Transporting Toy Trains from China to Italy: EU Compliance and Logistics​

Transporting Toy Trains from China to Italy: EU Compliance and Logistics​

Transporting toy trains from China to Italy, an EU member, requires adherence to the Toy Safety Directive (TSD) 2009/48/EC and Italian-specific regulations. These standards cover safety, electrical components (if applicable), and labeling.​

Toy trains must be free from harmful substances, with all materials (plastic, metal, paint) complying with REACH regulations. If the train is battery-operated, it must meet electrical safety standards to prevent short circuits or overheating. The TSD mandates that moving parts (like wheels or tracks) are designed to avoid pinching or trapping fingers, especially for young children.​

Labeling must include the CE mark, manufacturer’s information, and instructions in Italian. Age recommendations are required, and any small parts or choking hazards must be clearly warned. For battery-operated trains, instructions for safe battery use and disposal must be included.​

Packaging should be robust to protect the train and its components during transit. Tracks and small parts should be securely packaged to prevent loss or damage. Palletizing bulk shipments can help with handling and reduce the risk of damage during transport.​

Customs clearance in Italy requires a declaration of conformity (DoC) confirming compliance with the TSD, a commercial invoice, and a packing list. The DoC should be signed by the manufacturer or importer and include details about testing and compliance. Italian customs may inspect shipments to verify standards, so retaining test reports is essential.​

Logistics options include sea freight from Ningbo to Genoa (35–45 days) or air freight to Milan (5–7 days). Working with a freight forwarder experienced in EU toy shipments can help navigate documentation and customs procedures. Additionally, ensuring the toy trains do not infringe on any Italian or EU trademarks is important to avoid legal issues.