How to Determine Customs Duties and Taxes on International Shipments

You Will Learn:

• How to identify customs duties and taxes on international shipments.

• Who is responsible for paying customs duties.

• The factors that affect customs duty amounts.

• How to inquire about the duties payable on a shipment.

What Are Customs Duties and Taxes on International Shipments?

These are fees and taxes that may be imposed by the relevant authorities in the destination country when a shipment arrives. The amount varies depending on the country's regulations, the type and value of the products, and the documents submitted.

Who Is Responsible for Paying Customs Duties and Taxes?

For international shipping services available through Zid, the recipient is responsible for paying customs duties and taxes upon the shipment's arrival, in accordance with the shipping arrangement (DDU – Delivered Duty Unpaid).

How Can You Find Out the Amount of Customs Duties and Taxes?

To identify the estimated or applicable duties and taxes on a shipment, we recommend following these steps:

1. Identify the destination country: Customs duties and taxes vary depending on the regulations in each country.

2. Prepare the shipment details: These include product descriptions, product values, the commercial invoice, and any required documents.

3. Follow up on customs duties: If customs duties or taxes are applicable to the shipment, the shipping company will first request payment from the recipient. If the recipient refuses to pay or does not respond, the applicable fees will be deducted from the merchant's wallet, regardless of whether the shipment is delivered or returned to the sender. The merchant will be notified of the applicable fees and any available details.

4. Refer to the customs authorities in the destination country: Check the applicable regulations and taxes for the products being shipped.

Important Notes 💡

• There is no fixed amount for customs duties and taxes across all international shipments, as these vary depending on the destination country, product type, and product value.

• Shipping fees do not necessarily include customs duties and taxes.

• Failure to pay the required duties or provide the necessary documents may result in shipment delays.

• We recommend checking the customs requirements of the destination country before shipping to avoid unexpected charges or delays.

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Last updated 10 November 2026