What paperwork will I have returned to me after the clearance of my shipment?
In addition to your normal transport invoice, you will receive (if applicable) an invoice for the VAT and import duties that DHL eCommerce advanced.
Business
What is a deferment account?
If your customer regularly imports goods, then this company can use a deferred account to pay for most of the customs expenses at a later stage. This includes import VAT (most common), import duties, and excise duties. This ensures that there are no extra delays, because these costs are deducted from the deferred account.
What is "reverse charge back" and do I always need to report this?
If you sell goods to a company under any Incoterm except DDP, then you must always report "reverse charge back" on your customs invoice. This will ensure that your buyer will owe the VAT costs. Click here to learn more. If you sell to a private individual, then this does not apply.
If the value of the shipment is £135 or less, is it the case that no VAT and import duties need to be paid?
If you sell goods to a private individual, then only the final VAT applies. If you sell goods to a company, then you will owe VAT and import duties.
In which ways can the buyer pay for the VAT and import duties?
Companies can pay for the costs by bank transfer or by agreeing a contract with our import broker. Additionally, they can make use of payment at a later date through a deferment account.
A private individual buyer can use a payment platform to make the payment through a PayPal or credit card payment.
How are VAT and import duty costs charged if I use DHL eCommerce to send goods to the UK?
If you sell goods to a private individual up to a value of £135 per shipment, then no import duties apply. You will owe over the final VAT. If you sell goods to a private individual with a value of over £135 per shipment, then the VAT and import duties will need to be paid by the buyer.
If you sell goods to a company under DDP Incoterms, then we will invoice to you the VAT and import duties that we advance on your behalf. You will receive a separate invoice listing the incurred costs and a surcharge for the advance. If you sell goods to a company under DAP/CIF Incoterms, then the VAT and import duties, plus an administrative surcharge, will be invoiced to the buyer.
Are shipments that require customs clearance subject to extra costs?
Yes. In addition to the regular transport costs, a customs surcharge will be invoiced. Ask your account manager about the amount of this surcharge. Whether or not you will be invoiced for VAT and import duties – if applicable – depends on the terms of delivery.
Why must I sign an "authorization for direct representation"?
If you do not do this, we cannot represent your company in drawing up an export declaration in your name. Request the authorization and instructions using this form.
Is there a difference in exporting to Norway, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom?
We can only process your shipment if you send it via our My DHL Portal online shipping tool or customs API. You must also physically attach the customs paperwork to the parcel, and you – as an exporter – are expected to provide extra information to ensure that export and import declarations can be made.
Does DHL eCommerce need my UK VAT number and UK EORI number if I send my goods to a company in the UK?
Yes. If you send your goods under the DDP Incoterm, then we need these numbers to advance the owed VAT and applicable import duties for you. If you want the buyer to pay these costs, then always report the UK VAT number and UK EORI number of the buyer on your customs invoice. Additionally, you are advised (but not required) to also report the deferment account of your buyer.