Customs, Duties and Import Taxes
When ordering from PODWARE outside Australia, your shipment may be subject to customs duties, tariffs, taxes, or clearance fees applied by the destination country.
These charges are not included in product prices or shipping costs and are set by local governments, not by POD.
Our role is to export your order correctly and compliantly. Customs authorities always make the final assessment of import charges in the destination country.
What PODWARE Is Responsible For
For all international orders, PODWARE will:
- Declare the place of origin for each product.
- Apply the correct HS tariff codes to all exported goods.
- Declare the accurate commercial value of the order.
- Provide compliant export and customs documentation.
- Lodge the shipment with our nominated carrier (e.g., Australia Post)
This ensures your order is legally exported and transparently documented, in line with international trade requirements.
What The Customer Is Responsible For
Import charges are determined and enforced by the destination country.
As the importer, you may need to pay:
- Customs duties or tariffs
- Local taxes such as VAT, GST, or sales tax
- Customs clearance or brokerage fees
- Any additional charges applied by local authorities
Customs or the carrier collects these fees on their behalf, and you do not pay them to PODWARE Pty Ltd.
How Customs Charges Are Applied
Customs authorities calculate charges based on several factors, including:
- Country of manufacture (place of origin)
- Product classification (HS tariff code)
- Declared order value
- Local import thresholds and exemptions
- Current government trade and tariff policies
Because these rules vary by country and change regularly, PODWARE cannot predict or control the final charges applied.
United States – Important Information
Due to recent changes in U.S. import regulations, tariffs may now apply to postal shipments valued at under $800 USD.
For U.S. customers:
- The customer must pay applicable tariffs before dispatch.
- PODWARE will contact you with the calculated charges after reviewing your order.
- We cannot lodge your order with Australia Post until you settle these charges.
This process ensures compliance with U.S. customs requirements and prevents delays or rejection on arrival.
If you would like an estimate before placing an order, please get in touch with our team before checkout.
European Union, United Kingdom, and Other Destinations
For shipments to the EU, UK, and other international destinations:
- Customs will typically assess import taxes and duties when your order arrives.
- Charges are collected directly by customs or the local carrier.
- Customs may hold the delivery until the customer pays the import duties.
PODWARE cannot pre-collect or waive these charges unless explicitly required by the destination country.
Why Customs Charges Are Outside PODWARE’s Control
Customs duties and import taxes are government-imposed charges.
PODWARE does not:
- Set import rates
- Collect foreign taxes
- Receive any portion of customs fees.
- Influence customs assessments or enforcement.
Refusal or non-payment of customs charges may result in delayed delivery, return to sender, or forfeiture of goods under local laws.
Need Help Or An Estimate?
If you have questions about customs charges or would like guidance before placing an international order, our team is happy to help.
Please get in touch with us at: customersupport@podware.com.au
We recommend checking with your local customs authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding import duties and taxes in your country.
This page is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or customs advice. Import regulations are subject to change without notice.