French language law
The Toubon law requires French for product information sold to users in France.
France is one of Europe's leading digital markets, with large telecom networks, data centres and a growing tech sector around Paris. All of them need a steady supply of IT equipment. Importing to France requires an EU EORI number and CE-marked products. And a correct declaration with French customs (douane) is also needed. Product documents also need to be in French. We act as your importer of record in France and manage every filing for you.
FranceUSAGulfTrade lanes from France to the USA and Gulf
Import VAT in France is not paid at the border for VAT-registered businesses.
Since 1 January 2022, autoliquidation, or reverse charge of import VAT, is mandatory for businesses with a French VAT number. The importer declares the import VAT on its VAT return instead of paying it when the goods arrive. In most cases, the same VAT is deducted on the same return. The importer's French VAT number must appear on the customs declaration.
EXPORTER MANAGED SHIPMENTS, WITH TRADEWISE AS IOR
First, you share your commercial invoice and product details. Then, you name Tradewise as the official entity legally responsible for importing your goods into France. Once you set up this process, all your future shipments go through the same smooth process. You stay listed as the exporter on every document. We handle all import formalities in France, from customs entries to import VAT.
Ask about VAT setupFRANCE SPOTLIGHT
Every France shipment follows this path when Tradewise is your importer of record.
You send the bills, packing list, and product codes before dispatch.
Our broker lodges the entry with the douane under our EORI.
Import VAT goes on the VAT return, not at the border.
Customs releases the goods and they move to your end user.
What French Customs Checks Before Your Goods Are Released
French customs, the DGDDI, clears all imports into France under the EU Union Customs Code. Duty depends on the product code of each item. Import VAT of 20% applies. Many IT products carry 0% duty, but import VAT still applies. Are you wondering how to import laptops and servers to France? Start with these four checks.
Before you ship
Tradewise prepares and checks this whole file for you before dispatch.
EUROPE REGION
A missing EORI number, a product code or a weak conformity document can stop a shipment, at the port. That is where Tradewise comes in. Our specialists check your invoices, conformity papers and battery documents before your shipment leaves. Tradewise takes on the backend work, saving you time.
These five issues slow down most shipments.
The Toubon law requires French for product information sold to users in France.
Producers of electrical goods must join an approved eco-organisation.
Without a French VAT number, autoliquidation is not available.
Some devices, such as laptops and phones, must show a repairability or durability score.
Customs may ask for technical data to confirm each code.
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Three services remove the most common causes of delay in France.
Tradewise prepares and files every customs entry correctly. Our IOR services in France help you import IT equipment to France without penalties or delay.
ExpertWe review your CE files, French labels and recycling duties before arrival.
FrenchOur team classifies and values your goods early to avoid costly corrections.
ClassificationThese are the France import regulations for IT equipment, the authorities and rules your goods must satisfy before they can be sold or used. Do I need an importer of record in France? If you have no EU entity or French VAT number, yes. Tradewise can take that role.
Most Important for Tech Imports
CE marking shows that a product meets EU rules. For IT and telecom gear, this usually covers the Low Voltage, EMC, Radio Equipment and RoHS directives. Each product needs an EU declaration of conformity and a technical file, and the importer's details must appear on the product or packaging. In France, the ANFR checks radio equipment on the market. Tradewise checks your files to speed up France import customs clearance.
French customs collects duty and import VAT on all imports.
The national frequency agency manages radio spectrum and checks radio devices.
Approved schemes handle the recycling of electrical equipment.
France is a leading economy in aerospace, energy, luxury goods and digital services. Le Havre and Marseille are its main seaports, and Paris Charles de Gaulle is its largest air cargo hub.
Its main trading partners include Germany, Belgium, Italy and Spain.
With the right partner, shipments stay compliant, efficient, and cost-effective, whether you import tech goods or export dual-use products.
Public holidays can delay customs work, and May has several of them.
May
1 May, 8 May, Ascension Day and Whit Monday slow offices.
14 July
The national holiday. Offices are closed.
August
Many businesses run with smaller teams for most of the month.
Every Week
The weekend in France. Plan customs work for Monday to Friday.
Tell us what you want to import into France. Our team will help you with all the requirements and paperwork. After that we will send you a quote with every cost listed.
Emailinfo@tradewiseint.com
Phone+971 50 713 0614
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