CUSTOMS & DUTIES
When a shipment goes to a country outside the European Union, it may require a customs check and possible charges for duties, taxes or other fees by the destination country.
DASH helps you understand what applies before you ship, so you can avoid delays, incorrect declarations and unexpected charges.
Want DASH to prepare your customs documents? See DASH CUSTOMS ASSIST™EUROPEAN UNION
Most shipments within the European Union are not subject to customs duties, as goods move freely between member states.
Certain products, such as alcohol, tobacco products, special goods or restricted items, may be subject to special rules depending on the destination country and the carrier.
See the shipping rulesOUTSIDE THE EUROPEAN UNION
For shipments to countries outside the European Union, such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, the USA, Canada or Australia, the shipment may go through a customs check.
Possible charges calculated by the destination country, depending on the type, value and origin of the items.
In some countries, VAT or an equivalent import tax may be charged to the recipient.
The carrier or customs broker may charge a fee for the customs clearance process.
Duties, taxes and any customs clearance fees are set by the authorities of the destination country and are not a DASH charge, unless the selected service explicitly states otherwise.
For specific destinations, such as the United Kingdom, Norway and Switzerland, DASH may offer personal-effects transport services where customs costs are included in the quoted price, provided the shipment meets the conditions of the service.
If your shipment consists of personal effects and is covered by a specific service, you may not need to pay additional customs costs on delivery. In any case, the final information is shown or confirmed before the shipment is completed.
For shipments outside the EU, the declared value is used by the customs authorities to calculate possible duties and taxes. The value must be realistic and match the contents of the shipment.
An incorrect description or an unrealistic value may cause delays, additional charges or the return of the shipment.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
For shipments outside the EU, accompanying documents may be required depending on the contents and purpose of the shipment.
Usually used for shipments of personal effects, gifts or items not involving a commercial sale.
Used when the shipment relates to a commercial transaction or the sale of goods.
Each item must be described clearly and separately so that it is understandable to the customs authorities.
Complete contact details help the customs clearance process run smoothly.
Most shipments within the European Union are not subject to customs duties. Exceptions may apply to special products or specific cases.
The recipient usually pays any duties, taxes or fees imposed by the destination country, unless the selected service explicitly states that they are included.
No. Duties and taxes are set by the authorities of the destination country. DASH can let you know what is likely to apply, but does not set these charges.
For certain personal-effects services to specific destinations, such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway, a price that includes customs costs may be offered, provided the conditions are met.
You must declare accurately what the shipment contains. Generic descriptions such as “stuff” or “various items” may cause delays.
Send us a message and we will help you understand what is needed before you proceed.
For a standard box or parcel, first see the guide to international parcel shipping.