Dealing with Unexpected Custom Fees from UPS
Many customers have reported instances where UPS has charged unexpected custom fees and administrative fees after purchasing express shipping. This article aims to provide clarity on this issue and offer guidance on what you can do if you encounter this problem.
What Customers Are Experiencing
One customer described a situation where a parcel was delivered earlier than expected, but UPS added a substantial fee of $70.50 to the original delivery fee, disguised as a customs fee. This practice often emerges when the recipient has already paid for the delivery with the merchant, yet they still face additional charges. The discrepancy can be frustrating for consumers who feel they are being double-charged.
Who Pays Customs Charges?
According to
UPS and most other shipping providers, customs duties, taxes, and licensing fees are the responsibility of the recipient, even if these fees are initially paid by the merchant. The shipper can cover these costs, but they ultimately remain the recipient's financial obligation. If you're facing unexpected custom fees, it's important to understand that these fees are part of the international shipping process and are not typically the responsibility of the shipping company.
Why Are Indian Shippers Charging Extra Fees?
Recently, there has been an increase in complaints from customers receiving items from India. Indian customs regulations are being used as a means to generate additional revenue, meaning that if you fail to pay the custom fees, you will not receive your package. This is a concerning trend and could potentially be exploited by unscrupulous sellers who offer lower prices to attract customers but plan to charge them extra fees.
How Customs May Retrieve Their Charges
Customs offices often reassess the valuation of a package if there is evidence of misclassification or under-declaration by the merchant. This is a common practice, especially when the merchant is responsible for paying duty charges. One frequent strategy is to misclassify items as gifts, which often results in lower declared values and subsequently lower duty payments.
What You Can Do?
1. **Ask for Documentation**: If you are charged unexpectedly, demand that UPS provides you with the necessary documents for customs declaration. This can typically be done at a nearby customs office or through an online platform. In some cases, UPS may reduce or even eliminate the unexpected fees if you provide them with the required documentation.
2. **Negotiation and Declination**: If you are uncomfortable with the unexpected fees, you have the right to refuse the delivery. However, it is often beneficial to ask UPS for a more detailed breakdown of the charges and to discuss your options with them.
3. **Prepaid Fees**: To avoid such issues in the future, consider prepaying all potential customs charges with the merchant to ensure that you are not billed separately by UPS.
4. **Contact UPS**: If you have concerns about the fees, contact UPS directly. They should be able to provide you with more information and clarify the charges.
Conclusion
While it's true that international shipping comes with its share of complexities, understanding your responsibilities and taking proactive steps can help mitigate potential issues. By staying informed and asking for the necessary documentation, you can avoid being caught off guard by unexpected custom fees from UPS or other shipping providers.