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QC Guide · updated Nov 5, 2026
CNFans Customs and Import Duty
Customs is the part of a haul that no spreadsheet can price for you. The rules depend on where you live, what you bought and how the parcel is declared.
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This guide explains the thresholds that matter, how carriers charge, and the mistakes that turn a cheap haul into an expensive lesson. It is general information, not tax advice.
The three thresholds people ask about
| Market | Threshold | What usually happens |
|---|---|---|
| United States | De minimis (check current value) | Duty-free below the threshold; sales tax may still apply |
| European Union | €150 goods value | VAT is charged; duty applies above the threshold |
| United Kingdom | £135 goods value | VAT is charged at the point of sale or import |
What carriers charge
Carriers charge a handling fee when they advance duty or VAT for you. That fee is separate from the tax and often fixed per parcel, so consolidating can reduce the number of fees.
The declared value should match what you paid. A suspiciously low declaration is the fastest way to a hold, a fine or a lost parcel.
How to declare a haul
- Use the actual item value, not the shipping cost
- Describe the goods accurately: “cotton hoodie”, not “gift”
- Keep one invoice per parcel
- Do not split one order into three parcels to dodge a threshold
- Ask the agent which line handles duty for your country
When a parcel is held
A hold is usually a request for information, not a seizure. Reply with the invoice and payment proof, and ask the carrier what exactly they need.
If the parcel is returned, the return shipping and the original shipping are usually not refundable. Budget for that risk on high-value orders.
What changes in 2026
Customs rules change often, especially around low-value e-commerce. Check your local customs site and the agent’s line notes before ordering; do not rely on a 2024 guide.
FAQ
Questions about this guide
Will I always pay VAT in the EU?
VAT is generally due on imports, but the collection method depends on the line and the seller’s tax setup. Check the line notes before you choose.
Can I mark a parcel as a gift?
A false declaration is customs fraud. It can lead to a fine, seizure or a permanent flag on your address.
Is insurance worth it?
On high-value parcels, yes. Read the exclusions: many policies exclude customs delays and seizures.
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