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Customs Value: Beyond the Invoice Price

Freight, insurance, royalties, tooling and related-party factors may affect customs value.

Short answer

Freight, insurance, royalties, tooling and related-party factors may affect customs value. Technical facts, the commercial scenario and current regulations should be assessed together.

01

Starting point

The transaction value is usually the starting method, but statutory additions and acceptance conditions must also be considered.

02

Additions

Freight and insurance to the place of entry, certain commissions, packing, assists and some licence payments may need to be added.

03

Related parties

Customs may examine whether the relationship between buyer and seller influenced price. Comparable transactions and transfer-pricing records become important.

04

File integrity

The valuation rationale should be retained with contracts, payments, freight and cost documents.

Information notice

This content is for general information and is not legal or binding customs advice. Customs and global-trade rules may change. Obtain a current specialist assessment for your transaction.