This article analyzes the topic of Chinese electricity meters being exported to Germany, focusing on the current export situation, the export process, regulatory certification, and strategies for optimizing time and tariff cost control. We hope it proves helpful to you.

輸出の現(xiàn)狀

1. Market Size and Growth

Total exports: In 2023, China's exports of electricity meters to Germany reached USD 420 million, up 8.3% year-on-year and accounting for 25% of China's electricity-meter exports to the EU (China Customs data).

Core categories：

• Smart meters (60% share): Driven by Germany’s energy transition, more than 30 million units are planned for installation before 2025;
• Industrial high-precision electricity meters (30% share): driven by the digital upgrade of manufacturing.
• Residential electricity meters (10%).

2. Competitive Landscape

• China's Advantages: Prices are 20–30% lower than those of German domestic brands, with shorter lead times (averaging 45 days);
• Challenge: European brands such as Siemens and ABB still dominate the high-end market, and Chinese products need to break through the technology trust barrier.

Export Procedures and Required Documents

1. Standardized Export Process

• Order Confirmation: Sign a contract that includes Incoterms 2020 clauses, clearly specifying technical parameters (such as accuracy class and communication protocol) and the delivery schedule.
• Production and Quality Inspection: Manufactured in accordance with German standards such as IEC 62053 and DIN EN 50437, and tested by third-party laboratories (e.g., SGS, TüV).
• 輸出申告: Submit the customs declaration to China Customs, specifying the HS code and the intended-use code, while simultaneously applying for the Certificate of Origin (CO or RCEP).
• 物流輸送: Choose Shanghai/Ningbo to Hamburg Port (ocean freight 25–30 days) or China-Europe Railway Express (12–15 days), with final-mile delivery handled by local carriers such as DHL or DPD.

2. Reference Document List

• 商業(yè)インボイス: Specify the voltage rating (e.g., 230 V / 50 Hz) and accuracy class (e.g., Class 1.0);
• パッキングリスト: Gross/Net weight marked per pallet (Germany charges by gross weight);
• Bill of Lading: The consignee must provide an EORI number (the unique identifier for EU businesses).
• CEマーキング: Includes EMC (EN 61326) and safety (EN 61010) test reports;
• MID Certification: Mandatory certification (B+D module), subject to review by an EU Notified Body (e.g., TüV Rheinland);
• RoHS Test Report: Proof of compliance with the six hazardous substances including lead and cadmium.
• WEEE Registration Number: The German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act requires prior registration with the EAR.
• IPPC Fumigation Certificate: If wooden packaging is included, this certificate must be provided.

Regulations and Certification Requirements

1. Mandatory Certification

MID認証（2014/32/EU）：

• Process: Submit technical documentation → Prototype testing → Factory audit → Certification (4–6 months);
• Cost: approximately 15,000–30,000 EUR.

CE marking: Covers EMC and the Low Voltage Directive; annual surveillance audits are required.

2. Environmental Protection and Recycling Regulations

• Battery Act (BattG)：Battery-containing meters must display a recycling symbol and be registered;
• Packaging Act (VerpackG): The carton must be printed with the "Green Dot" symbol, and the plastic content must be ≤5%.

3. German Localization Requirements

• ドイツ語の説明書: Operating instructions and safety warnings need to be provided in German;
• Calibration Certificate: The industrial electricity meter must provide a report accredited by DAkkS (the German National Accreditation Body).

包裝と表示要件

1. Packaging Specifications

• Seismic Design: Apply an anti-scratch film to the meter’s display and pack the interior with EPE foam;
• eco-friendly materials: Cartons must be FSC-certified; EPS foam plastic is prohibited;
• Uniform specifications: Single-box weight ≤ 25 kg (compliant with German manual handling standards).

2. Identification Content

Mandatory label：

• CE marking (height ≥ 5 mm);
• MID Metrology Mark (M+Number);
• Voltage/Frequency/Accuracy Class (e.g., 230 V / 50 Hz / Class 1.0).

Recycling Symbol：

Battery-containing products must display the "trash can with an X" symbol.

The packaging box is printed with the "Green Dot" symbol;

Time and Tariff Cost Optimization Strategy

1. Time Optimization

• Pre-declaration system: Submit the ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) 72 hours in advance, and complete customs clearance within 24 hours after arrival;
• China-Europe Railway Express + Truck Intermodal Transport: Chongqing–Hamburg in 18 days plus truck delivery, saving roughly 10 days compared with pure ocean freight.

2. Tariff Cost Control

• Properly classify the HS code: Smart meters are classified under9028.30.00(Tariff 2.7%), ordinary electricity meters are classified under9028.10.00(Tariff 3.5%);
• Leverage rules of origin: Apply for the GI certificate under the China-EU Geographical Indications Agreement, and the tariff on certain products can be reduced to 0%;
• Bonded warehousing: Establish a warehouse in the Hamburg Free Trade Zone, clear customs in batches, and defer tax payment.

3. Supply Chain Collaboration

• modular production: Core components (e.g., metering chips) are pre-stocked in Germany to shorten delivery lead times;
• localized services: Partner with third-party agencies in Germany to provide rapid calibration and repair services.

結(jié)論

As Europe’s largest electricity-meter market, Germany imposes stringent requirements on product quality and regulatory compliance while simultaneously offering Chinese companies opportunities for technological upgrading and brand premium. By strengthening certification management, optimizing supply-chain efficiency, and deepening localized services, Chinese electricity-meter enterprises can leap from a “cost advantage” to a comprehensive competitiveness built on “technology + service” in the German market.