German Zoll & VAT Rules
Germany applies 19% VAT (MwSt) on all imports over 22 EUR. Duties apply over 150 EUR. Zoll inspections are thorough, especially for DHL shipments.
| Value | VAT | Zoll Duty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 22 EUR | None | None | No fees |
| 22-150 EUR | 19% | None | VAT only |
| > 150 EUR | 19% | Yes | VAT + duty + DHL fee if applicable |
Shipping Lines for Germany
German buyers have access to most major shipping lines, but EU Tax-Free and EMS are the most reliable.
- EU Tax-Free: Best overall, includes VAT, delivers via DHL Paket or GLS
- EMS: 10-16 days, clears Frankfurt customs reliably
- DHL: 5-8 days, fastest but highest inspection rate at Zoll
- GLS: 8-14 days, good tracking, reasonable fees
EORI Number Requirements
Most personal hauls under 150 EUR do not require an EORI. If you are a reseller or regularly import high-value goods, register for an EORI number through the German customs portal to avoid future delays.