. How to Find Chinese Suppliers for Poland Imports
Finding a trustworthy supplier is the foundation of a successful import business. There are several reliable channels:
Option 1: Alibaba
Alibaba.com remains the most popular B2B platform. You can contact verified factories, view product specs, and request quotations. Even if the website lists high MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities), you can often negotiate smaller trial orders directly with the factory.
Option 2: 1688.com (Chinese Domestic Platform)
1688.com offers the lowest wholesale prices in China, but it’s designed for domestic buyers. If you don’t speak Chinese or lack a local company, work through a 1688 sourcing agent. Agents can:
- Communicate with sellers in Chinese
- Pay suppliers in RMB
- Inspect products before shipping
- Consolidate goods into one export shipment to Poland
Option 3: Chinese Wholesale Markets
If possible, visit large Chinese trade centers such as:
- Yiwu International Trade City – ideal for small commodities, accessories, gifts
- Guangzhou – electronics, apparel
- Shenzhen – tech products and accessories
Option 4: Use a Sourcing Agent
A China sourcing agent simplifies everything — from supplier search and negotiation to quality inspection and shipping. This is especially valuable for importers who cannot visit factories personally.
3. How to Negotiate Small Orders (Low MOQ)
Small trial orders are acceptable in many industries. If your initial orders are small:
- Focus on fewer product variations (e.g., one color or size).
- Be flexible with packaging and branding.
- Build a relationship with the supplier — regular small orders can later grow into bigger contracts.
4. Shipping from China to Poland: Best Options
Shipping cost is one of the most common concerns. Here are the main options:
| Method | Transit Time | Best For | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Express (DHL, UPS, FedEx) | 5–10 days | Small parcels | High |
| Air Freight | 7–12 days | Medium-size cargo | Medium |
| Rail Freight (China–Europe Train) | 15–25 days | Cost-efficient bulk goods | Low |
| Sea Freight | 30–45 days | Large containers | Lowest |
Poland’s rail freight advantage makes it one of the most efficient import destinations in the EU. You can ship directly from Yiwu to Łódź, or from Chongqing to Małaszewicze with stable transit times and lower costs than air.
5. Required Import Documents for Poland
To clear Polish customs smoothly, prepare these key documents:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin
- CE Certificate (if required for electronics, toys, or machinery)
- Import License (for restricted items)
6. Customs Duties and VAT in Poland
As Poland is part of the European Union, imports from China are subject to EU customs duties and Polish VAT.
| Fee Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Customs Duty | Based on product HS code (usually 0–12%) |
| VAT | 23% standard rate |
Example: If you import €1,000 worth of electronics with a 5% duty: Customs Duty = €50; VAT = (€1,000 + €50) × 23% = €241.50; Total = €1,291.50.
7. Customs Clearance and EORI Number
To import into Poland, you need an EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification), which identifies importers across the EU. You can apply through the Polish Customs Office (KAS).
For beginners, it’s easier to use a customs broker or freight forwarder who will handle import declarations, duty and VAT calculations, and delivery to your warehouse.
8. Common Mistakes and Warnings
Key lessons from experienced importers:
- Don’t underestimate shipping costs — factor packaging, customs, and last-mile delivery fees.
- Inspect before shipping — quality issues are costly for small importers.
- Margins may be smaller than expected — run accurate cost calculations.
- Not all suppliers handle export — confirm if the supplier will arrange shipping or if you must find the shipper separately.
9. Estimated Shipping Costs to Poland
| Shipping Mode | Volume | Estimated Cost | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Express | <20kg | $10–$15/kg | 5–10 days |
| Air Freight | 100–500kg | $5–$8/kg | 7–12 days |
| Rail Freight | 1 CBM+ | $200–$300/CBM | 15–25 days |
| Sea Freight | 1 CBM+ | $100–$150/CBM | 30–45 days |
(Rates vary by season and fuel prices.)
10. How a China Sourcing Agent Can Help
If you’re new to importing or can’t manage all details from Poland, a China-based sourcing company can simplify the process by:
- Sourcing and verifying suppliers on platforms like 1688 or Alibaba
- Managing payments and consolidating goods from multiple factories
- Inspecting quality and packaging before shipping
- Handling export documents and shipping arrangements
- Delivering directly to Poland or EU warehouses
Final Checklist
- Find and verify a reliable supplier
- Negotiate price and MOQ
- Confirm EU compliance (CE, labeling)
- Choose the best shipping method
- Prepare required documents
- Calculate import duty and VAT
- Clear Polish customs
- Receive and inspect goods
Conclusion
Importing from China to Poland can be highly profitable if managed correctly. Verify suppliers, manage logistics carefully, and stay aware of total costs.
Start with small trial orders, work with a trusted sourcing agent, and take advantage of Poland’s strategic position on the China–Europe trade route.
