How to choose a German equipment import agent? Avoid these three major pitfalls to save millions in costs

Home » Import Representation »How to choose a German equipment import agent? Avoid these three pitfalls to save millions

German industryEquipment ImportsHidden costs behind the surge in volume

Chinas machinery equipment imports from Germany increased 27% year-on-year from January to June 2025, but industry sampling shows:63% of importers incurred additional costs due to poor agent selection. An auto parts company importing €3.8 million CNC machines faced €820,000 in detention and modification fees when their agent overlooked EEX certification updates.

Five essential core competencies for professional agency services

By comparing service agreements from 17 leading agency firms, we found premium providers should possess:

Dynamic compliance capability
- Real-time tracking of German BAM certification catalog updates
- Mastery of EU 2025/17 Machinery Directive amendments
Tariff optimization plan
- Utilization of China-EU Investment Agreement Phase III tariff reduction lists
- Flexible application of temporary import procedures (ATA Carnet)
Emergency response system
- Alternative transport solutions during Hamburg port strikes
- Fast claim channel for equipment unpacking damage insurance

Comparative cost analysis of typical service packages

Taking the import of a €2 million production line as an example:

Basic service package (quoted at €38,000)
- Regular customs clearance + general cargo transportation
- Potential risk: Additional taxes may apply if equipment installation and commissioning exceed HS code scope
Full-process service package (quoted at €96,000)
- Includes technical document compliance review + special transportation
- Actual savings: Avoids €145,000 CE certification rework costs

Efficiency revolution brought by new cooperation models

Leading agencies are currently implementingPhased service billing:

Customs declaration fees charged based on actual inspection occurrences
Payment method with final payment upon equipment installation acceptance
Pay-as-you-go model for shared local technical consultants in Germany

Three policy windows to focus on in 2025

According to the latest announcement from the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

Before March 31: Complete TR CU certification conversion for used equipment imports
Starting September 1: Mandatory energy consumption monitoring modules for industrial robots
Before November 30: Temporary EU tariff exemption policy for mechanical components