What are Duties and Taxes?

The calculation of Duties depends on the assessable value of a dutiable shipment.

For the purpose of this calculation, dutiable goods are given a classification code that is known as the Harmonized System code.

This system has been assigned by the World Customs Organization and continues to evolve.

Taxes are imposed on goods when they are moved across a political boundary (although some free trade zones exist around the world).

Taxes are usually associated with protectionism, the economic policy of restraining trade between nations.

Taxes are usually imposed on imported goods, although at times may also be imposed on exported goods.

The payment of Duties and Taxes are typically the responsibility of the receiver, although DHL Express does offer the opportunity for the sender to meet these costs at origin.

The sender receives an invoice after shipment delivery for the Duties and Taxes that DHL Express has paid on their behalf at destination, plus a small administration fee.

This is a useful service offered to shipment Receivers for the use of DHL’s credit facility.

The Receiver is able to delay immediate payment of inbound clearance charges, instead of arranging his own bond, cash or credit line.

This service enables a faster clearance of imported non-document shipments.