When your parcel crosses an international border, the customs authority in your destination country decides whether import duty or tax applies. FansBuy handles the export declaration on your behalf, but we are not customs and cannot control how any country assesses or charges a package. This article explains how taxation works, what makes a parcel more likely to be taxed, and what to do if a charge appears.
When is a package taxed?
Most countries set a duty-free threshold (often called a de minimis value). When the declared value of a parcel falls below that threshold, it usually clears without tax, provided the declaration is honest. If your parcel is assessed for duty or import VAT, you are responsible for paying the charge and for assisting with the customs clearance process so the package can be released.
Thresholds, tax rates, and clearance rules differ from country to country and change over time, so we do not publish fixed figures here. Always confirm the current de minimis value and duty rate for your own country with your local customs office or courier before you ship.
What increases the chance of being taxed?
- Destination. Some regions inspect inbound parcels more strictly than others. Canada and much of Europe, for example, tend to check packages more closely, so the likelihood of tax is higher across several routes.
- Weight and quantity. Customs often distinguishes between personal and commercial shipments. Heavier parcels and large quantities of the same item are more likely to be classed as commercial. Where possible, avoid packing a large number of identical products in one parcel.
- Sensitive goods. Items such as batteries, liquids, and food are subject to stricter policies and may face extra scrutiny or route restrictions. Choose these carefully and check whether your shipping line accepts them.
Practical tips
- Confirm the weight of your parcel when you submit it, and consider splitting bulky or high-quantity orders across shipments.
- Keep your order value realistic and let FansBuy declare truthfully; false or under-declaration can lead to penalties and delays.
- If a tax notice arrives from your courier, respond promptly and follow their clearance instructions to avoid the parcel being held or returned.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any package will avoid tax. The guidance above is for reference only and does not replace the official rules of your destination country. If you are unsure about duties or a specific charge, contact FansBuy support through the app and we will help where we can.
