When a parcel arrives in a country outside the European Union, that country's customs authority may charge duties, taxes (such as import VAT) or other fees. These charges aren't included in the price you pay City Sender.
Who usually pays?
- The recipient usually pays, in the destination country.
- The courier may ask for payment before delivering the parcel.
- The amount is set by customs in the destination country, based on the parcel's contents and value.
Why might there also be a clearance fee?
To avoid delaying delivery, the courier often pays the duties to customs first and then collects them from whoever owes them. When this happens, the courier may add a clearance fee, which varies by courier and by country.
What happens if the recipient doesn't pay?
If the recipient refuses to pay
The duties, taxes and any other costs are paid by the sender. The parcel may be held in storage or returned, and the storage and return costs also fall on the sender.
So before you send, let the recipient know they may be asked to pay customs charges.
Does this also apply to parcels coming into Greece?
Yes. When a parcel arrives in Greece from a country outside the EU, Greek customs charges are usually paid by the recipient in Greece.
How do I avoid delays and extra costs?
- Fill in the proforma accurately: what the parcel contains, how many items there are and their value.
- If you're sending goods, have the invoice or any other document customs may ask for ready.
- Let the recipient know about possible charges in advance.
Common mistake
Declaring a lower value to reduce duties. Always declare the real value, excluding VAT. If customs considers the value too low, it may delay or return the parcel, at the sender's expense.
Related questions
Customs & International Shipping
What is a proforma invoice and who fills it in?
A proforma invoice tells customs what your parcel contains, how many items there are and their value. You fill it in online when booking a shipment outside the EU. City Sender sends it to you ready to print, and you attach it to the outside of the parcel.
Customs & International Shipping
What happens if my parcel is held in customs?
If your parcel is held in customs, City Sender emails you with what is needed. Send the requested documents straight away, usually within 1–2 working days. Otherwise the parcel may be returned at the sender's expense.
Customs & International Shipping
Which countries require customs clearance?
Every shipment to or from a country outside the European Union, such as the UK, the USA or Switzerland, goes through customs, as do some special territories, such as the Canary Islands. For these shipments, you fill in the proforma when booking.