Pay customs royal mail
When sending a package internationally with Royal Mail, you may need to pay customs duties and taxes on the items you're sending. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
What are customs duties and taxes?
Customs duties are fees charged by the destination country's government on imported goods. These duties are usually based on the value, weight, or type of goods being sent. Taxes, on the other hand, are fees charged by the destination country's government on the goods being sent, and are usually a percentage of the value of the goods.
Who pays customs duties and taxes?
In most cases, the sender (that's you!) is responsible for paying customs duties and taxes on international shipments. However, in some cases, the recipient may be required to pay these fees.
How do I pay customs duties and taxes with Royal Mail?
When sending a package with Royal Mail, you can pay customs duties and taxes in one of two ways:
- Pre-paid customs: You can pay customs duties and taxes in advance when you purchase your postage online or at a post office. This is usually done by adding a customs declaration to your package and paying the estimated customs duties and taxes.
- Recipient pays: In some cases, the recipient may be required to pay customs duties and taxes when they receive the package. This is usually the case if the recipient is not present to sign for the package, or if the package is held at a customs office for further inspection.
How do I add a customs declaration to my package?
To add a customs declaration to your package, you'll need to complete a CN23 form (also known as a customs declaration form). This form provides details about the goods being sent, including their value, weight, and type. You can usually find the CN23 form on the Royal Mail website or at a post office.
Tips and reminders
- Make sure to accurately declare the contents and value of your package on the customs declaration form. Failure to do so can result in delays, fines, or even the package being returned to you.
- Check with the destination country's customs regulations to ensure you're complying with any specific requirements.
- Keep a copy of the customs declaration form and any receipts for customs duties and taxes paid, as you may need to provide these documents if your package is held at customs.
I hope that helps!