Frequently Asked Questions

Goods imported from a third country require customs clearance and are generally subject to import VAT. Additionally, depending on the type, origin, and value of the goods, customs duties may apply.

Shipping retailers usually recommend informing yourself about import duties and taxes on their homepage. It is also advisable to check the general terms and conditions or contact the retailer. The sender can decide whether to cover all import duties themselves or have them charged to the recipient by the transport service provider.

This can sometimes be the case. Products offered by retailers based outside the EU may appear cheaper as they do not include duties and taxes.

Gifts from private individuals to private individuals are duty and VAT-free up to a value of 45 euros. If an import shipment exceeds this value, fees and taxes may apply. For alcohol and tobacco products, there is no threshold, and fees and taxes must always be paid.

Even for sample shipments and samples, duties and taxes may apply unless they are devalued or clearly recognizable as samples (e.g., a hole cut in clothing).

"The goods don't fit", "I changed my mind", or "I don't like the goods" are not reasons for a refund of duties and taxes. If you return the shipment to the sender, you have the right to a customs refund under certain conditions.

Explanations on how duties and import VAT are generally calculated can be found through various sources on the internet, including the Federal Ministry of Finance: https://www.bmf.gv.at/themen/zoll.html

This is a fee for using the DHL Express customs account. DHL Express pays the duties and VAT for the customer in advance to the customs authorities to enable faster clearance of the imported goods.

According to applicable customs regulations, the customs value is calculated based on the value of the goods plus shipping costs. If the sender has not specified shipping costs, the "customs value" is calculated based on the weight.

The sender has the option to pay the duties and taxes if this is noted accordingly on the waybill and invoice. The fees can also be transferred to the sender afterwards if they confirm this in writing to DHL Express.