Global Customs and Tax Policy

Global Customs & Tax Policy

On this page

Overview

We ship worldwide and aim to make duties/taxes as clear as possible. Customs rules vary by country. This page explains when taxes are collected at checkout, when they’re due on delivery, and what to expect during clearance.

Need shipping timelines instead? See our Shipping Policy. For returns after delivery, visit the Returns & Exchange Center.

European Union (EU) – IOSS / VAT

Order Value What We Do What You Pay at Delivery
≤ EUR 150 (IOSS scope) We collect VAT at checkout via IOSS and remit it to EU tax authorities. No VAT on delivery. Carrier may still charge a small handling fee in some countries.
> EUR 150 VAT is not collected at checkout. Local customs assess import VAT + duties based on declared value (often CIF: item + shipping + insurance).

IOSS reduces delays and surprises for low‑value consignments. For higher values, import charges are the receiver’s responsibility per EU rules.

United Kingdom – VAT

Order Value What We Do What You Pay at Delivery
≤ GBP 135 We collect UK VAT at checkout and remit accordingly. No VAT on delivery. A small carrier fee may apply in limited cases.
> GBP 135 VAT not collected at checkout. HMRC/Carrier collects import VAT + duties on arrival (based on customs valuation).

United States, Canada, Australia & New Zealand

United States

Most personal imports are duty‑free under the de minimis threshold (currently high). State taxes may be collected at checkout where required.

Canada

CBSA may assess GST/HST and duties on import. The carrier might charge a brokerage/handling fee.

Australia & New Zealand

GST is often collected at checkout for low‑value consignments per local rules. Above the threshold, customs may charge GST/duties on arrival.

Thresholds and handling fees change over time. Final assessment follows your local regulations.

Other Regions

Asia, Middle East, Latin America & Africa: Most countries charge VAT/GST and may levy import duties based on the product’s HS Code and valuation method (often CIF). Carriers may add a disbursement/processing fee. Please check your local customs website for current rates.

Tax Models We Use

  • Pre‑paid taxes (DDP): For some destinations/low‑value parcels (EU IOSS, UK ≤ GBP 135, select countries), taxes are collected at checkout so you won’t pay again on delivery.
  • Pay on delivery (DDU): For higher values or countries without pre‑pay options, the receiver pays any VAT/duties/fees to the carrier during customs clearance.

Unless otherwise stated at checkout, assume your order ships DDU for values above local low‑value thresholds.

How Customs Calculate Charges

  • Valuation basis: Many customs use CIF (item price + shipping + insurance). Some use FOB. Practice varies by country.
  • HS Code: Our jewelry is typically classified under standard HS codes for sterling‑silver jewelry, glass beads, or fashion jewelry. Final classification is at customs’ discretion.
  • Carrier fees: A small admin/brokerage/disbursement fee may apply when the carrier advances taxes to customs on your behalf.

Delays, Refusals & Uncollected Parcels

  • Clearance time: Most parcels clear within 1–5 business days but can take longer during peak seasons or random inspections.
  • Unpaid charges: If VAT/duties are not paid promptly, carriers may return or abandon the parcel per local rules.
  • Refusal: Refusing to pay import charges may result in return‑to‑sender fees that will be deducted from any eligible refund (shipping and third‑party fees are non‑refundable unless required by law).

Tips to Avoid Surprises

  • Review your country’s import rules and thresholds before ordering.
  • Provide a full delivery address and active phone/email for customs contact.
  • Track your parcel and respond to carrier/customs messages quickly.

FAQs

Will I be charged twice if VAT is collected at checkout?

No. When we collect VAT at checkout under IOSS/UK low‑value rules, you should not be charged VAT again on delivery. A minor carrier admin fee may still occur in limited cases.

Can you lower the declared value?

No. We must declare the true value to comply with customs regulations.

Are duties/taxes refundable if I return my order?

Import taxes/fees paid to your customs or carrier are usually non‑refundable. Where local law allows, you may claim a refund directly from customs with your return proof.

Need help?

Questions about customs, duties or VAT in your country? Our support team is happy to help.

Email: support@athenaie.com

Contact Support

Last updated: August 2025. Information on this page is general guidance only; local regulations prevail.