Import Cars from China to Italy
Italy's vehicle market is one of Europe's largest, and while it has historically protected its domestic auto industry, Chinese brands — MG and BYD especially — are building real momentum here too. Importing directly from China's domestic market offers a further price advantage, with freight from $5,445 USD and 31–44 days transit.
At DriveSino, we handle the entire export process from China to Italy — vehicle sourcing, multi-point inspection, export documentation, shipping, and EU homologation support.
Why Import from China to Italy?
- Price advantage: direct import from China's domestic market offers a further price advantage even against Italy's existing official Chinese-brand dealer networks
- Wide model range: MG, BYD, Chery, and Geely offer sedans, SUVs, and EVs beyond what's currently distributed officially in Italy
- Multiple port options: Genoa, Naples, La Spezia, and Livorno offer established vehicle-handling infrastructure across Italy's coasts
- Left-hand drive standard: Italy drives on the right, matching the LHD configuration Chinese manufacturers produce as standard
- Wholesale options for dealers: DriveSino offers competitive bulk pricing for Italian dealers and fleets
Shipping from China to Italy
4 ports serving Italy
Freight from $5,445 USD
DriveSino ships vehicles from major Chinese export ports to Italy's main ports:
| Port | Freight (USD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Genoa | $5,445 | 31–43 days |
| La Spezia | $5,528 | 32–44 days |
| Livorno | $5,528 | 32–44 days |
| Naples | $5,610 | 32–44 days |
* Rates are estimates and vary by season and cargo type. Genoa and La Spezia suit Northern Italy; Naples suits the South.
Import Duties & Taxes for Italy
EU import duties and taxes apply to Italy. Current rates for vehicles from China:
- EU import duty: 10% of CIF value for passenger vehicles from China (standard MFN rate)
- Additional EV tariff: Chinese EVs may face additional tariffs under the EU's anti-subsidy investigation — currently up to 17-36% on top of the standard 10% duty
- VAT: 22% in Italy (IVA) on CIF value + import duty
- Total estimated taxes: approximately 32–53% depending on EV tariff status
Estimate Your Total Landed Cost
Based on a $15,000 vehicle — browse our inventory for exact pricing on a specific car.
Estimate only. Import duties and customs costs vary by destination country. Contact us for a precise quote for your specific destination.
Required Documents & Compliance
Provided by DriveSino (Export Side)
DriveSino provides all export-side documentation for shipping from China to Italy:
- Certificate of Origin — Proves vehicle was manufactured in China
- Bill of Lading — Shipping document from the carrier
- Commercial Invoice — Transaction value and vehicle details
- Export Customs Declaration — Filed with Chinese customs
- Vehicle Title/Certificate — Proof of ownership
EU import requirements include EU type approval or individual approval (omologazione), CE marking for certain components, and compliance with EU emission standards. DriveSino offers full EU homologation support for an additional fee.
Import-Side Requirements
Import requirements vary by country. DriveSino advises on Italy-specific regulations and can connect you with trusted customs agents at the destination port.
Ask about ItalyUnderstanding export documentation is key to a smooth import. Visit our Knowledge Hub for detailed explanations:
How to Import a Car from China to Italy
- Browse inventory: explore our selection of export-ready vehicles from China — all with real photos and inspection reports
- Request a quote: contact us via WhatsApp or email with your preferred vehicle and confirm delivery to Italy
- Confirm and pay: a sales contract is issued. Payment by international bank transfer
- Export documentation: we prepare all Chinese export documents
- Shipping: your vehicle ships to Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, or Naples via RoRo or container
- Transit & tracking: 31–44 days sea transit. We provide Bill of Lading and regular tracking updates
- Customs clearance & homologation: we support your EU customs clearance and omologazione with full documentation
- Delivery: after clearance, arrange delivery anywhere in Italy
Tips for Importing to Italy
- Check current EU anti-subsidy tariff status for Chinese EVs before committing to an electric model
- Factor in total landed cost: vehicle price + shipping + insurance + duty + VAT + homologation
- Use the DriveSino cost calculator on each listing for an instant estimate
Related reading
EU Tariffs on Chinese EVs ExplainedImporting Cars from China to Italy — FAQ
How long does it take to ship a car from China to Italy?
Sea transit from China to Italy takes 31–44 days depending on port (Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, or Naples).
How much does it cost to import a car from China to Italy?
Total cost includes: vehicle price (FOB China), shipping freight from $5,445 USD, 10% EU import duty, possible additional EV tariff, and 22% Italian VAT. Use our cost calculator for an instant estimate.
Do I need EU type approval (omologazione) to register a Chinese car in Italy?
Yes. The vehicle needs EU type approval or an individual approval (omologazione) to be registered. DriveSino offers homologation support for vehicles that don't already have it.
How do I pay for a car imported from China to Italy?
DriveSino accepts payment via international bank transfer (T/T). A formal sales contract is provided before any payment.
Knowledge Hub
Detailed answers to common questions about importing cars from China
Ready to Import a Car to Italy?
Contact us for a personalized quote. We handle vehicle sourcing, export documentation, shipping, and delivery.