Read this first
This page focuses on shipments imported into the United States. For most other destinations, digital cameras are duty-free and buyers pay local VAT/GST plus any carrier handling fees. You still must follow local VAT programs (IOSS, UK low-value, etc.).
Our policy (what you must do)
Prefer/enable DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) whenever it’s available. If we can collect import charges at checkout, use that flow.
If DDP is not available, you must price-in the tariff before you list. If you forgot, cancel and relist at the correct price. Do not ship DAP and surprise the buyer.
Set the Country of Origin (COO) on every listing. COO determines the tariff rate. Ship-from location does not.
Disclose clearly when the order will be DAP (Delivered At Place, buyer pays at delivery). If you ship DAP, message the buyer before you ship.
Use marketplace VAT programs outside the U.S. (IOSS for EU ≤ €150, UK < £135, and other local schemes). Transmit the marketplace VAT ID electronically to the carrier (don’t print it on the box).
No freight forwarders for coverage. Forwarded/re-shipped parcels can void protection and complicate duties/taxes.
Update handling/ETA to account for customs time. All U.S. parcels now clear customs; plan your buyer ETA accordingly.
DDP vs DAP: which should you choose?
DDP (recommended): We (or your label) calculate and collect import charges before shipment. The buyer pays nothing at delivery, and refusal rates are much lower.
DAP (discouraged): The buyer pays the carrier before delivery. Expect more refused parcels and support issues. Only use DAP if DDP is impossible, and tell the buyer before shipping.
Picture: Label purchase screen with a “Duties & taxes” toggle circled (DDP selected).
Country of Origin (COO)
What it is: Where the product was made (substantial transformation), not where it ships from.
Why it matters: COO drives the tariff rate used at U.S. import.
Proof to keep: Factory labels, commercial invoice, model/SKU docs, and photos of COO markings.
Picture: Listing form with a “Country of Origin” field highlighted.
Where cameras are typically made (use to set COO)
Sony: predominantly Thailand for current lines.
Nikon: primarily Thailand for ILC bodies.
Canon: mixed Japan / Thailand / Vietnam / Malaysia by model.
Fujifilm: mixed; several U.S. SKUs Japan, others China.
Leica: Germany.
Use the COO on the box or product label for each specific item. Don’t guess.
Pricing with tariffs
For DDP: set your item price normally. Import charges will be shown and collected at checkout.
For DAP: include the expected tariff in your price or disclose clearly that the buyer pays the carrier.
Tariff rates change. Maintain a single internal source of truth (our Tariff Rates & Updates) and price from that.
Paperwork & shipment details
Commercial invoice: include buyer details, accurate COO, HS code (digital cameras commonly classify under 8525; accessories may differ), item value, and terms (DDP or DAP).
Signature on delivery: required for high-value orders (for example, ≥ $750 equivalent).
Batteries & hazmat: follow carrier rules; loose lithium batteries are restricted internationally.
Bundles/kits: different parts may have different COOs/HS codes; don’t misdeclare.
Outside the U.S. (quick guidance)
EU / UK / AU / NZ / NO / CH: Digital cameras are typically 0% duty; buyers pay VAT/GST. For low-value thresholds, marketplaces must collect VAT/GST at checkout (IOSS, UK low-value, LVG, VOEC, etc.). Use DDP where available to avoid COD surprises.
Canada: Cameras generally 0% duty; GST/HST/PST applies by province. Prefer DDP or disclose DAP clearly.
Returns and duty treatment
DDP orders: duties are usually not automatically refundable after customs clearance. Treat duties as non-recoverable on typical consumer returns.
DAP orders: the buyer paid the carrier. If they return, those duties typically remain with the buyer unless they pursue recovery with the carrier/customs (not guaranteed).
If a return is approved under a Buyer Guarantee case, follow our instructions. Do not tell buyers you can refund duties unless we confirm it case-by-case.
Compliance you can’t skip
No transshipment: Don’t route through another country to avoid a higher rate. Misdeclaring COO can trigger penalties and additional assessments.
Match the box: COO on your listing must match the item you actually ship.
Keep records: invoices, labels, and correspondence for at least the required retention period.
FAQs (seller)
Who is the importer of record?
For DDP with marketplace collection, the importer workflow is handled via the shipping program. For DAP, the buyer is typically the importer of record and pays at delivery.
What if the buyer refuses to pay DAP charges?
Expect the parcel to return. You may be charged return shipping and fees. Use DDP or disclose DAP upfront to reduce refusals.
Can I claim duties back on DDP returns?
Usually no for standard consumer returns. Drawback programs exist but are complex and rarely practical for one-off shipments.
Do used cameras have different tariffs?
No. Tariffs depend on HS classification and COO, not whether the item is new or used.
Will these tariffs end soon?
Assume they remain in effect. Some rates are under legal review, but they are currently being collected. We will update our rates page if the situation changes.
Seller checklist
Set Country of Origin on the listing
Choose DDP if available; if not, price-in tariff or disclose DAP
Add signature for high-value shipments
Complete the commercial invoice with accurate COO/HS code
For EU/UK low-value, ensure our VAT ID is sent electronically to the carrier
Keep proofs and shipment records