GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

Import Handling Fee

Quick Answer

Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zollabfertigung

Category

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Reading time

1 min

Words

115

Mentioned in

–

Definition & Explanation

When a shipment arrives at its destination port or airport, the import handling fee covers the administrative and operational services required to clear it through customs and release it for domestic distribution. Freight forwarders, customs brokers, or terminal operators file the import customs declaration, verify accompanying documents, coordinate physical inspections, and obtain any necessary regulatory approvals. Fees vary according to commodity type, country of origin, shipment weight, and whether special permits or phytosanitary and veterinary clearances are involved. For regulated goods such as chemicals, foodstuffs, or dual-use items, the charges can be substantially higher. The import handling fee is distinct from customs duties and import VAT, both of which are levied directly by the state.

Next steps

Tools that match this term

Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

Related Terms

You might also be interested in these terms

e-dec Import Deactivation

The e-dec import deactivation refers to the planned end of electronic import customs declarations via the legacy e-dec Import syst…

Learn more

Automated Import Notification

An automated import notification is the electronic declaration of imported goods that freight forwarders and importers transmit to…

Learn more

Passar 2.0 import

Passar 2.0 (import) is the expansion stage of the Swiss goods traffic system Passar (BAZG) covering the import domain and replacin…

Learn more

Import

Sourcing goods from abroad – whether for resale, further processing, or own use – relies on the import procedure as the fundamenta…

Learn more

import tax

At the point of customs clearance, import tax liability arises: the term covers all charges levied on goods imported from third co…

Learn more

Incoterms Import Responsibility

Unlike mere cost allocation, import responsibility under Incoterms determines which party handles the entire import process in the…

Learn more

⚡ Current 2026

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

Passar Hub →Declar Info

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Weekly: Top news, industry facts and insights from the world of logistics – free.

Import Handling Fee

Next steps

Related Terms

e-dec Import Deactivation

Automated Import Notification

Passar 2.0 import

Import

import tax

Incoterms Import Responsibility

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Community Questions & Answers