Sending parcels abroad is always a bit of math. At first glance, everything seems simple enough: choose gifts, assemble a box, pay for delivery.
However, when it comes to Germany, it is essential to note the value-added tax (VAT). This is often a surprise, especially when you decide to send parcel from the US to Germany with gifts or purchases. A logical question arises. Is it possible to avoid overpaying and determine the service cost in advance? Of course, yes, you will understand the VAT system and the rules by which it works. At such moments, Meest-America, your reliable partner in international logistics, comes to the rescue.
This courier has long gone beyond the scope of an ordinary delivery service. It is a modern platform that combines everything you need for fast and profitable international shipments. Your personal account enables you to track every movement of the parcel, manage your balance, and save the recipient’s addresses. Additional services, such as consolidation of purchases from American online stores, make international shopping simple and truly profitable.
How the VAT System Works in Germany
There are two main tax rates in Germany: 7% and 19%. Here, the sender needs to understand a single fact: everything depends on the category of goods. For example, books, food, and children’s goods are subject to a preferential rate of 7%. However, for electronics, clothing, accessories, or cosmetics, the rate of 19% is applied in this case.
You should consider not only the goods themselves, but also how they are classified at customs. A mistake can be expensive. Selecting an incorrect category will result in an overpayment. That is why it is better to immediately include the correct percentage in the calculations, so that the final cost does not come as a surprise.
What Is Most Often Taxed at 7% and 19%
To make navigation easier, focus on a few popular categories. Here they are:
- 7% VAT: books, food, baby food, magazines;
- 19% VAT: electronics, clothing, cosmetics, accessories, household appliances.
The difference may seem small, but it becomes apparent only at first glance. But when it comes to sending expensive goods, the savings can be significant.
For example, if you send a tablet worth $500, the 19% tax will be $95. And if you decide to send a book for $50 with a 7% tax, then you will have to pay only $3.50.
Calculation Examples for Clarity
To understand how this works in practice, consider several scenarios. Let’s assume this picture: you are sending a smartphone for $600. VAT 19% = $114. If you add customs duties and shipping to this amount, the final cost for the recipient increases by almost $150. This is not a small amount!
Now imagine that you are putting together a “family” parcel: books for $80, children’s clothes for $100, and food for $70. The total cost of such a parcel is $250. In this case, VAT is calculated at a rate of 7%. In total, the recipient will have to pay only $17.50. The difference with electronics is noticeable: the more goods fall under the preferential rate, the more profitable the final result is.
Checklist for Correct Calculations
Before sending, review a simple checklist. It will help you avoid missing details. This will help you prevent overpayments and save at every step. Among the main points that you should definitely pay attention to, we can highlight:
- find out the product category in advance;
- calculate the tax at a rate of 7% or 19%;
- add customs duty;
- check the limits for duty-free import;
- compare packaging options;
- use the Meest portal cost calculator.
If you have calculated everything in advance, you will avoid any unpleasant surprises at customs. This way, you can send everything you need. You won’t have unnecessary costs or delays.
Conclusion
The German VAT system isn’t as scary as it looks. Basically, some things are taxed at 7%, others at 19%. Since that can really affect the total cost, you’ll want to figure it out before shipping. Meest-America makes shipping to Germany simple. You can see the cost and the customs fees ahead of time, so there are no unexpected bills or stress.
