What is meant by import duty and import duty for shipments from non-EU countries to the European Union?
Import or import duties are government charges that are levied on the import of goods from Non-EU countries (e.g. Switzerland, Great Britain, Norway) to the EU.
Why do these levies exist?
- Regulation of international trade
- Protection of the domestic economy
- Ensuring compliance with legal requirements
Import procedure:
- Goods are declared to customs
- Checking content and documents
- Release by customs ("customs release")
- Only then may the goods be used or sold
What do the costs depend on?
- Goods tariff number (HS code)
- Value of goods (incl. shipping & packaging)
- Country of origin
Additional charges:
- Import sales tax
- excise duties, if applicable
Important: The free movement of goods applies within the EU - as a rule no customs duties to.