The main cost components
| Stage | Typical costs |
|---|---|
| Purchase | Product price, samples, bank transfer fees |
| In China | Inland transport and export clearance (depending on the Incoterm) |
| International | Sea or air freight, cargo insurance |
| Arrival in Egypt | Port and terminal charges, documentation fees |
| Customs | Customs duty, value-added tax, other applicable fees |
| Clearance and delivery | Clearance services, inland transport, unloading |
| Optional | Inspection, testing, factory audit |
How duties and taxes are calculated
Customs duty depends on the product’s classification under the HS code and is generally calculated on the customs value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight (CIF). Value-added tax is then applied; the standard rate in Egypt is 14%, although some goods are treated differently.
Always confirm the duty and tax treatment for your specific product before ordering.
A simple way to estimate
- Start with the product cost and convert it at a realistic exchange rate
- Add freight and insurance to reach the CIF value
- Apply the duty rate for your HS code
- Apply VAT on the applicable value, including duty
- Add port, clearance, and delivery costs
- Divide the total by the number of units to get the landed cost per unit
Costs that are often forgotten
- Port storage charges if clearance is delayed
- Container demurrage and detention charges
- Bank fees and exchange-rate movements
- Inspection or testing
- Repacking or relabeling
Pacific’s quotation sets out the costs included in the scope and the basis used, including the exchange-rate reference where applicable.
General guidance. Requirements vary by product, route, and date, so they are confirmed for each request.