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Handling Customs, Duties & International Orders

3 min read

(Shipping & Delivery for Sellers)

International orders involve more than just shipping — they must pass through customs clearance, which includes duties, taxes, and inspections.
Understanding how this works helps sellers avoid delays, rejected shipments, and unhappy customers.

This guide explains:

  • How customs works
  • Who pays duties and taxes
  • How international orders are handled with Dispatched by Kingston Express
  • What sellers must do to stay compliant

What Happens When an Order Goes International? #

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When an order ships internationally:

  1. The package leaves the origin country
  2. It enters the destination country’s customs system
  3. Customs reviews:
    • Product type
    • Declared value
    • Documentation
  4. Duties and taxes are assessed
  5. Package is released for final delivery

📦 Customs is mandatory for all international shipments.


What Are Customs Duties & Import Taxes? #

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  • Customs duties are fees charged by a country on imported goods
  • Import taxes (such as VAT or sales tax) may also apply

These charges depend on:

  • Destination country
  • Product category
  • Declared value

📌 Each country sets its own rules.


Who Pays Customs Duties & Taxes? #

In Most Cases: #

  • 💰 The customer pays duties and import taxes
  • Charges are collected by customs or the courier

📌 Sellers should never promise “no customs fees” unless explicitly stated.


How This Works With Dispatched by Kingston Express #

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When an order is Dispatched by Kingston Express:

  • Kingston Express manages:
    • International shipping flow
    • Courier coordination
    • Required shipping documentation
  • Customs processing follows destination regulations
  • Duties and taxes are handled according to policy

🌍 Sellers do NOT deal directly with customs authorities.


Seller Responsibilities for Dispatchment International Orders #

Sellers must:
✔ Provide accurate product descriptions
✔ Use correct product categories
✔ Ensure truthful pricing and value
✔ Avoid restricted or prohibited items

📦 Accuracy prevents customs delays.


Seller-Managed International Shipping (Higher Responsibility) #

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If you ship internationally yourself:

  • You are responsible for:
    • Export declarations
    • Accurate invoices
    • Courier coordination
    • Handling customs delays or rejections

⚠️ Mistakes can result in returned or seized shipments.


Common Reasons International Orders Get Delayed #

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❌ Incorrect product description
❌ Under-declared or over-declared value
❌ Restricted items
❌ Missing documentation
❌ Random customs inspection

📌 Customs delays are outside seller or platform control.


Restricted & Prohibited Items (Important) #

Some items may:

  • Be restricted
  • Require permits
  • Be completely prohibited

Examples may include:

  • Liquids
  • Batteries
  • Supplements
  • Branded goods without authorization

⚠️ Always check eligibility before enabling international shipping.


How Returns Work for International Orders #

  • Dispatchment orders:
    Returns follow Kingston Express international return processes
  • Seller-managed orders:
    Seller must coordinate international returns

📦 International returns are slower and more expensive.


How to Set Customer Expectations (Best Practice) #

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Sellers should:
✔ Mention that customs fees may apply
✔ Avoid guaranteeing delivery times
✔ Be clear that delays may occur

🛒 Transparency prevents disputes.


Common Seller Mistakes to Avoid #

❌ Misdeclaring product value
❌ Shipping restricted items
❌ Promising no customs fees
❌ Ignoring international shipping rules

⚠️ These mistakes often lead to failed deliveries.


When to Contact Support #

Contact **Kingston Express Support if:

  • You’re unsure if a product can ship internationally
  • An international order is stuck in customs unusually long
  • You need clarification on dispatchment handling

📧 Always include order ID and destination country.


Final Tip #

Customs is a government process, not a delivery failure.
Sellers who stay accurate, transparent, and compliant succeed with international sales — especially when using Dispatched by Kingston Express 🌍📦🚚

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