The value of the goods being shipped must always be indicated on the customs invoice:
- If the shipment is part of a sale, you must indicate the actual value of what you are shipping – the sale price of the goods – without including shipping costs.
- If the shipment is a gift, indicate the purchase price and specify that this is a present.
- If shipping a second-hand or homemade item, or goods which do not have any commercial value, you can indicate the total amount spent to create the item as its value. Example: Shipping a painting: you can indicate the price of the paint and frame, etc.
It is essential that the value indicated is correct and true, as any customs taxes and duties will be calculated based on this information. If the customs authorities believe that the value indicated is incorrect, the goods may be retained and you may incur penalties.