**Short answer:** If you choose DDP, import VAT or GST is collected at checkout together with duties. If you choose DDU, the courier contacts the recipient and collects all duties and taxes before delivery. If your country needs a tax ID for imports, you can save it with your address in your **Address Book**.

## What import VAT and GST are

Many countries charge a sales tax on imported goods. Depending on the country it's called VAT (value-added tax), GST (goods and services tax) or something similar. It's set by your destination country, not by us, and it's usually charged on top of any import duty.

How much you pay depends on your country's rules, what you're shipping and its declared value. We don't publish country-by-country rates, because they're set and changed by each country. To estimate what you'll pay, use our [duty calculator](https://www.forwardme.com/duty-calculator).

## How VAT and GST get paid: DDP or DDU

Whether you pay the tax up front or on arrival depends on the option you choose when you create your shipment.

| | DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) |
|---|---|---|
| VAT / GST and duties | Collected at checkout | Collected by the courier from the recipient |
| When | When you create the shipment | Before the package is delivered |
| At your door | Nothing more to pay | The courier contacts the recipient first |

DDP isn't offered for every destination and carrier. If you only see DDU at checkout, DDP isn't available for that combination right now. For the full comparison, see "DDP vs DDU: who pays duties, where DDP is available, and what to do if you're asked to pay again".

Our shipping calculator shows shipping costs only. Duties and taxes, including VAT and GST, are always estimated separately in the duty calculator. See "How import duties and taxes are calculated" for how the amount is worked out.

## Recipient tax IDs

Some countries ask the person receiving an import for a personal or business tax identification number. Customs or the courier may need it to clear the package.

**Where to add it:** you can save the tax ID with the delivery address in your **Address Book**. Add it before you create your shipment.

**Does my country need one?** We don't keep a list of countries that require a tax ID, and the rules can change. The best source is the official customs website of your destination country. If you're not sure, check there before you ship.

If customs or the courier asks for a tax ID after your package has left, contact our support team with your tracking number and we'll help.

## Common questions

**I chose DDP. Will I be asked to pay VAT again on delivery?**
You shouldn't be. VAT or GST collected at checkout covers the tax for that shipment. If the courier or customs asks you to pay again, contact our support team. See "DDP vs DDU: who pays duties, where DDP is available, and what to do if you're asked to pay again" for what to send us.

**I chose DDU. Who will contact me about the tax?**
The courier you selected contacts the recipient and collects all duties and taxes, including VAT or GST, before the package is released.

**Can you tell me the VAT rate for my country?**
We don't publish rates, because each country sets its own. Our duty calculator gives you an estimate for your items and destination.

**Where do I enter my tax ID?**
Save it with your delivery address in your **Address Book**, then choose that address when you create your shipment.

**Which countries require a tax ID?**
We don't maintain a list. Check the official customs website of your destination country.

## Still need help?

Our support team is available on weekdays from 09:00 to 17:00 ET at support@forwardme.com.