Expanding your business internationally? Understanding what your buyers will pay at the port can make or break your success in global markets. That’s why the Missouri SBDC at UMKC is excited to spotlight a powerful, user-friendly resource from the U.S. Department of Commerce: the Customs Info Database Tariff and Taxes Look-Up Tool—along with a step-by-step User Guide and Video Tutorial.
Why Tariffs and Taxes Matter for Your Export Strategy
When shipping goods internationally, your product’s price tag doesn’t end at your warehouse. A tariff (or duty) is a tax imposed by a foreign government on imported goods. It’s typically calculated based on the total value of your shipment—including freight and insurance—and is collected at the time of customs clearance in the foreign port.
But that’s not all. Depending on the country, your buyer may also face:
- National sales taxes
- Local taxes
- Customs processing fees
These extra charges directly impact the final cost to your customer—and that, in turn, can affect your pricing strategy and competitiveness in that market.
Simplify the Process with the Customs Info Tool
The Customs Info Database lets you quickly look up tariffs and taxes for your product in over 170 markets. With just a few clicks, you can:
- Identify the duty rate for your product based on its Harmonized System (HS) code
- Estimate additional costs like VAT, GST, or import fees
- Prepare accurate quotes or pro forma invoices for your international buyers
Pro Tips: Leverage FTAs for Competitive Advantage
If your product is primarily made in the U.S., it may qualify for duty-free entry into countries that have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States. The U.S. has FTAs with more than 20 countries, offering you a built-in edge.
FTA partners generally impose lower or no tariffs on qualifying U.S. goods—making your product more attractive to foreign buyers compared to products from countries without trade agreements.
Final Notes
While the Customs Info tool is a fantastic estimator, remember:
- Only customs officers in the destination country can make the final tariff determination
- Always verify information if accuracy is critical for your contract or compliance
Knowing the true landed cost of your product helps build trust, set fair prices, and win deals globally. We encourage Missouri businesses to use this tool early and often when considering new international markets.
Need Help with Export Planning or FTA Qualification?
Connect with our partners. We’re here to help you navigate international growth with confidence
Missouri Department of Economic Development- International Trade and Investment
📩 Contact Us Today | https://sbdc.missouri.edu/programs/exporting
