What it means
Import duty estimates need product classification, country of origin, customs value, duty rate, additional tariff inputs, and destination tax rules. No single universal rate applies to all goods from one country.
Step-by-step workflow
1) Find the HS code candidate. 2) Verify origin. 3) Choose customs value basis (FOB, CIF, or manual). 4) Enter base duty rate. 5) Add any verified additional tariff. 6) Choose taxable basis. 7) Add brokerage, handling, and other import fees. 8) Verify each input against official tariff databases.
Example
A shipment with $2,000 customs value and 6.5% base duty has $130 base duty before tax, additional tariff, brokerage, and handling. If import tax is calculated on customs value plus duty, the taxable base changes.
Customs value basis
Customs value may be FOB (goods value at port of export), CIF (goods + freight + insurance), or manual (customs value with assists, packaging, and commission). The destination authority decides which basis applies.
Taxable basis for VAT and import tax
In many destinations, import VAT or tax is calculated on customs value plus duty. Some destinations also include additional tariff in the taxable base. The Import Duty Calculator lets you switch the taxable basis and shows the resulting tax.
Additional tariff inputs
Use the additional tariff field for verified product-and-origin-specific additional duty scenarios such as Section 301-style additional tariffs. Do not assume a universal country rate, and verify the rate in official USTR and USITC references.
Common mistakes
Avoid assuming low declared value means no duty, mixing FOB and CIF valuation without checking destination rules, using an additional tariff field without verifying product and origin applicability, and ignoring brokerage, handling, and other fees that change the total import cost.
Source note
Use official tariff databases and customs guidance for final duty-rate and taxable-basis checks before shipment or entry.