Aliexpress Customs: A Complete Guide to Importing and Taxes

Aliexpress Customs can be a daunting task, especially for first-time importers.

The first step is to understand the different types of Aliexpress customs clearance, which include Express, Economy, and Postal.

These options vary in speed and cost, with Express being the fastest but also the most expensive.

To avoid unexpected fees, it's essential to factor in customs clearance costs when calculating your total purchase price.

The total cost of importing from Aliexpress will depend on the value of the goods, your location, and the type of customs clearance chosen.

Some countries have free shipping options, but be aware that this often means the buyer is responsible for customs clearance and any associated fees.

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Buying on AliExpress can be a great way to source products from around the world, but it's essential to understand the import and customs process.

Globalization and digitalization have made it easier for companies to export products to different countries, resulting in online marketplaces like AliExpress.

The platform allows you to buy products from Chinese companies, facilitating international trade, but this also means you'll need to pay import duties.

Customs duties are a tax applied to goods coming from abroad, and in the EU, goods exceeding €22 in value must go through customs.

You'll need to pay VAT and postal charges for parcels with a value between €22 and €149, and customs duties, VAT, and postal charges for products over €150.

Some countries, like the US, have specific rules, such as a $800 per day quota limit, and may charge a 25% Aliexpress import tax on orders exceeding this limit.

To avoid counterfeiting, learn about recognized industrial property rights in your home country by consulting databases like the EU's EUIPO.

To track the departure route of your parcel, use special trackers like ParcelsApp, Postal Ninja, or Track17.

If customs services have questions about your parcel, you may need to provide additional documents or pay a fee.

Here are some key facts to keep in mind:

Packages sent via postal service, such as small packages from AliExpress, are handled by local postal services, which clear customs and may request clarification if there are any anomalies.

If your package is sent via a private company like DHL, TNT, or UPS, it will go through Customs and you may need to provide clarifications if there are any issues.

Packages can be delayed at origin due to problems with the carrier, which can cause a "Failure at entry to the sorting center" tracking status.

Here are some common tracking statuses you may see on your AliExpress order:

Choosing the right delivery method on AliExpress can make a big difference in the speed and reliability of your package's arrival.

The platform itself or through Sinotrans (Chinese logistics) manages AliExpress Standard Shipping, which guarantees traceability and often includes logistics agreements with postal services in Spain, speeding up delivery and reducing incidents with customs.

This shipping method is a good option if you want to minimize the risk of customs intervention, as many taxes are already settled.

If you select products shipped directly from Spain, France, Poland, Italy, etc., they are exempt from any customs procedures, as they have previously entered the European Union and VAT is included in the price.

Choice-labeled products offer logistical advantages, such as faster shipping and a virtually complete reduction in the risk of customs intervention.

Here are some common shipping methods and their impact on customs clearance:

As a general recommendation, always choose shipments with tracking to ensure you can monitor your package's progress.

Tracking statuses on orders can be confusing, but understanding what they mean can help you stay on top of your package's journey. You'll see a wide variety of tracking statuses, including "Failure at entry to the sorting center", which indicates that the order has been delayed at origin, usually due to a problem with the carrier.

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Some statuses can be a cause for concern, like "Held by customs", where the merchandise has been detained for inspection or to process a tax payment. The recipient usually receives precise instructions on the next steps.

Other statuses, like "Customs clearance completed", mean the order has passed all stages and is in transit to the end customer. It's a good sign that your package is on its way.

Here are some common tracking statuses you might see:

If your order appears as "detained", it's essential to check the customs notification or contact the carrier to regularize the situation as soon as possible.

A package being blocked at customs is a common issue on AliExpress. This can happen for various reasons, including a declared price that's lower than the actual value of the products.

Some entrepreneurs might mark a lower value on products to avoid paying taxes and enjoy the benefits of international agreements. If the declared price is below €150, duties are not due, but this is not a recommended practice.

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The consequences of underdeclaring can be severe, including delays in delivery and additional fees. To avoid this, it's essential to declare the true value of the goods and their purchase price.

If a package is blocked at customs, you'll receive a notification from the post office or shipping agency stating the reason for the hold and the actions to be taken. You may be required to provide additional documentation, such as an invoice or proof of payment, and pay the corresponding amount.

Here are some common reasons why a package might be blocked at customs:

In some cases, the procedure can be done online through the Correos or Tax Agency website, or it can be delegated to a customs agent.

A package can be blocked at customs for various reasons, and it's essential to understand what might cause this issue. Here are some common reasons why a package could be blocked:

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Declared price is lower than the actual value of the products, which can lead to customs duties not being paid.

Missing documentation is another reason why a package might be blocked, often due to incorrect or incomplete information.

Some products are prohibited by destination country legislation, such as medicines, foodstuffs, raw materials, and semi-finished products for confectionery.

Unauthorized merchandise, like explosive products, weapons, and certain chemicals, can also cause a package to be blocked.

Counterfeit goods are a common reason for package blocking, as they are often reported by those who hold an industrial patent.

Here's a breakdown of the reasons why a package might be blocked:

If your shipment is blocked, the first thing to do is to remain calm and not panic. You'll likely receive a notification from the postman or a message from AliExpress explaining the reason for the hold.

To avoid customs issues, it's essential to follow the rules and learn about the customs laws in your country. Check the reliability of the seller on AliExpress by reading past customer feedback and reviews.

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If your package is stopped at customs, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a copy of your ID, tax ID code, VAT number, and a copy of the invoice. This can be done online, and you'll likely be contacted by the post office or customs agency for further clarification.

Some common reasons for package blocking include declaring a lower value than the actual price, missing documentation, prohibited goods, unauthorized merchandise, and counterfeit products. If your package is held due to anomalies, customs officials may examine it, and you may need to provide further documentation.

You can track the departure route of your package using special trackers like ParcelsApp, Postal Ninja, or Track17. If you need to pay customs duty, there are detailed instructions on how to do this.

Here are the possible statuses you may see on AliExpress if your package is blocked:

If your order is held or returned at customs, you'll receive a notification with the reason for the hold and the actions to be taken. You may need to provide additional documentation and pay the corresponding amount. In some cases, the procedure can be done online, while in others, you may need to contact the seller or a customs agent.

If the seller refuses to process the return or refund, you have the right to open a dispute on the platform. Remember to always request a refund bill to facilitate any customs or tax procedures.

To ensure your order is cleared by customs, check the order status by tracking number, and look for harmless statuses like "Customs clearance", "Successful import clearance", "Customs control passed", or "Released from customs: cleared."

If you're shopping on AliExpress from the UK, be aware that orders from other countries are taxed. Packages under £135 are subject to tax, which can be paid directly on the AliExpress website without paperwork.

In Australia, you'll pay a 10% fee on purchases up to AUD $1,000, which is displayed in the shopping cart. This fee is collected by AliExpress and sent to the Australian Government.

It's worth noting that Australia charges a 10% GST on product imports from foreign countries, which applies to all purchases under 1000 AUD.

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When you buy wholesale products from AliExpress and the goods are shipped by postal service, you'll receive an identification number that allows you to track the transaction, both on the Chinese platform and on your national postal service website.

This code, known as a tracking number, lets you know at a given moment where your package is. You can find detailed information on your national postal service website.

Every postal service has a place where you can enter the tracking number to check where your package is. Often, reading something like "Processing at the International Exchange Center" means it's arrived at customs.

If the word "stopped at customs" or "held by customs" appears on the tracking, it means your package is being held in a postal warehouse, checked, and may require an additional payment.

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The European Union has changed its customs rules, unfortunately. As of July 2021, all EU countries are required to pay taxes on AliExpress orders.

You'll see the price of the item in your personal shopping cart, and VAT depends on the country where the parcel is headed. The tax rate usually ranges from 17% to 27%.

If your order exceeds 150 euros, you'll be charged the higher tax rate.

If you've received a notice of customs duty, it's essential to understand that the recalculation may increase from the initial notice, so it's best to be cautious and study the aspects of orders in your country to avoid unpleasant situations.

You can find a list of customs regulations in your country by applying to the local post office. They will provide you with all the necessary information.

Customs duties apply to goods coming from abroad, and the amount you'll need to pay depends on the value of the goods. In the EU, for example, if the value of the goods is below €22, they won't be checked by customs authorities. However, if the value exceeds €150, you'll be required to pay customs duties, VAT, and postal charges.

Here's a breakdown of the customs duties and taxes you might need to pay:

• Purchases under €150: VAT has already been paid on AliExpress during the purchase, and you shouldn't have to pay any duties or incur additional customs costs.

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• Purchases over €150: If the amount is higher, the package may be held for customs duties (2.5% of the declared value), and you may also be required to pay VAT if the IOSS (Security Tax Service) was not properly processed.

• Products subject to restrictions: Certain products, such as electronic devices, batteries, or lithium-based products, may be subject to additional controls, even below the indicated thresholds.

To avoid any issues, it's best to clarify with the seller when you'll be notified about any additional costs or procedures. A screenshot from AliExpress with a tracking number and proof of payment for the goods is usually enough.

In the EU, the IOSS system requires sellers to collect VAT directly at the time of purchase for all orders shipped with a value under €150. This aims to expedite customs clearance and avoid traditional queues and procedures.

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As a frequent buyer on AliExpress, I've learned that understanding payment and fees is crucial to a smooth shopping experience. You'll typically be responsible for additional costs, including customs duties, VAT, and postal charges, once you place an order.

The good news is that many countries have reasonable limits on purchases, avoiding additional paperwork. For example, in the EU, goods under €22 won't be checked by customs authorities, while purchases between €22 and €149 will only require VAT and postal charges.

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

It's also essential to note that some products, like electronic devices or batteries, may be subject to additional controls, even if they're below the indicated thresholds.

When you place an order on AliExpress, you become responsible for additional costs, not just the seller.

The buyer is responsible for fees, including customs duties, VAT, and postal charges, as each country has its own rules and formalities.

You can avoid unnecessary stress by clarifying with the seller when you'll be notified about additional costs.

A screenshot from AliExpress with a tracking number and proof of payment for the goods is usually enough to satisfy customs authorities.

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Goods marked "Delivery within the country" are not cleared through customs, as they're shipped from warehouses located in your country.

Purchases under €150 typically don't require additional customs duties or fees, but it's essential to ensure the seller has handled the IOSS process correctly.

If the package is held for customs duties, you may be required to pay VAT, and the IOSS was not properly processed.

The likelihood of a package being held for customs duties can be reduced by using AliExpress Standard Shipping or European warehouses.

You can pull out an AliExpress invoice from your personal account to pay customs duties, and it's also a good idea to contact the seller to notify them of the issue.

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Payment Management can be a hassle, especially when dealing with international orders. You'll need to provide basic documentation such as ID, invoice, proof of payment and, in some cases, communication from the store (screenshot of the order).

There are several ways to manage customs and payment for AliExpress orders. You can submit your documentation and pay VAT and duties on the Correos website, with a reduced processing fee.

Using a customs broker can speed up the process, but it usually involves an additional fee. This is especially helpful for larger orders or complex cases.

Filing your VAT self-assessment and paying taxes directly can be cheaper than leaving the management to the carrier. If you have a digital certificate or Cl@ve, you can do this online.

Occasionally, the postman may deliver the order to your home and require payment of the outstanding amount due on delivery, in addition to handling fees. This is usually the least cost-effective option.

Here are the payment management options summarized:

To avoid customs issues, buy on AliExpress Plaza or select shipping from Spain or Europe, as this completely avoids customs issues and includes VAT.

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By choosing these options, you can skip the hassle of dealing with customs.

Filtering by shipping country is also a good idea, as it allows you to view only products shipped from the European Union.

This can help minimize the risk of customs intervention.

Choosing Choice products, identified with a special label, offers fast shipping and proprietary logistics that almost completely minimize the risk of customs intervention.

Requesting discreet packaging can also help, especially if you're buying sensitive items or items that might raise suspicion due to their value.

Checking the declared value is also important, as an unrealistically low value may trigger customs to require an invoice or proof of actual payment.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Checking out other buyers' experiences can also help identify common issues or misuse of a seller's practices.

If you have questions about the legality of the product in your country or the necessary procedures, it's best to consult the seller directly before purchasing.

Don't let customs issues ruin your online shopping experience. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Incorrectly declared value is a major mistake that can lead to delays or even additional payment. Make sure to declare the true value of your purchase.

Incomplete documents can also cause unnecessary delays. Always keep an invoice, proof of payment, and national identity document on hand.

Failure to meet management deadlines can result in your package being returned to the sender. Be sure to keep track of deadlines set by customs or the Post Office.

Here are some additional tips to minimize the risk of incidents: