- Can I clear my own goods?
- Yes — file directly with the customs authority (CDS in UK, AES/NCTS in EU). Realistic only if you have an EORI, ship regularly and understand CN/HS classification. Otherwise a broker's fee is well spent.
- What is a disbursement fee?
- The broker pays duty and import VAT to customs on your behalf so goods clear immediately, then invoices you. The disbursement fee (usually 2–2.5% of the advance, min €20) covers their working capital and credit risk.
- Direct vs indirect representation?
- Direct = broker acts in your name; you remain liable. Indirect = broker acts in their own name and is jointly liable — usually required if you don't have an EU-established entity post-Brexit. Indirect is 30–50% more expensive.
- What does the Customs Clearance & Brokerage Fee Estimator do?
- All-in customs clearance cost for an import: brokerage entry fee, per-line HS classification, ENS/ICS2 filing, disbursement fee, and origin/preference document handling — for road, air and sea freight. How-to: enter shipment value, number of HS lines, and pick the mode. We apply typical EU/UK customs broker rates: entry fee €35–€65 (road), €55–€120 (air/sea), €5–€12 per additional HS line, ENS/ICS2 €8, EUR.1 or statement-of-origin €25, plus a disbursement fee (advancing duty + VAT on your behalf) of 2–2.5% of duty+VAT with a €15–€25 minimum.
- Is the Customs Clearance & Brokerage Fee Estimator free to use?
- Yes. Every calculator on Calcurly.com is free, works in your browser without sign-up, and can be embedded on your own website.
- How accurate is the Customs Clearance & Brokerage Fee Estimator?
- Results are calculated in real time using industry-standard formulas. Treat the output as a well-informed estimate — always cross-check with local regulations, product datasheets, or a qualified logistics & freight professional before committing to a purchase or a job.
- What inputs does the Customs Clearance & Brokerage Fee Estimator need?
- Enter values for: Shipment CIF value, Currency, Estimated duty + import VAT payable, Number of HS commodity lines, Mode of transport, Preferential origin document?. Sensible defaults are pre-filled where possible so you can start with a single change.
- Can I embed the Customs Clearance & Brokerage Fee Estimator on my own website?
- Yes — copy the iframe snippet at the bottom of this page, or use the Embed Generator to customise the size. The embedded version stays in sync with the live calculator on Calcurly.com.