Understanding Customs, Duties, and Import Taxes (VAT)

When ordering from another country, it's important to understand the process of customs clearance. We know this can be a confusing part of international shipping, and this guide is designed to clarify exactly what to expect regarding import taxes, duties, and fees.

The Most Important Thing to Know

Before we go into detail, here is the fundamental rule for all international shipments.

You, the customer, are responsible for paying any and all import duties, taxes (like VAT or GST), and customs clearance fees levied by your country's government.
>
These charges are NOT included in the product price or the shipping cost you pay to Yaeltex at checkout.

Why Can't Yaeltex Handle These Fees?

This is a common question, and the answer lies in international law and logistics:

• It's a Legal Requirement: Import taxes are a form of tax collected by the government of the recipient's country. As an Argentinian company, we have no legal authority or mechanism to collect taxes on behalf of other countries like the USA, Germany, or Japan.
• Fees are Country-Specific: The types of fees and their amounts vary drastically from one country to another. They are determined by your local customs office based on the product's value, material, and category.
• The Importer is Responsible: In any international transaction, the person or entity bringing the goods into the country (the "importer," which is you) is legally responsible for paying the required duties.

How the Process Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Shipment Arrives in Your Country: Your Yaeltex controller, shipped via FedEx or another carrier, arrives at the customs entry point of your country.
2. Customs Assessment: The local customs authority reviews the package documentation (which we provide) to determine what, if any, duties and taxes are owed.
3. Carrier Pays on Your Behalf (Initially): To speed up the process, the carrier (e.g., FedEx) will typically pay the required fees to the government on your behalf to clear the package from customs quickly.
4. Carrier Contacts You for Reimbursement: The carrier will then contact you directly via email, phone, or mail with an invoice for the fees they paid, plus a small administrative or "advancement" fee for handling the transaction.
5. Package Delivered After Payment: Once you have paid the carrier's invoice, they will proceed with the final delivery of your controller to your address.

How Can I Estimate These Fees Before Ordering?

While we cannot give you an exact figure, you can get a good estimate.

• The Best Method: Contact Your Local Customs Office. This is the most accurate and reliable way to find out what to expect.
• Check Their Official Website: Most government customs agencies have websites with information on import duties.
• Online Calculators: You can search for an "import duty calculator" for your country, but be aware that these are often third-party tools and may only provide a rough estimate.

Information you will need for your inquiry:

• Product Type: Electronic Musical Instrument / MIDI Controller
• Value: The total price you paid for the controller.
• HS Code (Harmonized System Code): 9207.90.008000

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you declare a lower value on the package or mark it as a "gift" to avoid fees?

A: No. We are legally required to declare the full and accurate value of the contents for all international shipments. Falsifying customs documents is illegal (considered mail fraud in many countries) and can result in severe fines and the seizure of your package. We cannot honor requests to do this.

Q: What happens if I refuse to pay the customs fees?

A: If you refuse to pay the invoice from the carrier, they will be unable to deliver your package. The package will eventually be considered abandoned and will either be destroyed by customs or returned to us at our expense. In such cases, the original shipping costs are non-refundable, and any costs incurred for the return shipment may be deducted from any potential refund. We strongly urge you to account for these fees before placing your order.

Updated on: 26/06/2025