Handling Customs, Duties & International Orders

(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

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What Happens When an Order Goes International? #

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.

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What Are Customs Duties & Import Taxes? #

• 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.

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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.

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How This Works With Dispatched by Kingston Express #

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.

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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.

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Seller-Managed International Shipping (Higher Responsibility) #

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.

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Common Reasons International Orders Get Delayed #

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

📌 Customs delays are outside seller or platform control.

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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.

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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.

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How to Set Customer Expectations (Best Practice) #

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

🛒 Transparency prevents disputes.

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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.

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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.

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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 🌍📦🚚