Import and export represent the central business foundation for global trade. As a partner in the import-export business with expertise in import VAT, Mail Boxes Etc. has many years of experience. In cooperation with our worldwide network of premium partners, we offer you an all-round carefree package for the import and export of your goods. You are planning an expansion with focus on import-export trade? Then we are the perfect partner at your side.
When importing, goods and services are imported from abroad. Exports are goods and services exported abroad. If exports and imports are not balanced, the trade balance is said to be positive or negative. If more goods are exported than imported, the trade balance is positive for the exporting country. If more goods are imported than exported, it is negative for the importing country. In this context, one also speaks of an export surplus or an export deficit.
Germany traditionally has an export surplus. In 2019, an export surplus of 254.94 billion US dollars was recorded - making Germany one of the "export world champions". Even during the pandemic years 2020 and 2021, a significant export plus of more than 175 million euros was recorded in each case.
The import of raw materials is an important part of global trade. In this way, raw materials are procured that are not available locally but are needed in industry and production.
The import of new products also plays a role. Here, market demand is served that cannot be met by regional supply. Skillfully used import of goods can create a competitive advantage. This is because imported goods can, for example, be cheaper or of higher quality than the domestically available offerings.
New sales markets can be served via the export of the company's own goods. Company expansion is often the central point of export trade. In addition, gaps in foreign markets can be filled, for example with raw materials or services that are not available there. Trade thus ensures better international availability of products from various branches of industry and production.
The export of goods also enables targeted risk diversification. If the sales market is spread over several regions, sales slumps in individual regions of the world can be better absorbed.
Global trade presents traders and companies with a whole range of challenges. Cost-effectiveness for import and export can only be achieved if a well thought-out system is used. In this way, potential problems can be avoided and each shipment of goods is optimized in all relevant areas.
In addition, factors should be considered that have an impact on the availability and cost of imported and exported goods. These include import sales tax or import regulations of customs in the EU. It is therefore advisable to calculate and plan for import VAT in advance and to know the applicable rules, e.g. when importing goods from China (customs).
In order to get the best support for your import and export project through Mail Boxes Etc. it is important to know exactly your own requirements:
Based on this information, we can plan a concrete collaboration together. In this way, we find solutions that are efficient, economical and tailored to your requirements.
As an expert in the global trade of goods, Mail Boxes Etc. offers a range of specialized services for import and export:
With us you receive all services for the import and export of your goods at one place. Our import-export package includes the following services, which can be extended if required:
■ Advice on import & export: We advise you on the subject of import and export regulations and, if necessary, explain to you how to calculate and pay import VAT.
■ Customs clearance: We take care of all formalities in advance and also take care of the correct handling of customs matters during the transport process.
■ Worldwide door-to-door service: We pick up your shipment of goods at the agreed time and guarantee safe and reliable transport to the destination with leading express couriers.
With the MBE import-export service you can easily order and manage shipments of goods worldwide. Rely on the expertise and years of experience of Mail Boxes Etc. for your international business. Our MBE centers will be happy to advise you on every single step of the import-export process and on questions regarding import VAT in Germany or customs import from third countries - quickly and personally.
For the export of goods to a country outside the EU, the following points must be observed:
Here, too, our MBE employees will be happy to provide you with comprehensive advice. This means that imports and exports with non-EU countries also run smoothly.
Info about customs for EU import
If goods are imported into the EU from third countries (not part of the EU), customs duty, import VAT and consumer tax may be payable on the goods. For shipments with a material value of up to 150 euros, only import VAT is due. Shipments with a tangible value of more than 150 euros are also subject to customs duty. Excise taxes are applied to so-called highly taxable goods - such as tobacco, coffee, alcohol.
For the calculation of the import VAT of a consignment of goods, the following values are added:
The import tax rate is calculated from this sum according to the specifications of the country of destination. Many customs offices offer an online import VAT calculator.
In the course of importing and exporting goods, an inspection may be carried out by customs. Random samples and reasonable suspicion are examined to determine whether the customs regulations for the shipments are being complied with. Of course Mail Boxes Etc. supports you also in this area. We take care of a complete documentation and the correct customs clearance of all goods for all shipments on an international level. Among other things, the following documents are required for this:
We work closely with our clients to be able to quickly provide the requested documents when needed. In this way, we ensure that there are no costly transmission delays.
Use the opportunities of import and export trade to expand and successfully open up new markets. We are the reliable partner at your side. Contact our experienced staff directly with your questions about customs regulations, importing and exporting goods, and international logistics. We are available to you personally at more than 150 locations nationwide and can also be reached personally by telephone.
We are looking forward to your inquiry!
*Service offerings may vary by location and MBE Center.
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