This question was asked in our recent customer survey.

In general, the tariff code used for NIBSC products is duty free so you should not pay duty.

Many countries will charge local taxes such as VAT on the value of the goods. This is the customer’s responsibility to pay promptly to avoid delays.

Even when a shipment is being sent free of charge, local taxes may still be charged on the value of the shipment. It is a legal requirement that NIBSC declare a value for customs based on the normal selling price of the product. This value may then be used for assessing local taxes.

In many cases you can reclaim the tax from your government after delivery.

In some cases taxes are waived if the documentation includes a letter from NIBSC confirming that the goods are a donation for medical research and of no commercial value. This information is usually included in the shipping invoice but if a separate letter or special wording is required, please contact standards@nibsc.hpa.org.uk