When a shipment arrives in another country, customs checks the contents and may charge import duty and taxes such as VAT or GST. Knowing how this works helps you avoid surprises for your receiver.
Who pays?
There are two common arrangements:
- Duty unpaid (DAP): the shipper pays the transport cost and the receiver pays any import duty and tax before delivery. This is the default for most courier shipments.
- Duty paid (DDP): the shipper pays transport, duty and taxes, and the receiver pays nothing. This is popular with online sellers who want a smooth customer experience.
How duty is calculated
Customs usually looks at three things: the declared value, the type of goods (identified by the HS code) and the country of origin. Many countries also add the shipping cost to the value before calculating tax. Each country sets its own thresholds below which low-value shipments may be exempt.
Why shipments get held
- Vague or missing description of the contents
- Value that looks too low for the goods
- Missing invoice, CNIC or receiver ID
- Restricted items that need a licence
- Receiver not answering calls from the customs broker
How to clear faster
- Describe every item specifically and state its real value.
- Include the receiver's correct phone number and email.
- Tell the receiver to expect contact from the carrier about duties.
- Keep invoices and payment proof in case customs asks for evidence of value.
Our tracking shows statuses such as "Customs Clearance in Progress" and "Awaiting Duty / Tax Payment" so you always know what is happening. Track your shipment.