
Understanding Import Duty on IOSS Purchases from eBay and Amazon
Understanding Import Duty on IOSS Purchases from eBay and Amazon
With the rise of international e-commerce, platforms like eBay and Amazon have made it easier than ever to buy products from overseas. However, one common concern for shoppers is import duty and VAT (Value-Added Tax) on their purchases. If you’ve recently bought an item using IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop), you might be wondering whether you’re required to pay additional import duty.
What Is IOSS?
The Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) is an EU system introduced on July 1, 2021, designed to simplify VAT collection on low-value goods (below €150) imported into the EU. When you purchase an item through IOSS, the VAT is collected at the point of sale (on eBay or Amazon), so there should be no additional VAT charges upon delivery.
How IOSS Works on eBay and Amazon
When you buy an item from a seller registered under IOSS, the VAT is automatically included in the total price at checkout.
eBay and Amazon collect and remit this tax to the relevant tax authorities.
The item should be delivered without additional VAT or handling fees.
Do You Still Have to Pay Import Duty?
VAT vs. Import Duty
While IOSS covers VAT, it does not necessarily cover import duty, which applies separately based on the product type, value, and country of origin.
For orders under €150 No import duty, as long as the seller properly declares the IOSS number.
For orders over €150 VAT is not collected via IOSS, and you may need to pay import duty and VAT upon arrival.
What If You Were Charged Import Fees After an IOSS Purchase?
If you’ve already paid VAT at checkout and are later asked to pay import VAT or handling fees upon delivery, this could be due to:
1. The seller failing to declare their IOSS number properly. The courier may not recognize that VAT was already paid.
2. Customs processing errors Sometimes, items are mistakenly flagged for VAT collection.
3. Your order exceeding €150 In this case, IOSS does not apply, and normal import procedures take effect.
How to Avoid Paying Extra Import Charges
1. Buy from IOSS-registered sellers eBay and Amazon usually indicate if VAT is included at checkout.
2. Check the total order value - Ensure your purchase stays under the €150 threshold if you want to avoid import duty.
3. Confirm proper declaration - If you’re charged extra, contact the seller or courier to verify the IOSS number was used.
4. Keep proof of VAT payment - Show customs your eBay or Amazon invoice to dispute unnecessary charges.
What to Do If You’re Overcharged
If you mistakenly paid import VAT on an IOSS order:
Contact the courier or customs office with proof of VAT payment.
Request a refund from the tax authority if applicable.
Reach out to eBay or Amazon for assistance in case of seller misdeclaration.
Conclusion
When buying from eBay and Amazon under IOSS, VAT is collected upfront, so you shouldn’t have to pay it again upon delivery. However, import duty may still apply for higher-value items. To avoid extra charges, ensure the seller uses their IOSS number correctly, and keep records of your purchase in case you need to dispute any additional fees.
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