How much tax do I need to pay when buying bearings from China ?
When importing bearings from China, international buyers must consider both import duties and Value-Added Tax (VAT), which vary based on the bearing type, HS code, and any applicable trade agreements (such as MFN or GSP). For example, deep groove ball bearings (HS 8482.10) are often subject to a 4.5% MFN duty in the U.S., while European countries apply duties between 1.5% and 3%, plus VAT of around 20%.
Additional costs like anti-dumping duties, excise taxes, and customs clearance fees may also apply depending on the destination country and product classification. Proper HS code classification, understanding trade agreements, and working with professional customs brokers are key to avoiding overpayment or shipment delays. Buyers are advised to calculate their total landed cost — including product cost, shipping, insurance, duties, VAT, and handling fees — to ensure profitability and smooth cross-border transactions.
