What should I know about import brokerage and fees?Updated 12 days ago

We are excited to have so many International customers and would like to help make the import process as easy and understandable as possible. International shipments require brokerage and customs clearance to enter your country. Once your order arrives at the border, any applicable customs duties, fees, or taxes will be assessed and must be paid before they can be delivered. 

Below we have outlined the process and associated fees, including a fee breakdown. If you have further questions, please contact us.

What are the fees involved?

• Taxes: Taxes are not charged by every country and can vary based on the product's value. This is an additional fee that a local government, such as state, province, or city, charges for delivering the package to their region. 
• Brokerage Fees: Fee associated with managing this process of importing and clearing the shipment. This is a flat fee from the broker that is not dependent on the order value.
• Duties/Tariffs: Similar to Customs Fees, Duties/Tariffs are taxes on the item's value, plus freight and insurance by country. Duties/Tariffs are designed to protect local businesses and industries in the host country. Because of USMCA, most of our products will be duty-free in Canada and Mexico. 

What is the import process?

When you order from another country and have the product sent to you, you are importing goods. This process includes a few extra steps than if you order from somewhere within your own country due to import rules and cost.

Here are the basics of the import process: 

1. Order Placed
2. Order Shipped (with customs invoice for documentation)
3. Brokerage/Customs Clearance 
4. Import Fees Paid 
5. Delivery

• Importer: The importer is the buyer and places an order for purchase.
• Exporter: The exporter is the seller who manufactures or procures the product.
• Customs Authorities: In international trade, the customs authorities of at least two countries – the country of export and the country of import – are involved. They provide clearance for goods to leave the country of export and enter the country of import.
• Carrier: A shipping company that transports the goods from the exporter to the customs authorities and then to the importer. EcoEnclose uses UPS, DHL, and other Freight carriers for international shipments.

What does "Customs" mean?

"Customs" is a common term in international shipping that can refer to the actual process or the duties, fees, or taxes levied on goods transported from one country to another. These costs vary depending on the item and country and exceed the carrier's shipping cost. Every country has its own rules and guidelines.

What is the customs clearance process?

Customs clearance involves the physical inspection of the shipment and document check.

For our Canadian Customers: Canadian law requires the importer of record (the person receiving the shipment) to approve brokerage. When your package arrives in Canada, UPS International will contact you to confirm if you'd like to use their brokerage service. Please be sure you entered an up-to-date phone number when you placed your order so UPS can reach you quickly. If they are unable to contact you to confirm brokerage, the package may be returned to sender at your expense. If you need to update your contact information, please contact us at: [email protected]

What is a broker, and why do I need one?

The broker will receive the goods and ensure your import documentation is filed correctly and penalties are avoided.

For large companies that import or export frequently, you may want to hire a broker for all your shipments.  Customs Brokers can help your imports arrive safely and file your paperwork and Customs entries with Customs officials.

*Tip for UPS shipments going to Canada: Once you receive the tracking for your order, call UPS brokerage at 888-520-9090 to assign the broker for your shipment. It will save time and $5 off the brokerage fee if you choose UPS as your broker. 

What are customs fees?

Customs fees are costs the host country charges to manage the flow of goods in and out of the country. All products go through Customs before going to the buyer; a fee is associated with managing this process.