Will you pay duties when you send things to the Dominican Republic? It depends on how you ship, what you ship and its value. Here is a plain-language guide.
Shipping personal effects with ShipToDR.com
When you ship boxes or barrels of personal effects with ShipToDR.com, our flat-rate price covers shipping and delivery to your door. Some exceptions apply:
- Electronic items such as microwaves and blenders are $15 extra per item.
- Generators, electrical equipment and commercial goods may be charged 18% customs.
- For TVs, our price includes taxes, customs, duties and delivery to your home.
- For cars and motorcycles, Dominican duties and taxes are not included; call us for a quote.
See our price list by city.
The US$200 rule for courier purchases
If you buy online and ship by courier, personal shipments with a customs value up to US$200 may be exempt from import duties and taxes under Dominican customs law (Ley 168-21). The exemption is not automatic: customs looks at the type, quantity and frequency of items to make sure they are not for resale.
Above US$200
Shipments above US$200 may pay import duties based on the type of goods, plus ITBIS (the Dominican sales tax, generally 18%). The taxable value can include transport and insurance, not just the store price. Some goods also pay a selective consumption tax.
Exemptions that may apply
Depending on what you ship and your situation, other exemptions may be available. Returning residents may qualify for duty-free household goods (menaje de casa). Tell us what you are sending and we will advise on the best way to ship it.
Tips to avoid surprises
- Declare contents honestly and keep receipts for new items.
- Do not pack commercial quantities of the same item in a personal shipment.
- Check the prohibited items list before you pack.
- Shipping a lot? A full container may be the better option.
Customs rules change, so confirm details with Dominican customs (aduanas.gob.do) for high-value shipments. Questions? WhatsApp or call us at 416-580-3463.