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Why are guaranteed duties and taxes so expensive and how am I supposed to obtain customs paperwork?

  • Nov 20, 2025 8:57 PM UTC
  • 2 replies
  • 0 views

I'm struggling to understand the implementation of this new duties and taxes feature for DDP shipments. Every quote to the UK so far overwhelmingly exceeds the appx 20% in VAT we would otherwise get billed. Moreover, how are we even supposed to get our entry forms (like C79s for the UK) to file for input tax credits on tax returns?

According to the bot, the only way to do that is by using our own carrier accounts, in which case it makes sense just to cancel ShipStation and go back to UPS WorldShip...

    2 replies

    CaraAdmin
    • CaraAdmin
    • Community Manager
    • Nov 20, 2025 9:33 PM UTC

    Hello @KKC!

    Thank you for reaching out! When it comes to duties and taxes, the government of the destination country is ultimately responsible for determining these costs. As a result, we unfortunately don’t have insight into why the amounts may be higher or lower for a given shipment. I suggest reaching out to support to look at a shipment with you as an example. 

    Regarding customs forms, you can print any required documents directly from the Print menu within the Shipment Details of the specific order.

    You also referred to the C79 certificates. Currently, ShipStation does not generate or provide C79 tax documents. These are typically issued directly by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs). 

    I’ve included our Help Center article on Pre-Paid Duties and Taxes (DDP Guaranteed) for your reference.

    If you need any help after speaking with support, please don't hesitate to reach back out.

    Happy Shipping!

    -Cara

     

    User2
    • User2
    • Employee
    • Nov 21, 2025 5:07 PM UTC

    This was a terrible update.  Trying to tell me duties and taxes will cost $22 on $6 worth of goods to Chile.

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