Poland

Poland

Shipping to Poland: Customs Information and Shipping Tips

When shipping to Poland, it is essential to understand the country’s customs regulations, de minimis thresholds, and best shipping practices to avoid delays and additional fees.

Customs Regulations

Poland, as a member of the European Union (EU), follows EU-wide import regulations. However, some country-specific restrictions apply.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Certain items are strictly prohibited from entering Poland, while others may require special documentation or permits. Common prohibited and restricted items include:

  • Prohibited Items: Alcohol, drugs, explosives, firearms, fresh food, live animals, plants, seeds, and tobacco.
  • Restricted Items: Electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and high-value goods may require special permits or certifications.

Before shipping, verify whether your package contains any restricted items by checking with Polish customs authorities or your shipping provider.

De Minimis Thresholds

The de minimis thresholds determine when customs duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) apply to imported goods:

  • Customs Duty Threshold: Shipments valued up to €150 are exempt from customs duties.
  • VAT Threshold: All shipments entering Poland, regardless of value, are subject to a 23% VAT.

Note: These thresholds apply to the total value of the goods including shipping and insurance costs (CIF value).

Shipping Tips for Poland

1. Ensure Accurate Documentation

  • Always provide a detailed commercial invoice, including a precise description of goods, declared value, and Harmonized System (HS) codes.
  • Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork can cause shipment delays or customs rejection.

2. Proper Packaging and Labeling

  • Use durable packaging to prevent damage during transit.
  • Clearly label your shipment with the recipient’s full name, address, and contact information.
  • Include "Commercial Invoice Enclosed" on the exterior for smooth customs processing.

3. Be Aware of Duties and Taxes

  • The recipient in Poland is usually responsible for paying VAT and any applicable customs duties.
  • Some couriers offer Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services, allowing the sender to prepay these fees to avoid unexpected costs for the recipient.

4. Choose a Reliable Shipping Carrier

  • Opt for well-known international carriers such as Royal Mail, Parcelforce/GLS, DHL, UPS, or FedEx for faster and more reliable delivery.
  • Consider using a service that provides shipment tracking and insurance for high-value goods.

5. Understand EU E-Commerce VAT Rules

  • If you are selling to Polish customers online, consider registering for the EU One-Stop-Shop (OSS) system to simplify VAT reporting.
  • For shipments below €150, VAT may be collected at the point of sale rather than upon importation, speeding up customs clearance.

Estimated Shipping Times to Poland

Shipping times vary depending on the courier and service level:

  • Express Shipping: 1-2 business days
  • Standard Shipping: 4-7 business days
  • Economy Shipping: 5-9 business days

Factors such as customs clearance, peak seasons, and local delivery conditions can impact transit times.

Final Tips

  • Always check for updated customs regulations before shipping, as policies can change.
  • Clearly communicate with your recipient about potential duties and taxes to avoid unexpected costs.
  • Consider using shipping insurance for valuable shipments to protect against loss or damage.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience when sending goods to Poland. If you need further assistance, contact your shipping provider or visit Poland’s customs authority website for detailed regulations.