Shopping online offers many advantages, from the convenience of ordering from home to the ability to access products from anywhere in the world. However, many buyers are unaware of one fundamental aspect: Customs taxes and charges when buying onlineWhen making international purchases, products are subject to customs regulations of the destination country, which may generate additional costs.
Why is it important to know the Customs charges?
When a product is shipped from abroad, customs authorities may add taxes and additional charges depending on factors such as the type of product, its value and its intended use. Although many online stores promote the free shipping, this term only refers to the cost of transportation and does not cover possible taxes and customs duties.
Therefore, it is essential to be informed before making an international purchase, to avoid unpleasant surprises when receiving the package.
Factors that determine customs costs
Customs duties vary by country and include different rates depending on the following factors:
- Product value:The higher the price of the item, the higher the applicable tax.
- Shipping costs: Some countries include the cost of transport in the tax base.
- Trade agreements: Depending on the country of origin and destination, some products may be exempt from tariffs thanks to international treaties.
- Product use: Commercial items may be subject to different rates compared to personal purchases.
- Harmonized System Code (HS-Code): An international code that categorizes products and defines their tariff rate.
How are import taxes calculated?
To better understand the charges that may apply to an international purchase, let's look at how the final cost is calculated in Spain:
- Customs tariff: A percentage is applied to the value of the product. In general, it varies between 0% and 17%, depending on the type of item.
- Import VATIn Spain, the general VAT is 21%, although some products have reduced rates of 10% or 4%.
- customs management: Transport companies and couriers may charge a fee for handling customs procedures.
Exemptions and minimum thresholds
In Spain, exemptions apply depending on the value of the shipment and the type of transaction:
- Purchases less than € 22: Exempt from tariffs and VAT.
- Shopping between € 22 and € 150: Exempt from tariffs, but with 21% VAT.
- Purchases over € 150: Subject to tariffs and VAT.
How to avoid problems with Customs?
To minimize inconveniences when making international purchases, follow these tips:
- Check the store's tax policy: Some stores include tariffs in the final price.
- Check out the trade agreements between the country of origin and destination.
- Use reliable shipping methods: Courier companies such as DHL, FedEx or UPS offer fast customs clearance.
- Correctly declare the value of the product to avoid problems at customs.
What to do if a package is held in Customs?
If your package is detained at Customs, you will receive a notification to manage the payment of taxes and release the order. There are several options to make the import declaration:
- Through the logistics operator: Companies such as Correos can manage the paperwork for you (usually for an additional charge).
- Complete the self-assessment: You can submit the DUA (Single Administrative Document) form yourself to the Tax Agency.
If you choose to do the management yourself, you will need:
- The purchase invoice of the product.
- The arrival notice issued by the courier company.
- The corresponding form for self-assessment of taxes.
Knowing this information, you can anticipate import costs and avoid surprises when buying online from international stores.
