Customs is where a Hoobuy order can either sail through or sit for weeks. This guide explains how duty works and what you can do to keep parcels moving. It complements the Hoobuy shipping guide.
How Duty Is Calculated
Most countries use a formula: (declared value + shipping) x duty rate + local VAT/GST. Rates vary by product category. Shoes, bags and perfume tend to attract higher rates than plain clothing.
De Minimis Thresholds
Many countries have a threshold below which no duty is charged. Examples:
- US: historically $800, subject to change.
- UK: £135 for VAT, higher for duty.
- EU: €150 for duty; VAT applies from €0.
- Australia: AUD 1000.
Verify the current threshold for your country before shipping.
Declared Value
Hoobuy asks how much to declare. Underdeclaring is illegal and risks confiscation. A moderate, believable value that matches the invoice is safest.
Sensitive Products
Replicas and branded items can be seized in strict jurisdictions (Germany, France, Italy). Community-tested lines from the best hoobuy spreadsheet community are the safer picks.
What Triggers Inspection
- Suspiciously low declared value.
- Brand-name keywords in the manifest.
- Heavy parcels with mixed contents.
- Repeat shipments to the same address.
If You Get a Customs Notice
Pay any duty owed promptly. Provide a genuine invoice if requested. If you receive a seizure notice, contact Hoobuy support – they can advise on the appeal process.
Continue reading: return to the Hoobuys home, browse the best Hoobuy spreadsheet hub, or check the Hoobuy shipping guide. Ready to order? Open the Hoobuy sheet on FCsheet.