Import costs in Germany
Ordering from outside the EU for delivery to Germany? Enter your order details to estimate the total cost.
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This estimate uses the rules in effect on 9 November 2026. The final amount you pay may differ. What has changed?
VAT in Germany
On imports you pay the same VAT rate as in a shop in Germany: 19% for most products. VAT is charged on the product price, shipping, insurance, customs duty and the EU handling fee together.
- 19% (standard)
- 7% (most food, books, newspapers)
- 0% (solar panels for homes)
Clearance fees in Germany
Your postal service or courier handles the customs declaration and pays the taxes on your behalf. You repay these taxes along with a clearance fee. You usually avoid this fee if you paid VAT at checkout through IOSS.
| Carrier | Fee | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Deutsche Post / DHL Paket | €7.50 per parcel, including VAT, whatever the value. Only charged when you have duty or VAT to pay. | November 2026 |
| DHL Express | 2% of duty and VAT, at least €15, plus 19% VAT: 2.38%, at least €17.85. | November 2026 |
Travelling back to Germany
Goods you bring from outside the EU are free of duty and VAT up to €430 when you travel by plane or boat, €300 by car or train, and €175 for children under 15. Declare goods above the allowance at the red exit, or tell a customs officer. Not declaring can lead to a fine.
Good to know
- You can also collect a parcel at the customs office (Zollamt) and clear it yourself. Deutsche Post then charges no fee.