Customs & Import Charges
We would like your order to arrive seamlessly, with no surprises. Below you will find clear information on how customs, duties, and taxes work when shipping printed books internationally, plus an overview of typical VAT rates across the EU.
Please note: All charges shown are for guidance only. The final amount is determined by local customs authorities and may vary.
Why You May See Additional Charges
- Books and printed matter are often zero-rated or duty-free in many jurisdictions. For example, in the European Union, printed books are not usually subject to customs duties.
- However, local VAT (sales tax) may still apply depending on your country’s rules.
- Our couriers handles any customs or import fees on our behalf and will notify you directly by SMS or email if payment is required.
- De minimis thresholds (i.e. value limits below which duties don’t apply) vary by country.
- Because rates change, we recommend checking with your local customs or tax authority for the most up-to-date details.
Typical Charges by Region
| Destination Region | Typical Customs Duty on Books* | Local VAT / Import Taxes | Notes & Caveats |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | 0 % (books usually exempt) | Varies by country (see below) | Printed books generally classed under HS Code 4901. |
| USA / North America | Often 0 % | State/local sales tax may apply | Books are usually duty-free; some states charge sales tax. |
| Larger Countries / Rest of World | 0 % – 10 % | 5 % – 30 % | Example: Australia 10 %, Japan 10 %, Canada 5 %. |
*“Customs Duty on Books” refers to tariffs imposed before local taxes.
🇪🇺 VAT Rates on Printed Books (EU Countries, 2025 Estimates)
| Country | Approx. VAT Rate for Printed Books* | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| France | ~ 5.5 % | Reduced rate for paper books. |
| Italy | ~ 4.0 % | Applies to printed publications. |
| Spain | ~ 4.0 % | “Super-reduced” rate for books. |
| Germany | ~ 7.0 % | Reduced rate for cultural goods. |
| Netherlands | ~ 9.0 % | Standard reduced VAT for books. |
| Poland | ~ 5.0 % | Reduced VAT rate applies to books. |
| Sweden | ~ 6.0 % | Cultural goods reduced VAT. |
| Slovakia | ~ 10.0 % | Reduced VAT rate on printed matter. |
| United Kingdom | 0 % | Printed books are zero-rated. |
*These are the reduced VAT rates specific to printed books. Standard VAT for other goods is higher.
EU update: Since 2022, EU states may apply super-reduced or even 0 % VAT to printed and digital books at their discretion. Rates above are indicative as of 2025.
How It Works in Practice
- Order placed — We prepare your shipment with accurate customs codes (HS 4901 for printed books).
- DHL handles customs clearance — Our delivery partner works directly with local customs.
- Assessment — Your country’s customs authority applies any VAT or import tax if due.
- Notification — Our delivery partner contacts you by SMS or email if payment is required before delivery.
- Delivery — Once cleared, your order arrives safely and securely.
Tips and Things to Consider
- Even when customs duty is 0 %, local VAT may still apply based on total landed cost (item + shipping).
- Some countries have de minimis thresholds for small-value parcels, while others (like the U.S. post-2025) have removed exemptions entirely.
- VAT and import policies can change frequently — our figures are for guidance only and are kept up to date to the best of our ability.
Carbon Balanced Print
All of our books are carbon balance printed
Made in Great Britain
All of our books are made in Great Britain