VAT and Tax Rules for EU Lingerie Imports
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- 来源：CN Lingerie Hub
If you're importing lingerie into the EU—whether you're a small online boutique or a growing fashion brand—you can't afford to ignore the latest VAT and tax rules. With the EU's IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop) system now fully in effect, the game has changed. Let’s break it down with real data, practical tips, and a clear table so you don’t overpay or get caught off guard.
Why VAT Rules Changed in 2021
Before July 2021, imports under €22 were VAT-exempt. That loophole? Closed. Now, all goods imported into the EU, regardless of value, are subject to VAT. This was a huge win for fairness—no more avoiding taxes on cheap cross-border e-commerce shipments.
Enter the IOSS system, designed to simplify VAT collection for sellers. If you’re shipping from China, Turkey, or the US to EU customers, you must now collect VAT at checkout and report it through IOSS—or risk delays and unhappy customers stuck paying fees at delivery.
Key Rates Across Major EU Markets
Lingerie falls under ‘wearing apparel’ for tax purposes, but VAT rates vary by country. Here’s a snapshot of standard VAT rates in top EU markets:
| Country | Standard VAT Rate | Reduced Rate (if applicable) | IOSS Registered? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 19% | 7% (not for lingerie) | Yes |
| France | 20% | 5.5% (limited categories) | Yes |
| Italy | 22% | 10% (not applicable) | Yes |
| Spain | 21% | 10% (food, books) | Yes |
| Netherlands | 21% | 9% (groceries) | Yes |
As you can see, there’s no EU-wide standard rate. You’ll need to charge the correct VAT based on the customer’s location—not yours. And yes, that means if you sell a €40 lace bra to someone in France, you collect 20% VAT (€8) upfront.
Duties: Don’t Forget the Extra Layer
VAT isn’t the only cost. Customs duties also apply. For lingerie (HS Code 6208/6212), most EU countries apply a duty rate of 6–12%, depending on fabric and origin. For example:
- Cotton lingerie from China: ~12%
- Synthetic blends from Turkey (EU free trade): 0%
So a €10,000 shipment of cotton bras from China could face €1,200 in duties—plus 19% VAT on the total (product + shipping + duty). That’s an extra €2,200+ in costs. Ouch.
Smart Moves to Stay Compliant & Competitive
Here’s how top lingerie brands handle this:
- Use IOSS: Register or partner with an intermediary. It’s faster, cheaper, and builds trust.
- Localize pricing: Show all-in prices with VAT included. Surprise fees = abandoned carts.
- Source wisely: Consider manufacturing in Turkey or Eastern Europe to avoid duties.
Bottom line? Ignoring EU VAT and tax rules isn’t an option. But with the right setup, you can turn compliance into a competitive edge—faster delivery, happier customers, and fewer headaches at customs.