litbuy economics vary by destination country. This guide covers customs handling.
United States
De minimis: US$800.
Strategy: consolidate aggressively. Threshold is generous.
United Kingdom
Low value: £135. VAT (20%) via IOSS at checkout below threshold.
Above: import VAT + duty + handling at delivery.
Strategy: keep parcels under £135.
Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain
Low value: €150 for duty exemption. VAT applies regardless.
VAT rates: DE 19%, FR 20%, NL 21%, IT 22%, ES 21%.
Strategy: keep parcels under €150.
Ready to shop the freshest picks from the litbuy Spreadsheet?
Canada
Personal exemption: varies (~CAD$150 informal).
Strategy: smaller parcels; watch provincial variations.
Australia
GST threshold: AUD$1000.
Strategy: aggressive consolidation acceptable.
Japan
Duty exemption: ¥10,000.
Strategy: keep parcels small.
Universal rules
- Do not understate declared value.
- Do not overstate.
- Match declared value to realistic content.
- Add insurance for high declared value.
Split-versus-consolidate math (UK buyer, £270 parcel)
- One parcel: ~£75 tax overhead.
- Two parcels (£135 each): £54 total via IOSS.
Splitting saves ~£21.
What to read next
Combine customs with the smart shipping strategy. Choose payment aware of country factors via the payment comparison.
Return to our litbuy Spreadsheet homepage for the full library of guides and the latest sheets.
Frequently asked questions
What is de minimis?
The parcel value threshold below which no duty applies. Varies by country.
Is IOSS important?
For EU and UK buyers, yes. IOSS collects VAT at checkout under threshold.
What if I go over threshold?
Duty and VAT at delivery. Handling fees may apply.
Should I understate value?
No. Illegal in most jurisdictions.
How often are parcels inspected?
Randomly, under 5% of parcels.
How do customs shape litbuy finds discovery?
Country-specific strategies affect cost-effective finds. High-tax countries favor lower-value parcels.
Ready to open the litbuy Spreadsheet?
Jump straight to the source. All eleven categories, freshest listings, current shipping coupon — right on litbuy.