Parcel Tax: Customs Limits and Import Rules

The Essence

When ordering goods from abroad for personal use in Israel, you may be required to pay taxes. The primary taxes are VAT (מַעַ"מ) and customs duty (מֶכֶס). The tax amount depends on the value of the shipment. The main principle is: the more expensive the shipment, the higher the taxes.

Who is Eligible?

The rules for personal import apply to anyone ordering goods from abroad for personal, non-commercial use. This applies to:

• Shoppers on international websites (AliExpress, Amazon, eBay, etc.).
• Individuals receiving gifts from relatives or friends abroad.

Who is not subject to these rules:

• Commercial importers (who are subject to separate, stricter regulations).
• Importers of goods requiring special permits (e.g., certain communication equipment, automotive parts).

Your Rights

Your primary right is to import goods up to a certain value without paying taxes. Taxation thresholds change frequently, so always verify the current information.

Important Update: Please note that thresholds may be changed by legislation. For example, changes are planned from January 1, 2026, which may affect the limits.

Step-by-Step Guide

The process of paying taxes on a shipment is typically automated and handled by the courier service.

1. Ordering the Goods. You place an order on an international website. Ensure the seller declares the actual value of the goods on the declaration form.
2. Arrival in Israel. The shipment arrives at Israeli customs for inspection.
3. Assessment and Tax Calculation. Customs assesses the value of the shipment. If it exceeds the duty-free limit, taxes are levied.
4. Notification. The courier service (Israel Post, DHL, FedEx, etc.) will contact you via SMS or email to inform you of the required tax payment and customs clearance fees.
5. Payment. You pay the tax and fees via the provided online link or, in some cases, to the courier upon delivery. The expected time for this step is from a few hours to 2-3 days.
6. Receiving the Shipment. After payment, the shipment is released to you.

Document Checklist

For personal imports, you generally do not need to prepare a set of documents in advance. However, keep the following on hand:

• Invoice or order confirmation (to prove the value if requested by customs).
• Shipment tracking number.
• Teudat Zehut (may be required for personal identification upon receipt).

Potential Pitfalls

• Shipping Costs. The cost of shipping and insurance is often included in the total value for tax calculation if the shipment value exceeds $75. This can move your shipment into a taxable category.
• "Agent Fees". Courier companies (excluding the national post) charge their own fees for customs clearance services. These fees are added to the tax amount and can be substantial.
• Splitting Shipments. Do not attempt to split a single large order into several smaller ones to avoid taxes. If customs determines that multiple shipments from the same sender to the same recipient are part of a single order, their values will be combined.
• Prohibited Goods. Some items are prohibited for import or require a special license (e.g., laser pointers, radio equipment, auto parts). Check the list before ordering.
• Tobacco and Alcohol. Tobacco products and alcohol are subject to separate, very high taxes and are not covered by the general exemption up to $75.

Contacts and Links

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on customs duties and import regulations, it is recommended to consult the official website of the Israel Tax Authority (רשות המסים בישראל).

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