How do you calculate customs clearance costs?

Customs clearance costs, also called import duties or customs duties, are costs that you have to pay when you import products from countries like China. You can calculate these costs as well as the VAT costs using the same formula used by customs authorities. There are a number of websites where you can easily calculate an approximate estimate of customs clearance costs. We emphasize the word approximate here because in practice the actual costs are slightly higher due to the fact that the estimate doesn’t take into account costs to the carrier, storage costs, and administration costs. We recommend you double check the customs clearance costs against the current TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Union) yourself. Customs clearance costs must be paid on everything imported from outside the European Union.

How does the tax authority calculate the import tax?

The amount paid in taxes differs per type of goods. The VAT can be either 21% or 6%. In addition to the aforementioned import tax, there are other taxes to consider; namely, an agricultural and anti-dumping levy. Alcoholic drinks such as whiskey and wine require you to pay an excise duty. On the tax authority’s page you can find a list of the most common products bought outside the European Union. Once again, please keep in mind that the actual import taxes may differ and the estimate is only a rough approximation of the actual costs.

More information about customs clearance costs and taxes?

Ademar BV has more than 34 years of experience importing goods and products in bulk. From SMEs to multinational firms and special products such as wood, we have the right solution for everything. We are happy to share our knowledge with you. Do you have a question about the customs clearance costs? Need help? Don’t hesitate to call us at +31(0)10 429 96 00 or reach out to us by email.