Interested yet? All you need is an international shipping partner and some local market knowledge and your business will be good to go! Read on as we explore the consumer insights and customs knowledge you need to export to France.
Between 2021 and 2022, online sales revenue in France grew from 129 billion euros to 146.9 billion(3).
France has a population of 64.8 million(4), and over 28.1 million e-commerce users(5). This is forecast to grow to 32.7m by 2026.
In 2022, nearly nine out of 10 French consumers aged 25 to 29 years old shopped online(6).
Online marketplaces can be a helpful gateway for cross-border businesses wishing to sell to a new country for the first time.
In 2022, around two-thirds of French online shoppers reported buying clothes and footwear from abroad. In comparison, only 13% of online shoppers bought furniture and homeware from cross-border retailers.
Most popular payment methods in France in 20239
Understanding the key shopping events and holidays in France is crucial for maximizing your e-commerce sales. Here are some important dates to mark in your calendar:
As a member of the European Union (EU), France follows EU trade policies, which generally involve low or no tariffs for goods originating from other EU member states. However, import tax may still apply to goods imported from outside the EU. The specific rates and regulations vary depending on the type of product being imported. It is essential to determine the correct tariff classification and consult the French Customs authorities or a customs broker to ensure compliance with import tax requirements.
Despite these challenges, France has a well-developed infrastructure and efficient customs processes, making it straightforward to import goods compared to some other countries. Additionally, the French population is generally open to international products and trade, making it an attractive market for exporters.
Customers who do not have a duties and taxes account are systematically contacted when their import has a declared value greater than €5,000 in order to confirm payment of duties and taxes (unless sent by DDP). Since March 2014, duties and taxes exceeding €1,000 will be billed to the customer after delivery. Cash advance fees are applied to import into France on DAP shipments in the amount of 2% of the amount of duties and taxes (with a minimum of €14.55 excluding tax or €17.50 including tax): these fees do not apply to DDP shipments. BtC commercial traffic for import into France: for sales to individuals with a value of less than €150, the seller has, since July 1, 2021, the possibility of invoice the buyer for VAT at the time of the sale, then pay the tax authorities monthly by being registered on the Import Single Window (IOSS). By indicating your IOSS number on AWB and invoice, VAT will not be collected at the time of importation. The IOSS number is valid for all EU countries. Goods subject to excise duties (alcohol, tobacco) do not fall under the IOSS regime.
EORI number Since July 2009, an EU regulation has created the EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number. DHL France uses its customers' EORI numbers to carry out the customs clearance process for imports and exports. To facilitate customs clearance this number must be mentioned on the accompanying invoice.
Additional information on the French customs website: http://www.douane.gouv.fr/articles/a10901-numero-eori-economic-operator-registration-and-identification
You’re in the right place! We know that the above guidelines may seem a little overwhelming, but that’s where partnering with DHL will pay off. As international shipping experts, we’ll support you through all customs procedures so that your shipment avoids delays. Sell to the world with DHL!
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