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Customs, Import VAT & IOSS Explained

Customs charges depend on your delivery country, order value, and local import regulations.

Below is a clear breakdown of how VAT and customs work when ordering from elasticStage.


United Kingdom

For UK deliveries, VAT is included at checkout. No additional customs or import charges apply.


European Union (Standard Orders – Up to 3 Records Under €150)

For eligible EU orders (maximum three records per parcel and total value under £135 / €150), we ship using IOSS (Import One Stop Shop).

When shipped under IOSS:

  • Your local EU VAT is prepaid at checkout

  • The parcel should arrive without additional VAT charges

  • The shipping label includes our IOSS number

If you are incorrectly asked to pay VAT again, show your invoice confirming VAT was already paid under IOSS.


Important: IOSS Covers VAT Only

IOSS covers VAT but does not cover additional customs administration, postal handling, or processing fees introduced by individual EU countries.

Some examples include:

  • Romania – local logistics or processing fees

  • Italy – customs administration fees

Other EU member states may introduce similar charges over time.


EU Customs Changes (From 1 July 2026)

From 1 July 2026, the EU has introduced a €3 flat customs duty on low-value e-commerce parcels under €150.

This applies even when VAT has been prepaid under IOSS.

A separate EU-wide handling fee is also under consideration, and some countries (including France, the Netherlands, and Belgium) are reviewing additional national measures.


Orders Outside the UK & EU

For destinations outside the UK and EU:

  • Prices are shown without VAT at checkout

  • Your local customs authority may apply import VAT, duties, or handling fees upon arrival

These charges depend on your country’s rules and value thresholds.


Bulk Orders (All Non-UK Destinations)

Bulk orders shipped outside the UK — including EU destinations — are sent without VAT applied at checkout.

Local import VAT, duties, and handling fees should be expected according to local regulations.


Important Information

  • Customs regulations vary by country

  • Import rules and thresholds can change

  • elasticStage does not control local customs charges

For the most up-to-date information, we recommend checking:

Your local postal service or customs authority will provide the most accurate guidance regarding import fees in your country.

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