Customs Fees on Parcels (Denmark)
Ordering from outside the EU? Here’s how customs duty, Denmark’s 25% VAT, and carrier handling fees actually work—when you pay, what counts in the calculation, gift rules, IOSS, and how to avoid surprises.
Overview: when you’ll pay fees
🌍 From outside the EU
Expect VAT (25%) on the item + shipping + insurance. Duty may apply above certain values depending on product type.
🏷️ IOSS sellers
If the web-shop collects EU VAT at checkout (IOSS), small consignments usually clear faster with fewer surprises.
🚚 Handling fees
Carriers charge a clearance/admin fee for processing customs. This is separate from VAT/duty.
What’s in the bill?
💶 VAT (moms) — 25%
Calculated on the customs value (goods + shipping + insurance) plus any duty.
🧾 Customs duty
Depends on HS code and origin. Often 0% for many categories under €150; can apply above that.
🧰 Carrier handling
A fixed/variable fee for customs processing, invoicing, and delivery after clearance.
Key thresholds & special cases
💡 VAT applies broadly
There’s no general low-value VAT exemption: most non-EU imports are subject to 25% VAT.
📏 Duty threshold ~€150
Customs duty is not usually charged below €150 (goods value). Above that, it depends on the product’s tariff rate.
🎁 Gifts
Gifts between private individuals have their own limits and conditions. The carrier may still charge a handling fee.
🏷️ IOSS & DDP
IOSS: seller collects EU VAT at checkout for low-value consignments. DDP: seller pays duties/fees in advance—delivery is typically smoother.
Examples (how the math works)
Example A — under €150 (no duty likely)
Example B — above €150 (duty may apply)
How to avoid surprises
🏷️ Prefer IOSS/DDP sellers
If the checkout shows Danish/EU VAT collected (IOSS) or DDP, you’ll usually just receive the parcel without extra payment on delivery.
🧾 Keep invoices handy
Have the order confirmation and itemized value ready. Missing documents can delay clearance.
📦 Honest declarations
Undervaluation or wrong “gift” labels can trigger checks, delays, and extra costs.
🧠 Check product rates
For higher-value items, look up the HS code/tariff in advance so you know if duty applies.
💳 Expect a carrier invoice
If VAT/duty/fees are due, the carrier typically requests payment online or at delivery before releasing the parcel.
🔁 Returns & refunds
If you return goods, you may be able to reclaim VAT/duty per the carrier/customs process—keep all paperwork.
Useful links on exploringdenmark
🏦 NemKonto
🪪 MitID
📱 MobilePay
Related on exploringdenmark
📦 Online shopping tips
🚚 Moving goods to DK
🏠 Address change
💼 Banking for newcomers
Frequently asked questions
🧾 Do I pay VAT on shipping too?
Yes—VAT is calculated on the customs value, which includes the item, shipping, and insurance costs.
🎁 Are gifts always tax-free?
No. Gifts have specific limits and conditions. If outside them, VAT (and sometimes duty) applies, plus handling.
🔢 What exchange rate is used?
Customs uses reference rates—your carrier will convert the declared currency to DKK for the calculation.
🧍 My name/address are wrong—help?
Contact the carrier immediately with proof of identity and the correct address to avoid return or storage fees.
🛍️ If I refuse the parcel?
It’s often returned to sender. You may still owe fees, and refunds depend on the seller’s policy.
⏱️ How long does clearance take?
From hours to a few days—faster if the paperwork and payment are complete (IOSS/DDP is often quickest).
Got a customs/VAT question?
Share the item, value, shop link, and shipping method—we’ll help you estimate fees or fix a clearance issue.