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Glossary
Consignee
Glossary
Customs Duty
Definition
Customs Duty is a crucial aspect of international trade, acting as a tax on goods imported or exported across international borders. The primary purpose of customs duties is to safeguard a nation's economic interests, including its industries and environment, and to generate revenue for the government. The amount of customs duty imposed varies, depending on factors such as the type and value of the goods, their country of origin, and the trade agreements and tariff schedules of the destination country. Typically, the importer or exporter is responsible for paying these duties as a part of the customs clearance process, which is an integral step in international logistics.
— sennder Team
FAQ
Customs Duties are determined based on several factors including the nature and value of the goods, their country of origin, and the destination country's tariff schedules. Duties can be charged as a percentage of the goods' value (known as ad valorem), a fixed amount per unit (specific duty), or sometimes a combination of both. Modern trade agreements between countries can also influence customs duties, offering preferential tariff rates or even duty-free treatment for certain types of goods.
Generally, the responsibility for paying Customs Duties falls on the importer. They must settle these duties before the goods can be released from customs control. However, there are scenarios where the exporter might agree to cover these costs as part of a sales agreement, especially under trade terms like Delivered Duty Paid (DDP).
Yes, under certain conditions, Customs Duties may be subject to refunds or adjustments. For instance, if goods are imported temporarily for specific purposes like repair or exhibition and then re-exported, the importer might be eligible for a duty refund or drawback. Also, if there’s an overvaluation or misclassification of goods in the Customs Declaration, an adjustment to the duties paid can be requested. It’s important to understand the specific rules and procedures for duty refunds and adjustments in the destination country.
Example or usage in road freight logistics:
Consider a situation where a French electronics retailer imports a batch of smartphones from South Korea. During the customs clearance process in France, the retailer, as the importer, is required to pay Customs Duties. These duties are calculated based on the value of the smartphones and the applicable tariff rates under the EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement. The retailer collaborates with a Customs Broker to accurately calculate and pay the duties, ensuring the shipment clears customs swiftly and reaches their store without delay.