Shipping goods from Thailand to the United States requires more than just choosing a fast courier. Understanding how import tax (customs duty) is calculated can help you avoid costly surprises, speed up customs clearance, and provide your customers with accurate landed‑cost estimates.
What Is Import Tax in the USA?
When goods enter the United States, they may be charged import tax (customs duty) based on how they are classified under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Each product has a specific HTS code that determines its duty rate.
Step‑by‑Step: How Import Tax Is Calculated
To calculate import tax, you need these three values:
- Declared value of the goods (invoice value)
- Shipping cost (freight)
- Insurance cost
1. Calculate CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) Value
Customs determines the taxable value using the CIF value:
CIF Value = Cost of Goods + Freight + Insurance
This value becomes the base on which duty is calculated.
2. Find Your HTS Duty Rate
Products are classified with an HTS code to determine the duty rate. Duty rates vary widely depending on the type of product — electronics, clothing, machinery, etc.
3. Compute the Import Duty
Import Duty = CIF Value × Duty Rate
For example:
If the CIF value is $10,000 and the duty rate is 5%, then:
Import Duty = $10,000 × 5% = $500
Important Policy Update
As of August 2025, the United States eliminated its long‑standing de minimis exemption (previously $800), meaning most shipments entering the U.S. will be subject to duty regardless of value, unless a specific tariff exemption applies.
Tips to Avoid Customs Delays
✅ Ensure your invoice and product descriptions are accurate and detailed
✅ Use the correct HTS code for classification
✅ Include freight and insurance in cost calculations
✅ Share accurate shipment contact info for customs notifications
Taking these steps helps your package clear customs faster, avoid penalties, and improve customer satisfaction.
Sources (Clickable Links)
- Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmonized_Tariff_Schedule_of_the_United_States
- DHL: What You Need to Know About USA Tariffs for Thailand: https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-th/logistics-advice/logistics-insights/what-you-need-to-know-about-usa-tariffs-for-thailand
- USA Customs Clearance – Thailand Import Duty Rates: https://usacustomsclearance.com/process/thailand-import-duty-rates/
- TariffsCheck: Import Duty Calculator (US): https://www.tariffscheck.com/import-duty-calculator
Reuters: US Ends Low‑Value Duty Exemption: https://www.reuters.com/world/us-ends-tariff-exemption-all-low-value-packages-2025-07-30
