The parcel are delayed because of inland transportation within country and Customs clearance procedures.
It depends on what do you import and from where do you import.For example, gold and jewellary items require valuation by the jewellary Expert of the Customs department.Similarily drugs and medicine are required clearance from The Assistant Drugs Controller.If you are importing Insecticide and pesticide then you have to obtain clearance as per Insecticide Act.The same procedure is followed whether you receive goods through post, Air cargo ,ICD,and Seaport.
The postal department does not assign any local number if the parcel is not detained by the Customs department.
But ,if it is detained for want of information, then you receive intimation from Postal department with local number and also from the Customs department.
you can enquire status of parcel with this local reference number at Customer care centre of Foreign post Office..
259 comments:
1 – 200 of 259 Newer› Newest»Do you have a list of Foreign Post office telephone numbers for major cities in India?
Dear Pranab,
i am forwarding details of some of foreign post and sub post offices . few Address of Customs department and place to obtain clearance if some body import plants.
BANGALORE
The office of postal Appraising Department is located at Shoolay Complex, III Floor, Museum Road, Bangalore-560025. The phone No. of PAD is 080-25589992
ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF CUSTOMS
CUSTOMS DIVISION, 29/2, BASAVESWARA BUILDING
CRESCENT ROAD, BANGALORE 560001.
Phone Number : 080-2286 2543
Fax Number : 080-2238 0627
e-mail : cusdiv_blr @hotmail.com
FOREIGN POST OFFICE, KANPUR
Foreign Post Office counter at Head Post Office, Kanpur has started functioning w.e.f. 2nd April, 1994. .
FOREIGN POST OFFICE, AGRA
Earlier the trade at Agra and adjoining places like Firozabad, Shikohabad, Hathras, Aligarh and Mathura were required to approach the foreign post office situated at Delhi.
CHENNAI
International Business Mail Service Centre
Customs Formalities - Surface
Foreign Post Building
Chennai - 600001.
Ph: 044-25240962 / 25240968
Email: fpmktg@indiapost.gov.in, packpost@gmail.com
Postal Appraising Dept.,
II Floor, Foreign Post Sea Complex
Chennai - 600001
Ph: 044-22340008
All Air Letter Mail
Customs Formalities - Air
Senior Superintendent RMS
Chennai - 600045
Ph: 044-22368595
Postal Appraising Dept., [AIR]
II Floor, Foreign Post Air Complex Meenambakkam
Chennai - 600027
Ph: 044-25254225
.
1
New Delhi (Delhi)
Foreign Post Office
NPQS, Rengapuri (Delhi)
2
Mumbai (Maharashtra)
Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Mumbai
3
Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Chennai
4
Kolkata (West Bengal)
Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Kolkata
5
Cochin (Kerala)
Foreign Post Office
PQS, Cochin
6
Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
Sub Foreign Post Office
PQS, Kandla
7
Bangalore (Karnataka)
Sub Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Chennai
8
Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Sub Foreign Post Office
NPQS, Rengapuri (Delhi)
9
Ludhiana (Punjab)
Sub Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Amritsar
10
Agra (U.P)
Sub Foreign Post Office
NPQS, Rengapuri (Delhi)
11
Guwahati (Assam)
Sub Foreign Post Office
RPQS, Kolkata.
Cochin:
Foreign Post Office
Y M C A Building
Chittoor Road , Cochin - 682 035
Ph: 0484 2374556
Sir,
Thanks for all the great info - I was wondering if you could help me out with a problem that I am having :
I had imported sports equipment (golf) from the US - the package shippe on the 13th of November, and according to the US postal service website, it cleared customs in India on Nov 27th. I still haven't received the equipment nor has any communication come in from the customs deartment.
Here are the details as the USPS.com website shows them:
Label/Receipt Number: CP23 2922 491U S
Detailed Results:
Out of Foreign Customs, November 27, 2007, 2:44 pm, INDIA
Out of Foreign Customs, November 27, 2007, 1:13 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 26, 2007, 3:46 pm, INDIA
International Dispatch, November 16, 2007, 1:32 pm, O'HARE APT/CHICAGO
Acceptance, November 13, 2007, 3:23 pm, SHERIDAN, AR 72150
Can you provide me any pointers on whome to contact in this case - the local post office has no record of the parcel and I cannot find any relevant contact info elsewhere.
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
thanks
Ankur
Dear Ankur,
If your parcel is registered or coming by speed post
then you can trace the parcel.
It is good news that you have not received any information from the Customs and postal authority.Normally ,when parcel is detained for any reason then you receive communication from Goverment departmnet.It may be on the way to your house.
It is difficult to comment about probale reason for delay without knowing value of the goods and your address.
You may contact foreign post office of your area for further detail.
Sometimes,unclaimed parcels are send back by the government department.
I wish you will get
the parcel very soon.
pl write with more details as discussed above.
regards
Ravindra
Sir - thanks for your help.
the package actually came through on monday - it took the package about 25 days to get from the US to Nagpur via USPS Priority mail - just in case someone else needs to gauge the transit time.
thanks again
Ankur
Dear Ankur,
Would you share information regarding which foreign post office handled your parcel,how much duty you paid,etc.
This information will help others
regards
Ravindra
The package was handles by Foreign Post Office, Mumbai and then sent to the local post office in Nagpur. The cost of the Golf club had been marked on the customs paper as $250 by the sender.
There was no duty that was assesed on this package - however, I also had earlier imported a couple of other packages via courier companies which attracted the following duty rates:
1. Golf Simulator - $600 @ 10%+3% duty
2. Golf Club Set - $800 @ 10%+4%+3% duty
hope this helps others.
thanks
Ankur
Hi,
I ordered some special audio equipmentt namely a headset, batteries, a charger for those batteries and a USB sound card. The package reached Indian customs on 01 January 2008. I have not heard anything since. I am in New Delhi. At the time of ordering, I had elected to use USPS express mail.
I have not heard from the postal department or customs.
What do I do? The usps web site still shows the package at customs. The value of the package is around $420.
Pranav,
the package will come through - it takes the postal dept about 10-14 days to deliver after the package has been cleared by the customs. mine got cleared on the 27th of Nov and I got it about 10th of Dec.
-Ankur
Dear Pranav,
Your items are consumer electronic goods of value more than Rs 2000/-. May attract fine and penalty in addition to duty.
pl visit or enquire at Foreign post office at international airport or Customs formation.
You will receive notice before any dentention by the Customs or postal authority.Relax!
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra,
Many thanks for your message.
snip] May attract fine and penalty in addition to duty.
PL] I can understand duty but why should I be penalized? I am importing what is nott available in India. I am just curious to understand the logic of the rule.
Dear Pranav,
It is law of land to discourage import of consumer electronics through Post.Our Rule maker are the right person to answer this part of question.In my opinion,The Government has obligation to serve the most poor in the country for his/her postal need at the affordable price.The Govt is making loss in serving costly electronic items through Post.The charges are based on weight or volume.
Many items are restricted to import through Post by respective Govt all over the world.
If you import through courier,no fine and penalty on consuner electronic goods but you are paying more freight to the courier
company.
There is less duty if you import for personal use through post except consumer electronics of value rs 2000/-.
WARM REGARDS
Ravindra Kumar
Ravindra and all, I have got the equipment today. The invoice amount was $392 and some sents. I was charged a duty of Rs. 2093.
It is interesting that I found this blog yesterday. The post man came to my house yesterday afternoon and explained that there was a parsel for me. I went to the local post office and got it today.
Note:
Along with reading this blog, I had also contacted the foreign post office. They had given me a local parsel tracking number.
In terms of dates, I ordered the goods on 24 December 2007. They reached India on 01 January 2008 and I have got them on 08 January 2008.
Note:
I am giving the phone number of the enquiry line of the foreign post office in Delhi for every ones reference.
91-11-23233325
Finally, Ravindra, thank you for hosting this blog. It is one of those I will visit regularly.
Dear Pranav,
Thank you for appreciation and sharing your experience.Feel free to contact.
If you are interested in knowing
about refund,valuation and service tax,you can also see other blogs which are for corporates,link of these blogs are given on this blog.
Further ,on your mobile phone,you can read these blogs are also hosted on winksite.
I) blog on website/blogspot
http://www.servicetaxes.blogspot.com/
http://www.dutyrefund.blogspot.com
http://www.customsvaluation.blogspot.com
2) blog on mobile site/winksite
http://winksite.com/ravindra/servicetax
http://winksite.com/ravindra/personalimp
http://winksite.com/ravindra/dutyrefund
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hey Ravindra,
Just wanted some basic info if you can help me out with it. I want to order a laptop from UK. The cost for it works out around 1900 Eur. The manufacturer then ships it to me through DHL which charges around 200 Eur. What I wanted to know is how much customs I may be charged (if any) when DHL gets it into India.
Alternately, can I import it through my office and call it as office stationery or something?
I was wondering whether I could use this option because I will be doing graphic intensive work for my office using this laptop. If it can be worked out this way, how much will I have to pay then?
Dear francis,
The custom value is based on CIF price of the laptop.Therefore,assessable value on laptop will be as:
Cost= EURO 1900,
FREIGHT= EURO 200,
Insurance= 1.125% of EURO 2100.
Add of all these three will get you CIF and then 1% on CIF .The final value is called Assessable value and duty @ 17.240% on this assessable value of the laptop.
For more clarification ,pl go through post of the present blog on valuation aspect.
regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hey Ravindra,
Thanks a lot for the info :)
It sure helped m a ton.
However, can you advise if the second part of my earlier post can be held as a strong defense in my case?
I won't quote you on this ;)
Just want to know what your views are on the same
Dear Francis,
The second part,clearing as office stationary is not going to help you.It may give impression that you are playing smart.Better declare as Laptop for personal use and not for commercial sale,if it is for you.
regards
Ravindra
thanks mate...
ok, now i need some clarifications...
iv been skimming though Import Tariff and Chapter-wise Exemption Notifications from the cbec website and I believe my laptop comes under Chapter 84: "Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof"
http://cbec.gov.in/customs/cst-0708/chap-84.pdf
Now, scrolling through that file, i came across 8471 30 10 in the table which lists personal computer. The standard rate of duty in column 4 against that is Free. Now i have trouble interpreting this point after reading your comments
Also, i came across this: http://cbec.gov.in/customs/cs-act/notifications/notfns-2k7/cs21-2k7.pdf
Can you help me understand this better? Again, the reference is 8471 30 10
Thanks and have a nice day
Francis
Dear Francis,
You are correct.The basic customs duty is @ 0%,central excise duty is 12%,education cess is 2% + 1% education cess for higher secondary education and 4% special additional duty on laptop.All these duties are charged at the time of laptop import.There is sequence to calculate to determine total customs duty payable on laptop.
The above mentioned duty are not arthmatic sum of all duties.There is seperate value for calculating the duty amount corresponding to each rate of duty.
You are advised to read customs manual and Customs Traffic Act 1975 on the cbec website to understand the procedures of calculating duty amount.
The whole subject is slightly technical but not difficult.
Recently the Honourable Supreme court in case of M/S ACER had ruled that the Laptop and Pc are not the same.Therefore,the less duty is applicable for pc and not for laptop.What i have suggested is for pc .The customs department has not issued circular as per the Honble Supreme court.Therefore,the custom department is charging same duty for laptop and pc under tariff heading 847130
There is seperate post available on this matter in the present blog.
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
thanks for taking the time out to read the articles...
now since the customs dept has not released a circular stating laptops and PCs are different,ill safely assume that they will still charge me the same rate of duty for the two items treating them the same as per your post...
what my bone of contention is, since i'm importing a PC (to fit into the exact description you provided) does not entail an excise tax simply because it is not manufactured within India, all i will have to pay is 4% duty.
Kindly share your thoughts on this
Dear Francis,
Pl go through Customs Tariff Act 1975 and Customs manual to get your doubts clear.Briefly, all imported goods are charged Excise duty in India.
Any imported goods,once charged to customs duty,it becomes equal to goods manufactured in India.It attracts all type of duty which domestically manufactured goods of same type are charged.
The excise duty for the purpose of imported goods is called as counter vailing duty(CVD).
I hope this will clear your doubts.
regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra,
It makes more sense now...thanks for pointing me in the right direction. Now, for one last(hopefully)query;
http://www.channeltimes.com/India/News/IT_Industry_Welcomes_Union_Budget_05-06/551-18381-741.html
i went through this article, but the last paragraph kind of fogs my understanding of the whole articles. Can u shed some light on the moser baer part?
Regards,
francis
Dear Francis,
We are now in the finacial year 2007-2008 and not in the 2005-2006.The article which you have referred pertains to year 2005-2006 and had no value in the present context.
Pl see article as produced below:
Deepak Puri, director, Moser Baer, said,
"The FM has done a good job in proposing that all inputs into DTA (Domestic Tariff Area) units be on zero duty, as this will bring down manufacturing costs. However, the one thing he has not addressed is the countervailing duty of 16% which we pay everytime we sell, which puts us at a disadvantage against imports, which will now attract only 4% duty. Therefore, while this is good news for importers, there is a differential of 12% (+ central sales tax) for manufacturers. On other fronts, abolishing excise duty on computers, long term capital gains tax exemption and emphasis on education through surcharge on tax are good measures."
Further,it is view of an individual about selling imported goods by the EOU to domestic market,who is working in some company.Let see what is law for excise duty as per cbec website.
There is 16% merit duty on the personal computer /laptop as per link http://www.cbec.gov.in/excise/cx-tariff0708/chap84.pdf.
There is exemption notification by which this 16% duty becomes 12% ,SNo 16 of the notification 06/ 2006CE,as per link http://www.cbec.gov.in/excise/cx-act/notfns-2k6/cex0606.pdf.
The web is good source for information but it is equally important that we should also check relevancy.
In my blog many information becomes
non relevant if there is change in law or different ruling by the Courts,etc.
I do appreciate your curosity about what you should pay for your laptop.
pl write to me if online information about classification ,rate of duty,whether some body can import or not,what are additional documents are reqired, at what price ,etc are provided to online importers.And such person can be charged some small consultation fees.Whether this can be developed as e-commerce venture.
i am looking forward your response in this matter.
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hello,
I ordered my UT3 cd key worth 1988Rs/- (49.99$) from play-asia.com and it's been 30 days and i havn't got my copy in my hands yet. I went to local post office and they told me that they havn't got any parcel regarding to my details. I used 0$ free shipping service of "Economy air bubble airmail" while ordering UT3 game cd from play-asia.com.
I am from surat and I guess It's being late in delivary maybe becoz of customs. I need to know the enquiry number of ahmedabad customs office. Please anyone can help me how can I clear my parcel from ahmedabad customs as it's already 30 days gone and I havn't got it yet.
Please any help would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Regards,
Jignesh
i want buy a laptop from US. how custom duty i have to pay when i recevice it in india.
please give some detail calculation of import duty for the laptop.
Pl see above detailed answer on same goods,laptop, asked by Mr.Francis.
warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hey Ravindra, sorry for getting back to you so late.
As of now, I still have no clarity on how much needs to be paid as tax.
Good news - The company I work for is totally sponsoring the laptop now as an incentive. So I no longer have to have a headache over how big a hole is created in my pocket.
So anyways, it was a good exchange of thoughts and I look foward to having a discussion with you soon on any other doubt I may have
Thanks and regards,
Francis
Hey Ravindra,
i was supposed to receive a garment from paris and its mailed to Kolkata. I just found out its been 2 weeks since it arrived in delhi after that i have no tracking info. Does it mean its still in delhi or the FPO of kolkata? what is the best way possible to approach the situation? Thank You in advance
Dear Varun,
It appears that you have to contact postal authorities for status.If Customs will detain then you will receive notice from the Customs department.
warm regards
Ravindra kumar
Hello sir
i got your email form your blog, i am delighted to talk
straight to a person who has served in customs for quite a long
period.
Sir i would like to know about the delay i am facing in my parcel case.
My Cousin in US sent me a Nintendo Wii and a 2nd hand refurbbrishd
phone and marked as gift in USPS Intl Priotity service.But my goods
are in customs for over a week now.Here is the log
Label/Receipt Number: CP72 4606 195U S
Detailed Results:
Bullet Into Foreign Customs, September 03, 2008, 3:36 pm, INDIA
Bullet Arrived Abroad, September 03, 2008, 12:17 pm, INDIA
Bullet International Dispatch, August 29, 2008, 10:44 am, FOREIGN
CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
Bullet Acceptance, August 26, 2008, 3:03 pm, CAMPBELL, OH 44405
Can you please guide me somehow to get it out from there..
Thank you, regards
--
§ùkhp(R)éë± §hé(R)g̦¦
Dear Sukhpreet,
Electronics goods worth more than Rs 2000/- and any second hand goods are not allowed be imported through POST.One has to pay fine and penalty ,in addition to duty.
If Customs department take a view to collect fine and penalty on your item then they will ask you to explain ,why there should not be any fine and penalty.
wait patiently.
Regards
ravindra kumar
Shoes shipped thru USPS priority to Mumbai. the tracking says:
Label/Receipt Number: CP85 3012 719U S
Detailed Results:
Out of Foreign Customs, October 29, 2008, 12:33 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, October 29, 2008, 12:08 pm, INDIA
Acceptance, October 20, 2008, 2:55 pm, CAPE CANAVERAL, FL 32920
No sign of it yet. Should I enquire at the Customs?
Shoes shipped thru USPS priority to Mumbai. the tracking says:
Label/Receipt Number: CP85 3012 719U S
Detailed Results:
Out of Foreign Customs, October 29, 2008, 12:33 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, October 29, 2008, 12:08 pm, INDIA
Acceptance, October 20, 2008, 2:55 pm, CAPE CANAVERAL, FL 32920
No sign of it yet. What to do?
Dear Mr.Allan,
Do not worry. Your parcel will reach you any time.
Best wishes.
Ravindra Kumar
Documents (weight 1.5 lb) shipped thru USPS priority to Bangalore.
The tracking says:
Label/Receipt Number: CP60 7337 289U S
Detailed Results:
Out of Foreign Customs, November 07, 2008, 5:22 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 07, 2008, 4:51 pm, INDIA
International Dispatch, October 31, 2008, 7:56 am, FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
Acceptance, October 28, 2008, 8:47 am, NAPERVILLE, IL 60540
I dont know, when the documents would reach bangalore address.
I am really very much worried.
Please advise me, on how to handle this issue.
Dear Kiran,
It is not clear what you have imported.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Ravindra,
I have sent documents from Naperville, IL, USA to Bangalore, INDIA.
I sent it thru USPS Priority mail on 28th Nov,2008 and so far it has not reached to my bangalore address.
the Receipt no: CP60 7337 289U S
Please advise on this issue...
Kiran
Dear Ravindra,
Reading this blog was indeed very educational for me. I wish if you could help me with this issue.
I bought a USB Keyboard on EBay at the price of 49.99 USD. I waited for a long time but did not receive parcel. The USPS site says the following:
Label/Receipt Number: CJ29 9120 109U S
Detailed Results:
- Out of Foreign Customs, October 21, 2008, 12:26 pm, INDIA
- Arrived Abroad, October 21, 2008, 12:14 pm, INDIA
- International Dispatch, October FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
- Electronic Shipping Info Received, October 13, 2008
I recently received a Call Memo from Postal Appraising Department in Bangalore (on Museum Street), asking me to provide additional information for the release of the item.
I am slightly confused. What documents do I need to produce for the release of the item? I only have the Order Confirmation/Invoice from the seller on my EBay page.
Please advise how do I get my purchased item from the Postal Appraising Department? Do I need to pay a huge duty?
Thanks in advance,
Suddha Satta Ray
Bangalore, INDIA
Dear Sudha,
Pl produce value evidence,purchase invoice is sufficient for that and get goods
cleared.
Nothing to worry.it is routine procedure.
regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra,
My husband sent me a parcel worth 100$ SGD from Singapore on 17th November 2008. I have not yet received it. When I inquired in Chennai - Foreign Post (Opposite to Beach Station) they are telling that they have received any consignment from Singapore which is booked on 17th November 2008. They are telling that they can't do anything on this. Also I dont know how to check whether it is cleared "customs procedure".
Also they are asking for the Mail number and Bag number to track further. How to get this?
Please advise me how to track this or where to inquire about the customs clearance status of the Registered Article.
Singapore tracking system is showing the status as "Item Despatched to overseas on 17th November 2008".
Details are:
Registered Article: RR672690788SG
Despatch Number: 4307
Date of Posting: 17th Nov 2008
Please help me to get my parcel.
Thanks,
Ganga .S
Hi Ravindra,
My cousin sent me a phone (used) on the 2nd of this month through US Priority mail. The status on the USPS site gives the following info:
Out of Foreign Customs, December 06, 2008, 4:52 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, December 06, 2008, 3:45 pm, INDIA
International Dispatch, December 03, 2008, 9:38 am, FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
Acceptance, December 02, 2008, 3:59 pm, BASKING RIDGE, NJ 07920
As you can see it was out of customs on the 6th. Today is the 16th and there has been no update till now. Could you tell me what it means by Out of Foreign customs. In which state was it cleared?
I am staying in Bangalore and I have gone to the customs office here but they have not received it. Is this normal? Any idea where I can inquire?
Dear Bobby,
You have to inquire at Foreign post office ,Bangalore only.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra,
Is that the one in Museum road (Shoolay complex)? I had been there last week but no go.
When the status says that it is Out of customs, where is it out? Mumbai, Bangalore?
Hi Ravindra,
My cousin told me that the item cleared customs at New delhi. Any idea why its taking so long to reach Bangalore?
And what does it mean by 'out of foreign customs'? Does it mean they haven't put any customs duty on the item?
Dear Ravindra,
First of all ... thanks a lot for this blogg...
Let me tell my problem
My friend sent me a camera and accessories through usps. Now i got a mail from Cochin:
Asst Commissioner of Customs
Foreign Post Office
Y M C A Building
Chittoor Road , Cochin - 682 035
Ph: 0484 2374556
Telling that import of goods without valid license, bring show cost notice etc...
I am really worried about this..
The sender is not having the bills with him because he bought the camera a few months before and was using it..
What should i do now?
Jiju
Sir i would like to know about the delay i am facing in my parcel case.
My Uncle in US sent me a clothes and other item and marked as gift in USPS Intl Priotity service.But my goods
are in customs for over a 2 week now.Here is the log
Label/Receipt Number: CP64 2255 087U S
Detailed Results:
Label/Receipt Number: CP64 2255 087U S
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, December 06, 2008, 5:10 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, December 06, 2008, 11:01 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, November 30, 2008, 4:31 pm, FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099
Acceptance, November 29, 2008, 10:00 am, STOUGHTON, MA 02072
Can you please guide me somehow to get it out from there..
Thank you, regards
Harneek Singh
Dear Ravindra
Hello, I am Dr.Sunny Bhavsar from Gujarat, VAPi city.
I order some health equipment from germany. they have ship me parcel on 04 december by dhl-global mail. I still not recived it today is 23 december.
When i call in dhl-global india they told me that when they recived parcel in india thru dhl-global mail they give it to indian post office and then it goes to coustom.
But after20 days i dident recived my parcel. i dont have any information about my parcel regarding it. as this is ordinery mail parcel i dont have iny information where to track my shipment
can any one help me
Ravindra can you please help me
thank you
dr.sunny bahvasr
Hi Ravindra,
Long time. Need your advice again :)
I finally got the laptop 6 months ago, paid a duty of about 22,700 on it. All was well until last month. Hardware defect. Have to send it back in for repairs. Thats where you come in :)
I was wondering if there is any customs involved this time around. I mean, both going out of India, as well as coming back in.
Do I have to worry about insurance?
The laptop company told me they would be sending it back as having no commercial value. Is there a chance of having customs in Ireland holding it up when it reaches there from my side?
Any particular documents that I have to furnish for the customs when sending it out?
Your advice will really be appreciated my friend.
Thanks,
Francis
Hi
I ordered some garments (worth $80) from USA using USPS priority tracking service. The delivery address is for New Delhi.
This is the current tracking status
---------
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, December 12, 2008, 5:14 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, December 12, 2008, 2:54 pm, INDIA
International Dispatch, December 03, 2008, 2:40 am, ISC LOS ANGELES CA (USPS)
Acceptance, December 01, 2008, 2:45 pm, IRVINE, CA 92619
Electronic Shipping Info Received, December 01, 2008
----------
Today is the 27 December, i have not received any notice regarding this. Can some 1 help, what should be my further course of action?
Dear Nitin,
Your parcel may be reaching you any time. Probable reasons may be that there is lot of parcel pendency due to gifts arriving for Christmas and new year.
Best wishes for new year.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi
I have received my parcel. Thank you for your assistance.
As another case, in August this year, i ordered some garments via USPS, that i have not received till date. I didn't choose tracking service on that occasion. I beleive that parcel would have been stuck in Customs only. Is there any way i can trace it ?
Dear Mr Nitin,
You can approach first your local post office then to foreign post office and lastly to Customs to know whether your parcel is detained/lost/not reached.
Warm regards and wish you a happy new year.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Francis,
You need not to pay anything at the time of export.But at the of re-import you have to pay duty on cost of repairs.If it is warranty repair with out any charge then no Customs duty. Most importat is that you have to prove identity of Laptop that it was the same laptop which was imported then exported and now reimported by you. (For detail kindly refer Notification number Cus-174/66 dated 24.09.66,amended by 99/69 dated 21.06.69; 93/70 dated 17.10.70.)
warm regards and wish you a happy new year.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Dr Sunny,
It is advisable that you write mail or contact DHL ,as they have customer complaint mechanism.If parcel is detained by Customs then you will receive notice from Customs and intimation by Post. In rare case,it may be send back to the sender.
Warm regards and wish you a happy new Year.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Harneek Singh,
By this time your parcel may be with you. Otherwise, you may inquire your local post office and Foreign post office. There is no duty on clothes ,if they are bonafide gifts.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Jiju,
Do not worry.You can reply that show cause notice by stating that it is used Camera and price of the same in Indain Market and international market. If it is popular model than you can find out at various websites. The Customs authority will appraise the value as per condition of Camera. You can request to the Customs to release the goods without any fine and penalty,as goods are for personal use.
If this is your first offence under Customs Law ,then a REQUEST may be made before The Customs to release goods without any personal penalty.
Whether any fine and penalty has to be imposed,in addition to duty,will be decided by the AC/DC who has issued Notice to you.
Warm regards and wish you a happy new year.
Ravindra Kumar
Hello Ravindra,
Last month I ordered one camping knife from one website that shipped the item through USPS. I had not opted for express mail during checkout. The shipping date was 10/12/08. Its almost one month now and I haven't received any info about where the item is now. Since the item is to be delivered through USPS first class international, there is no tracking number available. The website support team have however provided me one customs identification number during the purchase of the item. They have asked me to contact the local customs office to see if the item has arrived and is presently with them. I live in Kolkata. What do I do now? Who and where do I contact for the item?
BTW, the total price of the item including shipping is around Rs. 2500.
Thanks in advance.
Hi, This is Tarlochan Singh my cousin brother has sent parcel from Ireland by Ireland post on 12th dec 2008 but when i checked with Ireland post office they told that parcel has been already delivered to india you have to check with your Indian post office for the non delivery of your parcel.My Parcel Track ID No:- EF707599203IE Appreciate your prompt respone
Dear Mr Tarlochan Singh,
Pl check with your local post office and foreign post office of your city.If it is detained by Customs for any reason then you will get notice.
It is not clear what item ,you are importing,whether it is gift , for personal use or commercial.What is your local address.
Kindly go through questions ask by other person on similar type of situation, you may get probable answer,
I wish you may be getting your parcel any time.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra thanks for the information. I Stayed in Mumbai at Ghatkopar (W) Today i have got i email from Ireland post. Below is the message that i have copy paste from that Email. DEAR COLLEAGUE EMS ITEM IS STILL DETAINED AT CUSTOMS MUMBAI ON 7/1/08 ONWARDS. CONTACT NUMBER OF CUSTOMS MUMBAI IS 9122-26156152 AND DETAINATION NUMBER IS. BY-226. I am not able to understand that why my parcel is detained and I tried calling the number which they have given but they are not answering the calls. The items which i am going to recieve is used apple Iphone and make up box for my sister. Is their any other way i can contact them.
Hi Ravindra first of all thank for the information. I am mumbai and i live in Ghatkopar.Today only i have recieved the email from Ireland post office. Below is the message that i have copy paste from the email which is all in caps.
DEAR COLLEAGUE EMS ITEM IS STILL DETAINED AT CUSTOMS MUMBAI ON 7/1/08 ONWARDS. CONTACT NUMBER OF CUSTOMS MUMBAI IS 9122-26156152 AND DETAINATION NUMBER IS. BY-226.
My Parcel Track ID No:- EF707599203IE
The items that i am going to recived in this parcels is used (3 Months) apple iphone and makeup box for the sister. I have tried calling them on the above mentioned number but they are not answering the phone.Is there any other way i can contact them should i wait for some more time as it is i have waited for 1 month for this parcel. Do u have any other contact information. I have one doubt should i have to pay custom duty on this parcel if yes then how much it will be??.
Awaiting for your quick response on this well please....
Thanks & Regards
Tarlochan Singh
Dear
Used goods are not allowed to be imported without fine and penalty. You will receive notice from Customs department. Reply that it gift and not for commercial purpose.Give value evidence of your goods.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Tarlochan,
Pl read my post onblog for import of mobile phone ,smart phone /iphone for all information.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
hi ravindra today i called them they were asking for purchase bill then i told them it is used iphone and it's a gift. Then officer told me you to come to custom office tommorrow and deliver the parcel in hand.
Can you tell me something what to do tommorrow i think they will ask for money
Dear Trilochan,
You should appreciate concern of the officer,as he has to appraise value of your second hand goods.
You have to prove that it is bonafide gift and produce evidence for valuation .
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hello Ravindra
I ordered a video game joystick for personal use. The cost of the product is Rs 8,000 and shipping is Rs 2,500.
Today I got a call memo notice from customs to submit invoice and IEC code. What do I do ? I have never imported anything and do not have an IEC code at all. since this is a computer game joystick for personal use I do not understand why customs needs IEC code ?
How much duty would I have to pay for Rs 8,000 worth product for personal use only ?
Would it be wise to undervalue the item to Rs 6,000 and claim that I do not have an invoice since it is a mail order ?
finally what happens after the item clears customs ? Can i collect it directly from customs or do post takes over ?
Please tell me what to do.
Thanks
Dear Mr Rahul,
NO IEC for personal import.(Pl see link http://www.ieport.com/frms/iec-eligibility.htm).It is not clear whether you are importing through post and courier.Regarding duty on personal import through Post it is 17.34%(Approx)
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thank you for your response.
It was ordered through USPS regular post.
So I just print out the invoice , pay whatever duty + write letter stating its for personal use ?
Thanks again and sorry for troubling you
Hi Ravinder,
I ordered 50 plastic (Acrylic) stands from Canada worth CAD $ 200 through Canada Post. The post charges were close to CAD $ 138. It has been three months since I ordered. Now I have got the following status from Canada Post website:
13th Jan 09: International Item arrived in Destination Country
13th Jan 09: International item released from Customs to Foreign Postal Administration
21st Jan 09: International item arrived in destination country
21st Jan 09: Item has been sent to customs in the destination country.
I do not understand if the item was released from Customs on 13th Jan 09 then why 21st Jan 09 says "item has been sent to customs..."
Also, I stay in Gurgaon and which Foreign Post office will be applicable for me. Delhi?
Please help me with this.
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Umesh
Dear Umesh,
You may inquire at Foreign Post Office, Palam ,Near International Airport,New Delhi.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thanks Ravindra
do you have the contact details of FPO, Palam?
Also, please tell me what would be the rate of custom duty?
Thank you
Regards,
Umesh
Dear Umesh,
Duty on plastic article for commercial purpose is 31.703% and for personal use is 17.34%. The FPO is just before international cargo and it is on main road.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Mr. Kumar,
I was mailed a parcel from Hong Kong and as per the status it shows pending custom inspection on Jan 3rd - I havent heard from customs nor received the parcel so far. As I live in Chandigarh I assume that this is pending customs inspection in Delhi. Please advise.
Thanks
Mukesh Kumar
Dear Mukesh,
If customs will detain the parcel then you will receive notice from the Customs.What is item?
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Nice to see this blog running for 2 years now. I have ordered a laptop(for personal use) from UK and it's sent thru UPS. The good news is, it has cleared the customs but now UPS guys are saying that I need to pay arnd 5,000/- for using dummy IEC (0100000053 permanent personal import IEC) additional to customs charge + brokerage charge(2,500/- for UPS :( ). I just wanted to check is that so ? Do we really need to pay for using dummy IEC at all or it's just an artifact of courier service ?
Best Regards,
Dear Mr Raju,
NO IEC for personal import .Therefore, no payment is to be made .(Pl see link http://www.ieport.com/frms/iec-eligibility.htm).
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi there
i ordered amplifier from usa through USPS invoiced $100. its been 55 days now.
The tracking number is CP65 5835 831U S
It says out of foreign customs on 20th january 2009. still its been 25 days now.
post office doesnt have any record. speed post people says that they dont keep record of tracking number starting from CP...... i dont know what to do and whom to contact..
please help.
My parcel weigh 15kilos was sent from USPS on 26dec 2008, It arrived delhi on 3rd jan 2009 and cleared customs on 20th january, 2009. Now its 17th feb, almost one month AND I HAVE NO CLUE WHERE MY PARCEL IS????
The tracking number is CP655835831US.
It was supposed to be delivered in Ludhiana, Punjab.
Ludhiana post office and their head post office doent have even a clue where exactly this parcel is?
On contacting speed post office in Delhi , I was told that they dont have parcels which have tracking number starting from CP!!!!and they were very rude.
Please help me what to do?
Dear Mr Sanchit,
You should receive your speed parcel any time.
Best of luck.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Mr Sanchit,
You should receive your speed parcel any time.
Best of luck.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Mr Sanchit,
You should receive your speed parcel any time.
Best of luck.
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Mr Sanchit,
You should receive your speed parcel any time.
Best of luck.
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
Amazing Blog you have! keep up the good work!
I have a query, Someone sent me a gift from US, its a camera lens, costing 200USD + 50USD shipping, which is insured, sent through USPS priority mail on 5th feb.
It reached India on 13feb as per the tracking code. After reading the posts, I came to know that it can take upto 15 days to clear customs, as my parcel is still showing being processed at Customs.
I want to know, how much customs can be put on a 200USD camera SLR lens which is marked as gift?
Aman
Dear Aman,
duty @ 31.703% on assessable value determined by the customs for commercial use but for personal use it is 17.34%.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi, thanx for the reply Ravindra, but how can I k now that they will charge me the value either on personal or commercial basis?
And how much time should I wait for them to send me a notification?
Dear Aman,
The assessable value is same for both personal and commercial. But rate of duty only differs. This is for your guidance only.
Regards
Ravindra Kr
Dear Ravindra Kumar,
Good Day,
I worked in Mexico and returning back to India - Chennai. Now i am planning to send My household (example, Spinning, Baby Kit,Some Paintings which we using here morethan year) goods via Airlines.
What will be procedure to recive in India - Chennai. Is there any tax i have to paid ?
Regards
Suresh
One thing more sir, how do they send notification for any parcel? I mean is there any chance that they had sent me any notification and I hav'ent recieved it? Do they send a registered post?
Hello Ravindra,
I purchased a camping knife from one internet site and they claim to have shipped the same on the 10-Dec-2008 from Ohio, USA via USPS First class international. They gave me the customs identification no. (LJ041713139US) that I can use to inquire about in the local customs office if necessary.
I went to the Foreign Post Office (Kolkata) twice to get a clue of the item. They could not provide any information about the same. Two months have already passed and I donot know how long it may take for the item to reach.
Is there any chance of the item getting misplaced/lost/stolen in transit?
Thanks
Anjan @kolkata
Dear Anjan,
If wt of your parcel is less than 2 kgs ,then, it is called Light Mail Article(LMS). You may inquire at LMS division of Foreign Post Office or at your local post office. If customs will detain your goods then you will receive notice.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Aman,
If customs detain the goods then you will receive notice.Otherwise, customs will release goods and you have to pay duty at the time of delivery.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear sir,
You have to pay tax as per Baggage Rules.If your coming under Tranfer of Residence(TR) case then duty @ 15.30%.Otherwise duty is 35 % after free allowance of Rs 25,000/- on value.
You are requested to visit cbec website,link is available on this blog for more detail and engage Customs House Agent for handling.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hello Ravindra,
I purchased a hobby item ($164) and is been shipped through Priority Mail International (USPS). Till now I have not received the parcel. When I enquired local post office and foreign post office they told that the parcel has not arrived.
As per the online results it says “Out of Foreign Customs”, how can I Track my parcel?
How long will it take for normally for parcel to reach?
Label/Receipt Number: CV00 6580 586U S
Associated Label/Receipt:
Detailed Results:
Out of Foreign Customs, February 23, 2009, 5:19 pm, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, February 21, 2009, 11:58 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, February 10, 2009, 12:29 pm, ISC SAN FRANCISCO (USPS)
Electronic Shipping Info Received, February 04, 2009
Sir,
Neither I have recieved any letter nor the goods. The reciept number is CP894234105US
I am very upset about it. It had already 15 days passed since it reached india. I had asked at FPO in Delhi, they said its still customs. How many days it takes to clear the customs or issuing of the notification?
Can you help me out in this?
Dear Aman,
If this is the case, then locate your parcel/package with the help of FPO.Contact Customs.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Sir,
I tried calling them on a number given on your blog for delhi. They did not pick the call for the whole day. I have asked one of my friend in Delhi to visit the office here New Delhi (Delhi)
Foreign Post Office
NPQS, Rengapuri (Delhi). What should I ask them to ask at FPO? BEfore they were asking to fill up some form. but then they said that what would you write int he form. They said that if there would be any issue, you will get a letter and since you have not got a letter, there seems to be no issue. Pleae help me SIr, what should I do
Aman
The status for my parcel at the USPS says,
"Out of Foreign Customs".
Does this mean that the worst is over and I will receive
my package after duty payment? How much time will it take to arrive?
Dear Ravindra Kr,
PC audio equipment was shipped to me(BLR) from US, total invoice of around USD 800. The USPS status shows out of foreign customs. Does that mean it is already cleared and appraised and I should rcv it?
Sanjay
Dear Ravindra,
My USPS package shows status "Out of Foreign customs". Does it mean that it is already appraised and cleared and I should soon rcv it?
The package contains PC audio equipment and has total invoice of around $800 USD. I would be surprised if it is cleared without me having to go to the BLR FPO.
Sanjay
Dear Sanjay,
In my opinion Custom department should charge duty to you, otherwise, as honest tax payer, you should pay voluntary.
Reagrds
Ravindra Kumar
I have ordered 4 pairs of bose speakers in 4 different parcels canadian 450$. Any idea how much would be custom dty around. thanks
Dear Ravindra
I have ordered a item from us and i stay in hubli, karnataka. Which FPO will be applicable to me
Mahendra
Hi
I have a peculiar problem. When I was visiting the US, I had bought a sex toy to spice up my married life, it was to delivered to my hotel but never arrived in time. I returned to India and then the hotel said it had arrived so I asked them to forward to me at my india address. it turns out the package is stuck at customs in Delhi as a 'restricted item'. Now I am quite worried as to what will be the implications of this. No one has contacted me yet but what happens in these situations ? frankly, i don't want it anymore if it is going to cause problems. Will appreciate your thoughts as this is quite embarassing!
Dear sir,
Such items are not allowed to be imported.No action will be taken by the Customs.Condoms import is permitted . If you can prove that the said toy has some theraputic value or clinically accepted for sexual pressure in India or abroad. You may approach Customs and request for releasing the same.
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Sir,
Myself and my wife are returning to India after about 2 years of stay (1 year, 11.5 months to be specific). We have about 100 KG of personal baggage, which primarily include used cloths, shoes, books and DVDs (about 50 of them, haft of them taken from India). There are some other household items as well. For consumer electronics, we have one laptop (Purchased in UK, one year old), one laptop (3 year old, bought from India) two digital cameras, one camcorder, one binocular and a DVD player.
We have also got some gift items like photo-frames, cosmetics etc of low value.
I am planning to send most of my goods through unaccompanied baggage and bring gift items and electronic items through my hand / check-in luggage.
In theory, for my used stuff and gift items, I will put a value of 12 K INR and electronics for 40K INR (since all of it is used and is of no commercial value).
Could you please advise me of my customs tax liability and how do I ensure that things reach safely.
I am also looking for some reliable agents who can provide me door to door service for taking the unaccompanied baggage (from UK to Bangalore), if any member can advise.
Thanks,
Mayank
mayankjain01@gmail.com
Dear Sir,
I purchased a used digital SLR camera (2002 model) from ebay USA for 251$. Unfortunately, the seller shipped it as a gift without my knowledge. Now it is detained at the Bangalore customs office. I tried to contact them through the number provided here but to no avail. I have not received any notice from the customs office as yet. Through the FPO I have received the local id number. What should be my strategy now? Should I tell them that it is not a gift but a used item purchased on ebay? I would like to tell the truth but will they fine and penalise heavily for that? Being a responsible citizen of India and a prompt tax payer, I am not in search of any loop holes to evade the duties. All in all, I am willing to pay the duties. But upon my request, since the seller marked it as a gift without my knowledge, will they reduce the fine? If I go to the customs office and pay the duties,taxes and fine will they hand over the camera to me or I should get it through the post? Eagerly waiting for your reply sir.
Regards,
Anand Tejas.
I have ordered some bandages from the US. The USPS site shows the parcel has left the US SFO on the 16th March 09 and no more. The parcel is headed for Gurgaon. I travelled to a few post offices in Gurgaon today, but they have no idea. What is the next best step to take. Since these are medical bandages, I need them urgently.
Hi Ravindra,
I have sent a parcel from the USA to my sister. The USPS tracking says it has arrived abroad and in foreign Customs. Its been 2 months now. She has not heard from the postal/customs department. Whom should she contact in Mumbai to find out the status. It was sent using express delivery.
Thanks
Kartik
Hi Ravindra,
I have bought a laptop on ebay which has costed me 100$. it was sent via USPS and this is tracking info..
Label/Receipt Number: CP05 9357 866U S
Associated Label/Receipt:
Detailed Results:
Bullet Out of Foreign Customs, February 18, 2009, 2:31 pm, INDIA
Bullet Arrived Abroad, February 17, 2009, 11:20 am, INDIA
Bullet International Dispatch, February 10, 2009, 1:07 pm, ISC CHICAGO IL (USPS)
Bullet Acceptance, February 09, 2009, 3:37 pm, FORT WAYNE, IN 46809
not it says it is out of foreign customs, but it has still not arrived. this was supposed to be sent to surat. can u tell me where to inquire about this ??
thanks,
Hi, i just want to point out that you can use the website www.packagemapping.com for tracking your items, it shows you in which FPO in India has recieved your item, its very helpful to knowing the FPO to clear the package when it gets detained.
hello ravindrs,
i posted a package of documents to pune, india through USPS -priority mail international on april 1, 2009. It gives me the status that the package is dispatched from LA(USA) on april 5, 2009. But nothing more. What might be the reason ? Is it not cleared from the customs yet? When should I expect the package to be delivered in pune, India? Thanks in advance.
Hi Ravindra,
I am living in the US. I sent a package via USPS Priority Mail International to India on April 6th 2009. It still has not reached its destination which is New Delhi.
The Customs Form Tracking number is: CP013787039US
When I track it online, it just says that it left the US on April 9th.
It does not say if the package has reached India or if it is held up in customs etc...
Is there a number I can call for the Foreign Post Office in New Delhi?
Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks.
Dear Sir,
I came to know about your blog from the internet.I live in Japan but last month I had been to Orissa, my native place. That time I bought some sarees, blouses, artificial jewelries, books and ghungroo etc as there will be an Indian dance event of my students here. I sent those by air parcel with two other boxes by SAL. The SAL boxes I already received about 15 days before. But the Air parcel is not yet received. I have not received any letter from postal or custom dept. yet. I contacted the post office customer care center here in Japan but say that they can not track the number and the box has not been arrived in Japan. I contacted the Bhubaneswar GPO and they said me that the number is correct and advised me to contact the postoffice in Japan. Please advise me what to do. It was all things of my students who visited Orissa with me. And I am feeling embarrased when they comment about the carelessness of Indian postal system.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
regards
S.R.Dash
the Kolkata customs had cleared my parcel containing an air rifle on the 30th of april... but the kolkata airport cargo division said they did not receive the parcel . What should i do?
Dear Sir,
Pl contact Foreign Post Office or Airport sorting Office ,if it is postal parcel.You may also enquire at your local post office about parcel.
Regards
Ravndra Kumar
I live in Lucknow and my fiance who lives in Singapore sent some clothes from ebay US to me.The items were from one seller only and though they were shipped on different days they entered customs on may 20th 2009.The prices of the parcel were 274USD and 212USD each.
I got a letter from the foreign post office in New Delhi where the 2 parcels have been detained since the 20th asking me to send importers license and code ,original invoice,reason for purchase and also GATT declaration.
These were sent as gift items and though they were not marked as gift they were for the purpose of personal use.I do not own a business or a boutique and therefore the items were not for selling purposes.
I couriered a letter to the deputy comm,foreign post office in new delhi from where i received the letter stating that the items were sent by my fiance.I also gave printouts of the ebay invoice and the paypal monetary transaction invoice.
Please suggest anything else that i can do as the deadline stated by the post office is 4th june 2009.
Thanks
I am waiting for my 4 parcels of declared value 2000 canadian dollars coming from sea mail from CANADA POST. It has been 3 months and still have no clue about the parcels,
canada post just says that the parcels has reached India and no further information available , Post office in my city Ludhiana have got no clue about the parcels.
Please help. tracking number is
CC106180688CA
CC106180691CA
CC106180705CA
CC106180714CA
Hello Ravindra,
Very helpful post and eventually all of them have received their package...
I ordered a Baby Cot/Hammock from Australia on May 19th, and it has been dispatched from there somewhere around May 24th, arrived in Mumbai Customs on June 3rd as per their records. It was sent as Registered insured post, and since its registered there isnt much we can track.
We havent received the package as of today and to make things worse... they senders havent included my phone number any where on the package. You think this will be a problem? As per your previous posts, if the customs retain the stuff they will notify us, or else they well send it across of payment of duty during delivery. Thats how it worked the last time I ordered, but that was a jewel from the US, and they used UPS express, everything went smooth and we received it on time.
THis one was sent through regular registered Australia POST... and so its stuck in Mumbai Customs with no phone number... I tried the above number, but like everyone says... no answer. I also tried like 20 different numbers ranging from Mumbai Airport baggage department to Mumbai Air Cargo Supritendents... all just keeps giving more numbers to dial and nothing else!
The parcel is around 7KGs, and its a Baby Hammock/Cot/Bed for personal use. Its worth around Rs8000-10000 or so.
Will they send the parcel anyways to our address or do they have to call and confirm (which may be a problem since they dont have a number) ?!?!?
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Ravindra,
I have been buying quite a lot of used camera equipments for my personal use and hobby, from a popular auction site and had no problem since now recieving packages from different parts of the world (US, UK, Hong Kong, Australia). All have been low value items and none was so far subjected to customes duty. The average delivery time experienced by me (I am in Gurgaon) was 1- 4 weeks max.
This time around I am expecting a parcel from UK (sent by airmail small packets without tracking) with a appx value of USD 95 (incl shipping). It has been about 45+ days now and I have not recieved anything. My Local Post Office has not received anything.
What should I do- go to the foreign Post Office or the Customs? Is the Foreign Post office the one near the airport for Delhi. I am a bit apprehensive as to how much help I would get from the Post Office personell, I have heard a lot about parcels getting stolen and then marked as missing. What information do I need to carry to the Post Office.
Please advise.
Thanks
Hi Ravindra,
I have been buying quite a lot of used camera equipments for my personal use from a popular auction site and had no problem since now recieving packages from different parts of the world (US, UK, Hong Kong, Australia). All have been low value items and none was so far subjected to customes duty. The average delivery time experienced by me (I am in Gurgaon) was 1- 4 weeks max.
This time around I am expecting a parcel from UK (sent by airmail small packets without tracking) with a appx value of USD 95 (incl shipping). It has been about 45+ days now and I have not recieved anything. My Local Post Office has not received anything.
What should I do- go to the foreign Post Office or the Customs? Is the Foreign Post office the one near the airport for Delhi. I am a bit apprehensive as to how much help I would get from the Post Office personell, I have heard a lot about parcels getting stolen and then marked as missing. What information o I need to carry to the post office.
Thanks
Hi,
I sent my boyfriend a package to a hotel P.O. Box in Hyderabad, India from the US and it says it came out of Foreign Customs on July 6. I sent it through USPS Priority Mail 6-10 day shipping. The package has about $300 value of sunglasses, food, books, etc. When should it arrive? Does he need to contact anyone? Thanks!
Dear Mr.Ravindra Kumar,
I am a surgeon at vellore and I have imported USED Laparoscopic sugical camera from united states for my personal use thro'E bay USPS. I made online payment thro' paypal.
I was asked to get temporary IEC code and got it cleared after paying customs duty in the post office.
Now I want to import an additional USED Laparoscopic sugical camera from united states for my personal use thro'E bay.
I want to know whether it is necessory to get temporary IEC code now.
I oredered a Nokia 5800 From ebay.com Now when i track the item it shows me this:
Class: Express Mail International®
Status: Into Foreign Customs
Your item is being processed by customs in INDIA. Information, if available, is updated periodically throughout the day. Please check again later.
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, July 10, 2009, 11:34 am, INDIA
Into Foreign Customs, July 10, 2009, 9:50 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, July 10, 2009, 9:44 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, July 07, 2009, 10:08 pm, ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS)
Arrival
Processed through Sort Facility, July 06, 2009, 6:38 pm, LANHAM, MD 20706
Electronic Shipping Info Received, July 06, 2009
Now it has been 5 days and still the item is with the customs department.. I am getting worried...what should i do now? The seller has declared the actual value of the cellphone and not as a gift..so nothing illegal has been done on his part. Also the item is insured and paid by paypal..but what should i do now?? Is it normal for customs department to keep it for that long. If not whom should i contact?
Regards..
I oredered a Nokia 5800 From ebay.com Now when i track the item it shows me this:
Class: Express Mail International®
Status: Into Foreign Customs
Your item is being processed by customs in INDIA. Information, if available, is updated periodically throughout the day. Please check again later.
Detailed Results:
Into Foreign Customs, July 10, 2009, 11:34 am, INDIA
Into Foreign Customs, July 10, 2009, 9:50 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, July 10, 2009, 9:44 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, July 07, 2009, 10:08 pm, ISC NEW YORK NY(USPS)
Arrival
Processed through Sort Facility, July 06, 2009, 6:38 pm, LANHAM, MD 20706
Electronic Shipping Info Received, July 06, 2009
Now it has been 5 days and still the item is with the customs department.. I am getting worried...what should i do now? The seller has declared the actual value of the cellphone and not as a gift..so nothing illegal has been done on his part. Also the item is insured and paid by paypal..but what should i do now?? Is it normal for customs department to keep it for that long. If not whom should i contact?
Regards..
Dear Sushant,
Pl contact your local post office, foreign post office and Custom departemnt to ascertain exact reason for delay.
Normally,any detention by the customs ,then they will issue letter to you.
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thanks for your comment sir...I am really gratefull to you....
Sir should I wait for some time?
Also sir can you post the contact details of the FPO and customs department. Please sir...
Also can you inquire from them on my behalf? I am ready to provide you with all the details. Please sir don't say no...I am really scared to talk to them...Please sir...
I will be very grateful to you throughout my life...please...
regards and thanks so much again
Sushant Virdi
Dear Mr.Ravindra kumar,
I have purchased used surgical endoscope camera thro'E-Bay on 17th july from U.S.for my personal use in my clinic.I am waiting for the goods to arrive.I am willing to pay the duty.
Is it nececessory to obtain IEC code for customs clearance?
Regards,
Dr.M.Mani Elango
Vellore
Hello Ravindra,
Last time I ordered a camping knife from one of the internet shops at USA, the item did not reach me. The item got lost or was stolen in transit. So, this time I want to be double sure before I spend money to buy another camping/outdoor knife. It will be very helpful if you can answer my doubts/queries -
1. If I use Fedex to ship the item, then is there any chance of the item getting confiscated by the Indian customs?
2. Is it illegal to purchase a knife online from an internet shop for my personal use? What are the knife buying rules and restrictions (if any) in India?
3. What is the maximum duty-free amount allowed by Indian customs ( in my case the maximum allowable price of a camping knife)?
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
AC
Sir
I had ordered a mobile phone via ebay.com costing $300.And the item was shipped on 23 July 09 and I have still not received the product.It has been one month and I am quite worried.I am from mumbai,so I had gone to custom post office,santacruz but they said that the items from usa goes to Foreign Post Office(Ballard Pier).I had gone to ballard pier earlier to clear my other item and I had given the lady my phone number.She told me that she will contact me when my phone arrives there but I have not recieved any call from her till date.I will be going to ballard pier tomorrow if my phone is not there what further steps shd I take.I am quite worried.
Here are the postal details
Class: Priority Mail International Parcels
Service(s): International Parcels
Status: Into Foreign Customs
Your item is being processed by customs in INDIA. Information, if available, is updated periodically throughout the day. Please check again later.
Detailed Results:
Bullet Into Foreign Customs, August 10, 2009, 12:36 pm, INDIA
Bullet Arrived Abroad, August 07, 2009, 12:39 pm, INDIA
Bullet Out of Foreign Customs, August 04, 2009, 3:09 pm, INDIA
Bullet Arrived Abroad, August 03, 2009, 4:31 pm, INDIA
Bullet International Dispatch, July 30, 2009, 1:43 pm, ISC SAN FRANCISCO (USPS)
Bullet Arrival
Bullet Electronic Shipping Info Received, July 23, 2009
Hi, I have been following this highly informative blog ever since I started purchasing goods on ebay. Kudos to you for maintaining it & helping out people like us. Though most of the stuff I've bought from UK or US have been clothing or accessories I've never paid any duty since they've always been marked as gifts (private sellers on ebay duly oblige to do so on request). This time however I plan to buy a pair of shoes from a german E-store & since they cost €151 (more than Rs.10000), I plan to pay the duties & Taxes. The original cost shown on the invoice will however be €180(I am exempted from the 19% german VAT since this is an outside EU order). They will be shipped by DHL for a cost of €40. From my knowledge this item falls under the HS code 64031910( Ch 64). Calculating for a CIF value of €220(€180+€40shipping) i.e. Rs 16000 at the most liberal conversion rates,
Assesable value= 16160
basic duty, BD(10%)= 1616
CVD (8%)= 1422
Central Excise Education Cess(3% of CVD)= 42.66
Customs Education Cess(3% of BD)=92.42
Spl.CVD(4%)=773
All of this comes up to around Rs 4000.
1. Is the above calculation correct?
2. Are there any other charges/ Taxes that I need to take care of while buying?
3. I am paying the store only €191(€151+€40) but the invoice will show €180+€40. Is the assesable value correct?
4. When do I pay the import duties/Taxes? Do I ask the seller to include the same in his invoice and mention it in the customs declaration before shipping ( i.e. I pay the seller all the amount including import duties to India in advance so that the customs office clears it automatically as duty paid} or should I wait for the customs in India to notify me and then pay them once it arrives at their office in India?
5. Finally, what instructions should I give to the seller (in particular what should he mention in the customs declaration form, Remember that these are for personal use only)?
Hoping that you'll guide me through as I'm a first at this.
Thanks
Dear Sarath,
i am happy to read that you have fair idea of Customs valuation and classification.Let us go step by step. You have to declare price which you are paying to your seller.In your case, you are paying €191(€151+€40).It is Customs authority who are final authority in accepting price of imported goods.Mention cost and freight seperately in invoice.DHL is regularly clearing such items.You need not to worry.Either DHL will pay duty on your behalf and collect from you or may confirm from you before paying duty to customs authority. Contact DHL for further clarification.
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi there, Thankyou for clarifying my doubts.
Further I have one more question. Its not me but the sender who is taking care of shipping via DHL. Will DHL still take responsibility to inform me if my assistance (financial or otherwise) is required once the package reaches India? Since the seller is taking care of the shipping, I might only have the tracking #. So my only concern is whether somebody will inform me (either customs or DHL) when some problem with duty arises? or are such items sent back/auctioned off/stolen by customs/DHL?
Dear Sarath,
DHL will inform you and duty will be collected by DHL from you at the time of delivery. If you think ,you are paying more duty then you can ask DHL to get re assessed your duty liabilty.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
one of my parcel got detained in customs office..few days back i received post from post office stating that the parcel has been detained but i didnt received anything from customs dept..so in this case wht should i do?
Dear Chintan,
Pl visit Customs department at Foreign post office.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
sir,
i had posted an apple iphone 3GS via courier, as per the tracking records it shows that it has been held in Customs department-MADRAS. what to do now.??
i am in a big dilema..!
sir,
i had sent an apple Iphone via courier..but it has been held in the customs department of Madras...what to do now..!!
what happens next..can u suggest me please...
Dear 8055,
You may receive notice from Customs department through your courier company for asking certain information. Be in touch with your courier.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
thanks for the reply sir,
means i need to pay some customs duty in order to clear from the customs department...?
if i need to pay what will be the amount...
as the parcel i sent is a mobile phone and it costs around 40,000/-
Dear 8055,
Pl contact your courier company to know exact amount of duty.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra,
I made a USPS priority mail small flat rate box to Mumbai from Arlington ,TX on October 7th, However it has not reached yet. It did not had any electronics or anything. But it had a keychain along with some apparel and the keychain did make some noise when the the box is lifted or moved. Is there a possibility of it been stuck in customs or is it just due to Diwali holidays that the parcel might reach late. What options do i have? Thanks in advance
Tarannum
Respected sir,
Thanx for providing tons of information which is indeed very helpful for us..
Sir i m planning to buy around 6 bluray dvds from usa via usps priority mail,the actual value of the product is around 120 $ including shipping,i have a friend of mine who is in usa he is ready to send me the dvds with making the value down to 30$ and marking it as a gift,i hv ordered maximum 3 dvds via him had no problems wht so ever..
This time the package is huge shall i go for it, i m buying it for my personal use.
Sir shall i go for it,coz i m crazy for usa movies here they r very expensive and nt available..
Will i be charged for dvds if it gets detain in custom,i thnk dvds and cds are duty free
Pls revert i m waiting i wanna place my orders
Dear Mr Oberio,
The movie DVD of foreign origin may be protected by copyright . May not be permitted for viewing in India.
Pl check whether it is legal to import such DVD in India. If it is mentioned on the DVD it self that it cannot be viewed outside USA,then customs will seize such goods.Further pornographic contents or material, which is otherwsie not permitted for screening in India by Indian Govt,will not be allowed to be imported.
The duty on Movie dvd may be 14.7120% for personal use.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Tarannum,
You will receive your parcel. There may be delay on account of Diwali gift rush and holiday.
Contact local post office of the addressee in India.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hello Guys,
Nice to c so many knowledgeable persons out her.
Well i an a 20yr old student, magician and import a lot of playing cards which takes about 10+ days for delivery.
This time a relative has sent me a mobile phone worth $100 and marked as a gift.
Wd i be charged with any custom duty as on CBEC site the limit for gift is Rs5000.
Please help and let me know when wd i receive my parcel.
i heard it takes more time for electronic goods.
here are the details:
Class: Priority Mail International Parcels
Service(s): International Parcels
Status: International Dispatch
Your item left the United States from FOREIGN CENTERJERSEY CITY NJ 099 at 1:51 PM on November 11, 2009. Information, if available, is updated periodically throughout the day. Please check again later.
Best Regards,
Rajas P.
Dear Sir,
I have ordered a saxophone mute ( a vaccuum box that miffles sound while playing my music instrument) through Ebay... and from the tracking information I have from USPS site, here is the trace. ( Its been struck at customs for more than 20 days already and have not yet heard from them in the form of any mail )
Into Foreign Customs, November 09, 2009, 11:43 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 09, 2009, 11:31 am, INDIA
Out of Foreign Customs, November 05, 2009, 11:41 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 04, 2009, 11:51 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, October 27, 2009, 11:57 pm, ISC LOS ANGELES CA (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, October 23, 2009, 3:14 pm, LA PUENTE, CA 91744
Electronic Shipping Info Received, October 21, 2009
Sir, I have the following questions. Could you please give me a minute of your time to answer these...
1. From the previous I presume that India post will be handling USPS mail in India. But the final destination (Pune) does not have a foreign post office and so am not sure whom to approach.
2. Also I come to know that there are CHA ( customs handling agents). Should I approach them for helping me get my item back.
3. The cost of the instrument was 300 USD and the transportation cost was 70 USD. What is the duty if any I need to pay ? ( Approx is fine )
4. What are the papers required in my case I need to Mumbai Customs (in case I need to ) .. I am worried because I paid through paypal and bought the item from ebay ...
Dear Sir,
I have ordered a saxophone mute ( a vaccuum box that miffles sound while playing my music instrument) through Ebay... and from the tracking information I have from USPS site, here is the trace. ( Its been struck at customs for more than 20 days already and have not yet heard from them in the form of any mail )
Into Foreign Customs, November 09, 2009, 11:43 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 09, 2009, 11:31 am, INDIA
Out of Foreign Customs, November 05, 2009, 11:41 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, November 04, 2009, 11:51 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, October 27, 2009, 11:57 pm, ISC LOS ANGELES CA (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, October 23, 2009, 3:14 pm, LA PUENTE, CA 91744
Electronic Shipping Info Received, October 21, 2009
Sir, I have the following questions. Could you please give me a minute of your time to answer these...
1. From the previous I presume that India post will be handling USPS mail in India. But the final destination (Pune) does not have a foreign post office and so am not sure whom to approach.
2. Also I come to know that there are CHA ( customs handling agents). Should I approach them for helping me get my item back.
3. The cost of the instrument was 300 USD and the transportation cost was 70 USD. What is the duty if any I need to pay ? ( Approx is fine )
4. What are the papers required in my case I need to Mumbai Customs (in case I need to ) .. I am worried because I paid through paypal and bought the item from ebay ...
Hello,
I have recently ordered Little Big Planet (PS3) from Play-asia. In my haste i ordered it via normal Air Economy mail rather than FeDx or other service. The site states that I will recieve the parcel in 5-10 days after shipped date (20th November)But as of yet after 18 days I have not recieved. Do I need to contact Customs or stuffs?
Play-Asia says it will arrive soon but i wish to know when since I be out of town for holidays from 11th.
I am from Nasik, Maharashtra.
Thanx
email : parselmaster@live.com
Dear Reader,
Your parcel has to come from Mumbai. It may take time.If your goods is for personal use then it may attract duty @ 14.721% .
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
www.globaltaxguru.in
Ravindra;
Thank you for setting nice blog. I recently come across with the following issues.
1. I bought some fashion items like hair clips and 2 artificial (crystal)nekleces from hongkong and shipped via EMS Hongkong. When i tracked the info, It is reached on 3rd of Dec 2009 and pending customs inspection. I stay at hyderabad and I expected this for my daughters birthday, so I spent 30$US for EMS and actual cost of all is 60$. No notice is from Customs yet. Contacted Hyderabad speedpost dept. but they are helpless to guide me further.
Please advice me with phone numbers
2.November 2009, I ordered a mobile phone on ebay for 50$ and got the parcel on Nov'26, happy to see the psotal guy at my door, I immediately signed and taken the parcel and opened it (which seems to a tampered one but taped in pieces). Mobile phone and charger and battery missed from the box and rest of small items like manual and ear phones and spare battery inside. by the time the postal guy left my premises. I immediately went to local postaoffice and talked to postmaster adn he said he had seen that parcel which has rubber band but my parcel dont have rubber band when i receive it. he said he cannot do anything now as it is not opened infront of him.(how many people knows about open delivery system till we got experience like this or to be a postal guy). I complained on web based system of postal department. This is a registered parcel not EMS.
What else i can do further.
Even the postamaster is not attempting to register the case also.
Please advice.
I could not be able to find foriegn customs in Hyderabad. Please help
I want to go very serious about the Postal guys.
Dear ravindra;
I need your help regarding my parcel from hongkong strucked at Foriegn postoffice from 3rd decemebr. the parcel contains 5ladies hair clips and 2 artifical (fashion) neklaces and the customs detained saying that it is gold ornaments.
I paid for EMS post more than the cost of items for an important occassion in home and finally Indian postal service and customs guys spoiled our happiness just because of their poor knowledge.
I read all your blogs but still asking how long they take to deliver to me?
What is the meaning of speedpost which is paid 30$. What about customs guys, dont have timelines. Do the speedpost and customs have bridge for timely delivery?
I spoke to that customs guy fo fast delivery, he told me to come from hyderabad to mumbai and collect from them
Please let me know what to do.
Since you are experienced in customs for long time, i have just one question-- why not there should be a fighting mechanism for indians to fight againest postal and customs for their poor service?
The value of the parcel is not mre than 2000 Rs.
Thanks , please advice.
Dear sir,
I am sorry that you have to wait for your parcel till the time
Jewellery expert examine your goods and says that it is not gold.Therefore, you may request the Customs department that the said goods are not being gold jewellery may be released ,being bonafide gift, without payment of duty.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thank you RaVindra Sir.
Can you help me to which address I have to write the letter for release. I have to go for only postal letter or any email/fax is fine?
Please share the address of foriegn customs office, opp. V.T Railway station, Mumbai
thank you
Dear Sir,
You need parcel number assigned by Indian Post and retention letter from Customs to have reference number to write letter.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thank a TON for your help Ravindraji.
When I spoke to customs people, they told some By no. ( I may wrongly heard, may be it is B.L no.). Can you please take a moment to explain about it.
Thank you
Dear Sir,
B.L stands for bill of landing. This is not required in postal clearance. It may be something else.
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra;
I wrote to Foreign post office, mumbai and Speedpost Heads at Hyderabad and Mumbai quoting my Postal tracking no. EA000426076HK
Even after 72 working hours I didnt find any change in the status till now. Is it means no one cares about any one? I didnt find any difference in government service almost from the last 25 years.I want to seek damages from speedpost and also I want to fight to improve this process. Any advice/guide lines from you?
thank u
Dear Ravindra Ji;
I was wondering for no answer for my previous post. I hope you will get few mins of time to answer my questionS.In short my questionS again.
1. Is there any process to recover the amount paid for speedpost incase of delay due to customs pending ( As i know a speedpost has to deliver in 7 working days)?
2.Any recovery/claim mechanism incase of loss of articles in parcel/damages in the hands of postal or customs. ( how do we know who is the theief?)
Post office guys throwing on to customs in most of guys.
3. What are the chances of losing articles when parcel comes in the process of customs people (parcels kept many days in customs custody)
4. Will the customs use any seperate packaging and seal when the parcel opened in customs? ( I like that fedex sealed covers)
Appreciate if you can help me on the above questions.
Dear Reader,
The imported article is under postal department custody and Customs do not have any control over the parcel till it is seized and confiscated by the Customs. Before doing this, the Customs department will issue show cause notice to you and give you enough opportunity to give reply and ask you to appear in person to explain your side of story. An adjudication order will be passed , goods may be released ,may be after paying fine and penalty,in addition to duty.
If goods are of prohibited category then Customs will confiscate ,in that case, ownership of goods passed to Customs Department. As per law applicable to particular imported goods are disposed by the Customs.
Thus, it may be clear to you that,if goods are not confiscated then, then you have to approach Postal departent. Director (Foreign post) may help you.
There is no time limit for Customs to clear the goods if they are not in order. It is postal department who produce imported goods to Customs and after examination, they are again collected by Postal department.
The Customs examine goods at Post office and in presence of Postal department staff and officer. The parcel is opened and sealed by postal department.
If you have not received any notice from Customs department then You have to contact Postal department.
Warm regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra kumar,
My iphone was out of foreign custom on 9th of december,2009. im also got the confermation of detained of foreign parcel. but, when i called on given numbers of custom office printed on the envelope sent by THE SUPERINTENDENT CUSTOM OF DEPARTMENT-ahmedabad , they would told me that "your foreign parcel will send to you tommorow" but, there is nothing 2 happened. im still not get my parcel. pls give me some suggetion...
thanking of you...
Dear Reader,
Pl inquire with Postal department as they have physical control over parcel and they are supposed to deliver after Customs clearance.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
I have ordered a Hobby train scale model for my son (Christmas gift)via Ebay, costing US$199 + 56$ shipping.
The parcel is in custom since last two days,
Detailed Results:
Bullet Into Foreign Customs, December 22, 2009, 12:29 pm, INDIA
Bullet Arrived Abroad, December 22, 2009, 12:27 pm, INDIA
Bullet Electronic Shipping Info Received, December 19, 2009
Do I have to pay any duty? How long custom will take to clear it?
Regards,
Jagdeep Gambhir
Dear Mr Jagdeep,
If gift value without shipping cost is less than Rs 10,000/ then no duty. Otherwise toys
will attract duty @ 14.712%. Toys imported from China were banned in India.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
Thanks for the quick reply. I purchased it from Ebay.com (US). It is likely that Toy is Made in China, I hope that should'n cause any issues?
Also how long will it take for custom to clear it?
Thank Again
My Best wishes for New Year
Regards,
Jagdeep Gambhir
Dear Mr Jagdeep,
Thanks and wish you
the same. If it is chines toy,it is not likely to be released by the Customs.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
If the sale of Chinese made hobby toys permitted in America, then it should be ok for India aswell.
US have more strict quality control as compared to India.
Now a days 99.9% of all kind of Toys are made in China.
I think ban in only for plastic pre-school toys, including replicas of popular children’s television characters such as the Cookie Monster, Elmo, Dora and Big Bird, which were manufactured in China and coated with paint that contains excessive amounts of lead.
Indian Custom should not have any issues with Hobby Toys (Train Scale mode made of Plastic and Metal)
Thanks for your help!
Regards,
Jagdeep Gambhir
I sent a gift to india to my parents for christmas on Dec 9th. It has been 2 weeks and no status updates. I am wondering my parcel is lost now. Has anyone faced this before? I mean the status being stuck at "International dispatch"?
Thanks,
International Dispatch, December 11, 2009, 7:28 am, ISC CHICAGO IL (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, December 09, 2009, 1:27 pm, LEES SUMMIT, MO 64063
Dear Sonika,
What is item ?
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Mr Jagdeep,
Actual reason for delay in clearance by Customs can be ascertained from the Department itself. You may ask your carrier of goods or Foreign Post office, whether goods are detained by Customs .If Customs is going to detain then they will issue notice to you (i.e addressee in India).
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
R
Hi Ravindra,
I got my parcel today morning and parcel seems to be very well handled.
I'm impressed by India Postal Service.
Thanks for your answers,
Best Regards,
Jagdeep Gambhir
Dear Mr Jagdeep,
Congratulations! Pl share information whether you paid duty or goods of Chines origin. This information may be useful for other readers of this blog.
Wish you happy new year.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi,
I sent some sugar free chocolates, one christmas stocking, some photos.
Last night the status updated to this
Into Foreign Customs, December 26, 2009, 8:38 am, INDIA
Arrived Abroad, December 26, 2009, 8:36 am, INDIA
International Dispatch, December 11, 2009, 7:28 am, ISC CHICAGO IL (USPS)
Arrival
Acceptance, December 09, 2009, 1:27 pm, LEES SUMMIT, MO 64063
Thanks for the quick reply
Dear Reader,
Chocolates of chinese origin and from China are not allowed to be imported into India. If this is the case,then,it may not released by Customs. But before detention, they will issue notice to you. Or,
delay may be on account of seasonal rush of Christmas and new year. You may receive your parcel any time.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi Ravindra,
No duty was charged. The cost of the Hobby toy was 199 US $ and 64 US $ shipping.
The invoice attached to it states "China" as contry of Orign.
Thanks,
Jagdeep Gambhir
Dear Mr Jagdeep,
I am happy to read that it was treated as bona fide gift and released without any duty. Further, you have appreciated good work done by Postal and Customs. It is very good step.Keep it up.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Ravindra;
1.I want to know the applicable charges if I import fashion jewellery in bulk to India for business purpose
2.Which is the best method to import courier or postal service for ontime delivery.
3. What kind of licences I need to import ( I am very new to business itself)
Appreciate your help on this
Dear Sri,
Imitation jewellery attract duty @ 14.968 %. Whether it is real or imitation , Jewellary expert opinion is required, this may cause delay. cOURIER is faster but costly in terms of freight. NO LICENCE IS REQUIRED FOR IMPORTING IMITATION JEWELLERY. BUT to import any thing as an importer you may require IEC code from DGFT. This IEC IS not required for importing through POST.
Based on above facts ,you may decide.
Regards
Ravi
Dear Sri,
Pl see my website ( under constructions) www.globaltaxguru.in for more detail on other items.
Regards
Ravi
Ravindra ji;
Thanks for responding to my earlier mails.Today i spoke to foreign post office regarding my EMS parcel pending in customs inspection from 3rd dec. The parcel contains imitation jewellery for my daughter which are valued very less like 2000 Rs. I paid 30$ for speedpost also. Today when i spoke to customs, they said they cleared my parcel today and valued as 5000 Rs and I have to pay 24% tax on that.
Asked me to followup with postal dept. Invoice is also with the parcel and they are not that much value of 5000. I bought from the website in hongkong and prices are seen on that too. Will I have to pay the tax as bonafied gift also?
Please advice me on this paying 1250rs as tax or any other solution.
Dear Reader,
If you have purchased then ,it is not bona fide gift. You are not eligible for duty free clearance. Normally Customs value for assessing duty add freight amount in cost of goods + insurance+ landing charge.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Thanks a lot Ravindra Ji;
But how do the customs know it is bonafide gift or personal import when it is marked as GIFT on parcel?
How can we import goods valued less than 10,000 as tax free bonafide gifts?
I am most confused about this because last month I got similar imitation jewellery without any tax and they are more value than present.
This time I was Axed for small set and from same buyer.
Sorry for troubling you again.
Ravindra Ji;
As I previously posted regarding my parcel EA000426076HK which contains imitation jewellery for my daughter (9 items)reached Mumbai on 3rd Dec'09 and in customs till 31st Dec and releases from customs with duty on 31st. This information I got from customs guys when I called them many times. From then till now it is not reached Hyderabad. The Hongkong website still showing "customs inspection pending" updted on 11th Dec. I contacted many times Mumbai Speedpost center and Hyderabad speedpost center and till now they are saying still it is in customs. Again I taked to customs today and they told me again that the parcel released from customs on 31st Dec and please donot disturb us again, if you can you can take action on speedpost. We are telling you looking at the records" they replied.
I dont know what to do now, I am worrying lot about how to proceed further on this.
Please advice.
Dear Sir,
Pl contact Postal department. Read their charter on their website or ask information under Right to information Act to POSTAL DEPTT. They will explain reason for delay.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hello ravindra,
Please help! My mom had couriered 2gift parcels for my daughter and myself through USPS (USA) on 11th dec 2009 and as per USPS tracking system it says that it got despatched from usa on 14th Dec. However till today (15th jan 2010) I have'nt recvd the same. As per the USPS tracking site, it says that 1 parcel is in Foreign Customs (mumbai) since 1st jan 2010 and the other cleared the Delhi Foreign Customs on 8th jan, however re-eneterd the Mumbai foreign customs on 12th Jan 2010. I am very confused and concerned about the parcels. My mom had sent 2 dolls and winter jacket with shoes and hair accessories for my small daughter and a pair of used artificial earrings for me which she has sent as her rememberance to me. Please can you help me trace and track the same. Its been more than a month now....Please guide me...
Hi Ravindra,
Please help. My mom has sent 2 gift parcels via USPS courier from USA for me and my daughter.She had sent the parcel on 11th dec 2009 and it was despatched from USA on 14th Dec 2009 as per the USPS tracking portal.However its been more that a month and I have not recdv the parcel.On tracking the parcel on USPS website it stated that one of the parcel got into foreign customs in MUMBAI (SAL) on 1st Jan 2010 and the other parcel cleared the foreign Customs in DELHI (SAL) on 8th jan 2010, however re-entered the Foreign Customs in MUMBAI (SAL) on 12th jan 2010. I am very confused and concerned about the gifts. I have no clue why is it taking more than a month for the parcel to get delivered to me and why are the parcels in customs for such a long time and for 2 times. My mom has sent two dolls with winter jacket and shoes and hair accessories for my small daughter and a pair of used artificial earrings for me. I request you to please help and guide me as to what step should I take so that the gift reaches me as quickly as possible and in proper condition. Pls suggest and HELP/////
Dear Reader,
The problem is with postal department. If customs is going to detain goods they will issue notice to you. Customs will detain ,if they have doubt, whether your goods are imitation jewellery or otherwise. Your goods will be released without duty ,if they fall under permissible limit of Rs 10,000/-.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Dear Zia,
Pl see above. i have answered your query.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Hi ravindra,
In reference to your reply above, could you please guide as to whom should I contact to get the complete details of my parcel. Probably the post office contact details or the custom conatct details who would know.
Dear Reader,
It is Postal department.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
USPS Express Mail International
For those of you who have mailed through USPS Express Mail International and not received the shipment in India within 6 - 10 business (working) days, I would highly recommend that you follow up with your local Speed Post Office.
Below is my experience and I hope it helps.
I had mailed some document throughs USPS Express Mail International from USA to INDIA. USPS assured me that the mail will be delivered in India within 6 - 10 business days and also gave me a tracking number. I had shipped on November 27th, 2009 and tracking online through USPS showed that the documents had cleared customs on Dec 3rd, 2009. But, the mail was never delivered. I waited till Dec 10th and then called USPS, who pretty much gave me the same status that was online. After, some discussion and asking for some options, one of the guys was kind enough to tell me that the package had cleard the local city customs. This worried me a little bit because, if the package had cleared the local city customs, why was it not delivered.
So, I asked my parents to go to GPS Main Office in Chennai and inquire about the package. While doing so, GPS informed my parents that they had the package but wasnt able to deliver it because the address on the form wasnt clear. Plain and Simple, when we fill out the form, there are multiple carbon copies that are created and by the time the package reaches India or any destination for that matter, the destination address is not clear, so the package never makes it to the destination. Also, the interesting part is, GPS had put in a inquiry to USPS and USPS said, go ahead and return it to the US Address because we dont have a copy of the form.
Finally, GPS asked me send them a Fax along with a requisition letter to release the package and also copy of the USPS Mail Form. By doing so, GPS were able to release the package.
So, for those of you who have shippped through USPS and havent received the shipment in 6 - 10 business, I would advice that you contact the local offices in India and start tracking them.
And for its worth, I had opened a case with USPS and was told someone would follow up with me in 3 days and its almost 2 months and no one has contacted me.
So, my recommendation is, for time sensitive mails, do not use USPS.
Dear ravindra;
This is further information regarding my imitation jewelry , i spoke to 2 different numbers of customs and they said it is in customs and given me some mobile numbers to talk to them. When i spoke to them they said they are 3rd party agents and asked 2500 to clear the item, the other asked 2000 to clear the item. They are saying anyway u have to pay customs duty and we will clear it also if u give us the amount.
Now i dont know what to do. One Customs person told they cleaed item on 31st dec and the status online showing "pending customs inspection". I dont know whom to believe. And how long they the parcel with them? Please advice
Dear Reader,
Pl meet higher official in Customs Department or Postal department.
If you have not received any notice from Customs department,it is better to meet Postal department officers. Your goods are in custody of postal department.They are proper authority to inform about status of your parcel.
Regards
Ravindra Kumar
Ravindra;
Sorry for delay in update. I received the parcel on the same day afternoon of the above post. But the wonder is either the customs guys or speedpost guys dont know where this parcel is and what the latest info about it. They still giving some third party agents numbers to get it release from customs even after the parcel reached hyderabad.
Lesson Learnt:
1. As Ravindra said, the jewellery items takes "infinite time" to reach our home.
2.Dont relay on online postal tracking info if your parcel moved into foreign customs
3 No need to call anybody in customs or postal, if any porblem with customs they will send notice, if taxed then postal guy will come with parcel and amount to be paid.( There is no info at post man how the tax calculated....etc, just plain fig.I was taked for 842/- for imitation jewellery invoice amount 16usd.
4.Just relax till postal guy knock your door
Dear Ravindra;
I want to buy some printed books from amazon for purely personal use,no academic books, just books by good athors, so do i need to pay any tax also. The total bookscost may not be more than 200$ and to be shipped by amazon.
Please provide some guidelines.
If taxed in the above case, can I ask my brother to buy and ship to me as bonafied gift to escape from tax?
Please give me your valuable in puts.
Hi Ravindra,
First of all thanks for all the valuable information provided by you in this blog.
Would be great if you could shed some light on my query below :
I have ordered a projector from ebay.com. The value was 325US$ + 63 $ for shipping. The same was sent by USPS priority mail on 4th Jan and their site showed it to have reached India on 12th Jan. After waiting for a number of days I went to the foreign post office on the 28th of Jan. There I learnt the customs had detained the parcel. The customs were to send a letter calling me for an inspection on the 10th of Feb. I requested the customs officer and he was kind enough to schedule an inspection on that day itself. I had carried the credit card statement showing a debit of Rs 18700 for the item. The item was examined in the evening at 4 PM and the officer attached the credit card statement and the ebay.com order printout and the usps tracking screen shot print outs that I had carried with myself. When I left the office in the evening the officer told me everything was in order. I have been waiting since for the parcel. Request you to please advise on by when is it likely to reach my residence or any other action I need to take.
Thanks in advance,
Samar
Hi Ravindra,
First of all thanks for all the valuable information provided by you in this blog.
Would be great if you could shed some light on my query below :
I have ordered a projector from ebay.com. The value was 325US$ + 63 $ for shipping. The same was sent by USPS priority mail on 4th Jan and their site showed it to have reached India on 12th Jan. After waiting for a number of days I went to the foreign post office on the 28th of Jan. There I learnt the customs had detained the parcel. The customs were to send a letter calling me for an inspection on the 10th of Feb. I requested the customs officer and he was kind enough to schedule an inspection on that day itself. I had carried the credit card statement showing a debit of Rs 18700 for the item. The item was examined in the evening at 4 PM and the officer attached the credit card statement and the ebay.com order printout and the usps tracking screen shot print outs that I had carried with myself. When I left the office in the evening the officer told me everything was in order. I have been waiting since for the parcel. Request you to please advise on by when is it likely to reach my residence or any other action I need to take.
Thanks in advance,
Samar
Dear Samar,
Thanks for appreciation. Pl contact your local post office with all details.
Best wishes
Ravindra Kumar
i have already contacted the local post office - given my number to the postman who visits our place - he has promised to call whenever the parcel arrives - guess i will have to wait some time.
thanks for your reply.
if there is any thing else i should be doing please do let me know.
thanks,
Samar
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