Importing drip coffee filter bags into the European Union (EU) is straightforward once you understand the basic regulations and prepare the necessary documents in advance. For coffee brands, roasters, and distributors looking to expand into the European market, compliance and quality assurance are key factors in ensuring smooth customs clearance and market access.

1. Understand EU food contact regulations

In the EU, drip coffee bags are classified as food contact materials. This means that the filter paper, inner bag, adhesive, and any packaging components that come into contact with coffee must meet EU safety standards. Manufacturers must provide a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) and relevant laboratory test reports to prove that these materials are safe for use in food.

2. Use the correct HS code.

To avoid customs delays, ensure your products are classified under the correct HS code—typically under the filter paper or coffee accessories category. Accurate coding determines import duties and helps customs authorities verify the goods correctly.

3. Prepare import documents

Before shipping, please prepare and review the following important documents:

• Commercial invoices and packing lists
• Statement of Compliance (DoC)
• Certificate of origin (if applying for preferential tariffs)
• Product Test Report (Migration and Security Testing)
• Bill of lading or air waybill
• Importer’s EORI number (EU customs requirement)

4. Meet EU labeling and traceability requirements

Each shipment should be clearly labeled with the product name, batch number, manufacturer information, and a “suitable for food contact” statement. If your filters are made of biodegradable or compostable materials, you can provide the relevant certifications to enhance your brand’s environmental image.

5. Partner with reliable suppliers

Tonchant is a professional manufacturer of coffee packaging materials and drip filter bags, headquartered in Hangzhou, China. The company provides complete export documentation, including food contact compliance reports, and offers customized packaging solutions for roasters and private label brands. Tonchant’s products are sold to clients in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, helping coffee brands build high-quality, compliant product lines for their markets.

6. Quality and pre-shipment inspection

Before export, it is recommended to conduct sensory and seal tests on randomly selected samples. Tonchant provides pre-shipment inspection services and ensures that all packaging materials meet approved specifications.

7. Customs and Transportation Preparation

Partnering with experienced freight forwarders familiar with EU coffee import procedures, Tonchant assists clients in preparing professional packing lists and invoices compliant with customs requirements to avoid clearance issues. Depending on order size and urgency, we offer both sea and air freight options.

Final suggestion

To successfully import drip bag filters into the EU, three key factors are crucial: compliant documentation, accurate customs information, and consistent product quality. With reliable suppliers like Tonchant, providing verified materials and transparent documentation, your coffee packaging business can confidently and efficiently expand into the European market.

Tonchant is a trusted coffee packaging manufacturer, offering drip bags, coffee filters, and customized eco-friendly coffee packaging solutions. Please contact our sales team if you are interested in collaborating.