How are customs duties calculated?

The calculation of duties depends, in most countries, on the assessable value of a dutiable shipment. For the purpose of this calculation, dutiable goods are given a classification code that is known as the Harmonized System code, which determines the applicable duty rate. This system is a multipurpose international product nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization and continues to evolve.

All types of shipments (including gifts, samples and goods for repair) go through an import clearance process as determined by custom’s regulations in the destination country. The shipment is cleared through customs based on the type of goods, origin country, the value and quantity.
Dutiable shipments are subject to a customs duty, which is a tariff or tax imposed on goods when transported across international borders.

Who is responsible for payment of duties and taxes?

The payment of duties and taxes are typically the responsibility of the receiver.

Import duties assessed by the local Customs Office and cannot be paid with a DHL account. Please contact ppg.administrative@dhl.com for further assistance.

Who is responsible for payment of duties and taxes?

The payment of duties and taxes are typically the responsibility of the receiver.

Import duties assessed by the local Customs Office and cannot be paid with a DHL account. Please contact ppg.administrative@dhl.com for further assistance.

DHL does offer the opportunity for DHL account holders to pay for duties and taxes after shipment delivery via their account billing.

Why is the receiver being asked to pay Customs duties and taxes?

Duties and taxes are levied by Customs in the destination country and the receiver is responsible for paying them.

DHL will pay the charges on the receiver's behalf and collect payment from the receiver prior to or on delivery.
Generally, DHL Express is unable to deliver parcels until these have been paid.

Why is the receiver being asked to pay Customs duties and taxes?

The payment of duties and taxes are typically the responsibility of the receiver.

Import duties assessed by the local Customs Office and cannot be paid with a DHL account. Please contact ppg.administrative@dhl.com for further assistance.

DHL does offer the opportunity for DHL account holders to pay for duties and taxes after shipment delivery via their account billing.

I’m sending a gift – can I pay duties and taxes instead of the receiver?

You need a DHL account to pay duties and taxes for the receiver.

Why doesn’t DHL include duties and taxes in its prices?

The customs authorities in the destination country determine whether any duties and taxes are applicable when the parcel arrives.

This is based on the information provided on the shipping label (or waybill), customs invoice (Commercial/Proforma), and customs paperwork – in particular the shipment contents, goods origin, declared value and weight.

Are there any countries where duties and taxes don’t apply?

Yes, import customs duties typically do not apply for parcels traveling within a customs union, such as the European Union. However, taxes may be applicable.

My shipment is Duty Free. Why am I being charged?

Duty free or zero-duty rate shipments may still incur other duty-related charges.

Why did my online purchase get delivered by DHL?

The online retailer has an agreement for DHL to deliver items ordered online.

I was charged duties and taxes by customs for something purchased online. Why wasn’t that included as part of the overall shipping costs?

Duties and taxes are most typically not included in the price of the goods you purchase online.
When purchasing goods online, some or all of these goods may not originate in the country you reside in.
When goods are not shipped domestically (within your country) or within a single customs union, such as the European Union, you are liable to pay any import duties and taxes which your local customs authority deems appropriate.
To ensure the DHL courier can deliver your goods in shortest possible transit time, when we enter your country, DHL pays the customs authority immediately on your behalf for any duties and taxes that are due on the goods.
DHL only releases the goods to you upon the full repayment of any duties and taxes that were paid on your behalf.

Why do I need to pay customs duty?

Although you ordered and purchased the goods online, the goods are still subject to an import procedure to clear the shipment through customs. Clearance depends on:

The country of origin
The value including transport charges
The quantity of goods

Each country has its own customs laws and the duties for different types of goods and values are set locally. DHL, like any other international transportation company, must adhere to local customs legislation and so DHL pays duties on the receiver’s behalf to clear shipments on arrival.

When making my purchase it stated the price includes shipping costs. Why was I asked by DHL to pay additional charges to have my package delivered?

You will not be paying to DHL any further shipping costs. Rather, you will be asked instead to pay customs duties, taxes and other import charges related to customs clearance in your home country, as per local regulations.

Why do I need to pay customs duty if I received a shipment as a gift?

All types of shipments (including gifts, samples and goods for repair) go through an import clearance process as determined by custom’s regulations in the destination country. The shipment is cleared through customs based on the type of goods, origin country, the value and quantity. You will need to pay customs duty and taxes only if the value of the gift is above a stated local threshold.

Why am I restricted with value and quantity if I am ordering for my personal use?

Every country has limitations for imported goods that are used for personal use. This is to avoid misuse, and to distinguish imports for personal and commercial use.

What additional charges can I expect following customs clearance?

Depending on value and the type of goods imported you may expect the following:

Customs import duties (percentage of shipment value and transport charges)

Import customs tax
DHL Advance Payment and other clearance surcharges
Any regulatory charges, if applicable

FAQs – Duties and Taxes

Goods Purchased Online