GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
customs valuation process
When an importer submits a customs declaration, the customs valuation process begins: authorities must determine whether the price shown on the commercial invoice can serve as the basis for calculating import duties.
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Source: https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/cusval_e/cusval_e.htm
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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system
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Definition & Explanation
When an importer submits a customs declaration, the customs valuation process begins: authorities must determine whether the price shown on the commercial invoice can serve as the basis for calculating import duties. The primary method is transaction value – the price actually paid or payable between an unrelated buyer and seller. If that value cannot be substantiated or appears distorted, a strict hierarchy of fallback methods applies: the value of identical or similar goods, the deductive value derived from resale prices in the country of import, the computed value based on cost-plus calculations, and finally a residual method drawing on available data. No later method may be applied before all higher-ranking ones have been exhausted – the sequence is mandatory. Internationally, the process is governed by the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement, which builds on Article VII of the GATT.
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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system
Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.
Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027
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