Looking to ship to the Czech Republic? Then you’ll need some key consumer insights, customs knowledge, and – of course – an international shipping partner. Read on to cash in on one of the fastest growing e-commerce markets in Europe.
CZECH REPUBLIC E-COMMERCE TRENDS
A growing e-commerce market
The Czech Republic online shopping market was worth more than US$8 billion in 2022, taking a 16% share of the country’s total retail spend(1).
Millennials driving the growth
Those aged between 25 and 34 are the biggest e-commerce users in Czech Republic(2). Nine out of 10 people in this age group shopped online in 2020, making marketing to Czech millennials online a top strategy for any cross-border business trying to attract customers.
A golden cross-border opportunity
Approximately 40% of Czech citizens have shopped cross border(3). And there’s good news for international sellers – entering the market is relatively straightforward; they just need to apply for a trade license from the country’s authorities.
Where does Czech Republic import from the most?
Top trading partners (import sources) of Czech Republic in 20234 (By share)
Where do consumers in Czech Republic shop online?
The most popular e-commerce stores in Czech Republic are bazos.cz, heureka.cz and alza.cz5, but international sellers may have a smoother journey by using Amazon or Allegro to enter the market. Both of these online marketplaces have dedicated routes for international merchants to sell to Czech Republic. Do your research to determine which one might best suit your product in terms of traffic volume and audience demographic.
What are they buying?
Most popular e-commerce categories in Czech Republic6
(Share of consumers who bought from that category in 2021-2023)
How do Czech Republic consumers like to pay for their online purchases?
After all, e-commerce shoppers are more likely to abandon their carts if they cannot pay using their preferred payment method.
Leading e-commerce payment methods in Czech Republic7
(By share of transactions, 2021)
What do Czech Republic consumers care about when shopping online?
These Czech Republic e-commerce trends, unveiled in DHL’s Global Shopper Survey 2023, will help you position your business to appeal to local buyers.
56% of Czech Republic consumers shop cross-border to find lower prices
54% would abandon a purchase if unhappy with the delivery options available
49% prefer alternatives to home delivery, such as parcel lockers
46% want clear guidance on customs and duties when buying from an international business
28% only shop from stores offering free returns
Leading shopping holidays in Czech Republic
Be sure to add these dates to your marketing and sales calendar so your business can prepare and cash in!
ENTERING THE MARKET: HOW TO SHIP TO CZECH REPUBLIC
Exporting to Czech Republic: required documentation
When shipping internationally, there are several pieces of documentation commonly required to clear your goods through customs smoothly and help authorities determine what import taxes and duties are due:
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin
- Export and Import Licenses
- Export Packing List
- Insurance Certificate
This dedicated guide goes into detail on each document, including what information you’ll need to complete it.
Prohibited and restricted commodities
Several commodities are not permitted for shipment by DHL under any circumstances, following full consideration by the operational, legal and risk management teams. They include animals, hazardous or combustible materials, and illegal narcotics. Further information can be found here.
Useful resources
Customs Administration of the Czech Republic: https://www.celnisprava.cz/en/Pages/default.aspx
European Commission: https://commission.europa.eu/index_en
Czech Republic import tax & customs duties
Unless exempt, all imported commercial goods are subject to customs duties and taxes based on their Harmonized System (HS) Code tariff classification. Generally speaking, it is the Importer of Record (i.e. either your business or your chosen logistics carrier) who will pay the import duties and taxes.
You can find the correct HS code for your shipment easily via DHL’s MyGTS – a free, user-friendly platform that will help you navigate all aspects of international shipping. This includes calculation of Landed Cost for goods in any country – that is your product cost, duties & taxes, and freight charges – to enhance your pricing strategy and give your customers transparency over shipping fees.
DHL’s expert tips for exporting to Czech Republic
- Czech consumers value efficient and reliable delivery options. DHL’s On Demand Delivery is a flexible, convenient service that allows customers to choose exactly when and where their shipments are delivered, with full tracking.
- Localization is key to success in any foreign market. This includes translating your website and marketing materials into Czech, allowing buyers to pay in their native currency, and adhering to local laws and regulations.
Consider shipping your goods as Duties & Taxes Paid (DTP). Whilst the payment of duties and taxes on international shipments is typically the responsibility of the receiver – i.e., your customer – DHL does offer a DTP service to account holders. This means DHL will invoice the shipper (your business) to cover the costs. The benefit of this is the end customer will not receive an unexpected tax bill when their package arrives at customs – which may damage their opinion of your brand.
Looking to ship to Czech Republic?
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!
Start your journey here
