The global toy market continues to thrive, with China remaining the world’s leading manufacturer and exporter of toys. From action figures and dolls to educational toys and electronic gadgets, Chinese suppliers offer a vast selection at competitive prices. However, importing toys from China involves navigating regulations, logistics, and quality control to ensure a smooth and profitable process.
Regulatory Measures and Compliance of Toys Being Imported
International Standards
Toys imported from China must meet the safety standards that apply to all the target markets.
U.S. Market
Says it has to meet the requirements of “ASTM F963” and “CPSIA” concerning lead content, small parts, and content of phthalates.
European Union
Must be produced under the safety and quality of “EN71” for parts B, F, and G standards related to the presence of heavy metals, electrical safety, and flammable materials, respectively.
Other Markets
Every nation has its own standards (as Japan has its ST Standards). The information obtained will ensure compliance for each market before import.
Certificates and Testing
- CE Certification (required in Europe)
- CPSIA Compliance (for the U.S.)
- CCC Certification (for China)
Material and Quality Assurance
Avoid hazardous chemicals in materials like plastics and paints, ensuring they meet toy safety guidelines.
Use “phthalate-free plastics” for toys and “lead-free paint” for all surfaces, tested by a certified lab.
Special Features – Product for Specific Age and Clear Labeling
Age Warnings and Labels
Each toy should have precautions and instructions similar to those: ‘Not suitable for children under 3 years’. This also alerts the caregivers of any danger that is within the home, and also acquaints them with the state laws.
Be Careful with toys for kids under 3 years : From 0 – 3 years of age, children like to explore their environment with their mouths, so some toys with small parts are not suitable as they can be a choking hazard.
Example: “A toy manufacturer also wrote age-specific labels and warnings in English, French, and German for a European shipment and thus could avoid multilingual labeling and relabeling costs at EU customs.”
Customs and Documentation
Provide documents about invoices, packing lists, certificates, and test reports.
IP Protection (Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights)
Avoiding Counterfeits
Policies regarding counterfeiting exist in the Chinese marketplace, therefore it is confirmed that products do not violate IP.
When designing product logos, clothes, or any part of your merchandise, do not imitate famous brands without getting permission because you will be exposed to lawsuits or import bans.
Register Your IP
If you have proprietary or branded toys, consider registering your trademark and patent in China to prevent unauthorized replication. Any toy may be proprietary or branded, so it is wise to register trademarks and patents in China.
What are types of toys, and how much do they cost in china?
Not all toys can be categorized as either being highly profitable or as highly-selling toys. When knowing what products are sold most frequently and what trends are popular now, it is possible to base decisions on where to invest and where not to lose money.
Educational Toys
(Magnetic building sets, Montessori learning toys, and materials in the form of interactive flashcards)
Average Price:
- Basic wooden puzzles: $0.50 per unit.
- Advanced STEM kits: A range of $2-$5 for a piece depending on the materials and technology involved.
Electronic Toys
(Toy cars that can be controlled with remote control, robots that speak, animal-shaped toys that can dance)
Average Price:
- Simple battery-operated toys: $1-$3 per unit.
- Advanced RC cars or robots: $5-$20+ per unit.
Plush and Soft Toys
Average Price:
- Small plush toys: $0.80-$2 per unit.
- Larger or branded plush dolls: $5-$10+ per unit.
Creative Toys – Arts and Crafts
Average Price:
- Basic coloring kits: $0.20-$0.70 per unit.
- Complex craft sets: $1-$5 per unit.
- Examples: Paint-by-number sets, bead art activity sets, and modeling clay.
Some aspects of importing toys from China for the EU and US markets
For the EU, it is important to ensure that imported goods meet the requirements for distribution in the European Union. This involves applying the necessary labels to the product and obtaining all required documents or certifications. For example, according to the Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC), all toys that fall under a specific definition (such as those intended for children under the age of 14) must be labeled with CE. Additionally, appropriate warnings must be included on the label, packaging, or in the manual. You should also include the manufacturer’s name or brand, address, and the toy’s batch or model number.
For the United States, when importing children’s toys from China, it is required by law to provide a Child Product Certificate (CPC). This is a document based on test results that confirms that the product meets the relevant safety standards. For children’s toys that may contain chemicals or physical risks that are harmful to children’s health, laboratory test reports are required.
In addition, some toys, such as those with registered trademarks, may require an import license.
Safety regulations. Toy safety is not optional—it’s mandatory. Importers must prepare for compliance to avoid issues. Importing non-compliant toys can lead to rejected shipments, fines, or worse: harm to consumers and brand damage. That’s why importers must understand the toy safety standards required by their destination country.
Proper labeling is crucial to avoid potential compliance problems that could arise during safety evaluations and recalls.
United States (CPSC-Regulated)
- All toys intended for children under 12 must comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) rules.
- Products must be tested by a third party lab accredited by the CPSC.
- A Children’s Product Certificate (CPC) must accompany the shipment, listing test results and the responsible party.
- Toys must also meet ASTM F963 standards for flammability, lead, sharp points, and choking hazard warnings.
European Union (EU)
- Toys must comply with the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC.
- Mandatory EN71 testing (Parts 1, 2, 3) for mechanical, chemical, and flammability safety.
- CE marking is required on the product, packaging, or instructions.
- Electronic toys must also meet EMC and RoHS directives to ensure they don’t emit dangerous radiation.
UAE and GCC Countries
- UAE requires G-mark certification and conformity with Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS) for toys.
- Products like RC toys, talking dolls, or smart toys may also require radiation and electromagnetic field testing.
Universal Safety Precautions
- Regardless of destination:
- Conduct third party lab testing before shipping
- Label toys with age recommendations and safety icons
- Ensure materials are non-toxic, especially for baby toys or toys for toddlers
- Verify packaging includes product safety warnings
Ignoring safety can delay customs clearance, cause bans, or result in costly recalls. Always prioritize supplier compliance, even if it adds to upfront sourcing cost.
Tariffs vary by country (such as U.S. 7.5%-25%, EU VAT), and incomplete paperwork causes delays or extra costs.
Recommendations:
- Check HS code 9503 for duties.
- Prepare invoices, packing lists, and Certificates of Origin.
- Hire a customs broker.
Case Study: In 2023, a U.S. buyer imported $20,000 in toys, unaware of Section 301 tariffs, paying an extra $5,000.
Case Study: In 2024, an Italian importer faced a two-week VAT delay due to missing origin certificates.
Detailed Recommendations
- Visit your target market’s customs website (such as U.S. Customs Service, EU TARIC), input HS 9503 (such as 9503.00.10 for plush toys) to calculate exact duties; consult local chambers of commerce for tariff relief options.
- Request electronic document drafts from suppliers for pre-review, ensuring invoice values match reality (avoid under-reporting risks), and apply for CO Form A (~$20-$50 via China Chamber of Commerce) for potential reductions.
- Engage a professional broker (such as FedEx Trade Networks, ~$100-$300 per clearance) for swift processing; retain all customs docs for 3-5 years for audits.
Shipping Toys from China: Air vs Sea Freight Explained
Once your toys are packed and ready to go, the next critical decision is: how should you ship them? The two most common shipping methods for importing toys from China are air freight and sea freight. Each has its own pros, cons, and ideal use cases.
Air Freight – Fast but Costly
- Small or medium-sized shipments (45–300 kg)
- Time-sensitive orders like new product launches or holiday stock
- High-value goods (e.g. smart toys, licensed products)
Transit time is usually 3–7 days, including customs clearance. However, cost is charged per chargeable weight (whichever is higher between gross and volume weight), making it more expensive for bulky items.
Ideal for:
- Emergency orders
- E-commerce fulfillment
- Lightweight plush toys, RC cars, or licensed toys
Sea Freight – Economical for Bulk
Sea freight is the go-to option for:
- Large-volume shipments
- Toys with lower per-unit value
- Businesses with flexible delivery timelines
Transit time ranges from 25 to 40 days, depending on the route. You can ship as FCL (Full Container Load) or LCL (Less than Container Load).
To ship by sea, you’ll need:
- Shipping documents: Packing list, commercial invoice, bill of lading, etc.
- Cargo insurance to cover damage or loss
- Help from experienced freight forwarders to book container space and handle customs
Shipping Method Comparison
Criteria | Air Freight | Sea FCL | Sea LCL | Express |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cost (per kg) | $4-$8 | $0.8-$1.5 | $1.2-$2 | $5-$10 |
Transit Time | 3-7 days | 25-40 days | 30-45 days | 5-10 days |
Best For | Urgent orders <300kg | Orders >15 CBM | Orders 2-15 CBM | Samples <100kg |
Customs Clearance | Included | Separate | Consolidated | Included |
Supplier Selection and Reliability
China’s supplier landscape ranges from small workshops to large factories, making it critical to choose reliable partners to avoid delays or quality issues.
- Meet factories directly at toy fairs (such as China Toy Expo, Shenzhen Toy Fair).
- Verify credentials online (such as business licenses, export permits).
- Sign detailed contracts.
Case Study: In 2022, a U.S. importer ordered 10,000 plush toys from a small Jiangsu factory, losing $15,000 when the supplier vanished after a 50% deposit.
Case Study: In 2024, an Australian buyer missed Christmas sales due to delays from a Shandong supplier during peak season.
Detailed Recommendations:
- Prioritize suppliers who’ve exhibited at international fairs (such as Spielwarenmesse), as they typically have export experience and quality systems—check exhibitor lists on fair websites (such as China Toy Expo).
- On Alibaba, focus on “Gold Suppliers” or “Trade Assurance” tags, and request video calls or third-party factory audits (such as SGS, ~$300-$800) to confirm legitimacy.
- Start with a small trial order (500-1,000 units, ~$1,000-$2,000) to test delivery and quality; if feasible, hire a China-based sourcing agent to visit the factory and provide production photos.
Intellectual Property and Compliance
Counterfeit or unlicensed toys risk lawsuits or sales bans.
- Demand original brand authorization letters (such as Disney China approval for Disney items) and verify via brand websites (such as LEGO.com); opt for original designs if unlicensed.
- Hire an IP lawyer ($500-$1,000) to review product patents, or use WIPO’s free database for basic checks.
- Add a contract clause: “Supplier fully liable for IP disputes,” and request export insurance (such as 1-2% of order value) for added protection.
Toy Production Areas in China
Chinese toy manufacturers are primarily located in several cities and regions known for their manufacturing industries. Some prominent cities include:
Shenzhen – Known as the “Silicon Valley of Toys,” Shenzhen is one of the largest toy manufacturing hubs in China.
Guangzhou – Another major manufacturing center in China, Guangzhou is home to many toy factories and suppliers.
Dongguan – Located in Guangdong Province, Dongguan has a significant concentration of toy manufacturers and is known for its production of plastic and electronic toys.
Yiwu – Yiwu, in Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its wholesale trade market, including a vast selection of toy suppliers.
Chenghai – Chenghai, a district within Shantou City in Guangdong Province, specializes in manufacturing and exporting a wide range of toys.
Shanghai – While primarily known as a major financial and commercial hub, Shanghai also has a significant presence of toy manufacturers.
What Toys are Manufactured in China?
China produces various types of toys, including:
- Educational toys. Puzzles, building sets, and STEM development sets.
- Electronic toys. Toys with interactive features, such as remote-controlled toys and electronic pets.
- Action figures. Small figurines of media characters, superheroes, and movie characters.
- Dolls. Traditional and fashion dolls with various accessories.
- Outdoor toys. Toys for outdoor play, such as balls, frisbees, and kites.
- Transportation. Toys that children can ride, such as bicycles and scooters.
- Creative activity sets. Drawing sets, DIY projects.
Some toy manufacturers in China
- Dongguan Songli Plastics Industry Co., Ltd.. Specializes in plastic and electronic toys with advanced production and strict quality control.
- Guangdong Alpha Animation and Culture Co., Ltd.. Specializes in animation-based toys and collaborates with studios to produce action figures and educational toys.
- Zhejiang Mulolo Toys & Crafts Co., Ltd.. Produces plush toys made of hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials.
- Huada Toy Co., Ltd.. It is known for its variety of high-quality toys, including action figures, electronic toys, and educational toys.
Toy Safety Directive (EU)
Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC is a European Union directive that sets safety requirements for toys, including those imported from China.
According to the directive, a toy is an object that is used for play by a child under the age of 14. All toys that fall under this definition must be CE-marked.
- Compliance assessment. It is carried out in accordance with the relevant standard, which allows for the issuance of a CE certificate of conformity and a CE declaration of conformity.
- Labeling and packaging. The label, packaging, or user manual of the toy must include appropriate warnings. It is also necessary to indicate the name or trademark, manufacturer’s address, model, or batch number of the toy.
- Technical documentation. The importer must have the technical documentation for the toy.
Some other requirements:
- Import license. It is required for goods with a registered trademark, such as toys from well-known brands.
- Prohibition of importing counterfeit goods. If customs finds counterfeit goods, they will be confiscated and the products will be destroyed.
Other Directives for Toys (EU)
In addition to the Toy Safety Directive, some toys may also be subject to more directives and require various documents. Two examples of such goods are toys that are electronic or need batteries. In such cases, for the toy to be CE-marked, it will also be necessary to demonstrate compliance with directives such as RoHS, LVD, and EMC.
*RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is a European directive that restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.
*Low Voltage Directive (LVD) is a European Union directive that applies to electrical equipment intended for use within certain voltage limits. The official name is Directive 2014/35/EU.
*EMC Directive 2014/30/EU is the European Union’s directive on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). It aims to harmonize technical regulation standards in EU countries and reduce trade barriers.
Toy Safety Compliance and Certificates (US)
- ASTM F963. A toy safety standard created by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). It sets requirements for the chemical, mechanical, and flammable properties of toys. According to the standard, certain toys or products made from specific materials require specific testing.
- CPSIA. A law that defines mandatory safety requirements for toys, including restrictions on lead content (no more than 90 ppm, or 0.009% by weight) and phthalate content. The law also establishes requirements for mandatory third-party testing and labeling of toys.
- Testing is conducted in accredited laboratories that are approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It includes an assessment of the chemical composition, mechanical safety, and durability of the toy.
The label must contain certain information about the product, such as:
- the name of the manufacturer;
- the place and date of production of the toy;
- information about the production process, including the batch number and additional identifying characteristics;
- any other information about the specific source of the product.
Toy certification is carried out by obtaining a Child Product Certificate (CPC). Manufacturers and importers must periodically test their products and keep detailed records of compliance with safety standards.
Importing Toys from China to the EU Requirements
When importing toys from China to the EU, you need to consider certain aspects and decide whether a given product is the one you want to base your import business on. You need to pay attention to the following issues:
- duty rates on toy imports from China,
- required certifications (CE, RoHS),
- required licenses (for branded toys).
While importing any merchandise from China, it is necessary to check the customs tariff and be prepared to pay fees. In this matter, the Integrated Tariff of the European Communities (TARIC) run by the Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union might be of great help. Using the system is free of charge.
Every importer should make sure that the imported goods meet all the requirements for distribution in the European Union. It is crucial to place needed markings on the product as well as obtain all the mandatory documents or certificates.
Step-by-step process of importing toys from China to the EU
- Determine the product requirements. Specify the type of toy, the age group and intended use, the requirements for materials and safety, and the necessary certifications.
- Find reliable suppliers. You can use trading platforms (such as Alibaba, Made-in-China), online supplier search websites, and toy fairs (such as Canton Fair, Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair) to find reliable suppliers.
- Check the safety and compliance of the product with the standards. In many countries, toys are regulated, and you need to make sure that the products meet certain standards before importing them.
- Request samples and discuss the terms. You cannot place a large order without first testing the sample. You need to check the quality, functionality, and safety of the toy, as well as its packaging and label. After that, you can discuss the price, minimum order quantity (MOQ), payment terms, and delivery dates.
- Choose the appropriate delivery terms. The delivery terms determine who will handle the transportation, customs clearance, and insurance.
It is recommended to contact a specialist for successful toy import.
Importing Toys from China to the US Requirements
Step-by-step process of importing toys to the USA from China
- Research and selection of a supplier. It is necessary to evaluate the quality, compliance with standards, and experience of the supplier. It is important to ensure that the supplier is familiar with the regulations for importing toys to the USA to avoid the import of non-compliant products. It is also necessary to request samples of the product to evaluate its quality and ensure compliance with the specifications.
- Product compliance and testing. Before production, toys are tested in accredited laboratories to ensure compliance with ASTM and FHSA standards. The product must also be properly labeled with age ratings, warnings, and certification marks.
- Documentation and certification. If the toy is intended for children, it must be certified as a child product (CPC). All certificates and documentation must be prepared for inspections by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
- Delivery and customs clearance. Depending on the budget, volume, and urgency, air or sea delivery can be chosen. Toys require specific Harmonized System (HS) codes for customs declarations. It is important to use accurate codes to avoid penalties or delays.
Your Licensed Customs Broker can help you ensure that you have all the proper documents in place when importing toys. The import document paperwork for toys generally includes:
- A receipt or a bill of lading listing the toys
- An official invoice that lists the country of origin purchase price, and tariff classification of the toys
- A packing list that details your imported toys
- An arrival notice from a specified U.S. customs agent
- CPC
- Transportation invoice
- Customs Bond
How Much Import Duty on Toys from China? (EU US)
To calculate import duties for toys in the EU and the US, you need to follow these steps:
- Find the HS code. The Harmonized System (HS) code is a standard classification of goods. Customs officials use this code to calculate duties.
- Confirm the duty rate. The HS code allows you to determine the exact duty rate that can be applied to the product. This rate depends on the type of product, the country of origin, and existing trade agreements.
- Determine the customs value. For this purpose, the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value is often used, which includes the price of the goods, shipping costs, and insurance premiums.
- Apply the duty rate. To calculate the duty, multiply the customs value by the duty rate. For example, if the customs value of the goods is \$10,000 and the duty rate is 5%, the duty amount would be \$500.
To calculate import duties in the EU, you need to know the customs value of the goods, which is the price of the goods at the EU’s external border plus the costs of transportation and insurance to the EU’s border or port of entry. Sometimes, certain expenses can be added or subtracted from the customs value.
In the United States, there is generally no duty on toys. However, other import taxes may apply:
- MPF (Merchandise processing fee). If toys are shipped by air or sea, the calculation is as follows: item value * 0.3464% (minimum $27.20, maximum $538.40).
- HMF (Harbor maintenance fee). If toys are shipped by sea, the calculation is as follows: item value * 0.125% (no minimum or maximum value limit).
- *It is recommended to contact a qualified customs broker for a professional calculation of import duties.
Can I Import Licensed Toys from China?
Yes, licensed toys from China can be imported into the United States, but it is important to follow certain requirements and procedures.
Import requirements
- Certification according to safety standards. Toys must comply with the rules of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM F963 standards for flammability, lead content and sharp objects.
- Presence of a certificate for children’s products (CPC). The importer must provide the results of tests conducted in an independent laboratory accredited by the CPSC, and on the basis of this obtain a certificate.
- Written confirmation of compliance of the trademark. Along with the import documents, you must provide proof that the seller has received permission from the trademark owner.
The clearance process
- Supplier verification. The importer must ensure that the company offering the toys is licensed and compliant with regulations.
- Request for samples. If the toys are made to order, it is recommended to request samples from the supplier to assess their quality.
- Customs clearance. Importing licensed toys from China to the United States requires compliance with the procedures set by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is advisable to work with a licensed customs broker to avoid misclassifying the goods.
Examples of documents
- Contract with the supplier. It contains a description of the toys, the quantity, the cost, and the terms of delivery.
- Packing list. It contains information about the number of items, the weight, the dimensions of the product, and the type of packaging.
- Customs declaration. It contains detailed classification, valuation, and other information about the goods.
2025 Import Duty Rates for Major Markets
United States:
- HS Code 9503: General toy category
- Base duty rate: 0% for most toys
- Section 301 tariffs: Up to 25% for Chinese-origin toys (verify current status)
- MPF: 0.3464% of value ($27.20 min – $538.40 max)
- HMF: 0.125% for sea shipments 9
European Union:
TARIC Code 9503:
- Standard duty: 4.7% (varies by subcategory)
- VAT: 20-25% depending on member state
- Anti-dumping duties may apply to certain products
UAE/GCC:
- GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) requirements
- Duty: 5% standard
- G-Mark certification mandatory
How to Minimize the Risk of Toy Infringement?
The toy category is prone to various infringement issues. Here are 4 common situations and tips on how to avoid them:
Toys with very popular IP (e.g. Barbie, Superman, Minions).
If you want to import these licensed toys, ensure that you or your supplier has obtained the toy brand‘s authorization. Without this authorization, toys found during Chinese or foreign customs inspections will be destroyed.
Trending toys
Every year, some toys become very popular. While some people quickly resell these items for quick money, be prepared for potential infringement risks later, because someone is bound to register a patent.
My advice is to keep an eye on designs, patterns, and icons on the toys, as lots of them have copyrights. Before selling, perform basic intellectual property checks:
- Search product keywords & descriptions on Google to find patent or trademark numbers.
- Check the official website of your country. Click U.S. Patent Search, and EU Patent Search for direct search if you’re in the 2 regions.
Note that patents still under review won’t appear in searches. For more specific details, consult a professional intellectual property lawyer.
Simple customizing in-stock toys
If you are simply adding your logo, custom packaging, or changing the color of a supplier’s in-stock toys, make sure to confirm whether these toys are originally designed by your supplier or are imitations/improvements of existing products. Supplier-developed products usually avoid infringement issues.
If the toys are imitated or improved versions, conduct a patent search to ensure they avoid the original design. For example, the Bubble Toy Bow has a patented unique structure resembling a bow and arrow. Only by modifying the product’s structure can you avoid infringement risks.
Designing your own unique toys
If you design toys with unique appearances or functions, sign an NNN agreement with Chinese factories to prevent them from disclosing or using your information.
While your toy design is not yet hot-selling, don’t worry about the factories copying it, as they specialize in product manufacturing, not marketing and sales. For factories, direct copy entails high costs and risks. Once your designed toys start selling well, be sure to apply for a patent, copyright, or trademark to protect your IP rights in the long run.
How to Control Toy Quality in China?
Toy importers must guarantee toy quality and their adherence to various safety requirements, especially where the toy business is pretty competitive and repeatedly monitored as in the case of the United States, Europe, and Australia.
Penalties may include fines, recall, and worst of all, suffering great harm to your corporate image is not a joke. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
It is important to have an understanding of both the International and Local Toy Safety Standards
United States: Under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) toys are required to meet the standards of ASTM F963. The most important provisions include restrictions on lead and phthalates, the requirement for flammability of materials used in some children’s products, and the prohibition on small parts in personal gear.
Europe: EN71 standard must be followed strictly. It contains provisions on chemical safety, mechanical features, flammability, and marking on toys.
Australia: The Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS ISO 8124 is adopted, which corresponds to the international standards for toys.
Choose to partner with certified Suppliers
It is also important to negotiate with suppliers, who have good compliance records. Request documentation, including:
- CE Certification (for Europe).
- CPSIA testing reports (for the United States).
- The CCC Certification (concerning China markets).
Carry out pre-shipping quality assurance inspection
Check raw materials for compliance with safety requirements before incorporating them. For instance:
- Avoid the usage of plastics containing phthalates and paints that have lead in them.
- Ensure that fabrics used in making plush toys are not toxic and do not have any characteristics of a choking hazard.
Test Finished Products
- Chemical Safety: Confirm that no material has lead, cadmium, formaldehyde, or any other toxic material in it.
- Small Parts Testing: Ensure that toys in Category B, Specifically Toys for Children Below the Age of three, do not have any detachable small parts.
- Flammability: Evaluate fabrics and plastics to verify compliance with sets of flammability resistance standards.
How to Ship Toys from China?
If your toy shipment is small, consider express couriers (e.g. UPS) and air shipping. Both have a similar shipping time, about 7-10 days from China to major countries in Europe and US.
These two shipping methods are expensive. Generally, if your toy shipment exceeds 500kg, air freight is cost-effective. If your cargo is below 300kg, express shipping is a better choice. For cargo between 300-500kg, consult your freight forwarder for real-time prices & make a choice.
When your toy shipment is more than 2 CBM, and you’re not in a rush, go for sea freight—it’s the cheapest. The shipping time is 25-40 days.
Finding and Vetting Toy Suppliers in China
Online Platforms
- Alibaba. One of the largest platforms, provides access to millions of manufacturers and suppliers. Here you can find company information, customer reviews, and ratings.
- Made-in-China. Offers a wide range of products and allows you to check quality certificates and compliance with international standards.
- Global Sources. Specializes in Chinese suppliers and manufacturers, provides detailed information about companies, including reviews and ratings.
Visiting exhibitions and fairs
- Canton Fair. It takes place twice a year (in April and October) and covers a wide range of products, including toys.
- China Toy Expo. An international exhibition featuring toys of various categories, including children’s, educational, electronic, construction kits, and puzzles.
When choosing toy suppliers in China, the following aspects should be considered:
- Reputation and experience. Research the feedback from other customers and the company’s rating on platforms.
- Certificates. Ensure that the manufacturer has all the necessary certifications for exporting toys.
- Production inspection. Visit the factory personally to verify compliance with standards.
- Minimum order quantity (MOQ). Check that the factory is capable of producing the required volume of products.
It is also recommended to work with multiple suppliers to diversify risks. It is worth requesting samples of products to assess quality before placing a large order.
Toy Fairs and Expos in China
Trade fairs have indeed been a game changer in sourcing toys, enabling direct access to suppliers, evaluation of products, and networking.
- Canton Fair: One of the most historic fairs, it has a wide variety of industries, from toys to other products, under it.
- Global Sources Fair: High-quality suppliers with innovations in products.
- China Toy Expo: Only toys are exhibited in this fair, so this is a must for those who want really specialized insights.
- HKTDC – Toy and Games Fair: The fair is Asia’s largest event of its kind and is expecting more than 2,000 global exhibitors to showcase a wide variety of products ranging from traditional toys to high-tech games, from famed names to emerging brands.
Can You Trust Toys Made in China?
It is impossible to say for sure whether you can trust toys made in China. The quality of products can vary: some factory-made toys meet the requirements, as they undergo strict government control. However, most products are produced by artels or cooperatives.
Some risks of buying Chinese toys:
- Not all manufacturers adhere to high quality standards. This can result in the purchase of products with defects, poor-quality paint, or low durability.
- Some Chinese toys may not meet safety standards. For example, cheap raw materials may contain hazardous ingredients.
- There are scammers in China. These are companies that sell defective products or take money and disappear.
To minimize risks, it is recommended to:
- Prefer well-known manufacturers.
- Examine the label. It should have a CE marking, which indicates safety.
- Check the quality of the toys. For example, you should smell the toy, rub the fur against the leather, slightly scratch the paint with your fingernail, and check the quality of the seams.
- Read reviews about the seller. A high seller rating and positive customer reviews can serve as a good indicator of reliability.
- Ask sellers questions. Reliable sellers are always open to dialogue and ready to provide all the necessary information.
Do i need a customs bond to import toys?
Yes, a customs guarantee may be required to import toys from China.
According to information from CBP, a customs guarantee is necessary if the value of the goods exceeds $2,500 or if the imported goods are subject to the requirements of federal agencies.
*It is recommended to consult with experts for accurate information on the required documents and import conditions.
What documents do i need to ship toys from China?
Shipping toys from China requires several documents, including a commercial invoice, bill of lading, air waybill (for air freight), packing list, and others. Your freight forwarder can assist you in preparing and filling these documents correctly to avoid issues at customs.
Summary
Importing toys, no matter how beneficial it seems, comes with a lot of responsibilities. Since toys are intended for children, they must meet many requirements regarding the safety of use. Thus, importers should familiarize themselves with all the directives applying to their products, make sure that there is applicable labeling, and provide complete documentation.
Moreover, it is important to keep in mind that it is necessary to have a license to import some toys. Such a situation occurs when you import goods with a registered trademark, for example, toys of famous brands (like Disney). An importer without a license for such products will be fined and will not be able to clear customs.
Official Regulatory and Customs Resources
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Key for ASTM F963, CPSIA compliance, and recall alerts.
European Union Toy Safety Directive
EN71 standards and CE marking requirements.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Tariff lookup (HS Code 9503) and import bond requirements 68.
EU TARIC Database
Duty rates and import regulations for the EU.
China Customs
Export procedures and CCC certification.