Based on our recent communication and verification with FedEx's official customer service, the latest confirmation regarding the "deliver first, pay taxes later (billing later)" model is as follows for your reference.
I. FedEx officially confirmed: This mode has always existed and was not recently added.
FedEx customer service stated that the "deliver the package first, then issue the tax bill" policy is not a recent implementation, but rather a long-standing fee structure.
According to its official standard shipping terms, the settlement methods for customs duties and taxes include (but are not limited to):
- Cash
- Checks (personal or company)
- Withdrawal account / Payment method requiring valid identification
- credit card
- draft
- travel check
- Credit card or deferred payment account
FedEx clarified: The recent internal verification of information in some countries was simply due to widespread customer concern about this issue, but the model itself has always existed and is not a new regulation.
II. Why have bills increased recently?
Although the model is not new, we have indeed received more tax refunds for shipments made in July and August since July this year.
The causes include:
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In some destination countries, customs duties were not promptly communicated to the recipients during customs clearance.
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The recipient did not provide an email address or did not pay attention to the relevant notifications.
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Bills are delayed by FedEx or local agents for weeks to 1–2 months before rebounding to domestic rates.
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Some countries calculate taxes and issue bills directly after receipt.
This resulted in the package being signed for, but the fees were ultimately traced back to the sender.
III. Explanation of Corresponding Risks and Costs
If the following situations occur:
1. Package signed for but recipient refuses to pay, additional taxes to be paid.
2. Packages returned due to reasons such as refusal to pay taxes or inability to clear customs.
Our company will assist in handling this; however, regardless of the outcome, the carrier's terms are clearly stated.The sender is still responsible for any related taxes, return shipping costs, and other expenses..
IV. Our practical suggestions to senders
To reduce subsequent risks, it is recommended that senders do the following:
1. Please be sure to fill in the recipient's email address when entering the order.
To avoid the inability to deliver tax notices issued by carriers, thus reducing the amount of back-issued invoices flowing back to the country.
2. Confirm the recipient's willingness to pay taxes before shipment.
Explain the local customs regulations and potential costs in advance.
3. Prioritize tax-inclusive plans.
For countries with tax-inclusive payment channels, prioritizing their use can significantly reduce the risk of subsequent tax payments.
4. Countries without tax-inclusive policies need to carefully assess the risks.
Sellers are advised to consider these costs in advance when setting product pricing and shipping strategies.
V. What we can do for you
CZL Express will continue to provide assistance in shipping and billing processes, including:
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Contact the carrier to verify the cost.
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Track the status of the supplementary bill
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Assist in communicating with customs clearance agents
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Assist in handling returns, reassignments, and other similar situations.
However, it must be emphasized again that this model is the standard term of international carriers such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL, and our company cannot change it.