#ShippingWithDhl

Import & Custom Duty Calculator | DHL MyGTS

4 min read
MYGTSbannerimage

Introducing MyGTS: DHL’s free import tax calculator

Cross-border e-commerce is transforming how businesses source products and manage international supply chains. Global B2C e-commerce revenue is expected to reach $5.5 trillion by 2027 at a steady 14.4% compound annual growth rate, whilst the B2B e-commerce market is projected to be valued at $36 trillion by 2026.1 As Irish SMEs and ambitious e-commerce businesses import goods from markets across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond, navigating import duties, VAT, and customs regulations can get a bit tricky.

That's where DHL's MyGTS comes in. Whether you're calculating duty on your first import or managing regular shipments from multiple countries, MyGTS provides the clarity and confidence you need to understand the true cost of bringing goods into Ireland, before you commit to a purchase.

What is MyGTS?

 

MyGTS (My Global Trade Services) is DHL’s free online platform that helps businesses manage international shipping requirements. As a comprehensive customs tax calculator, it provides tools to:

  • Calculate tariffs and landed costs accurately
  • Access country-specific import and export regulations

  • Identify required customs documentation

  • Classify products using HS codes

  • Understand regulations across 227 countries and territories

 

Think of MyGTS as your digital trade companion, designed specifically for businesses to navigate international trade smoothly, sidestepping the usual complexities of customs processes. The platform gives you instant access to the information needed to calculate duty accurately, prepare proper documentation, and import with confidence worldwide.

Unlike generic tax calculators, MyGTS draws on DHL Express's deep customs expertise and is updated regularly to reflect current regulations. That means the landed cost estimates, tariff information, and trade requirements are as accurate and trustworthy as the logistics network behind them.


How MyGTS simplifies import tax & cross-border shipping

Access trade regulations for 227 countries

When importing internationally, regulations vary significantly from country to country. These differences can be confusing, especially when you're sourcing from multiple markets. MyGTS provides up-to-date trade regulations for 227 countries and territories, so you'll know what's allowed, what paperwork is required, and how to stay compliant when bringing goods into Ireland.

Access four core types of trade content

MyGTS brings together regulatory information, customs tariffs, import/export requirements, and trade documentation guidance all in one platform. Whether you’re classifying a product, using the import and duty calculator, or preparing shipment paperwork, all the essential trade content sits in one place, making it easier to stay ahead and keep your goods moving.

Get accurate landed cost estimates worldwide

Landed cost refers to the total expense of importing a product from your supplier. This includes transportation, duties, taxes, and handling fees. MyGTS features a powerful free import tax calculator that estimates landed costs for any destination before shipping. That means no more guesswork, fewer surprises, and a clearer view of profit margins, strengthening pricing strategy from the start.

Access insights on 200+ free trade agreements

Free trade agreements (FTAs) can help you save significantly on import costs by lowering or eliminating tariffs on certain goods. MyGTS helps you identify which of the 200+ FTAs apply to your specific products and the criteria you must meet to benefit from preferential rates. By spotting opportunities to reduce duties, you can source more cost-effectively and maintain competitive pricing for your customers.

Access 5,000+ downloadable import & export templates

Getting your paperwork right is essential for smooth customs clearance. MyGTS provides access to over 5,000 downloadable templates for import and export documentation, ensuring you have the right documents at hand and helping your shipments clear customs efficiently without unnecessary delays.

Compare trade requirements across destinations

The Trade Lane Comparison feature in MyGTS offers a clear, high-level view of import requirements and estimated landed costs for different shipping routes. It's a useful way to compare costs from different suppliers or origin countries, helping you make informed sourcing decisions that balance quality, cost, and ease of import.

Accurately identify HS codes for your goods

Harmonised System (HS) codes classify the exact type of goods being shipped, and they're essential for customs compliance. The responsibility for providing HS codes always lies with the shipper. MyGTS makes it easy to find the correct codes, reducing the risk of errors, fines, or delays. The Product Catalogue also allows businesses to save multiple tariff codes for quicker reference in the future.


How to calculate duty & import taxes with MyGTS

Getting started with the MyGTS import tax calculator is straightforward. Here's how to calculate duty and taxes for shipments to Ireland:

 

Step 1: Enter shipment details

  • Select the origin country (where goods are shipping from)

  • Select Ireland as the destination

  • Enter HS codes for your products (use the built-in HS code finder if needed)

  • Select the country of manufacture

Step 2: Add product value

  • Choose a reason for import

  • Select currency

  • Enter unit price and quantity (total calculates automatically)

Step 3: Add shipping costs

Choose either:

  • Manual entry: Input freight, insurance, and other shipping costs

  • DHL Express rates: Enter postal codes, package details, and weight for automatic calculation

Step 4: Review your estimate

Click 'Landed cost estimate' to see your breakdown of duties, taxes, and fees for importing into Ireland.

The platform displays all costs upfront, making it simple to understand the total landed cost before you commit to a shipment.


Ireland-specific factors that affect your duty & tax calculation

When you're using MyGTS to calculate duty for shipments to Ireland, several country-specific factors influence the final cost:

 

  • Import VAT rate (23%): Ireland's standard VAT rate of 23% applies to most imported goods.2 This is calculated based on the total value of your goods, plus any customs duties, shipping costs, and insurance.

 

  • Reduced VAT categories: Certain products benefit from reduced VAT rates. For example, food and catering businesses may qualify for lower rates (9%)2. MyGTS accounts for these variations when you provide the correct product classification.

 

  • De minimis threshold changes: As of 2026, the EU is removing the €150 customs duty exemption threshold for goods imported from non-EU countries3. This means all imports from outside the EU will be subject to customs duty regardless of value. 

 

  • Intra-EU imports: As an EU member, no customs duty applies when importing from another EU country.4 Understanding these thresholds helps you price products strategically and communicate costs clearly to your customers.

 

  • Product-specific regulations: Certain categories are subject to additional scrutiny or special duty rates. Alcohol and tobacco products have specific excise duties in addition to customs duty and VAT2. The import and duty calculator takes these nuances into account when determining your final costs.

 

By understanding these Ireland-specific factors and using MyGTS to accurately calculate duties, you can avoid unexpected charges and provide your customers with transparent pricing from the start.

 

Start using MyGTS today: Your gateway to easy international shipping

Importing internationally opens doors to new products, better suppliers, and stronger margins, and MyGTS puts essential trade information at your fingertips. From accurate landed cost estimates to country-specific regulations and required documentation, confidently import from 227 countries worldwide.

Whether you're sourcing products from the UK post-Brexit, importing from Asian manufacturers, or exploring new supplier relationships across Europe and the Americas, MyGTS simplifies the complexities of cross-border commerce. Grow your business with confidence, knowing you have reliable, DHL-verified information guiding every import decision.

 

Ready to make international shipping simpler? 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About MyGTS

How does MyGTS help grow my e-commerce business?

MyGTS helps you estimate duties and taxes upfront, so you can price products confidently, source from international suppliers with less risk, and expand your e-commerce product range by understanding the true cost of importing.

 

Is the information on MyGTS up to date?

Yes. The platform is regularly updated to reflect the latest international trade regulations, tariffs, and customs requirements across 227 countries and territories.

 

Can I use MyGTS to schedule an international shipment?

No, MyGTS isn't a booking platform. It's designed to help you prepare for international shipping by providing the information you need before scheduling a shipment. Once you're ready to book and manage shipments, you can use MyDHL+, DHL Express's dedicated shipping platform that handles everything from booking to tracking.

 

How does a customs tax calculator work?

A customs tax calculator estimates the duties, taxes, and fees that apply when goods cross international borders. It considers factors like your product's classification (HS code), declared value, origin country, destination country, and any applicable trade agreements. 

MyGTS's import and duty calculator uses this information to provide an accurate breakdown of costs, helping you understand your total landed cost before placing orders with suppliers.

 

Are DHL customs fees included in the calculation?

No, MyGTS focuses on calculating duties, taxes, and standard customs-related charges in accordance with government regulations. 

For specific information about DHL Express service fees, customs clearance charges, or other shipping-related costs, review the service terms when booking a shipment through MyDHL+.

 

What happens if import duties or taxes are calculated incorrectly?

MyGTS provides reliable estimates based on current regulations, but final duties and taxes are determined by customs authorities. If customs assess different charges, this is usually due to product reclassification, value adjustments, or updated regulations. Using accurate HS codes and product descriptions helps minimise discrepancies. 

For significant differences, DHL Express's customs expertise team can help explain the final assessment.