Duty-Free Import up to €200 for Parcels to Russia: Customs Charges and Payment Procedure
We inform customers about the customs clearance approach for international shipments addressed to private individuals in the Russian Federation.
As a general rule, if the value of goods in a single parcel does not exceed €200 and the total weight does not exceed 31 kg, customs charges are typically not applied. If either the value or the weight exceeds these thresholds, customs authorities may calculate charges under the applicable rules, and payment will be required for the parcel to be released and delivered.
Russia Customs and the €200 Threshold: What “Duty-Free Import” Means
The duty-free threshold of €200 refers to the maximum value of goods in one international shipment that can be imported without customs charges, provided the weight limit of up to 31 kg is also met.
The declared value is assessed based on the information in the customs declaration and supporting documentation (for example, an invoice, receipt, or order confirmation). Clear item descriptions and accurate values generally help reduce processing time.
When Customs Charges May Apply for Parcels Above €200
Customs charges may be assessed if one or more of the following applies:
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the value of goods in the shipment exceeds €200;
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the shipment weight exceeds 31 kg;
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customs authorities require additional confirmation of the declared information (description, quantity, or value).
How Customs Duty Is Calculated: 15% Above the Threshold, Not Less Than €2/kg
If the duty-free threshold is exceeded, charges are calculated using the applicable method:
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15% of the amount exceeding €200 (value-based calculation);
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but not less than €2 per kilogram for the portion exceeding the weight allowance (weight-based minimum).
The final amount is determined by customs based on the declared information and the documents provided.
Example: Value Exceeds €200
Goods value: €450, weight: 10 kg
Excess value: €450 − €200 = €250
Duty: €250 × 15% = €37.50
Example: Weight Exceeds 31 kg
Goods value: €180, weight: 34 kg
Excess weight: 34 − 31 = 3 kg
Minimum charge: 3 × €2 = €6
How to Pay Customs Duty for a Parcel in Russia
If charges are assessed, the process typically follows these steps:
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The recipient receives a notification from the delivery operator/carrier (via app, SMS, or e-mail) indicating that customs payment is required.
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Payment is made according to the operator’s instructions, most commonly online (personal account, payment link, or mobile app).
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Once payment is confirmed, the shipment is released and continues through the delivery network.
Release times depend on how quickly payment is made and whether any additional documents are requested.
How BPD Express Supports Customers: Declarations, Documents, and Status Guidance
BPD Express helps reduce avoidable delays by supporting customers with correct shipment data and clear communication:
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Declaration wording support: we help customers describe items clearly and consistently for customs purposes.
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Value documentation readiness: we advise what to keep on hand (invoice/receipt/order confirmation) in case it is requested.
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Threshold guidance: if the declared value is close to €200, we recommend a compliant shipping approach to reduce the risk of additional procedures.
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Status clarification: we explain “payment required” notifications and what the recipient should do to speed up release.
Please note: BPD Express does not set customs rates and cannot influence the final calculation. Charges are determined by the competent customs authorities under applicable rules.
How to Ship a Parcel to Russia Without Delays: Practical Recommendations
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Use specific item descriptions (e.g., “shoes,” “jacket,” “children’s clothing,” “cosmetics”) and list quantities.
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Declare a realistic value and keep supporting documents (invoice/receipt/order confirmation).
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Monitor shipment weight: staying within 31 kg is generally the most straightforward scenario.
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If the value is close to €200, notify the recipient in advance—payment may be required if the threshold is exceeded.
FAQ: Common Questions About the €200 Duty-Free Threshold in Russia
1) Does the €200 threshold apply per parcel?
In practice, assessment is typically performed for each individual international shipment.
2) Is shipping cost included in the €200 threshold?
In most cases the reference is the value of goods. The final assessment depends on how the declaration and supporting documents are presented.
3) What if customs asks for proof of value?
Provide supporting documents such as an invoice, receipt, or order confirmation. This usually helps speed up clearance.
4) Who pays customs charges: the sender or the recipient?
Most commonly, the recipient in Russia pays the assessed amount upon the operator’s notification so the parcel can be released and delivered.
5) How can I reduce the risk of charges or delays?
Stay within the €200/31 kg thresholds when possible, ensure the declaration is accurate, and keep value documentation available.
Customer Notice
Customs requirements apply to international shipments and may involve payment if the duty-free threshold is exceeded or if additional confirmation is requested. To support timely delivery, we recommend preparing value documents in advance and completing any requested payment promptly once notified by the operator.