Understanding Key Terms

Navigating international e-commerce requires a fundamental grasp of the various charges imposed on goods as they cross borders.

Customs Duty, Import Tax, Tariffs

These are taxes levied by a government on goods transported across international borders. Their primary objectives are to generate revenue for the importing country and to protect domestic industries from foreign competition by making imported goods more expensive, and to influence trade flows. The rates of these duties are highly variable, influenced by factors such as product type, country of origin, and existing trade agreements.

Value-Added Tax (VAT) / Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Distinct from import duties, VAT and GST are consumption taxes applied to goods and services at each stage of the supply chain, ultimately borne by the end consumer. They are typically flat-rate percentages of the total transaction value.

Harmonized System (HS) Codes

The Harmonized System is a globally standardized nomenclature for classifying traded products. An accurate HS code is crucial as it directly determines the applicable duty rate for a product. Misclassification can lead to incorrect duty assessments, penalties, or delays.

De Minimis Thresholds

A de minimis threshold is an exemption that allows goods valued below a specified amount to enter a country duty and/or tax-free. For many online orders, leveraging these thresholds can significantly reduce costs and expedite customs clearance.

Key De Minimis Thresholds & VAT/GST Rates:

Note: De minimis thresholds and tax rates are subject to change by local governments.

KeenTail's Approach to International Shipping Costs

At KeenTail, we strive for transparency. Our approach to customs duties and import taxes varies depending on your destination country:

• Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) for Key Markets: For orders shipping to the United States, Canada, the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, KeenTail covers all applicable customs duties and import taxes. The price you see at checkout is the final price you pay – there will be no additional fees upon delivery. We manage the payment of these charges to ensure a smooth and surprise-free delivery experience.
• Delivered At Place (DAP) for Other Countries: For all other international destinations not listed above, your order will be shipped under a Delivered At Place (DAP) model. This means that you, the customer, will be responsible for paying any applicable customs duties, import taxes, and local handling fees directly to the shipping carrier or customs authority upon arrival of your package. These charges are not included in your KeenTail order total.

We strongly recommend that customers in DAP regions contact their local customs office for detailed information on potential charges before placing an order to avoid any unexpected costs.

Returns & Refunds for International Orders

We want you to be completely satisfied with your KeenTail purchase. Here's our policy regarding duties and taxes for international returns:

• For DDP Regions (USA, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, New Zealand): If you return an item from one of these regions, the original customs duties and import taxes paid as part of your order total will be refunded along with the product cost. Please note that original shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.
• For DAP Regions (All Other Countries): For orders shipped under the DAP model, any customs duties, import taxes, or local handling fees you paid upon delivery are non-refundable by KeenTail. You may be able to reclaim these fees directly from your local customs authority; please contact them for information on their refund processes. Original shipping and handling fees are also non-refundable.

Please refer to our Refund Policy for full details on how to initiate a return.

Important Notes & Disclaimers

• Product-Specific Restrictions: Certain products may have international shipping restrictions due to local regulations (e.g., specific materials). If an item cannot be shipped to your country, you will be notified at checkout.
• Consequences of Non-Payment: If you refuse to pay the required customs duties and taxes for a DAP shipment, the parcel may be returned to KeenTail. In such cases, any refund issued will be subject to deductions for original shipping costs, return shipping costs, and any fees incurred by KeenTail for the return process.
• Accuracy of Information: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, customs regulations are subject to change without notice by local governments. KeenTail cannot be held responsible for any discrepancies or changes in these regulations.
• Contact Your Local Customs Office: For the most precise and current information regarding duties, taxes, and import regulations specific to your location and product, we highly recommend contacting your local customs office directly.