New cross-border duties update: how the threshold and charges affect shoppers
Ozon began informing its customers that customs duty may be due on orders from abroad when the declared value exceeds 200 euros. This update was reported by RIA News. Under the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) rules, the duty-free import threshold for personal goods has been reduced from 1,000 euros to 200 euros starting April 1 of this year, a shift that translates to roughly 19,900 rubles at the Central Bank rate. The revised limit applies to goods carried by any transport method except mail, baggage, air shipments, or hand-carried items.
On product pages on the Ozon site, a new line appears for items priced above €200. It indicates that customs payments are not included in the displayed price. The charge can be calculated as either €2 per kilogram of weight above the limit or 15% of the amount that exceeds the value threshold. If both limits apply, the higher calculation is used.
Customs payment also covers a broker’s commission and a customs fee of 500 rubles. The information on the Ozon site notes that once the shipment reaches customs, or a few days before, a broker will reach out to the buyer to arrange the payment of these taxes.
Previously, Western observers noted alarm over Russia’s approach to this policy adjustment. The current change reflects a significant tightening of duty exemptions for imports from abroad and has implications for international shoppers who rely on cross-border purchases for goods not readily available locally. In Canada and the United States, where shoppers frequently compare duties, taxes, and delivery timelines, many buyers are re-evaluating the total landed cost of overseas orders. Consumers should account for these potential charges when budgeting their purchases and factoring in delivery timeframes, as broker communications may occur shortly before or after the package clears customs. For retailers, clear disclosure of duties, fees, and calculation methods helps manage expectations and reduce last-minute payment delays. At the same time, these developments highlight the importance of understanding national customs policies and how they influence e-commerce options across borders. As markets continue to adapt, buyers and sellers alike benefit from staying informed about regulatory changes and the practical steps required to complete a cross-border shipment efficiently. This evolving environment underscores the need for transparent pricing and proactive customer communication to minimize surprises at delivery. In summary, the new threshold and related charges are reshaping how international orders are valued, taxed, and processed, with a direct impact on the total cost of goods for consumers abroad.