How to reduce import duties, tariffs, and fees: 6 strategies

Whether you're an e-commerce seller scaling up or a global distributor optimizing operations, here are six ways you can save on customs fees, duties and taxes and keep your shipping strategy competitive.

1. Breakbulk Express (BBX): Reduce customs fees and duty costs

Breakbulk Express Shipping (BBX) lets you physically consolidate multiple packages into one express shipment under a single air waybill (AWB) and customs invoice. When it lands, the shipment clears customs all at once, then gets deconsolidated and delivered to each recipient.

For e-commerce sellers that need to move many shipments to a single country quickly and consistently, BBX is a game-changer. By consolidating multiple packages into one shipment, you’re reduce clearance fees you would otherwise pay on each individual package. It also simplifies the import process for your end customers, who receive their goods without getting involved in customs clearance.

With fewer forms, less warehouse space, and quicker delivery, this is one of the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to move a large volume of shipments into a country, and the secret behind the logistics success of many successful e-commerce brands. 

2. Loose Bulk Express (LBX): Lower clearance costs on international bulk shipping

Loose Bulk Express (LBX) shipping offers all the benefits of Breakbulk Express (BBX) shipping, with one key additional advantage: packages do not need to be consolidated physically. Each package retains its own label and is grouped electronically under one customs entry.

With no pallets, crates, or physical consolidation, this kind of bulk international express shipping helps you maximize flexibility and save money on packaging costs in addition to saving on clearance fees. 

3. Bonded Warehouses: Defer duty payments and improve cash flow

Bonded warehouses allow you to store imported goods in the U.S. without paying duties until the goods are released into commerce or re-exported. That means you can keep inventory close to customers without tying up cash in duties upfront.

With bonded warehouses, you can defer duties for up to five years, avoid them entirely on re-exported goods, and even inspect or repackage products without triggering tariffs. This is a powerful tool for seasonal inventory, quota resets, and managing high-value global stock.

4. Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs): A strategic way to lower tariffs and import costs

Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) take flexibility a step further. Goods can be stored, handled, or even manufactured inside an FTZ without paying duties until they enter U.S. commerce, giving you more control over costs and timing.

With FTZs, you avoid duties on re-exports, benefit from reduced or even inverted tariffs on transformed goods, and gain access to long-term storage and value-added services. FTZs are a smart choice for manufacturers and importers with complex supply chains — especially in the high-tech, pharma, and automotive industries.

5. Duty Drawback: Get a refund on customs duties

Already paid duties on goods that were eventually exported? Duty drawback programs let you recover up to 99% of the duties, taxes, and fees you paid. Whether the goods were directly exported, substituted, or even destroyed, you may be eligible for a refund.

Claims can often be filed retroactively for up to five years. It’s a smart way to recover costs and reinvest in your business, and logistics partners like DHL Global Forwarding can help you navigate the requirements, prepare the documentation required, and set up the compliance program needed to file for Drawback.

6. Formal Entry Consolidation: Reduce brokerage fees and clearance delays

Formal entry consolidation combines multiple shipments into a single customs entry, reducing brokerage fees, streamlining clearance, and minimizing administrative complexity.

This approach speeds up customs processing and reduces the risk of delays. It’s especially valuable for B2B and wholesale importers handling a high volume of shipments on the same lane on the same day, offering cost predictability and operational efficiency.

How DHL can help streamline your customs processes

Tariffs may be rising, but so are the opportunities to rethink your logistics strategy. With the right tools and partners, you can turn complexity into clarity, and cost into competitive advantage.

Whether you're a growing e-commerce seller or a global distributor, DHL offers tailored logistics solutions to help you navigate tariff challenges, reduce costs, and stay competitive. From bonded warehousing to express consolidation services, we’re here to optimize your supply chain and protect your margins.

Take the next step: open a DHL Express Business Account and connect with your account manager to explore these solutions today.