Import Duties
Import Duties in International shipping: What exporters and importers need to know
International shipping is becoming increasingly complex. Import duties, trade agreements, sanctions lists, and customs regulations change regularly.
This means: additional costs, a higher risk of delays, and increased administrative pressure. In this article, we explain how to retain control over your logistics processes—regardless of the origin or destination of your goods—so you can continue shipping with confidence, even in a changing landscape.
What are Import Duties and why do they change?
When trading internationally, you’ll encounter import duties: levies imposed by countries on incoming goods. These rates vary by country, product category, and political context. They are designed to protect domestic markets or exert economic pressure on other nations.
Import Duties are not fixed
They change due to new trade agreements, geopolitical tensions, or economic countermeasures. Consider recent developments between the EU and the US, where mutual tariffs have been imposed on industrial goods, among others. These measures impact both importers and exporters: importers face higher duties upon arrival, while exporters must navigate foreign customs and tax regimes.
What does this mean for you as an exporter or importer?
Exporting
As an exporter, you’ll encounter import regulations—just on the other side of the border. It’s your responsibility to properly inform your recipients. This includes accounting for import duties, sanctions laws, product classification, and customs procedures in the destination country.
In some cases, data must be submitted electronically in advance—via systems like ICS2. Incorrect or incomplete data can result in delays, shipment holds, or even fines. Fortunately, real-time customs updates via our platform keep you informed of regulatory changes as they happen.
Importing
For importers, import duties have a direct impact on incoming shipments. Increased tariffs raise the cost per shipment and may lead to margin pressure. Customs checks can also cause delays, especially when documentation is incomplete or non-compliant with current regulations.
You must pay close attention to correct HS codes, certificates of origin, and supporting documentation. Every change in regulations—such as duties or VAT—affects the total cost calculation of each shipment.
Seamless shipping, full control of your business
Select Courier’s platform supports you with an AI-powered HS code search and an import duty calculator that uses real-time tariff data, including sudden changes. This allows you to maintain healthy margins. The system also alerts you to missing information and, thanks to direct contact with carriers, we can respond swiftly to high-risk or complex shipments—helping to prevent delays and unexpected costs.
Have doubts about your documentation? Our team provides expert assistance with export paperwork, origin declarations, sanctions screening, and export control—ensuring your shipment clears borders without issue.
Calculating Import Duties
Accurate calculation of import duties is essential when importing goods. It prevents surprises and ensures cost control. These are the four key factors:
HS Code
The goods classification determines the duty rate. Use the correct 10-digit Taric code. Even a small error can result in overpayments or fines.Customs Value
Usually the purchase price plus all costs up to the EU border (e.g. transport and insurance). Duties and VAT are calculated on this amount.Country of Origin
This affects the applicable duty rate and determines whether you qualify for reduced rates via trade agreements (e.g. CETA or the UK deal). A valid and substantiated origin statement is required.Import VAT
In the Netherlands, VAT is calculated over the customs value plus import duties. With a VAT Article 23 permit, you avoid upfront VAT payment.
Following these steps gives you full insight into your total import costs. Want to eliminate all risks? Use an automated platform to streamline the process and minimise errors.
Select Courier’s platform automatically calculates expected import duties and VAT based on your HS code, value, and destination. It continuously updates with the latest customs changes, ensuring accuracy and helping you avoid errors in declarations.
Key considerations for export and import
Export
Exporting involves a different set of challenges. Many destination countries have additional requirements, such as:
Correct HS Code and Country of Origin
These determine the applicable import duties and eligibility for trade benefits.Pre-arrival Information
In countries using pre-arrival screening (such as ICS2 in the EU), export data must be submitted in full and electronically prior to shipment.Sanctions and Export Control
Some goods are subject to export restrictions (e.g. dual-use items). Others may not be shipped to sanctioned countries or parties. Pre-export checks are mandatory.Certificates of Origin and Control
Some destinations require extra documentation such as certificates of origin, conformity declarations, or health certificates.
Select Courier supports you with export control, origin documentation, sanctions screening, and ensures your export paperwork is correct. Our platform automatically screens export documents against sanctions and export control lists, enabling you to take timely action and avoid delays.
Import
Any mistake in paperwork can delay customs clearance or incur additional charges (e.g. storage fees or retrospective duties). Complete and accurate documentation is essential. Focus on these four core documents:
Commercial Invoice
Must be fully completed in English, with accurate HS codes, product descriptions, realistic values, Incoterms, and sender/receiver details including EORI and VAT numbers. A clear invoice ensures smooth customs processing.Packing List
Itemised per package: quantities, weights, dimensions. Necessary for inspections and efficient handling.Transport Documents
Such as the Air Waybill for air freight or Bill of Lading for sea freight. These must match the invoice details to avoid additional scrutiny.Origin Documentation
State where the product was manufactured (not just the brand) and provide a certificate of origin if possible. This helps prevent incorrect duties or missed trade benefits.
Ensure all documents are correct and available before dispatch. Respond promptly to any customs or carrier information requests to avoid delays.
Paperless Trade
No more piles of paperwork. With Paperless Trade, all your trade documents are digitised, making logistics more efficient. Reduce errors, accelerate customs processing, and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain. Modernise your logistics and experience how seamless shipping can be.
What Is ICS2 and how can you prevent delays?
ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the EU’s customs screening system for incoming shipments. It now also applies to sea, rail, and road transport. Every shipment to the EU must be preceded by an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) with complete safety data.
As an importer, you must submit:
A precise description of each item
Correct HS codes (minimum 6 digits)
Full details of sender and receiver (including EORI)
Accurate quantities, weights, and transport details
Vague descriptions like “parts” or “samples” are no longer sufficient. ICS2 conducts risk assessments before goods even arrive. Missing or incorrect data? Customs will hold the shipment, causing delays and costs.
Does ICS2 impact exporters?
Though ICS2 is an import system, it indirectly affects exporters responsible for delivery up to the EU border (e.g. DDP shipments). Make sure your carrier receives the correct data in time for the required customs filing—such as HS codes, descriptions, and origin.
Want to be sure your shipment is compliant?
Select Courier automatically checks your shipment’s compliance with ICS2 during the shipping process. These checks are fully integrated—alerts are issued before departure, not at the border. This way, ICS2 becomes a benefit: with the right preparation, your shipments are secure and free from unnecessary delays.
Take control of your Export and Import
The impact of changing import duties is significant. Export/import regulations and tariffs evolve rapidly. That’s why preparation, insight, and proper execution are essential.
With the right preparation, you remain agile, retain oversight, and ensure your international shipments are smooth and compliant—even when rules shift. We’re here to help, with an all-in-one shipping platform that guides you at every step—from real-time tariff calculation to automatic document checks and ICS2 compliance. Everything you need for hassle-free shipping.
SCHEDULE A FREE DEMO
DISCOVER WHAT SELECT COURIER CAN DO FOR YOU
Our shipping platform can be customised to meet your every need. From delivering your packages with increased speed and reliability to operating your business more efficiently. Schedule a demo to see how you can:
- Ship all your deliveries within just a few clicks.
- Manage your entire logistics process in one place.
- Seamlessly integrate with your current software.
- Access analytics and reports for better decision-making
SCHEDULE A FREE DEMO
DISCOVER WHAT SELECT COURIER CAN DO FOR YOU
Our shipping platform can be customised to meet your every need. From delivering your packages with increased speed and reliability to operating your business more efficiently. Schedule a demo to see how you can:
- Ship all your deliveries within just a few clicks.
- Manage your entire logistics process in one place.
- Seamlessly integrate with your current software.
- Access analytics and reports for better decision-making
