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Customs, Duties & Import Taxes Explained on Kingston Express

1 min read

When ordering items internationally, your package may be subject to customs duties, import taxes, or clearance fees charged by your country — not Kingston Express or the seller.

This guide explains what these charges are, who pays them, and what to expect before you order.


What Are Customs, Duties & Import Taxes? #

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When goods cross international borders, local customs authorities may apply charges such as:

  • Customs duties – Fees based on the type and value of the item
  • Import taxes (VAT/GST) – Taxes charged by your country
  • Customs clearance fees – Processing or handling fees

📦 These charges are set by your country’s customs authority.


Who Is Responsible for Paying These Fees? #

🔔 The customer is responsible for paying:

  • Customs duties
  • Import taxes
  • Any additional clearance or handling fees

These charges:

  • Are not included in the product price
  • Are not included in shipping fees
  • Are not controlled by Kingston Express or the seller

📌 Failure to pay may result in delivery delays or returned packages.


When Are Customs Fees Collected? #

Customs fees may be collected:

  • When the package arrives in your country
  • By the courier before delivery
  • At a customs office or pickup point

📧 You may be contacted by customs or the courier for payment or documents.


How Are Customs Fees Calculated? #

Fees are usually based on:

  • Declared value of the item
  • Type of product
  • Country of origin
  • Local tax laws
  • Shipping cost (in some countries)

⚠️ Different countries calculate fees differently.


Why Delivery May Pause at Customs #

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It’s normal for international tracking to pause while:

  • Customs inspections are completed
  • Fees are assessed
  • Payment or documentation is required

Customs delays are common and outside the seller’s control.


What Kingston Express & Sellers Do (and Don’t Do) #

What they do: #

✔ Ship items accurately
✔ Declare item value and description
✔ Provide shipping documentation

What they do not do: #

❌ Control customs fees
❌ Speed up customs clearance
❌ Pay duties or taxes on your behalf


Tips to Avoid Customs Delays #

✔ Provide a complete and accurate address
✔ Use a valid phone number and email
✔ Respond quickly to customs or courier messages
✔ Understand your country’s import rules
✔ Order items allowed for import

📌 Some items may be restricted or prohibited in certain countries.


If Your Package Is Returned Due to Customs #

If a package is returned because:

  • Fees were not paid
  • Documentation was not provided
  • The item is restricted

You may:

  • Receive a refund excluding shipping costs
  • Be charged return or handling fees

📦 Policies vary by seller and courier.


Where to Get Customs Fee Estimates #

For estimates, you can:

  • Check your country’s customs website
  • Use online customs duty calculators
  • Contact your local customs office

🔍 Estimates help you avoid surprises.


When to Contact Support #

Contact Kingston Express Support if:

  • You’re unsure why your package is held
  • You need help contacting the seller
  • There’s a dispute about shipping or returns

📌 Always include your order number.


Final Tip #

Customs fees are a normal part of international shopping. Understanding them before you order helps ensure a smoother delivery experience 🌍

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