Buying a Pilates Reformer From China to France: Shipping, VAT, and Customs
Ordering a Pilates reformer from China involves more than choosing a machine. Before paying, confirm how freight, customs clearance, duties and French VAT will be handled, and which documents you will receive.
Start With the Trade Term, Not the Machine
Ask how the quotation is built and who is responsible for import clearance, duties, VAT and delivery. A DDP quotation normally places import clearance and applicable import charges with the seller, but the actual arrangements and documents should be confirmed in writing with the seller and customs representative.
Ask in whose name the goods will be imported and whether your company will receive documentation that supports its accounting and any VAT deduction. A tax-included delivery price alone does not establish your company's right to deduct import VAT. Discuss the documents and your specific situation with your expert-comptable before ordering.
The import VAT base is not necessarily the full delivered price. It can include the customs value, applicable duties and relevant transport and insurance costs. The VAT treatment and actual cost depend on the transaction and the buyer's circumstances.
The France-Specific Route Worth Knowing
Since 2022, import VAT for liable businesses identified for VAT in France is generally declared on a French VAT return rather than paid to customs at the border. Deduction is subject to the applicable legal conditions; it is not automatic for every buyer or transaction.
If your business is to act as importer, discuss the arrangement in advance with your customs representative and accountant. Confirm the EORI number, valid French VAT identification number, the customs representation and documents required, and who is responsible for duties and transport. The appropriate trade term and clearance arrangements must reflect the parties' actual responsibilities.
Insist on the Real Declared Value
Ask the supplier and customs representative to use the correct customs value and provide the commercial invoice, packing list and relevant customs documents. Under-declaration can result in reassessment and penalties. Confirm separately how transport insurance values the goods and what risks it covers.
Then the Machine Checks That Apply Anywhere
Ask for a pre-shipment QC video of your actual machines, not a catalogue clip. Confirm the maximum user weight, the assembled dimensions against your studio space, and exactly which accessories are included. For a studio fleet, consider ordering a sample before committing to a larger order.
Plan Around the Timeline
Sea freight, customs clearance and onward delivery can take several weeks, depending on the route and circumstances. Ask for an estimate for your order and allow a buffer when planning a studio opening. Compare air and sea freight quotations before choosing.
Buying for a Studio or Store in France?
Shijiazhuang Atus Trade Co., Ltd. is a China-based fitness equipment trader working with manufacturers. There is no minimum order: you can enquire about a single unit, a sample or a mixed order. Terms include a 30% deposit by bank transfer, a pre-shipment QC video of your actual machines, and the balance after inspection approval and before dispatch. Private label is available.
Tell us your destination and intended use. We can discuss the equipment and provide a quotation, including the available shipping and customs arrangements and the documents available for your order.
Sources: French Customs: import VAT and French tax authority: VAT deduction conditions.