Well it is an important question in the world of today, more and more Indians are purchasing stuff online and importing it into India. But the question most people ask is the same. What about the customs duty?
Well to be frank with you, anything you have bought abroad and are bringing into India is chargeable as far as custom duties go except some duty free items like IT Products (Digital Camera, LCD Monitors,RAM,Processors etc., confirm the list though).
Seasoned ebay sellers and other online stores try to ensure that loyal Indian customers aren’t forced to shed customs at all. Remember you don’t need an IEC number to import stuff for personal use.
Here is what most companies do so that you don’t have to pay customs for importing stuff into India :
1. They mark the product as a gift on the customs declaration form of the package. This is illegal by the way , but there is no way to detect whether the thing is a gift or not. Unless the other person leaves an invoice inside the so called gift 
2. Even after declaring the commodity as a gift, Indian customs will still charge it if the price is above Rs.10000 , so these ebay sellers under-declare the value of goods. This is a double edged sword, as if the product is stolen it would mean that you would not get the right price from insurance, so this can lead to losses.
Now both these steps do save duty to the importer, but you should realise they are probably illegal and be ready for consequences. Also keep in mind the more expensive the courier, the more closely the customs will examine your package. They know that EMS and DHL aren’t used for low value items, hence these packages are scrutinised more than others. On the same time Airmail and Registered Airmail is more prone to theft especially in India.
Now the fact is most genuine importers don’t mind paying a little duty on the products they are importing into India, but the customs are so notorious that most try to circumvent them, because they know if their package is caught by Indian customs, there will be a lot more paying up to do! Also if you are importing in bulk and you don’t have an IEC, you are in big trouble.
Another question people have is what happens if the customs find your item chargeable, dont worry no one will send you to jail unless you are importing prohibited stuff. If your item is found chargeable, your package will be seized by customs and you will be sent a letter usually asking you for purpose of import etc. Be truthful while replying. If customs are satisfied with your reply, then they will calculate the appropriate customs duty and send the postman to your home who collects the duty and delivers your shipment. As easy as that. There is a small fine too for mis-declarations. Frequent mis-declarations will get you in trouble though. So be on the right side of the law. In case you have questions, feel free to ask via comments. Also this is not legal advice, hire a lawyer if you need legal advice.
July 5th, 2008 at 10:10 am
I regularly buy from Ebay USA and Ebay UK, and the post pretty much summarises what Indian customs are all about.
Fedex and DHL will always be checked by Indian customs, so if you are getting something like the Iphone and are afraid of customs then registered post is the smartest move no doubt but its risky with Indian Postmen stealing stuff. Also be aware that Fedex and DHL charge a huge brokerage price which often is greater than the price of the object.
July 11th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Can you tell me about the customs duty for importing the following in India :
Digital Camera won on Ebay
Laptop as a gift
personal items imported via post
Can you give me a link to indian customs site, if i mark a product as a gift, upto what value can they be freely imported into India without the fear of customs.
Also should i choose EMS,DHL,UPS,Fedex or registered post or normal airmail while importing into India ?
July 11th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Personal Items imported into India will get charged at 17.34% , if you declare items as gifts while importing into India on CN 22/23 forms then you get zero duty charged.
Also dont take panga with Indian Customs , if they seize your package, they wont release it without greasing of palms, or ofcourse they will charge you a lot of duty and penalty.
July 11th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Well my experience with sending items to India has been very bad, the packages get stolen and lost a lot many times, best to send insured packages to India with proper value marked on them.
July 18th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
Digital Cameras have no duty on them in India, although customs may put countervailing duties, its import will be cheap.
Lappys are heavily scrutinised and dutied.
This is not legal Indian customs advice !
July 19th, 2008 at 8:33 am
Can i import the Iphone in India via post ? Will customs be able to track the Iphone, will they confiscate it ? Do i have to pay bribe to Indian customs ?
July 19th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Yes you can import Iphone, but prefer courier over post as elecs above 2000 by post can be troublesome.
If the customs catch the Iphone, they will issue a customs notice to you, usually they will assume its commercial and ask for an IEC number, bribing etc. is a very debatable topic, just follow all rules and there should be no problems.
August 2nd, 2008 at 8:59 pm
I want to import a laptop into India, should i use DHL, Fedex, UPS ? or should i use USPS and Indian Post ?
Also do i need an IEC number ? Can i pay with my Indian Rupee credit card for US Dollar purchase abroad ? , Will i violate FERA / FEMA ?
August 13th, 2008 at 11:14 am
can i send/receive cosmetics if they r marked as gift? r they prohibited?
September 3rd, 2008 at 10:41 pm
well,i actually want to import a 60 inch LCD tv….its way more cheaper in the US than in India….also there is a wider range to chose from.
now tell me
a)what is the percentage of duty that has to be paid
b)which is th best mode of import
c)is there a way to circumvent the duty
d)can i avoid th duty if it is sent/carried by someone in the US
September 8th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
I bought a set of dvd movie worth of 1900 from ebay UK . Now Indian customs is asking me to pay 4500. Is it possible for me to send back/refuse to accept the item as this is not affordable cost for me. Thanks for advice
September 8th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Hmmm, i dont think the customs send back the stuff. They mostly auction it off.
The least you can do is ask for a break up of the custom duty applied as it seems to be too much. Get in touch with a customs broker and informally ask him the duty that should be levied.
September 13th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
i want to buy knives n shurikens(throwing stars) n may be even swords(katana) , will it be alloed by customs in india? well as collectibles it shud be allowed cause logically i can get knife in every street of india?
September 13th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Hi Arpit,
I can answer on this question personally.
One of my friends had ordered imitation knives from a Hong Kong based seller, and he tells me he had to go through a lot of hassle in importing the knives.
Also if you say that they are collectibles, very high customs tax shall be levied on them.
Please consult a customs agent if you are serious about importing knives and he will tell you the nitty gritty.
September 13th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Also the street argument is not valid, you can get a wifi router on the street, but to import it we need a license from the WPC, similarly a large variety of items are in restricted list.
Please check out the list on the customs website.
September 26th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Can you tell me how much duty is given on LCD TVs imported into India ?
LCd Monitors, RAM Computers and other IT Equipment ?
October 6th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Hi,
What would be the customs duty for cosmetics shipped to India. The value would be approx.Rs.3,000 – Rs.4,000/-
Please DO NOT publish my name on the website.
Thanks.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
hi..
i want to buy a micro earphone from china.the seller is ready to send via dhl and value it below 30$.shud i go for air mail??can i buy a walkie talkie and get it couriered to india?is it legal..thanks in advance.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
**This is not legal advice , advice on as is basis, follow at ur own risk**
@reogeorge – If the item is below $30, the cost of DHL itself will be more than Items.
Anyway, i would recommend registered airmail and write the value of the items to be around $10-15, not so that you avoid customs, but so that it doesnt get stolen. Writing wrong cost is illegal.
If the sender is sending it as a gift, it wont be applied customs duty.
Import of walkie talkie set will most probably require a DoT licence from the WPC India. The customs will most probably seize the package and ask you for your license.
October 10th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
hi,
I’ve recently bought an graphics card from us for 269$. However while tracking the package it got stuck in customs. Its been already 3 days. Earliar i’ve been buying stuff from ebay, and never came across any problem as such. Although the goods purchased were always less than 100$.
I need advise about what to do next. And how to contact these people online. If any web link would be given that would be really helpful.
Thanks
October 10th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
@Nitin – there is no way to contact the customs online, just hope your card isnt confiscated, if it is , you will receive a notice from the customs with fine+duty in it.
If you get any such notice, you may pay the amount or ask the customs officer to reduce it in person, or you can get an agent to represent you.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
And how do I contact customs in New Delhi. Is there any Phone number or address? And how much do you reckon the fine etc would be?
October 30th, 2008 at 12:17 am
There are a number of customs offices in New Delhi, the one your stuff is sent to depends on the method of posting.
November 19th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
How much cutom duty i wud owe if i would take $20000 to india ?
November 22nd, 2008 at 6:19 pm
DOES ANYBODY HAS ANY IDEA THAT HOWMUCH DUTY ONE HAS TO PAY FOR IMPORTING FOUNTAIN PENS FOR PERSONAL USE….
November 25th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
That depends on the amount. If its less than $50 then you don’t have to pay anything. Usually for importing pens there is no duty as such. So you can go ahead and get the pen imported…. or u can go to this link “http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cst-0708/cst-main.htm” and follow chapter 96. Hope it helps;-)
December 4th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Dear Sir/Madam,
This is Karthikeyan Sakthivel and working in Bangalore (ITPL). As part of our company employee benefits, we will get some discount for some products which listed in our company websites. I have purchased Microsoft Office Home and student 2007 product from Microsoft (Rs 3800) under Microsoft Employee purchase program thru our company website. It’s purely for my personal use only.
Its came all the way from Singapore to Bangalore thru Fedex and now in Airport customs. Fedex saying i need to get the clearance from customs. But i checked with customs and should have IEC code to get it done. Could you please help me how to fix this issues. Is there any way to get the exemption or need to get the IEC code. Please do the needful.
Regards,
Karthik
December 4th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
@Karthik -
You do NOT need an IEC code for personal imports. Just write a reply to the customs that since the software is intended for personal use and bought in personal capacity, an IEC code is not needed for it.
Read page 13 of India’s trade policy
http://164.100.9.245/exim/2000/procedures/ftp-hbcontents2008.pdf
And quote it to the customs officer with a copy. Also page 19 of Customs Notification No.20/99 shows that IT software is exempt from duty http://www.indiabudget.nic.in/ub1999-2000/cen/cnot20-99.pdf
Frame a proper reply after reading the 2 things. I am pretty sure about the IEC thing, so say that its for personal use only.
Disclaimer – This isnt legal advice, follow at your own risk. No responsibility for any consequences.
December 6th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
i bought 1 hp desktop of $1159 online it was shipped by UPS and custom charges which i had to pay were Rs12000. hope this helps
December 6th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Hi Himanshu,
Can you tell us what the break up of the whole 12000 rupees was ?
December 11th, 2008 at 12:12 am
Hi, I’ve ordered plush toys and candies before from a Hong Kong based online store, and received it duty free. But this time I plan to purchase a gaming console (Nintendo DS Lite) from another HK-based store, the total coming upto $168 through registered airmail. A friend of mine said Indian duty isn’t charged for less than Rs. 10,000 ($200). Do you think I’ll be charged for the console? I’m also ordering a game cartridge for it, but through another HK store, the total value $40, though airmail as well. Will that be charged any customs as well? Please let me know soon. Thank you!
December 11th, 2008 at 1:05 am
@Nish -electronics above 2000 in post is technically not allowed, will it be marked as a gift ?
Which store is this ?
December 12th, 2008 at 3:11 am
Hi,
I was wondering what the customs regulation would be if I ordered a pair of shoes (and maybe some items of clothing) online. The purchase would be from a British website, and since the items will be for personal use, is there some sort of exemption available here? The website would courier the items to me. Any help regarding this would be appreciated. Thanks!
December 12th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Great blog here Wisetechie.. I just order a couple of heavy metal T-shirts online and the total cost along with shipping amounts to $41. Will I be forced to pay customs for this?. Any advice or suggestion would be appreciated..;)
December 13th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
I am ordering 4 iphones from china is cheaper than india but not that cheap..
the dealer told me he can send it as a gift and through EMS! and it will reach my given address in 4 days! will this happen…
wont i get into so customs problems ? 4 3g iphones! if caught what sholud i write them back when i recive the mail ?
can i tell them this is a gift from mrs.xxx to us.. i mean for family members.. and mrs.xx can be my dads business partner ?
please advice me.. i am gatherin up all the money and buying it so i need top advise
December 14th, 2008 at 12:26 am
@rohit- Shouldnt get charged any duty if the sender was smart enough to mark it a gift.
@nikhil – Personally, i would say hell no. EMS packages almost always get opened, it doesnt take a genius to figure out 4 phones are meant for commercial use.
In the end its your choice.
Disclaimer – This isnt legal advice, follow at your own risk. No responsibility for any consequences.
December 14th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
ROHIT!! thanks for the advice!
the dealer is sending it as a gift!!
but i heard ems is not safe and its very govt.like customer support!
what should i choose? ups ,fedex ?
please advice!
tell me what all instruction should i give my dealer before he sends the package ?
December 14th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
thew whole package i am ordering comes to more than 40000 so.. which is the safest and the quickest route to into ???
i cant pay duty but will pay up on the transport!
what is the quickest way and the easiest way ?
December 15th, 2008 at 2:07 am
Hi there
I am planning to get a pen scanner( scanner+shipping)=197 US$(9,500 INR) online.How much roughly will the customs and brokerage be if it is shipped by courier(to reach in 2-5 days).Will it get stuck in customs,being just a computer accessory?.Plz help.Thanks
December 15th, 2008 at 11:08 am
@Nikhil – Using a courier service or EMS will almost guarantee a customs charge, this is because they are scrutinised more than post. For the high value of your goods, a courier service like Fedex, UPS or DHL should be fine, but the fact is that high duty+brokerage will be charged. Also do you have an IEC number ? The customs may insist on it.
You can ask your dealer to mark a lower price on value of good, while that might help in getting lesser duty, it will also mean that insurance on your items shall be lesser.
@Munna – You can ask your sender to mark it as a gift and lower price if you really want to evade duty, but its illegal.
Disclaimer – This isnt legal advice, follow at your own risk. No responsibility for any consequences. Duty evasion is illegal.
December 16th, 2008 at 10:08 am
WiseTechie: the dealer tells me he will send 2 phones in one package!
so i will get 2 packages to 2 different address as gift from there company through fed-ex or dhl!
it will be sent as a gift!
and is that ok ? can i bypass the customs? is there any safe post service plz advice?
this is xmas time so would they hav time to check all the packages ?
December 16th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
how about ? importing clothes personal use.. but my shoppin is always heavy eh!!
i got 7 jeans and 5 t-shirts coming with 2 belts… would that be charged if sent in separate package?
December 17th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Hey WiseTechie,
I am planning to order earphones from either earphonesolutions.com(US) or jaben.net which is in Singapore. They are priced at 109$ in US. If I order from US, site charges extra 25$ for shipping, which has no tracking or insurance or 38$ if I order via FedEx.
I wanted to know if I need to pay the custom charges. If yes, then will the charge be only for product or prdt + delivery charge. And do I need to pay any cess or only custom charge? And is going for normal shipping safe?
Also, if I ask a friend to buy it in US n then send it as a gift, then what exactly is the way to do that?
December 21st, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Thanks for such an insightful post. I have ordered books, cds, dvds from ebay international and amazon and never have been charged any kind of duty. However usually the value is less that $100.
However now I am planning to order a dvd boxset of an entire tv series. Do you think its a wise idea? The boxset is for 154$ from amazon and I was thinking of using something faster than standard shipping.
Any advice?
December 25th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
@Tanya – All depends on mode of shipping, courier shipments are always opened and checked by customs.Post shipments sometimes escape their scrutiny. You can get someone to buy the DVDs in USA for you and get them sent to you as a gift from a relative or friend.
@Prathamesh – I dont really know the exact cesses snd import duties. If your value etc. is correctly marked on your package, you will get a letter from the customs which will detail you on the duty to be paid.
As its a personal purchase, an IEC should not be needed.
December 31st, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Hi,
I am planing to import 2 digital cameras (in one package) from USA for personal use. It will be sent to india through USPS Express mail. Should I mark it as a USED CAMERA and GIFT with “zero” value OR with a value of $100 (RS5000) which is less than the 10000 import value.
Secondly, should I use USPS or FedEx? Also, does USPS hand over the package to Indian postal services onc the package reaches india or USPS itself delivers it till my house.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Hi,
I live in London and have purchased 4 golf clubs from a store here which I want to send to India as a gift for my parents.
I am planning to send the clubs through FedEx – If i mark it as a gift, will I be charged customs duty at India?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 am
Hi
I am planning to buy a used remote control for my hobby from ebay. The cost is around
70$.
Do we need to pay for old used stuff & How much will be the customs charge in that case.
Regards\
Nitin
January 4th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
hi,
i want to buy a memory card from ebay.com worth 7.00$
i live in delhi
will i have to pay any other charges except this 7$ which includes shipping?
any custom duties?
January 5th, 2009 at 10:48 am
sir , if you can help me i brought a phone using usps service and it had a tracking code and it says custom cleared in india and it is almost 4 days and parcel has not been delivered can anyone help me like is the customs of india for usps in delhi because i live in mumbai !! please if anyone can give me any idea what is it like?
January 13th, 2009 at 9:53 am
I am going to purchase 4 wii games which around 8K from a HK based shopping site and i selected the shipping through UPS 1-4 days delivery, So how high is my chances of getting caught by the customs and how much it may cost if they get caught?!
I have imported 4 same game before from us but they haven’t got any imports as marked as gift and even the wii is from us but sender paid the duty in us. So, i have charged but these all are from us and some paid and some as gift. But the bad thing i guess is this Play Asia won’t mark the package as gift but i need 1-4 days delivery
I am really pissed off by waiting ages to get a single package and am aware of the things happening to usps and airmails so i guess some dhl, fedex or ups are better
January 14th, 2009 at 1:00 am
Hi i have sent a digital camera and a 2nd hand phone in india to my family on Dec 19, 2008. I checked the status online its in the customs in India from Jan 3, 2009.. i was wondering if anyone can pls help me and let me knw that how may days will it take more..
January 16th, 2009 at 11:33 pm
Hi,
I am planning to buy a mobile phone which comes around US $210 from china for personal use. I want to know which mode will be best at customs whether courier (fedex,ups,ems) or post.what is the duty that will be imposed on mobile phones and will any fine or penalty be imposed if i import it through courier .Do courier service clear the customs and deliver it.
can u please give clear information regarding this because this is the first time i am buying products abroad
thnx
January 18th, 2009 at 11:28 am
Namaste,
This is not Bill..Just using fake user sorry about that.
I am about to receive a laptop which i bought via eBay.
Cost of the laptop is 425 US$ .
What would be custom duty will be charged in case indian customs keep the package with them?
January 25th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
I have purchased many items from ebay, amazon, abebooks including books, camcorder, mobiles etc.
Earphones, memory card, books, dvds, rechargeable nimh/nipo batteries –can be freely imported as long as they are not above 10k. I imported them using airmail post (mostly unregistered) In most cases, they don’t bother with such small things. Strangely I never lost any packet for small things even without registered airmail etc but then it depends on ur area’s postman.
For mobiles, camcorders, digital camera I always purchased used and items actual price below 5k and had them insured using usps priority mail or usps express mail. Also get them marked as gift. Customs in India can take upto 45 days before actually clearing your item. So, have patience and do get it packed properly.
One great site for small things is dealextreme.com
Hope it helps.
January 30th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
Hi Wise Techie,
Thanks for all the wonderful advice. i just ordered 2 game cds for $20 online from play-asia.com. I have chosen standard airmail. Will I be charged any duty?
Thanks a ton,
An old videogame mascot
January 30th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
@Krash – Shud come unscathed.
February 2nd, 2009 at 9:04 pm
A cousin of mine who currently lives in Dubai wants to send across a LCD TV here (price is close to Rs 40k). What is the amount of duty that is applicable on this? Is there any way he can ship it here? How much would he need to pay if he carries it with him?
February 3rd, 2009 at 11:01 am
Hi Wise Techie,
Thanks for such a useful post.
I have recently bought a digital camera on ebay USA which cost me around Rs. 9000 (including USPS Priority Mail International shipping). Teh camera was shipped on 26th jan 09. I have 3 questions:
1. What are the chances that customs will catch it and levy duty on it? If yes, approx how much?
2. How will it get delivered? Will it come to my house or do I need to go and collect it?
3. In approx how much time will it get delivered?
Pls note that most probably sender has not marked it as gift. It’s a new, never opened camera.
Thanks a ton,
Manav
February 6th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Hi WiseTechie,
Have few questions:
1. If I wanted to receive a device (Above INR 10K or in some cases there is no price as these may be for evaluation purpose) as a sample and if the sender in Tiwan marked it as a sample but importable item. Will there be any custom duty charged?
2. Based on yours and others (On this forum) experience, what is the best method of shippment from US/UK/China/Tiwan/Japan if shipment cost is not an issue. Quick and safe delivery is the utmost important to me.
3. Is it better if my friend in US/UK buys stuff (between INR 10K to 20K) and send me as a gift? Does he have to declare the value of the gift? Will there be any custom charges?
Would appreciate your reply.
Thanks
TX
February 6th, 2009 at 6:02 pm
hi,
i ordered a wacth worth 125USD on Ebay and it was shipped to me on the 16 th of jan Thru USPS.I tracked it and the tracking says it is is customs clearance.It has been for ten days now!!!!what shud I do? is there a chance it has been stolen???
Also i dont know how to contact delhi customs. it has been shipped thru USPS international priority mail.
S.O.S
February 6th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
*that was a typo .i meant a watch
February 7th, 2009 at 10:14 am
@TechXS – Anything above 10k attracts customs duty, since the product u want isnt yet available to be correctly price guessed, it might be he case that whatever you write on the package, the customs accept it.
IF shipment cost isnt an issue, courier services like DHL, Fedex are the best. However these packages almost always are opened by customs.
@minka – its possible that its already released and status isnt updated, wait a few more days before contacting your post office with an application with the tracking number.
February 9th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Thanks WiseTechie.
Any Courier service you would advise?
Thanks
TechXS
February 20th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Hi,
I want to import a canon DSLR camera worth around 500-600$. How much will they charge for this Camera. I mean the customs duty. This is a gift from my cousin.
March 4th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Hi I am from Chennai . I purchased some moisturizers online(dermstore.com) and it was shipped to me via USPS on Febraury 4th. It is 30 days since i have ordered for the goods and i have not received it yet.
Can anyone tell me how long will USPS take to ship goods to India. Is this 30 days wait normal? Or do I have to wait for some more time. Is there any chances that my goods get caught in customs and stay there without notifying me?
March 6th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
I am in US and I wish to send a gift pack of odd things like a watch, SD cards, a Flash Drive, a Head Phone, a couple of cosmetic stuff. It is truly a gift for my family in India.
The net worth of all the stuff would be $200. But, nothing needs to be in its original wrap. I can clearly say it is a gift.
What mode would be be the best? Last time I sent some stuff for $200 worth, in spite of me marking it as gift via USPS, the receivers were charged Rs.4500.
Please advice.
March 8th, 2009 at 11:21 am
Hi:
I shipped a nokia cellphone from USA to Bangalore exactly one month back. It hasn’t reached the destination and i used first class international mail parcel from USPS. I can’t track the package and the cost in the customs declaration form was entered as USD 210 and it was a gift item. Is this normal wait time ? It’s been 30 days already. I don’t know when i should initiate a complaint ?
Thank you.
March 11th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Hi,
I have ordered Nintendo Wii from India and shipped to one of my friend in USA, my friend is coming to india this 16th morning to Hyderabad, AP, India., the Wii is costing around 300$, is there any chance that the customs guys at airport check the baggage and stop the Nintendo Wii of mine?
Please advise.
March 11th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
@Sethu – highly unusual, hopefully your cell is not stolen. Goto your FPO immediately and enquire.
@Satish – Should not be a problem, there is a 25k limit (i think) to new items you can bring from abroad, max to max your friend might have to pay a little brokerage.
@Pete – You can use Fedex /DHL etc. mark the value a little lower than new items anyway to avoid unnecessary taxes. You can also use USPS but it is unrealiable as last step is Indian Post. If you do send by USPS ensure that its registered and insured.
March 11th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Hey WiseTechie!
Thank you for the very informative post!
I recently bought an electric bicycle conversion kit(without batteries) on ebay which is being shipped from China through EMS.
Its value has been declared 130$ by the seller. I have heard many stories of shipment from china getting detained at the Mumbai customs for a long long time. Is that true?
Will I have any problems with my parcel at the customs?
Also, any idea how long it will take to get cleared at the customs?
Please advise.
Thank you again!
March 11th, 2009 at 9:49 pm
@Prav – $130 should not attract duty as a gift as its not an electric item. But EMS packages are scrutinised pretty well. The customs will most probably write a letter to you and ask for actual price(if they feel its underdeclared ) and purpose of use and an IEC. IEC is not needed for personal imports.
March 13th, 2009 at 8:18 am
Hey WiseTechie:
Oh man! I honestly hope it is not stolen. What is a FPO by the way ?
March 13th, 2009 at 3:45 pm
FPO – foreign post office.
Goto your local post office and tell them about the package and any tracking info it had. Write an application to the Postmaster of your post office in duplicate and get it received.
Also ask your local postmaster for Foreign post office which handles your mails. Goto that post office and give another application there to the postmaster and enquire about your item.
Was the cellphone sent registered ? It usually takes 14-18 days for an international airmail item to come unless the customs have seized it in which case you should have gotten a letter from them. Best of Luck
March 14th, 2009 at 3:27 am
Hi WiseTechie,
Amazing site with sound useful advise! I have a quick question to ask you:
I want to send a few necklaces to a relative in India, worth approx 500$ in total. Would I be able to pull it off if I send it through USPS Priority Mail, mark it as a gift, and put down the value as 200$? Or would it be safer to send them in two installments?
Thank you in advance!
March 18th, 2009 at 11:23 pm
As result of i am new with purchase good from international to India.i never tried to purchase anything from outsite so i feelling littlebit confuse about duty chages for laptop.
almost 3 days ago I have been purchased HP laptop worh RS 20500 and now it is ready to ship via UPS service. I have thacking number. when it will arrive at india,will custom officer send me letter instantly or it may take few days for receive letter for pay duty?
Or will UPS corier call me instantly for pay duty?
March 19th, 2009 at 2:03 am
I want to order some clothes …they would be below 150-200 $
well would i face any problems .I have absolutely no idea about customs..i am ver skeptical is it sfe to but things online plz help
kind regards
March 22nd, 2009 at 1:41 am
@prabha – i would suggest paying proper duty on that expensive stuff, get it via a courier.
@Suva – you will be contacted by your courier 90%, also please share with us what duty got charged to your lappy.
@Raj – shud be no problem, even otherwise buying online is safe, max that can happen is that you pay customs which is the right thing to do anyway
March 24th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
I want to know that I purchase some toys from Japan they delivered me and the package is under verification of customer the total costing is around 4500/- should i have to pay custom duty.
thanks
March 25th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
hello i want to buy a tattoo kit for my personal use which is costing 70$ (Rs.3500)
so cud u plz tell me how much custom should i have to pay ?
thanks
March 28th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
The site is a bang piece keep up the good work guys i want to purchase stuff like shoes, belts, clothin and some posters of movies and sunglasses from amazon USA if calculated there will be more than 100 items on the purchase list how much import duty i need to pay and also i don`t own a credit card i will be using my friends credit card (from India) will he face any problems from the authorities last but not the least which is the best, safest and probably the quickest way to deliever my stuff please do help me out
March 29th, 2009 at 3:55 am
Hi
Advice needed: I want to buy/import a digital camera from the US Nikon P90 which retails at $400 online.
Could you please let me know what would be the approx. duty charged for this Digital Camera, amd which is best way for it being shipped with the least amount of Customs hassels, once the package reaches india.
April 7th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
Hi WiseTechie,
Thanks for all your great advise. I want buy a pair hikking/trekking shoes online max. $100 (probably less) for my personal use. What will be the import duty I will be charges.
Thanks in advance.
Regards
April 8th, 2009 at 10:23 pm
hi
plz let me know wat import issues will i hv to face if im buying a wii game worth $350 from amazon.com to be shipped in india
April 10th, 2009 at 7:30 am
@RK Amazon.com doesnt ship electronics to India. Its better you buy it from eBay
April 10th, 2009 at 7:36 am
Hi
I just wanted to let you all know that, to track your USPS shipments use the site http://www.packagemapping.com, it gives esxtra information like in which indian city FPO your package is held up for customs inspection so that you know where to look for incase customs detains it. These informations arent shown on the usps.com website. I use this site all the time to track my shipments from eBay purchases.
I hope it helps you all too.
Thnaks
April 11th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
hey wise techie.. amazing blog
I am planning to order 2 t-shirts from an on online US based shopping website by the name of Revolve Clothing & the cost is arnd RS.6300 ,i put up in India& so i would like to confirm whether i have to pany any kind of duty ,because its for my personal use ,if yes ,then approximately how much it can be ,.thanks
April 11th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
@Kuber – It will be dutiable as its not a gift even if its for personal use. The tax would depend on whether its marked a gift or not. I assume they will use DHL etc. so chances of customs are there.
I wonder Rs.6300 for 2 tshirts ? Must be designer wear.
Anyway, i am not aware of exact tarrif for clothing/apparel, you can check out cbec.gov.in .
April 16th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Dude thnx 4 a superb site. I jst wntd 2 knw dat i hav bought a 2nd hand iphone for <Rs. 15,000. How much duty can it attract?
May 1st, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Sir,
i have been ordered uniden radio scanner($82+$42 ) from usa.
The tracking info shows below.
Is this shipment detained by customs?
April 29, 2009
11:37 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, INDIA Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009
12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, INDIA Into Foreign Customs
12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, INDIA Arrived Abroad
April 25, 2009
12:45 pm ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS), UNITED STATES International Dispatch
April 24, 2009
4:50 pm DULLES, VA 20101 Processed
9:48 am ARLINGTON, VA 22203 Acceptance
April 22, 2009
3:37 pm WASHINGTON, DC 20036 Electronic Shipping Info Received
May 1st, 2009 at 2:56 pm
@Karan – I hope not, you cant say so soon. As far as i know this equipment is illegal to import into India without a license from the WPC, you might have to pay some fines and apply for the license.
May 1st, 2009 at 2:57 pm
@Shaan – there is no defined duty structure for second hand stuff as far i know, it all depends on your customs officer.
May 1st, 2009 at 3:19 pm
But wpc license requires only for transmitting equipments…..
i browsed all the sites related to customs….
nothing about radio scanners….
Whether they will treat like it radio receiver or not?
Now the tracking shows like below..
whether it released from customs or not?
May 01, 2009 8:44 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
May 01, 2009 8:39 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 29, 2009 11:37 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 25, 2009 12:45 pm ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS), International Dispatch
April 24, 2009 4:50 pm DULLES, VA 20101 Processed
April 24, 2009 9:48 am ARLINGTON, VA 22203 Acceptance
April 22, 2009 3:37 pm WASHINGTON, DC 20036 Electronic Shipping Info Received
May 1st, 2009 at 5:24 pm
Dont know, i am of the opinion that radio scanners too need the license, i believe any radio freq. equipment unless the freq. is de-restricted and made free needs license, I am sure your scanner is not a commercial run of the mill FM receiver device. More so since a radio scanner may be used for anti national activities, it might not even be released.
The package might have been released, or it might have been handed over to the Chennai customs, just have some patience, in 4-5 days it should be clear.
May 2nd, 2009 at 6:27 pm
hello friend,
now the tracking shows like below.
Can i assume the shipment cleared from customs?
What it means ‘Out of Foreign Customs’?
May 01, 2009 11:10 pm CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Out of Foreign Customs
May 01, 2009 8:44 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
May 01, 2009 8:39 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 29, 2009 11:37 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 25, 2009 12:45 pm ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS), International Dispatch
April 24, 2009 4:50 pm DULLES, VA 20101 Processed
April 24, 2009 9:48 am ARLINGTON, VA 22203 Acceptance
April 22, 2009 3:37 pm WASHINGTON, DC 20036 Electronic Shipping Info Received
May 3rd, 2009 at 7:55 am
thanks for your help friend.
Now the tracking info shows below.
Can i assume that my shipment cleared customs?
May 01, 2009 11:10 pm CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Out of Foreign Customs
May 01, 2009 8:44 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
May 01, 2009 8:39 am CHENNAI (MADRAS) PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 29, 2009 11:37 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Into Foreign Customs
April 28, 2009 12:30 pm CALCUTTA PARCELS, Arrived Abroad
April 25, 2009 12:45 pm ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS), International Dispatch
May 3rd, 2009 at 1:52 pm
@WiseTechie
Thanks for putting up useful information on the web. I am planning to buy a Laptop from Ebay US which costs around $1000. I live in Chennai.
I had asked the seller to mark it as gift or wrap it in gift wrapper..put some happy B’day sticker..or some crappy stuff to make it look like a gift..and mark the value as $150. The seller will ship it thru USPS.
My questions:
1) Will I be charged by the customs? If, yes how much?
2) Will the customs open up the package inspite of it being a gift?
3) Will I get caught for undervaluing the product?
4) Suppose if I put the real value of the lappy, how much will they charge as duty?
5) Where will the product be shipped in India first? It will get customs in chennai? or mumbai?..or actually.where will the package meet the customs??
Thanks much in advance!
May 3rd, 2009 at 1:56 pm
@WiseTechie
Thanks for putting up useful information on the web. I am planning to buy a Laptop from Ebay US which costs around $1000. I live in Chennai.
I had asked the seller to mark it as gift or wrap it in gift wrapper..put some happy B’day sticker..or some crappy stuff to make it look like a gift..and mark the value as $150. The seller will ship it thru USPS.
My questions:
1) Will I be charged by the customs? If, yes how much?
2) Will the customs open up the package inspite of it being a gift?
3) Will I get caught for undervaluing the product?
4) Suppose if I put the real value of the lappy, how much will they charge as duty?
5) Where will the product be shipped in India first? It will get customs in chennai? or mumbai?..or actually.where will the package meet the customs??
Thanks much in advance
May 3rd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
@Karan – surely does look like it, hopefully it should be with you soon. Best of luck
May 3rd, 2009 at 4:56 pm
@Hari – I do not know the exact rate for laptops. I am guessing that customs duty will be applied to your laptop. You might have to pay some fine if the customs find out you undervalued your laptop.
Laptop should be in a big box, so the customs will most probably open it up. After you get your laptop, share with the people here your experience so others who are looking to buy laptops from the US and import them into India are more prepared.
May 3rd, 2009 at 5:59 pm
@Wise Techie
Which city will the laptop find the customs? I am in Chennai.
May 3rd, 2009 at 6:41 pm
another question regarding above tracking info.
Will USPS track after custom clerance?
i heard that usps tracking is not working after reaching india.
May 3rd, 2009 at 8:26 pm
@Karan – yes thats true, Indian post usually doesnt scan the stuff.
@Hari – Should be Chennai if it lands in Chennai first, usually its the first FPO the mail encounters.
May 4th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
i got my uniden scanner without duty.
i found a slip regarding customs verification with duty Rs 766 and later deleted the amount.The seller clearly noted the content in the package.
May 4th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Cool Karan, congrats
, have fun !
Was the package opened and resealed by the customs ?
May 4th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
yes, i found post office seal and a slip from post office with unknown writtings
May 7th, 2009 at 2:47 am
HIEEE!!!! THIS IS TARUN KASHYAP FROM DELHI
@WISETECHIE
THANX FOR THIS WONDERFUL DISCUSSION I HAVE SOME QUERY PLZ GET ME OUT OF IT
I AM PLANING TO BUY A SET OF WALKIE TALKIE (PUXING PX-888UHF) FROM A HK BASED SITE CALLED ASIARADIOSALES.COM .AS I LIVE IN DELHI SO CAN U JUST TELL ME WILL IT BE ABLE TO PASS THRU THE CUSTOMS DUTY FREE OR THEY WILL CHARGE SOME DUTY FOR THE RADIOS .RADIOS ARE PRICED 90$ + 90$ AS I AM BUYING 2 SET’S
SHOULD I ORDER ONLY ONE SET FIRST AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS
OR SHOULD I ORDER THE 2 SET’S DIRECTLY
WILL NEED TO HAVE LISENCE FROM WPC FIRST TO HAVE THEM IN INDIA
May 8th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
Hi,
I want to give my father-in-law a gift. The gift is a Mobile/Cell phone from the UK which is a Sony W595, which is valued at Rs, 11,000.
Now, it is only 1 (ONE) phone. Will i get a Customs Tax on this “GIFT”????
May 9th, 2009 at 9:47 am
@Tarun – IMHO, Any radio equipment needs a licence from the WPC, but as Karan’s case would show you, a lot of it is luck also. The customs may just ignore your package.
@Anil – Customs will tax it. Any gift with value above 10k is chargeable , the price used is purchase cost +insurance. Ofcourse you can be lucky and escape these charges altogether.
May 9th, 2009 at 11:23 pm
@WISETECHIE
YAA IT CAN ESCAPE COZ I HAVE CALLED HK(ASIARADIOSALES.COM) AND THEY HAVE SAID THEY WILL SEND IT AS A GIFT AND IT’S PACAKAGE IS ALSO NOT BIG IT’S SMALL ENOUGH TO ESCAPE I THINK SO I THINK I SHOULD ORDER ONLY ONE SET FIRST AND SEE WHAT HAPPEN’S
AND SIR I HAVE GONE TO WPC(20 ASHOK ROAD) THEY SAID THAT NOW THEY R NOT MAKING LISENCES’S HERE I HAVE TO GO TO MEHRAULI(GHITORNI) WHERE THEY HAVE THERE WIRELESS MONOTORING STATION AND AFTER THAT IT WILL TAKE UPTO 2-3 MONTHS TO GET THE LISENCE.I WAS SO MUCH DEPRESSED TO KNW THAT
May 9th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
@WISETECHIE
AND SIR MY LAST QUESTION
WHAT HAPPEN’S IF CUSTOM’S SEIZE MY PRODUCT
SHOULD I ORDER THE SET AND SIMENTANEOUSLY APPLY FOR THE LISENCE ALSO
I HAVE ALSO LISENED THAT CUSTOM’S PEOPLE JUST SELL ALL THOSE SEIZED PRODUCT’S AND NEVER RETURN THEM UNTIL AND UNLESS BRIBE IS GIVEN
May 10th, 2009 at 12:01 am
AND SIR AS I AM TAKING RISK WHICH COURIER SERVICE WILL U PREFER SO THAT I CAN EASILY PASS THROUGH CUCTOMS AND IT’S SHOULD NOT GET STOLEN ALSO
COURIER SERVICE AVALIABLE AT SITE ARE
1 USPS
2 CANADA POST
3 EMS
4 HONG KONG POST
5 ROYAL MAIL
6 DHL
May 11th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
Hi, is there any specific reason for extra delay at the indian customs for goods imported from China? They are all small parcels with gift written on them but I haven’t received anything for quite a long time… Anyone experiencing the same currently? Thanks for your help.
May 13th, 2009 at 9:32 am
@Tarun – If all your papers are in order, Licence is issued in very short time, I suggest you goto Ghitorni office , its called IMS office.
If your stuff is seized, you will get a customs notice for wpc licence, once you provide it it should be no problem. The thing is they will ask you for IEC also, but just reply as its a personal import, IEC isnt needed.
If all your papers are complete, customs cant delay releasing your stuff.
May 13th, 2009 at 9:33 am
@varla – I have seen no such problem in Delhi.
May 14th, 2009 at 12:46 am
@WISETECHIE
THANX A LOT FOR SHARING THIS VALUABLE INFO
May 20th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Hi,
I am doing online shopping for the first and wish to purchase a digital camera (sony dsc w220) from Amazon shopping almost amounting to $190. please can you help me with the below questions:
1. Does amazon a good place to shop.
2. Does amaozon deliver goods to India.
3. Is there any customs charged.
4. Will the produuct be in good condition and with warranty.
May 21st, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Hi there
I ordered some clothes from ebay US and the item cleared customs on 16th may.
Tracking no: is CJ26 0277 689U S
I have not yet received it.Though I did receive another parcel of clothes on the 18th of may that cleared customs on 16th may ‘09.Both were sent by priority mail international.Any idea how long it takes for items to leave mumbai or delhi to reach the destination.I live in Lucknow
Thanks
May 29th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Hi,
I would like to ship an Ikea chair (yes furniture! ) as a gift to my grandfather in India. He loved the chair when he was here. The chair costs only about $55 w/tax, and the shipping by USPS priority about a $100. My only concern is that it a huge parcel, and my insurance (which would include shipping costs) is considerably higher than the actual chair price. The parcel will have all the customs documents, and the parcel will also be marked as a gift. Do you foresee a problem?
Thanks so much for all your help.
Tripti
May 29th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
hi,
Is the adult toys comes under prohibited stuff?? I have purchesed one from an online site for my personal use but now scared wheather customes will send me to jail if it comes under prohibited stuff category.
May 29th, 2009 at 11:06 pm
@Tripti – I would suggest you not to go ahead with it, International post isnt really meant for big items and customs hassles will not be worth it in my opinion. Rest all is upto you.
@Rina – no idea.
May 30th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
I live in Singapore and sent some clothes from ebay US to my gf who lives in Lucknow,India.The items were from one seller only and though they were shipped on different days they entered customs on may 20th 2009.The prices of the parcel were 274USD and 212USD each.
She got a letter from the foreign post office in New Delhi where the 2 parcels have been detained since the 20th asking her to send importers license and code ,original invoice,reason for purchase and also GATT declaration.
These were sent as gift items and though they were not marked as gift they were for the purpose of personal use.She does not own a business or a boutique and therefore the items were not for selling purposes.
Please suggest what should be done as the deadline stated by the post office is 4th june 2009.
Thanks
May 30th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
This is not legal advice.
@Abhishek – I suggest you write down the truth that its a gift from you to her.
Also mention that since the items are for personal purpose only Import Export code is not required as per the laws. Quote this point :
# Persons importing or exporting goods for personal use not connected with trade or manufacture or agriculture.
Are not required to have IEC code.
Since the value of gifts >10000 rupees , you will have to pay import duty anyway. Plus you can be in deep trouble if they discover that you lied in your reply. Just ensure you dont have a garment shop etc.
May 30th, 2009 at 11:16 pm
Hi
Can you tell me how is the customs duty on laptops? I am buying a loptop from USA and it will be shipped by UPS, the cost of the laptop is about Rs 80000 and the shipping is about Rs 14000, so the total amount I have to pay is Rs 94000. I wan to know how much do I have to pay as customs duty, because I will place the order after knowing this rate only.
Any help would be highly helpful… Thanks in advance
May 31st, 2009 at 12:40 am
Hi!!
I recenty purchased an iphone which is without box & after reading all this
i pray to god that it does not get open in hands of indian post.
& one more thing will custom would charge it, it is marked as zero value(is for personal use)
content instruction are properly made in form.
May 31st, 2009 at 12:42 am
one more its with usps prirority mail
June 3rd, 2009 at 4:50 pm
hii
i have ordered a micro inductive earphone for my science project work ,,the package consists of headset with 2 battery connectors and a loop set
will the item be blocked by customs …..bcoz i want the item by 6 th of june
whom shuld i deal with
canu give me the address and contact info abt the customs dept dealt with this items
June 3rd, 2009 at 6:15 pm
i am thinking to buy a mobile phone from ebay which is something around 300$ ..what precautions should i take to make make the item not to get into the hands of customs in india … which shipping is best for shipping mobiles
and what precautions should i take when i send any item to ebay buyers
plz reply
June 5th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
Hello,
My friend shipped a mobile phone ( HTC Touch Diamond ) from Canada to me ( India ) on may 5 2009. I’m bit worried now because its almost a month since he shipped and until today I haven’t got it. Is it possible that it sucked on customs?
The item is sent via small packet – air, as a gift and also insured. BTW; anyone has idea about still how many days it may take?
Please reply.
Best Regards
June 17th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
i want to buy a lg mobile in ebay which is something around 350$
The item location is honkong ,,,so 1st i want it to sent to my uncle place in honkong from there i need to get it shipped to india
what should they write on the box ie like gift ,etc
which 1 do u think is the best service (ups ,dhl,etc ) for sending mobiles or any costly items
plz reply fast
June 22nd, 2009 at 1:18 am
hey grt blg.
am importin an electric guitar worth 500$ bought from an online store.wat sort of duty can i expect on this(rough idea)
June 29th, 2009 at 3:23 am
Hi i Purchased a Second hand iphone for $200 or 9700 rupees on ebay usa. Now i wanna know what will be the duty on it and the seller is shipping through Usps without insurance is it risky to to send through Usps.
June 29th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
My sister sent me a package from Japan via EMS. She put an external HDD inside without declaring. The package was kept in Delhi customs since 18th of June. No further information was updated. What should I do now? How can I contact to Delhi customs? Do you know Delhi customs contact number? Thanks
June 29th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
I wanna buy a phone cost $99 from ebay, from HK. how much custom charges for it.
I will use registered airmail wid insurance.
plz reply…
July 1st, 2009 at 5:06 am
Hi
I just wanted to buy a stethescope (should be around 8000 – 12000) for my bro from either singapore or UK. I am currently in the UK. Is it possible that I will have to pay customs duty on that?
What would you suggest? and what about the mode of transport?
Thanks a ton!
July 3rd, 2009 at 2:07 am
Hi Wise Techie,
I need to know, gift coming from china along with Bill worth 350 $
How much customs’ duty it will attract it is a TV (PDP)
Regards,
Vivk
Post me out ..
July 7th, 2009 at 2:47 am
HI WISE….
I NEED SOME INFORMATION…. MY SISTER LIVES IN USA……MY MOM IS GOIN TO VISIT HER NEXT MONTH….. I WANNA BUY A GRAPHIC CARD AROUND 110 $ AND A IPHONE 3GS WORTH 99$ AND A PORTABLE DVD PLAYER AROUND 50 $ or so.TEMME WILL THERE BE ANY CUSTOM RELATED PROB.IF MY MOM TAKE THESE STUFF WITH HER.ONE OF MY FRIEND TOLD ME THAT THERE WILL BE NO PROBLEM IF THE SEAL OF THE PRODUCTS WUD BE BROKEN OR IF MY MOM TAKE SOME PRODUCT SAY… IPHONE IN HER CARRY BAG. PLZ HELP ME WITH THIS … COZ ITZ BEEN LONG TIME SINCE I WAS WAITIN THAT SOMEONE WUD GO TO USA AND THEN I GET THE CHANCE TO BUY SOME STUFF….PLZ HELP ME IN THIS REGARD AS SOON AS POSS..
SANJU
July 9th, 2009 at 12:30 am
@sanju There should be no problem. Open the packages as suggested and keep receipts to show just in case.
@others Regarding custom charges, we are not experts and we suggest that you look up relevant sites or ask the person you are purchasing from for more accurate information.
–
Mod
July 18th, 2009 at 9:51 am
Hello,
I bought a USED Laptop worth 250 USD on ebay usa online and the product has been shipped as gift worth $ 400 used laptop
Will i levied to any custom duty as the USED laptop price is jus 250 USD.
July 22nd, 2009 at 12:13 pm
Hi,
i bought a mobile pouch-$ 2,ipod usb cable also $0.90 and ipod earphones$ 2,will i be charged on these items? also i plan to buy lights for my bike some small ones below $2 will i be charged for this?
July 28th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Hello Wise Techie
I just bought a 7″ portable media player (kind of ipod) for 130$ from HongKong, for my personal Use. It was shipped using HongKong Registered AirMail (hongKong Post) yesterday, to my office address, because I requested it to be shipped to office, as I am here for 9 hrs (most part of the day, and registered post requires signature). Will there be any problems with customs for this item? and How will i be charged for this item ? How long it might take for the item to reach me ? Please help me
July 31st, 2009 at 10:48 am
hi there, i just bought collectible coins from the US. they weighed around 25 pounds.It was sent by airmail. i was charged INR 1400 by customs. is that correct? and is it true that sometimes you can probably escape customs? thanks for this wonderful site.
August 5th, 2009 at 12:49 am
the supplements in india are very expensive i want to order online i want to knw do i need to pay import duty ??
August 6th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
hi people…
i am planning to import 5 apple ipones from china, my seller says that he would send the parcel through dhl.. i have obtained an ie-code(IEC) recently. i have no regrets on paying custom duty.. my only concern is will the product get delivered to my home.. or do i need to obtain it from the customs office..
August 9th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Hey, i am importing an guitar muliteffect proccessor digitech rk 355 from my friend ovr there n US. It is about 188$, but i will tell him to make a fake bill of 100$ and declare that item as gift, as even my birthday is cuming near…lol!! And bcoz of the fear of theft , so im deciding to ship it by DHL. what you think? Will i face any porblem still? Any good idea?
August 20th, 2009 at 4:08 am
hello iam planning to gift netbook(which cost around 230$) to my fiancee in india. if it stuck in customs how much would i need to pay?
August 24th, 2009 at 5:43 pm
Hi Wise Techie,
I am buying a sony erricson mobile phone online from ebay, the phone is located in USA and the company resimports are shipping the phone to india, the phone cost is 160USD, now the question is if resimports marks the phone as a gift and then ships it through DHL then do i need to pay customs, and if in any case i need to pay the customs duty then what amount will i need to pay for a 160 USD approx 8000 INR mobile phone?
August 26th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Hi..
Quite a few interesting info already available..but my questions are:
I want to import some mobiles from china for selling purpose. This wont be a one time affair as i am seeking this a business opportunity.
can someone plz guide me on the import procedure..like custom clearing and forwarding…
what could be the cheap and best process to get the items without much trouble at my doorstep.
regards
August 27th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
hi,
Since last 5 months,i have been purchasing some bluray dvds from ebay.co and ebay.co.uk via first class usps all around 20 $ to 40 $ price tag,i use to get it delivered in 8 working days,with no problems at all,got around 30 to 35 delivered very smoothly…
Since last 45 days i have been getting the shipment getting delayed,know its taking around 21 to 28 working days but i get my product delivered…
My problem is not related to the custom,just want to know why is it getting delayed..i stay in mumbai…
pls revert me if possible
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 pm
HiHari
I see your post and did you get your laptop ? and I would like to ship the laptop to India, Let me know how much cost for customs
September 4th, 2009 at 6:37 pm
Hi,
I have bought a used camera from a seller in US ebay (value $56). They only ship thru Fedex. On inquiry with the Fedex customer service in India to know what kind of duty will be applicable, they said that express courier services do not accept “used” stuff as they are not allowed to be imported to India and attracts penalty. I have purchased a lot of stuff from US and UK through USPS and Royal mail (both EMS services) without any problem related to “Used” things. Is it true that “used” products are not allowed to be imported?
Thanks
September 6th, 2009 at 11:19 am
Hi,
This blog was really useful.
In my case, I won a blackberry in US eBay site, worth Rs.10000/- (excl. S&H & Insurance) and want it to be sent to India. I want to be loyal to the government so in this case what will be my customs duty that I need to pay to get the product safely to India. Nowhere I could find how much customs duty will I be charged.
Thanks in advance.
September 6th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
@Sen – Used electronics arent technically allowed to be imported via post, i had heard this from someone else also.
@Mani – Just get the thing via Fedex/DHL and they will charge the duty to you along with their brokerage. In case you import via post then also you will be charged duty, if you want to pay the duty anyway, dont worry about the rate, it would be applied by the customs directly.
September 6th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Thanks WiseTechie!
But I am just fine to pay the duty if its some 10% – 20% of the declared value. I have the option to cancel the purchase in eBay and would do it if the duty is more than 20%. This is the reason I need to know the exact duty that I would have to pay.
September 14th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Thanks WiseTechie for the confirmation. I heard that the Indian Customs are charging $500 in penalties and fines for used electronics worth even $50 (though in my case it is a point of contention whether a 30 year old mechanical camera can be considered to be electronics). Anyway I did not want to go through the hassle and I cancelled the transaction.
September 16th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Is there any good store in Hong Kong selling electronic gadgets I want to buy few and take back to India…?
September 19th, 2009 at 3:27 am
I recently bought aniphone 3gs 16 gb worth 610 usd.I dont knwo customs rules but when i surfed the cbec site i came to know that now a days wireless equipments are not charged accrding to the cbec site
http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cst-0809/chap-85.pdf
Chk out 8517 clause
8517 TELEPHONE SETS, INCLUDING TELEPHONES FOR
CELLULAR NETWORKS OR FOR OTHER WIRELESS
NETWORKS: OTHER APPARATUS FOR THE
TRANSMISSION OR RECEPTION OF VICE, IMAGES
OR OTHER DATA, INCLUDING APPARATUS FOR
COMMUNICATION IN A WIRED OR WIRELESS
NETWORK (SUCH AS A LOCAL OR WIDE AREA
NETWORK), OTHER THAN TRANSMISSION OR
RECEPTION APPARATUS OF HEADING 8443, 8525,
8527 OR 8528
- Telephone sets, including telephones for
cellular networks or for other wireless networks:
8517 11 — Line telephone sets with cordless handsets:
8517 11 10 — Push button type u Free -
8517 11 90 — Other u Free -
8517 12 — Telephones for cellular networks or
for other wireless networks:
8517 12 10 — Push button type u Free -
8517 12 90 — Other u Free -
September 19th, 2009 at 3:31 am
chk out clause 8517 on chapter 85 on cbec site
September 21st, 2009 at 11:45 pm
I want to send a watch to Japan from India but not able to find out much and the courier charges are too much! can I send them by post?
September 24th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
Hi,
I am a DJ based in Chennai and would like to purchase an audio Mixer. Its on Sale on a website and costs $220 + shipping which would work to about 40$.
What will be the customs duty that I will need to pay??
What is the average percentage they charge on duty?? I tis for Personal use only.
Regards,
Siggy
September 24th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
I should say Inida Post is such a stupid service, I am living in Tasmania, Australia now. Everytime if someone sends me a card or something like that by letterpost, the stupid India post send it some other place whose name starts with “T”; by b’day card was sent to a place in Bhutan whose name was something “Tha…..” and my rakhi and cards were sent to Thiland, On every letter it was written “Misdirected”. Stupid fools.
September 25th, 2009 at 8:07 am
hi, i am planning to buy body building suppliment from us website it cost me of 240$ include shipping of 10kg via fedex, i would like to know how much i have to pay duty in chennai, thanks .
September 28th, 2009 at 11:11 am
I am looking at getting a psp and ps3 from the us mailed to india
what duty am i looking at???
1.if its marked as gift
2.if its not marked as gift
September 28th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
i am looking at buying a psp and ps3 from the us,what customs duty am i looking at????!!!
1.if its marked as gift
2.if its not makred as gift
September 30th, 2009 at 11:09 am
HI there,
Thanks for such a helpful post. I’m having a bit of problem too. I had ordered a parcel from Ebay.com (US) containing some used toys. The seller told me that he had sent the same on 2nd Sept thought Priority mail, but I haven’t received it till now. When I checked the shipping no. given my the seller i.e. (CP935527980US) on usps.com it I got following details
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, September 08, 2009, 1:09 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, September 08, 2009, 1:09 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, September 03, 2009, 7:40 pm, ISC MIAMI FL (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, September 02, 2009, 3:11 pm, HOLLYWOOD, FL 33024
By going thorough the same I feel it’s in customs now but I haven’t received any info from them yet. Please can you guide me so at to whom to contact. I live in Delhi.
Thanks in advance.
Gaurav Gandher
September 30th, 2009 at 11:12 am
Oh one more thing the cost of the package is $9.99 + $44 for shipping which equals $53.99 in total.
Thanks
September 30th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
I want to import (bought on ebay) Arctic Silver 5 thermal grease and Arctic Silver ArctiClean (products of Arctic Silver Inc, see http://www.arcticsilver.com) to India from UK. Is any customs duty applicable here ?? If yes, how much am I likely to get charged with ??
October 1st, 2009 at 5:59 am
I have bought 2 lenovo laptops from US worth 965$ including Shipping, the laptop was shipped in 1 package through USPS & they are currently with the Indian Custom department & the status us showing the same for the past 3 days now. The seller had under quoted the price as 200$.
After reading to some of your past replies, My question to you is will I ever get my Package delivered??? How long before the postman comes knocking to my door asking to pay the custom charges???
And in General how much would i have to end up paying for the Laptops???? And if it is more than the cost of the 2 laptops collectively can i get a custom broker to get a bargain of the custom charges or should can i get to send the laptops back & or some thing like that…….
Please suggest & advise
October 24th, 2009 at 10:37 am
Hello wise guy
I live in Mumbai and have ordered some magic DVDs from ellusionist
it’s gonna ship though USPS. The items are worth $100 will have to pay the custom duties and other charges if yes how much?
Please reply it is very urgent
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:19 am
Hi Wise techie,
You haven’t been online for a while. I should have visited this place before ordering
Just ordered a Google G2 phone worth US$369 + US$52 shipping. I am sure it will get stuck in customs. Can you provide me with a % duty on this?
Alo, people are talking about 8517 clause which says that thi sis duty free. Please help.
Best,
Vicky
November 16th, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Hey Wise Techie….i would like you to temme if i am orderin 2 dj table tops costing $400 and ve an IEC code….i wouldnt mind paying the customs …but what is the exact rate of duty on this product Because UPS said 24.42% and an agent said 17.34% ….please help with this. And i ve a mixer bought fr 100 euros….which now almost Rs. 7000….will i be charged duty on this also or not ?? Thanks in advance !!!! Cheers
November 18th, 2009 at 12:25 am
Hi,
Hope u r doing great buddy. Great job man, absolutely great informative site.
I have recently bought a NEW cellular phone from ebay. It cost me $149.99. Shipping was $15 extra ( a combined total of around 7900 INR). It was shipped from HONGKONG via HONGKONG POST and it left HONGKONG yesterday (16th nov)… Item was shipped in a normal carton box. The link http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cst-0809/chap-85.pdf says that the item is free of customs. Can u please clarify me on this?? How much customs, if any, do i need to pay?? Please do clarify me on this mate??? Thanks in advance buddy
November 18th, 2009 at 1:07 am
Great piece of information! Thanks. I have been really frustarted with getting stuff to India though DHL and UPS, not only do they charge a ton but also some of my stuff were tossed around and mangled. I bumped on a similar forum where a lot of readers suggested using some sort of parcel forwarding companies that would send you your items to your respective countries which in my case was Mumbai. I ended up using a company called Shipito. They were great, my amazon seller sent my item to them and they forwarded it to me here. The best part was that they are amongst very few who use usps services and that ended up saving me ton.
November 18th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Hi.. I won an ipod touch costing $400 (in USA) in a website.. The website company says that they would mark the prize as a gift and ship it.. But i also heard that since the value of the prize is more than Rs10000 in India, i would have to pay tax. Should i pay the taxes for this prize costing around Rs20000 in India? If yes what is the exact amounbt i should be paying?
Thank You..!!
November 20th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
hello,
Could u please tell me if an r/c helicopter worth 55pound(Rs4235) will be charged any kind of duty, customs or taxes?. My parents are bringing it from uk via air india. if taxes will be charged then should i tell them to write it as gift on the custom declaration form?. help would be really appretiated
Adway
November 24th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Hi,
My husband recently visited Singapore, got One Sony LCD, so we have paid custom duty above Rs. 25000/-
They charged @36% rate?? I doubt this rate is Correct.
Can any one tell??
Thanks
December 2nd, 2009 at 9:51 pm
Does anybody has purchased apple iphone from USA safely & securely to India through ebay? By what mean- USPS,Fedex or DHL or any? How much duty is levied? Does it got stucked in customs?
December 3rd, 2009 at 12:42 am
I just won bid on ebay. Now I’m confused about its shipping and Indian custom part? Ronin said (on July 5th, 2008) go for registered post and WiseTechie said (on July 19th, 2008) go for courier. Now anyone clear me which one to prefer? Seller is sending the product through USPS Express Mail International. I have asked him to insure it also. Now someone please help me out from which courier or post I ask seller to send it from US to India so that I don’t get in customs. Also what to write on package—actual amount, iphone or what?
Help me out WiseTechie!!!
December 3rd, 2009 at 5:19 pm
For all those who are concerned about customs – here’s my experience:
I am the guy from Post 170 – I ordered a Google G2 phoe from ebay US, and afetr reading this, I figured a safe way to get it at my place, without any custom issues. Try Borderlinx — if you have a Citibank credit card — u can register here and get a US-based address. get your goods delivered there and DHL will raise a shipping invoice. Okay I paid an additiona 50 dollars for tax + shipping but the parcel was delivered at my doorstep in 6 days flat!!
Don’t try to get it through normal post/ courier. I have ordered the phone cover form Hong Kong, and although it costs USD15 only, I am sure it will gte stuck. DHL/ Borderlinx charges extra, but takes care of customs. the packet arrives un-touched.
Hope this helps.
Vicky
December 4th, 2009 at 10:55 am
@Saurabh Ask your seller to send it by UPS, I got mine by UPS and paid jus Rs700 as customs as the seller marked the item as MP3 Player worth $120. That was 2 years ago…..
December 4th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
i bought a ATI 5770 gfx card from ebay usa and i am importing to india. how much will be the duty on it. it costs around 225$ icl shipping and 170$ without shipping.plz tell me
December 6th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
I won an Ipod through some site nd it costs around Rs. 12,500/- in India and $199 in U.S. Do i have to pay for any taxes?
December 8th, 2009 at 9:11 am
@Samrat – Yes , if customs catch it.
@Oxy – dunno the exact amount, but it is not taxable if its a gift, but if its paid, then duty will be charged on ship amount + actual cost.
December 8th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Hi,
I recently bought an Iphone worth $152 and $47 for postage: total $199 which is Rs. 9275 i guess less that Rs. 10,000
Will it still attract customs?
I hope even if it attracts customs it should be just 17.4% as the goods are less than Rs. 10,000
Please reply WiseTechie and others. Thanks in advance.
December 10th, 2009 at 1:24 am
Hi
I won a bid of apple iphone on ebay few days back. I won at $160 and shipping charges $40 (by USPS Express Mail International).
Now the problem is that the seller has shipped the item by declaring it as GIFT cellphone of value $20. Inside the package original ebay invoice of $160+$40=$200 is kept with the phone.
Will the custom people in India seize it?
Will they release it if they see that outside and inside phone value is different?
Please reply WiseTechie and other people by your experience what will happen?
I am really worried
Thanks
December 10th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Dear Wise techie,
I need a few answers, would appreciate if you can answer the following:
1 – I have Wii game for which I want to purchase a few cds online by using my credit card. If its been send as gift to India to my address will it levy any customs?
2 – If I send the same to my sisters place in US and she couriers to me as gift, will it get stuck in customs?
My sister has earlier send me a few cds which were of my Dell Laptop and they were sent thru DHL.
Awaiting your reply as its pretty dificult to find Wii game CD’s at the right cost in Mumbai.
December 13th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Hi WiseTechie,
I recently won 2 watches on ebay (172$ and 208$). The seller will ship both these items together and has agreed to mark them a gift with low values (although he has asked me to mention this in the notes section of Paypal).
In order to ensure delivery, I have opted for DHL or Fedex.
Please tell me will I have to pay any duty or will my shipment be in any trouble because of the above process?
December 17th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Dear Wise techie,
Pls revert…………………………………….
We are waiting for your expert comments……..
Vaibhav
December 20th, 2009 at 1:42 am
Hey guys,
Sorry havent been around lately to answer your questions, as far as specific rates of duty go, I am not in touch with all of them, so there is no use asking me for them.
@Vaibhav – The method via your sister would be the best as the gift intention would be justified.
@Saurabh – Even if the customs open it, they will assess the duty and a penalty and ask you to pay it, unless its something prohibited, they wont take it away.
@Shiva – DHL and Fedex almost certainly get dutied, the exact amount depends on the customs assessment of value of goods, dont worry, just cross your fingers and take things as they happen.
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:04 pm
hai wise thank you for all the information. sis is coming down from us on jan 4th, she carrying asus netbook worth 300 dollars, iphone used 520dollars,samsung mobile 378 dollars , nokian97 worth 400 dollars.shes handicapped walk with cruthes she is carrying backpack .shes landing in cochin , will it be problem in coustoms.tell me how oorgnise the things . should it all be un boxed and kept and will it be a problem please do help awaiting your reply
December 23rd, 2009 at 5:52 am
HI,
I sent two gold rings and the a gem stone the customs in India have sent me a letter stating they have confiscated the package. I spoke to the to lot of people in customs they say it is in process. It is almost 3 months and now they are saying that they don’t have the the guy to check the value of the items. I am ready to pay the duty what ever it might be. I want to know is there any way I can take legal action and get my package.
December 23rd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
I’m buying an iphone for $350 (christmas offer).It is going to be shipped using USPS and shipping is about $75,shipping from USA. Will I be charged duty (not declaring as duty) and wat is the amount of duty or % of duty
December 23rd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
@Hashir – There is a maximum limit to import, she should have a copy of the receipts since the customs have non discounted higher rates with them for duty estimation. Goods upto 25k are free.
@Ravi – File a RTI , thats the only solution, other than that you may file a case in court , consult with a lawyer, its very much possible the intentions are to mug your money. This is what I had talked about, the customs are so corrupt that once they get your goods, they will milk you for money.
@Tarun – The package will be chargeable if the customs open it, I dont know the exact rate.
December 23rd, 2009 at 4:42 pm
GOODS UPTO 25000 ARE FREE OK.PLUS OTHER THAN 25000 SHE CAN CARRY A LAPTOP WICH IS FREE OF DUTY SO LAPTOP WONT COUNT IN 25000. NOW SHES IS CARRY 4PHONES NOKIA N97 400 DOLLARS ,N87 350 DOLLARS ONE SAMSUNG FOR 387 DOLLARS AND USED IPHONE FOR 520 DOLLARS. PLZ HELP ME OUT WHAT SHE SHOULD DO , UNPACK ALL AND KEEP , OR KEEP THE I PHONE IN HAND SAY PERSONAL USE AND OTHER 3 AS GIFTS. OR SHE SENT THE OTHER 2 WITHSOME COMING LATER OR HOLD 2 PHONES WITH HER
December 23rd, 2009 at 4:42 pm
HEY SORRY THANKS FOR THE ADVICE ANYWAY
December 28th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
VIVA wisetechie,
u hav provided most useful info. thankx 4 that…
my friend in USA is sending me a USB DVB-S2 card for laptop as a gift. he had placed an order & paid the amount from USA based credit card. The company in china will be sending it by hong kong post ( shipping the item to india). the company is refusing to mark it as a gift in CN22/23 even though it is a genuine gift. insted the company gave 2 options 1) they can mark it as a zero valued item in the invoice or 2) can put a letter inside the parcel saying that it is a gift from USA based friend to Indian based myself – which way is better for importing the card duty free?
Also i have learned from your site (http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cst-0809/chap-85.pdf) that this item is duty free as it comes under “Set top boxes for gaining access to internet” & its cost is US$ 65.6+12 shipping = 77.6US$
8517 69 60 — Set top boxes for gaining access to internet u Free -
December 28th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
also if 2 such cards (one USB i.e. external & other PCI i.e. internal) are sent in one parcel by the same friend in US, (invoice total still below INR10K) will attract customs duty?
December 29th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
hey friend……….
i want to know that if i import a 26″(inch) lcd t.v. via courier from Canada to India for personal use how much the custom duty cost to me……..
i am proud indian and i am want obey all laws…………
i am searching for the tariff but not find any right one from last 4 months…………
plzz help me…………….
January 4th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
wisetechie plzzzzzz help….it is urgent
January 5th, 2010 at 12:05 am
Hi buddy, amazing info. I was searching for this kind of info since 2 weeks.
. now its with EMS (speed post mumbai). what should be the amount they will be quoting on a mobile phone. btw its quoted as a gift too 
Ok here is my issue, i bought a cell, HTC touch pro 2, from ebay (USA). the handset is not launched in india and I wanted it for personal use, he shipped it through usps. the item cost is round 23K inr. its new. I assume the bill is inside the box
January 5th, 2010 at 2:00 am
NOT LEGAL ADVICE , best of my knowledge
@Divya – gifts below 10k wont attract duty under any circumstances, its the customs prerogative to see if they are genuine gifts or not.
@Imran – no matter if he marks it a gift, it will attract customs and other charges if the customs open it as its above the free range. Customs will be charged on item cost +shipping cost. I dont have the rate of charge info with me.
January 5th, 2010 at 9:48 am
Hi Again,
I spoke to my seller last night. this is what he says “i declared the value for insurance as $450, but in the description i wrote used phone with no commercial value”
He says i should be getting it for free through customs. he also confirmed that he did not add any bill inside. means there is no way one can find out about the value of the phone except the insurance of $450 and marked as a gift. i know its stupid.
you feel i will get it for free or less?
January 5th, 2010 at 9:57 am
pl answer my query (# 196 in the above post)…..
January 5th, 2010 at 12:04 pm
Hi NEED URGENT HELP
I am planning to get a motherboard for my laptop from china to my home it cost $178 + $32 shipping through EMS So it will cost me less than 10000 INR including shipping now its shipped from hong kong and is door to door shipping. please tell me will there be any duty and if so approx how much
cheers
saurabh
January 5th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
Both those methods would not present it as a gift to the customs in my opinion and they will charge duty if they inspect your package, a gift isnt sent via a vendor and on CN form must be marked a gift.
January 5th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
@imran – wait a few weeks and you will find out
, no way to predict these customs people and their actions, but let me assure you not finding out the value of the phone will not be a hindrance for customs since they will keep your phone forever till they can assess its value, read a comment above for a man whose jewelery wasnt released as its value couldnt be ascertained.
January 5th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
but the vendor is refusing to declare gift in CN form….he says that it will add more cost..is CN form mandatory or optional (from china)?
January 5th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
suppose the packet without CN 22/23 if caught by customs, The payment is made by my US based friend by his US based credit card / paypal, will the online payment slip or some other doc ( say the invoice inside the box where the “Invoice To” name & address is of US based friend) which justifies that he made the payment & it is a genuine gift will suffice for them to exempt it from duty? any idea about such issue?
January 5th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
where r my comments going?
January 5th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
this link has useful info :h**p://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cs-manual/manual_18.htm
January 5th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
point # 7 says:
7. The sender of the gift may not necessarily be residing in the country from where the goods have been dispatched. Any person abroad can send the gifts to relatives, business associates, friends, companies and acquaintances. The gifts have to be for bonafide personal use.
January 5th, 2010 at 5:46 pm
See Divya, I dont know anymore than what I have told you, just keep in mind the package is chargeable if its not marked a gift, and in the end its their decision to accept if the package was a bonafide gift or not.
Best of luck.
January 5th, 2010 at 7:15 pm
I purchased a lens online ($54+$15>shipping) and had it shipped via USPS. Today the postman came with a ripped package and demanding another 900 rupees. What should I do? (It wasn’t declared a gift if that matters…)
January 5th, 2010 at 7:34 pm
@Shivanand – Pay the duty if you want the lens. Also check if anything is stolen/damaged before paying the duty.
January 6th, 2010 at 6:20 am
WiseTechie,
one December 22nd I gave the usps 3 packages to be shipped to India. One package, the smallest of the 3, which only weighed 1.5 pounds has arrived. The other 2 are still m.i.a. I insured the largest package b/c of the contents inside. the other one I did not. I know it has only been 10 business days, but I am very very worried b/c one package got there and the other 2 havent. Also, the usps has been zero help whatsoever! They can not tell me where my packages are. And according to one status the largest package is still at the post office where I dropped it off. I went up there today and they looked around and it wasnt there. I am just very concerned that they were stolen. Should I give it more time? Or should I take further action to find my packages?
Thank You!
January 6th, 2010 at 9:29 am
Hi Buddy,
wish me luck. i will update what happens whn i get an answer from Customs
Guess what, i spoke to some of my friends in DHL. they scared the shit out of me. they told me that the duty will be huge. but later confirmed tht it will be only between 10% to 4%. means to only $45 (of $450). i am now talking with the customs and getting it out, i dont mind paying tht much.
January 6th, 2010 at 9:52 am
@CGOEBEL – Dont worry, its too early to tell, wait for atleast 1-1.5 months.
@Imran – Cool, congrats for the phone !
January 6th, 2010 at 10:02 am
@wisetechie, is CN form mandatory for any type of shipping? or its optional?
January 6th, 2010 at 10:38 am
CN form is not mandatory, but its meant for faster customs processing. As I understand , without a CN form customs will have no option but to open package to see whats inside. I have never received an international package without a CN form BTW, sellers always use it.
January 6th, 2010 at 10:47 am
thank you wisetechie for your prompt reply, i will get back to you with my experience in customs..
January 6th, 2010 at 10:48 am
Oh Wise one,
please reply to my query (post number 204)
January 8th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
Dear WiseTechie,
I am A.Janardhan, Purchased one 16 GB Mp3 player form Ebay.com, item Location is Hong Kong, and Paid $17.50 using Paypal on 2 Dec 2009, but Still i had’nt Received the Item, mailed the same to the seller he says it has dispatched from there on 3 dec 09,
My Question is that weather my item Got Stuck in Customes and if Yes how i will come to know? and is any customes duty is laid on that ? if yes how Much?
and it cost $17.50 and i purchased it for Personal Use only.
please reply me
thanks & regards,
A.Janardhan.
January 11th, 2010 at 8:42 am
@Saurabh – I am not sure but motherboards might be in exempt category, be sure to check from people. As you are buying it , it doesnt matter if it costs less than 10k or more.
@Arra – such a low value item isnt usually charged anyway, check with the FPO. But personal use isnt an excuse because its not a gift so technically it is chargeable, you just dont need the IEC code.
January 11th, 2010 at 9:17 am
yes wisetechie, you were correct… the seller was foolish to say that it will add extra cost….at last my parcel arrived @ my doorstep with gift marked on CN form & I even didn’t have to take any followup.
Thank you very very much for the help you provided..
January 11th, 2010 at 11:48 am
thanks
Wise one
January 12th, 2010 at 12:32 am
@Divya – Nice to know you got your package
January 13th, 2010 at 2:05 am
My sister stays at US and i have asked her to buy a google nexus one phone Which costs $530 [aprox 25000Rs] . She has already buyed the phone there now the question is how to send it to india [Mumbai] . If she sends it via DHL how much will they charge it and after reading this forum will it give me any customs problem , and how much i have to pay or some1 please suggest me a good method paying more $100[5000Rs] for the courier company wnt be an issue for me but i need the phone on my doorsteps in 3-4 days without any customs problem is this possible some1 do reply ….cause she has the phone ready to send so please thnkx in advance !
January 13th, 2010 at 2:28 am
all i am saying is i dnt need an customs problem cause i am ready to wadver it is ….can i pay the customs price to the coruier company and then they can clear my things easily without any problem and deliver the stuff in my doorsteps ?
January 13th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
@Dinesh – Get it via DHL with proper insurance, cant go wrong there. When it reaches you inspect package before signing for it.
January 13th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
Wisetechie thnkx very much for replyn
So all i have to tell my sister is send it via DHL with proper insurance and then i will have no problem to say it is used or it is a gift ..or mark it little lower then itz orginal price as ppl above me said …..So simple juzz send it via DHL with proper insurance alrite ohk thnkx very much !
January 15th, 2010 at 9:07 am
Hi wise techi,
I Ordered for a iphone in ebay its a used phone the cost of the phone is $368.98 + $45 shipping so the total amount will be $ 413.98 the seller said that the invoice is there inside the shippinment and it was marked as used phone, i read the comments above however am not able to make my mind, what is going to happen, i even spoke to the superindent from the central excersie he said that i will not be charged customs duty however i have to pay an mcc duty for the postal appraising dept. but i wanted to now the real scenario did some one had to pay custom duty
January 16th, 2010 at 7:47 am
My friend sent ipod as gift from US through USPS.It has been 20 days.I still did not receive till now.USPS providing tracking info as sent from New York.When i inquired in my local post office,post office people told that Mumbai sorting office will receive all letters and couriers firstly and Mumbai sorting office will pass them to respective cities.Is there possibility if stealing by customs persons or post office people ?
Please provide Mumbai sorting office contact details if possible
January 18th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
How much custom duty will i have to pay on importing 3d goggles (for 3d movies) worth 0.99$ from china?
January 18th, 2010 at 5:50 pm
@Jacob – Dunno what people you talked to, but technically import of used electronics is not allowed. Duty toh will have to be paid in my opinion.
@Suresh – I do not have any contact info for mumbai. If it was via registered post, you may write an application to your local postmaster and ask him to forward to relevant office. He might do it if you ask nicely.
@Prakhar – zilch ! , such low cost items arent taxed , there is a minimum duty that is needed to be charged to a person.
January 19th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
this are the details about my ipod i am getting in USPS site
Class: First-Class Mail International
Service(s): International Letter
Status: Electronic Shipping Info Received
January 19th, 2010 at 11:06 pm
Hi Wise Techie,
I ordered a portable projector from Alibaba trading website. The seller has shipped it as a sample. It costed me $260 however the seller had invoiced it for $70 for obvious reasons while shipping the item. It was sent through EMS and is stuck up with with customs for 10 days now.
I am really worried now as my money is stuck. The seller cant help as the item is already shipped. Please suggest an alternative as I am residing in Pune and will not be possible for me to enquire in Mumbai personally. Nobody responds on the Telephone number available. Please help as I am running out of alternatives.
Also for a projector marked under $70 how much of custom duty O may have to pay. Will I have to pay this at the local post office in Pune, how will I know about it etc… Please help
PSB for the details of the shipment status
Consignment No: EE247531214CN
Your item was handed over to Customs(REPUBLIC OF INDIA MUMBAI PAR) at 2010-01-10 14:19:00
Timing Site Status
2010-01-06 15:39:00 SHENZHEN Posting
2010-01-06 19:25:00 SZHQ Despatch from Sorting Center
2010-01-06 22:26:47 SHENZHEN Arrival at Sorting Center
2010-01-06 23:57:40 SHENZHEN Despatch from Sorting Center
2010-01-07 09:14:00 GUANGZHOU Arrival at Sorting Center
2010-01-08 01:57:00 GUANGZHOU Despatch from Sorting Center
2010-01-10 10:33:00 REPUBLIC OF INDIA MUMBAI PAR Arrival at Sorting Center
2010-01-10 14:19:00 REPUBLIC OF INDIA MUMBAI PAR Handed over to Customs
January 21st, 2010 at 6:12 am
I have send laptop and mobile as gift to india, but the coustoms as for a bribe and not coustom ..how much will be my customs?..on package its 450 pounds costs..shou;d i give them bribe and clear my package or file a complaint against them???
January 21st, 2010 at 8:36 am
Thanks for the information, what will be the duty percentage i need to pay for the iphone, its $413.98 what will be the charge, how do i go about getting the merchandise my usps status shows as
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, January 20, 2010, 7:34 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, January 20, 2010, 7:22 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, January 13, 2010, 8:58 am, ISC SAN FRANCISCO (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, January 12, 2010, 4:09 pm, SAN JOSE, CA 95101
Processed through Sort Facility, January 12, 2010, 3:10 pm, SAN JOSE, CA 95101
Processed through Sort Facility, January 12, 2010, 12:56 pm, CUPERTINO, CA 95014
Electronic Shipping Info Received, January 10, 2010
How long do u think i need to wait for them to contact me?
January 22nd, 2010 at 12:08 am
hello
i ordered a custom made wax seal from UK.. costs about 59 GBP..
Is it liable to custom duty?? Are there any chances that customs department to retain the seal and demand for duty.
January 27th, 2010 at 6:16 am
Can you tell me did u receive your Nexus One without any problems? I have a similar situation?
January 27th, 2010 at 5:22 pm
hey dinesh i am stuck in the same stituation …if by any chance u get ur phone here in india .. pls let me knw how did u do it … even my nexus phone is there in US ready to send but dont knw how to get it .. coz i am scared tht it will get stuck in customs and then i lll have to pay huge duty …DO reply
January 28th, 2010 at 4:25 am
Hey great work dude dude ad a donate button i am sure many of guys gona donate for your awesome job u doin..
Any way sir i want to import a gaming console that cost near 300$ but the good thing is that it is in my uncle house ( mosa ji) in uk so if my uncle mark it as a gift because they are in blood relation so there will be no problem which courier service should i use please help … and the gaming console is more than 8 lbs
January 28th, 2010 at 7:57 pm
hi
I purchased 2 replica belts online and it came with 2 free louis vuitton wallets. it went into customs yesterday and it has still not been released. The supplier had marked it out as a gift and so he said that it will not be charged duty. How long does it generally take for goods like mine to get cleared through customs?
January 28th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
@Jacob – It takes around a week or 2.
@Amit – $300 is chargeable. Marking it as a gift might help since it actually is a gift, its not illegal. The customs will assess the value according to them and charge whatever they feel is correct.
@Rohit – Not too sure, but some friends had imitation goods destroyed in Europe, I am not too sure about the Indian policy on such stuff.
@Nishant – Its always better to get it in person, isnt any relative or your relative’s friend coming to India soon ?
January 29th, 2010 at 11:02 am
Hi Folks,
I guess I finally figured it out for items stuck with EMS at Mumbai customs:
Step 1: Call the following EMS helpline numbers 022-26156703 / 26156648 to get a BY number. It’s a tracking number through which you can track the parcel with customs. The lady is extremely impolite and will just give you a tracking no., by the time you shoot the next question, she’ll hang up.
Step 2: You then need to call the postal customs dept at 022-26156152 & provide the BY no. to them. This person will tell you that the parcel has been detained & a notice been sent to you on XYZ date. He will then give you the contact of a clearing agent who will bribe you. For a $50 item he charged me Rs.1500/- through online transfer. Bribing is all sophisticated & organized these days
Step3: The clearing agent will then confirm that he has got it cleared from the relevant dept in customs and the parcel has been dispatched to the GPO of the city to be delivered.
One important thing is that you need to have loads of patience & be sensible. All the above numbers will not be picked u[ immediately. You’ll have to try , try and try to catch hold of them. I made hundred attempts and spent one day in sorting this out. Be patient and somebody will pick up the phone. The best time to call is between 2pm to 5pm.
At the end of the day I am not happy being charged a hefty bribe to get my parcel cleared but that how it happens. They’ll tell you either pay the money or pay a heavy amount in duties. Diappointing but true… As far as my parcel is concerned the agent confirmed yesterday that it has been cleared, expecting it in a day or two now as I reside in Pune. Will let you know as I receive the parcel.
Hope this piece of info helps…..All the best
January 29th, 2010 at 11:08 am
@Anonymous – some good information there, so sorry to see you had to give a bribe. Rs.1500 for a $50 item is atrocious, since you used online transfer, you can file a case against these people once you get your item.
The rate you paid is close to 65% , no duty + fine could have been close to that unless the customs would over-value your item deliberately.
But I am glad you got your item.
January 31st, 2010 at 1:12 am
@ NISHANT , i have recieved my google nexus one but not via courier cause i have asked many they were like send it via some relative when they come 2 india as if they are using the phone …i don’t trust this customs people they can charge me a huge amount and from that the mobile is expensive so i cnt take risk of sending it via courier what if it get damages …So best is ask if any1 from us coming to india your relative or frndz ask them to get it without the box like as if they are using then no customs nothing just say a big thanks 2 the one who got !!!
January 31st, 2010 at 10:04 pm
great to see the donate button dude …..
February 1st, 2010 at 2:41 am
@Amit –
, now all I need are donators 
February 1st, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Hi,
I would like to import an extender from the US.
The cost comes to 300 USD.
Since this product is for extension of a part of the body, it may come under medical equipment.
Can you please tell me the duty I would have to pay for this equipment.
Regards,
FS.
NOTE: Please give me an answer. I have posted this message many times, but I my message has not been displayed, may be the moderator thinks I am sending messages for fun.
February 1st, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Just ordered laptop via USPS. Keeping clsoe eye. Just sent e-mail to Foreign postal office in Mumbai & also to customs directly as I want to clear my package soon. As Annoymous person mentioned, it’s true they rarely pick the phone on above numbers. In 2008 & in year 2009 I ordered 2 laptops and I got them via vPost Asia with reasonable duty paid i.e. 5500/- rs. Not bad. I can say vPost Asia is very prompt and reliable. But it takes lot of time as seller sends your package to your vPost Oregon address, from there your package goes to Singapore & from their to Chennai port. Respective courier in India, most times XPS calls you to tell this much customs to pay. Say ok and they pay on bealf of you and sends parcel to your door step. I had to pay octrai once in Pune. But in another case didnt ask for octrai.
Not sure how this USPS thing gonna work. I am ready to sue them if they dont talk properly. IBN Lokmat is there. “Jai Ho” !!!!
February 1st, 2010 at 10:26 pm
hi,
im thinking of ordering a electric guitar priced at $300 from US. The dealer agreed to send it throught FedEx. What would be the amount that the Customs ask for this? It had been quoted in the customs website that it is 10% for musical instruments.
February 1st, 2010 at 10:31 pm
Hi Wisetechie,
Great job with the website.
I sent a laptop to a friend of mine in India. Its worth $750 sent thru usps. The USPS person asked me to mark it as merchandise which I did. so, its not marked as a gift.
I paid for the insurance which came to $5.00. The last time I checked the USPS, it says it is with the customs. How much customs tax do you think I will need to pay? Can my friend pay it in India? I have heard of customs duty anywhere from 12.5% to 35%.
Thanks,
February 4th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
Update 04th Feb 2010 : 2 days back called at 022 2615 6648, the lady gave me this number of customs >> 022 2615 6152
Today on 4th Feb some1 picked up the phone. He gave me BY number & told me check with local post office in Pune after 2 days as my destination address is in Pune city. Yesterday I went to Market Yard post office as I live nearby and sub post master said will inform me once the parcel arrive. As per Market yard people I will have to pay customs in Pune only. No need to go to Mumbai which is good. Mumbai guy also said in next 2 days valuation for my parcel will be done.
Will post next updates soon
February 4th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Found 1 interesting link > http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cs-manual/manual_18.htm
February 4th, 2010 at 11:55 pm
hi i want to order some bodybuldind suppliments from usa.so will i be charged some cutom duty or not. . if yes then how much?
my billing amount is $195.85 including $76.99 shipping throgh fedex. . plz reply as soon as possible.
February 5th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
@Ameya – the limit over there is the old one, it was revised to 10k via a notification.
February 6th, 2010 at 10:54 am
hey im plannin to purchase 3 electric guitars which will cost upto $3000 from US…how much will be the custom duty if i ask someone to get it from there or get it shipped via dhl/fed ex…and is the duty same for items imported from US or Malaysia??
thanks
February 8th, 2010 at 11:27 pm
Hi Sir,
Iam planning to buy an officially unlocked iphone for 784USD in ebay and ship it to india. Could you please tell be the best way to get it so as escape duties. Is preferrable to get it as a gift from the seller? What price cand be Quoted?
February 13th, 2010 at 9:06 am
Hi WiseTechie,
Doing a great service. I was wondering about your answer to Pijush
Hi Pijush, have you got your item finally. Did you pay any duty. I am curious as I am planning to buy something online from a seller based in the same location in china.
February 15th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
I have puchased Kurka Knife from Knife depot us online shop, Its reached chennai and i have recieved letter from postal department that, I have to be produeced Invoice and IEC and I produced but still they are not releasing shipment can you help me out.
February 16th, 2010 at 10:47 am
i ordered a laptop worth $274 from USA
it was shipped via USPS Priority mail international
my tracking number is CQ670953875US
Usps website shows :
Label/Receipt Number: CQ67 0953 875U S
Class: Priority Mail International Parcels
Service(s): International Parcels
Status: International Dispatch
Your item left the United States from FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099 at 4:03 PM on February 3, 2010. Information, if available, is updated periodically throughout the day. Please check again later.
Detailed Results:
International Dispatch, February 03, 2010, 4:03 pm, FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
Arrival
Electronic Shipping Info Received, January 30, 2010
I checked on this website also http://ipsweb.ptcmysore.gov.in/ipswebtracking/IPSWeb_item_events.asp?itemid=CQ670953875US&Submit=Submit
ITEM n° CQ670953875US new search
Local Date and Time Country Location Event Type Extra Information
2/8/2010 2:20:00 PM INDIA DELHI FOREIGN POST OFFICE Receive item at office of exchange (Inb)
2/8/2010 3:35:00 PM INDIA DELHI FOREIGN POST OFFICE Send item to customs (Inb)
Please help me and give me some contact number’s or email ids so that i may enquire about the item.
i am from Srinagar,Kashmir
February 19th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Hi,
I have purchased head phones of price $99. The merchant told that he will do EMS post as a gift. Will I have any problems with customs. Please advise.
Thanks,
Krishna
February 21st, 2010 at 11:25 pm
hey im plannin to purchase 3 electric guitars which will cost upto $3000 from US…how much will be the custom duty if i ask someone to get it from there or get it shipped via dhl/fed ex…and is the duty same for items imported from US or Malaysia??
thanks
February 23rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Hi Jacob and others, ( guys who ordered iPhones from Ebay), could you guys confirm how many days it took for USPS to delivery the iPhone?
Was there any penalty charged?
Mine shows as “Out of Foreign Customs, February 13, 2010, 4:21 pm, INDIA”
February 24th, 2010 at 9:55 am
hi WiseTechie
I am from Delhi.
I placed an order on ebay usa for import of video glasses [itheatre ;50'' -OLED , item location - china]
i received an invoice to pay US $129 inclusive of shipping
the shipping will be via China EMS duly registered !
Now my question :
1) do i pay any duty if i get it marked as Gift – value on package – US $129 ?
Please let me know ASAP as i need to pay them next week else non payment ill be reported to ebay [ i have 100% feedback currently]
please help
February 24th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
^ its for the customs to decide if its a gift or not and their decision is final, gifts upto 10000 do not attract duty,
February 25th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
Hi WiseTech and all
Just wanted to inform you all that my iPhone 2G, bought on ebay ,shipped from Chicago by USPS “Priority Mail International Parcels” on 8th Feb 2010 reached my office today 25th Feb 2010 in Bangalore and received by office courier/security people.
The parcel was marked as gift with description mentioned as Apple iPhone, value 210$, the box was provided by USPS and could have easily opened by anyone
Hope this helps
February 26th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
======================================
# WiseTechie Says:
February 24th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
^ its for the customs to decide if its a gift or not and their decision is final, gifts upto 10000 do not attract duty,
======================================
Thank you very much WiseTechie for the reply
I hope it was informative to all who also want to import this gadget…
Now if seller DOES NOT mark it as GIFT and marks the package @ US $129
then Do i pay duty on this item video glasses [itheatre ;50'' -OLED , item location - china] ?
If yes them how much duty ?
February 27th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
Congrats Arun
, enjoy your phone !
@Ancjob – if its not marked a gift, it will attract duty, but again depends on the customs if they decide to charge or not. Sometimes they think the value is too low and let things move through.
February 27th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
hey im plannin to purchase 3 electric guitars which will cost upto $3000 from US…how much will be the custom duty if i ask someone to get it from there or get it shipped via dhl/fed ex…and is the duty same for items imported from US or Malaysia??
thanks
help needed…noone replied till now…
March 5th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
My iPhone2G from Ebay Story ( Hope this helps others)
===========================================
Won the iPhone 2g in the bid for 209$ and Internatianl Shipping 28$
USPS Tracking Link
http://trkcnfrm1.smi.usps.com/PTSInternetWeb/InterLabelInquiry.do?origTrackNum=CQ003851850US
Shipped from USA:
Label/Receipt Number: CQ00 3851 850U S
Class: Priority Mail International Parcels
Service(s): International Parcels
Status: Out of Foreign Customs
-Out of Foreign Customs, February 13, 2010, 4:21 pm, INDIA
-Arrived Abroad, February 13, 2010, 2:49 pm, INDIA
-International Dispatch, February 09, 2010, 3:52 pm, FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
-Arrival
-Electronic Shipping Info Received, February 01, 2010
Indian Post Tracking Link ( No use as it wont show any info)
http://services.ptcmysore.gov.in/speednettracking/Track3.aspx?articlenumber=CQ003851850US
Trying to figure out the Post office number
http://services.ptcmysore.gov.in/Spcdetails/Managers.aspx?code=9
Bangalore 560001 22861435,22861390 22861994 spc.bangalore@indiapost.gov.in T.R.SHANKAR
I called
GPO Post office Bangalore– Bangalore 080 2286 7302
They asked me to call Parcel section 080 2558 9993
When I called they said it is pending in Custom screening at Bangalore
and asked me to call this number: Bangalore Postal Customs: 2558 9992
and they provided me with the new India tracking number #1357
As soon as Indian Post recieves the parcel they code it with their own number in this case mine was 1357
So no info in the Indian Post office tracking website or USPS website
Called the above number they said it got cleared and sent it back to Post, couldnt get the date when they cleared and send it back.
Figured out manually visiting GPO that it got sent to Local Post office on 19th Feb
Checked in the local Post office for my address and I found the package with custom duty as it wasnt marked as GIFT
The Customs duty was:
Total Value: 209.99$
Postage and Fees: 25.17$
Indian Custom duty: 1758/-
Indian Postal Fees: 100/-
————————-
So, total fine 1858/-
===========================
So, next time if you ordering something make sure you ask the vendor to mention/mark it as GIFT
Because I got one more iPhone2G without any fine:
Label/Receipt Number: LC28 9608 926U S
Class: Priority Mail International Parcels
Service(s): International Letter
Status: Acceptance
Only difference between these two is one was marked as GIFT + Service Type: International Letter
The one where custom duty charged was NOT marked as GIFT + Service(s): International Parcels
March 12th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
I am planning to purchase a laptop worth $ 1600 from Ebay US , the shipping cost mentioned over there is $ 179 , Its ofcourse being for personal use how much extra will I be charged for it considering customs and everything