VAT FAQs - European Union

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - EU import duties and taxes

This FAQ is import duties and taxes guide is for EU residents. For a detailed FAQ for rest of the world international customers please visit the dedicated page HERE

The key thing to be aware of is that for any export deliveries, parcels will pass through customs. Your local customs authority will make a judgement on whether any duties and taxes are applicable to the parcel, based on the information provided on the commercial invoice.

These charges are made up of:

  • Import duty: % charge on the declared value, depending on the type of goods.
  • Import VAT: VAT at the prevailing rate in the destination country applicable on the total value and duties.

Goods under €150/£130

These are considered "low-value" and only incur import VAT.

VAT rates vary between 16% and 25% depending on what country it is being imported to.

Goods over €150/£130

These are subject to both import VAT and customs duties. 

The local customs duty rates vary for for each country but expect something ranging from 0 to 3%

This information was correct at the time of writing but please check with your local authority.


FAQS

Q: Do I have to pay import duties and taxes when ordering if I live in the EU? 

A: Yes, When EU customers buy a product from any non-EU country, EU customers may be responsible for paying import VAT and potentially customs duties on orders shipped from the UK. 


Q: How much will I have to pay in import duties and taxes? 

A: The amount of import VAT and duties will vary depending on the value and type of goods ordered, as well as the specific country of destination within the EU. VAT varies from 16% to 25%. Customs duties range from 0 to 3%


Q: Who is responsible for paying import duties and taxes? 

A: We ship Delivery Duties Unpaid (DDU), the recipient of the goods is responsible for paying any import VAT and customs duties. 


Q: How can I estimate the import costs? 

A: You can use an online import duty calculator  to get an estimate of the potential import costs. Please note that these are estimates and actual costs may vary. 


Q: How will I be charged for import duties and taxes? 

A: [If applicable] Import duties and taxes will be collected upon delivery by the shipping carrier. You may also have the option to pay these costs in advance of delivery if the local courier offers this. 


Q: What happens if I refuse to pay import duties and taxes? 

A: If you refuse to pay import duties and taxes, the shipment will be returned to us, and you may be responsible for any return shipping costs. 


Q: Can you provide more information on the import process? 

A: For more detailed information on the import process, please refer to the customs regulations of your specific country within the EU. 


General EU Customs Information:


Disclaimer:  

Customs regulations can be complex and subject to change. The information above is for general information/guidance only and may not cover or be applicable to all specific situations.

Please consult with your local customs authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information.