When do import charges apply?
When you buy an object shipped from another country or customs area, import charges may apply. These can include customs duties, import taxes, and handling fees.

If the object is shipped within the same country or customs area (for example, within the EU, import charges generally do not apply).

What are import charges?
Import charges are costs linked to importing an object into the destination country. They may include: :

• Customs duties - based on the type and value of the object.
• Import taxes - such as VAT or GST.
• Handling or clearance fees - charged by the shipping company for processing the shipment.

How and when are import charges paid?
Import charges are usually collected by the shipping company (such as DHL, FedEx, or your local postal service) before or upon delivery.

In some cases, we may collect import tax during checkout. If this applies, it will be clearly shown before you complete your purchase. Other import charges, such as customs duties or shipping company handling fees, may still be payable on import. Read more about when Catawiki collects import tax.

When do import charges apply?

• If you’re within the EU charges apply if:
  The object is shipped from:
  • Outside the EU, or
  • An EU territory with special tax rules (such as the Channel Islands, Canary Islands, or Vatican City).
• If you’re outside the EU (or in a territory outside the EU VAT or customs area) charges apply if:
  The object is shipped from another country. Check with your local customs or tax authorities for the rules that apply in your location.
• If you’re buying within the same country or customs area, charges generally don’t apply.

What import charges will be applied?
Import charges are determined by local customs authorities and shipping companies. We have no influence over these charges.

The exact amount depends on several factors, including:

• How the object is classified under international tariff rules (HS code).
• The declared customs value (typically the object price plus shipping and insurance).
• The country of origin and destination.
• Whether specific duties apply (e.g. alcohol or tobacco).
• Whether the shipping company applies additional handling or brokerage fees.

Because these factors are usually confirmed upon arrival, we usually can’t provide the exact amount in advance.

How can I estimate the charges?
In many cases, it’s difficult to know the exact amount beforehand. However, you can:

• Check the object page to see where the object ships from.
• Use your country’s customs website.
• Use duty calculators such as SimplyDuty (https://www.simplyduty.com/) as an indication.
• Ask the seller for details such as the HS/tariff code.
• Contact the shipping company for estimates and potential handling fees.

Will import charges affect delivery?
Customs procedures may cause delays. However, most shipments are processed without issues.

If your order is delayed beyond the estimated delivery date, we’ll contact you to help resolve it.

Important to know

• Import charges are not included in the object price or shipping costs unless explicitly stated.
• If import charges apply, the buyer is usually responsible for paying them before or upon delivery.
• Your order will only be delivered once any required charges have been paid.

Catawiki aims to make customs and tax information easy to understand. Because rules differ by country, buyers are responsible for complying with their local regulations.

Catawiki is a marketplace platform and is not involved in customs clearance, tax representation, or providing fiscal advice. For personalised guidance, please consult your local customs or tax authority.