European or overseas PCB supplier: what really differs
A neutral checklist for deciding where to order prototypes and series, beyond the price per board.
The price per board is only one line of the cost
A quote shows the price of the boards. The total cost of an order also includes shipping, customs formalities, waiting time and the cost of a mistake. Compare the whole chain, not only the unit price.
What to compare
| Criterion | Inside the European Union | Outside the European Union |
|---|---|---|
| Customs | No customs formalities between member states | A customs declaration and import duties may apply |
| VAT | Stated in the offer, according to the rules for your country | Import VAT is usually paid when the goods enter |
| Transit | Usually a few days by road or courier | Usually longer, and dependent on carrier and customs |
| Communication | Same or close time zone, European languages | A different time zone, an answer may take a day |
| Small orders | Prototypes from 1 piece are the normal case | Often priced for volume, sometimes with minimum quantities |
| Documents | RoHS and quality documents written for EU requirements | Check what is included and how it is certified |
| Problems | A short way for questions, rework and returns | A longer way, usually with higher shipping costs |
When an overseas supplier can make sense
- Large volumes of simple boards where the unit price decides.
- Boards without deadline pressure.
- Projects where longer transit and import formalities are acceptable.
When a European manufacturer is the better choice
- Prototypes and small series where time counts.
- Projects that need clear documentation, RoHS compliance (see RoHS for PCBs) or a defined IPC class (see IPC classes).
- Boards that you may have to adjust quickly after a first test.
- Buyers who want one contact and offers in euro, with the VAT treatment stated in the offer.
Where PCB-ELECTRA fits
We manufacture in Iași, Romania, inside the European Union, from 1 piece. The price calculator gives an instant estimate in euro with shipping shown separately and optional. More in price factors, lead time and choosing a European manufacturer. Our offers are addressed to professional customers (B2B).
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay customs duties when I order from Romania?
Not between EU member states, where deliveries involve no customs formalities. Shipping and the VAT treatment are stated in the offer; deliveries outside the EU are handled separately.
Is a European manufacturer always more expensive?
Not necessarily for prototypes and small series, where shipping, customs and waiting time reduce the difference. For large volumes of simple boards an overseas supplier can be cheaper per piece.
How do I compare two quotes correctly?
Compare the same specification (layers, thickness, copper, finish, tests), then add shipping, import costs and delivery time.
Browse the questions and answers →
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