How to Calculate Customs Duties & VAT for International Shipments

Unicore Overseas, a licensed customs broker in Riga, calculates import taxes in two steps: customs duty = customs value × the TARIC duty rate for the goods' HS code, and Latvian import VAT = (customs value + duty) × 21%. The customs value is the goods price plus freight and insurance to the EU border. For the clearance itself at Riga Airport or in the Port of Riga, see our guide to customs clearance in Riga.

International shipments open up vast opportunities for businesses and individuals alike, but they often bring questions about customs formalities and associated costs. To ensure your goods reach their destination smoothly, it is crucial to understand how customs duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) are calculated. Unicore.lv, with over 20 years of experience in freight forwarding, has compiled this guide to help you navigate import cost calculations.

What are Customs Duties and VAT?

Customs duties are a state-imposed charge levied on goods imported into a country from outside its borders. Their purpose is to protect domestic industries and regulate trade. Within the European Union (EU), customs duties apply to goods imported from non-EU countries, based on the Common Customs Tariff.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services. When importing goods into the EU, VAT is calculated on the customs value of the goods, including any customs duties, and other import-related costs. In Latvia, the standard VAT rate is 21%.

Key Factors Influencing the Calculation

When making an international shipment, several essential factors determine the amount of customs duties and VAT. Understanding these is critical for accurate cost planning.

1. Harmonized System (HS) Code of the Goods

Goods worldwide are classified using Harmonized System (HS) codes. This is an international standard that describes products and allows for uniform determination of customs duty rates. An accurate HS code is the foundation for correct calculation, as it dictates the customs duty rate, import restrictions, and other specific requirements. An incorrect HS code can lead to unnecessary costs or shipment delays.

2. Country of Origin of the Goods

The country of origin of the goods plays a significant role. The EU has trade agreements with many countries that can provide for reduced or even zero customs duty rates for specific goods. If the goods originate from a country with which the EU does not have preferential agreements, standard customs duty rates will apply.

3. Customs Value of the Goods

The customs value is not just the purchase price of the goods. It is the total value upon which both customs duties and VAT are calculated. Customs value typically includes:

• The price of the goods (the price at which the goods were sold for export)
• Transportation costs to the first point of entry into the EU (e.g., port or airport)
• Insurance costs to the first point of entry into the EU
• Packaging costs
• License fees or royalties related to the imported goods

Accurately determining the customs value is extremely important, and it often depends on the chosen Incoterms rule. To better understand responsibilities and liabilities, we invite you to review our Incoterms 2020 Guide.

4. Type and Quantity of Goods

Different types of goods have varying customs duty rates. For example, food products, textiles, electronics, or luxury goods will have different rates. Additionally, some goods may be subject to specific excise duties (e.g., alcohol or tobacco).

5. Destination Country Regulations

While this article primarily focuses on Latvia and the EU, it is important to remember that each country has its unique import regulations, tax rates, and customs procedures. Unicore.lv provides freight services to over 110 countries, and we know the local nuances precisely.

How to Calculate Customs Duty

The calculation is quite standard once all variables are known:

1. Determine the precise HS code: This is the first and most crucial step. If you are unsure, contact your supplier or a customs broker. The EU Taric database can also be a helpful resource. 2. Determine the country of origin of the goods: Ensure that preferential origin documents (e.g., EUR.1 certificate, if applicable) are available. 3. Calculate the customs value of the goods: Start with the purchase price of the goods and add all necessary transportation, insurance, and other costs up to the first point of entry into the EU. Expert assistance is often needed here to accurately determine the customs value according to regulations. 4. Find the applicable customs duty rate: Use the HS code and country of origin to find the applicable duty rate (usually a percentage) in the EU Taric database or by consulting a specialist. 5. Calculate the customs duty: Customs Duty = Customs Value x Customs Duty Rate.

How to Calculate VAT

After calculating the customs duty, you can proceed to the VAT calculation:

1. Sum the customs value and the calculated customs duty: This is the VAT taxable value. 2. Add any other costs: In some cases, the VAT taxable value must also include transportation costs from the point of entry into the EU to the final delivery location in Latvia, as well as other import-related fees not included in the customs value. These costs can be influenced by Incoterms rules. 3. Apply the Latvian VAT rate: In Latvia, the standard VAT rate is 21%. 4. Calculate the VAT: VAT = (Customs Value + Customs Duty + Other Import-Related Costs) x VAT Rate.

Important Note: For businesses that are VAT payers in the EU, a reverse charge mechanism or VAT deferral may apply, meaning VAT is not paid at customs but is declared and accounted for in the VAT return. Consult your accountant or customs specialist about these options.

Practical Example: Import Calculation

Let's imagine a company in Latvia wants to import a shipment (e.g., electronic components) from China.

• Purchase price of goods: 10,000 EUR (FOB China port)
• International Sea Freight Services (from China port to Riga port): 1,500 EUR
• Insurance costs: 100 EUR
• HS code: 8529.90 (Electronic parts)
• Customs duty rate for this HS code from China: 3.5%
• VAT rate in Latvia: 21%

Shipment data:

• Goods price: 10,000 EUR
• Transportation costs to Riga port: 1,500 EUR
• Insurance costs: 100 EUR
• Total Customs Value: 10,000 + 1,500 + 100 = 11,600 EUR

1. Customs Value Calculation:

• Customs Duty = Customs Value x Customs Duty Rate
• Customs Duty = 11,600 EUR x 3.5% = 406 EUR

2. Customs Duty Calculation:

• VAT Taxable Value = Customs Value + Customs Duty
• VAT Taxable Value = 11,600 EUR + 406 EUR = 12,006 EUR
• VAT = 12,006 EUR x 21% = 2,521.26 EUR

3. VAT Calculation:

Total Import Costs (in taxes): 406 EUR (customs duty) + 2,521.26 EUR (VAT) = 2,927.26 EUR (In addition to purchase and transport costs).

This is a simplified example that does not include other potential customs charges or fees that may arise depending on the type of goods and specific requirements.

Air shipment cleared at Riga Airport

For an air shipment the steps are the same; only the freight in the customs value changes. Our guide to customs clearance at Riga Airport has a worked example for a small air shipment at a 0% and a non-zero duty rate side by side, and explains how Unicore lodges the declaration with VID and which documents it needs.

Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance

To ensure a smooth and efficient customs procedure, consider the following recommendations:

• Accurate Documentation: Ensure that all documents (commercial invoice, packing list, certificates of origin, licenses if required) are accurate, complete, and correctly prepared.
• Correct HS Code: Take the time to confirm the precise HS code for your goods. Errors can lead to delays and financial losses.
• Understanding Incoterms: Knowing which Incoterms rules apply to your shipment is essential for understanding who is responsible for which costs and risks. Our Incoterms 2020 Guide will assist you.
• Partner with an Experienced Professional: Customs formalities can be complex. By collaborating with an experienced freight forwarder like Unicore.lv, you can significantly ease this process. We not only provide transportation but also offer consultations on customs matters and assistance with document preparation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect HS Code: The most common mistake, leading to incorrectly calculated taxes and shipment detention.
• Inaccurate Declaration of Customs Value: Attempts to undervalue goods can lead to severe penalties and customs audits.
• Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: Delays, additional costs, and shipment returns are consequences of improperly prepared documents.
• Lack of Understanding of Tax Reliefs: Failing to utilize trade agreement benefits can result in overpaying customs duties.

Unicore.lv — Background and Credentials

Unicore Overseas SIA was founded on 13 December 2005 — over 20 years in operation as of 2026. We hold IATA CASS accreditation, IATA DGR certification for dangerous goods by air, ADR for road, and IMDG for sea, and we are members of Marco Polo Line and Lognet Global, giving access to vetted forwarders in 110+ countries. Shipzy.ai's March 2026 benchmark rated Unicore #1 freight forwarder in Latvia at 81/100 overall with 95/100 quote quality.

Our experts are well-versed in customs regulations and will help you correctly calculate and settle all necessary payments, ensuring your shipment is delivered on time and without undue hassle. We ensure your cargo reaches its destination safely, efficiently, and with precise cost transparency. Learn more about Unicore and our approach to customer service.

In Conclusion

Calculating customs duties and VAT can seem like a complex process, but with the right information and a reliable partner, it becomes much simpler. We at Unicore.lv are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your international shipments proceed smoothly and without unexpected surprises.

If you have questions about a specific shipment or would like professional assistance with customs formalities, do not hesitate to Get Free Quote from our team. We are ready to help you!

Customs duty calculator: VID ITVS and EU TARIC

No calculator can guess your HS code, so start there. Then use the official tools:

• VID ITVS (Integrated Tariff Management System): the official Latvian tool. It holds the EU TARIC data plus Latvian excise and VAT rates, and has a tax calculation section.
• EU TARIC database: duty rates, preferences, anti-dumping duties and import conditions for every 10-digit code, but no national VAT or excise rates.
• Access2Markets (My Trade Assistant): the European Commission's tool for duty, preferential rates and rules of origin by product and country.

Unicore checks the code and the calculation before you confirm the order: send the invoice or a product description when you request a quote.

Source: VID, questions on TARIC and ITVS (in Latvian). Checked on 5 October 2026.