Importer & Exporter of Record Services in France
France is a key gateway into the European Union, with advanced infrastructure and a strong regulatory framework governing imports and exports. However, importing IT, telecom, or high-value equipment into France requires strict compliance with EU customs rules, EORI registration, VAT (TVA), and product conformity standards such as CE, RoHS, and WEEE.
For companies without a local entity, these requirements can create delays, unexpected costs, and compliance risks. With a trusted IOR/EOR partner, you can operate in France and across the EU while ensuring smooth, fully compliant logistics operations.
IOR & EOR Responsibilities in France
In France, the legal importer representation France is legally responsible for import compliance under EU customs law, while the Exporter of Record (EOR) manages outbound shipments and regulatory obligations.
Our responsibilities include:
Acting as your legal importer/exporter in France
Managing customs declarations using an EORI number
Ensuring accurate HS classification and tariff alignment
Handling import duties and VAT (TVA) payments
Verifying compliance with CE, EMC, RoHS, and WEEE directives
Coordinating with French Customs (Douane)
Maintaining audit-ready records and documentation
France Trade Compliance Snapshot
Indicator | Details |
|---|---|
VAT (TVA) | 20% standard rate |
Import Duties | 0–14% depending on HS code |
Clearance | 1–3 working days |
Customs Authority | French Customs (Douane) |
Required ID | EORI number |
Top Import Sectors | IT, Telecom, Medical Devices, Industrial Equipment |
When Do You Need IOR or EOR Services in France?
You should use an IOR/EOR service if:
You don’t have a French or EU entity with an EORI number
You’re importing regulated tech or telecom equipment
You need to manage VAT (TVA) without local registration
You’re shipping under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms
You’re handling temporary imports, returns, or demo equipment
You want to avoid customs delays, storage fees, or penalties
How We Help – Sector-Specific Solutions
Sector | Needs | Our Support |
|---|---|---|
IT & Networking | CE, EMC, WEEE, RoHS compliance — alongside accurate origin documentation French customs requires to verify preferential tariff eligibility and confirm that goods entering France meet EU rules of origin standards. | Documentation verification, customs clearance |
Telecom & 5G | Radio Equipment Directive (RED) |
|
Data Centers | High-value imports, phased shipments | Duty/VAT planning and project logistics |
| CE marking, regulatory compliance | Licensing alignment and customs support |
Industrial / IoT | Safety standards, dual-use controls | Screening, classification, export control support |
Understanding VAT, Duties & DDP in France
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services help manage import costs and compliance, including:
Duties & taxes
0–14% import duty, VAT on imports France (TVA) charged at 20% on CIF + duties, plus variable additional fees.
Additional charges
May include eco-fees, WEEE compliance, or anti-dumping duties
Compliance risks
Incorrect declarations can lead to delays, extra costs, or penalties
Key considerations
VAT applies on total landed cost; accurate HS classification is essential
DDP advantage
Prepay duties and VAT for smooth clearance and full cost transparency
Be in the Know
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Our Full IOR & EOR Service in France Includes
Legal representation as Importer & Exporter of Record
EORI-based customs processing
HS classification and tariff optimization
Duty and VAT payment handling
Product compliance verification (CE, RoHS, WEEE)
Temporary imports and RMA support
Real-time shipment tracking and compliance updates
Why Choose IOR EOR for France?
EU Regulatory Expertise
Deep knowledge of EU customs, VAT, and product regulations
No Local Entity Required
Operate in France without establishing a company
End-to-End Compliance
From documentation to delivery, fully managed
Cost Optimization
Accurate duty and VAT planning
Tech Industry Focus
Specialists in IT, telecom, and data-center equipment
Get Your IOR / EOR Solution in France Today
Importing into France and the EU requires precision and compliance. With IOR/EOR services, you gain a trusted partner to manage customs, VAT, and regulatory requirements—ensuring fast, compliant, and risk-free operations.
Start your France imports with confidence:
FAQs
An Importer of Record in France must be a legally established entity within the European Union holding a valid EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number. This entity assumes full legal responsibility for the import, including customs compliance, documentation accuracy, and payment of duties and taxes.
Yes, an EORI number is mandatory for all importers within the EU. It is used by customs authorities to track and process shipments, and without it, goods cannot be cleared through customs.
Import VAT in France (typically 20%) is calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the goods, plus any applicable customs duties and additional charges incurred up to the point of entry.
Shipping under DDP terms without a local EU entity can be complex. In most cases, a foreign company will need to appoint an Importer of Record (IOR) or a fiscal representative to manage import formalities and ensure compliance with EU regulations.
Standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or airway bill. Depending on the product type, additional compliance documents or certifications (such as CE marking or product-specific approvals) may also be required.
The consignee is the party that physically receives the goods, while the Importer of Record (IOR) is the entity legally responsible for ensuring the shipment complies with all customs regulations, including declarations, duties, and taxes. In some cases, both roles can be held by the same entity, but they are not necessarily the same.
