IOSS & HS Codes – Stallion Express

1. What is IOSS?

IOSS (Import One-Stop Shop) is an EU system that simplifies VAT collection for eCommerce sellers shipping to European customers. It allows businesses to charge and remit VAT at the point of sale, preventing customers from having to pay VAT upon delivery.

2. How do I use IOSS with Stallion Express?

When creating a shipment in Stallion Express, you can enter your IOSS number in the designated field on the shipment creation page. This ensures that VAT is handled correctly and prevents your customers from being charged additional fees upon delivery.

3. Is it mandatory to enter an IOSS number?

No, but if you’re selling to the EU and wish to prepay VAT to avoid delivery delays or unexpected charges for your customers, you should enter your IOSS number during shipment creation. If no IOSS number is provided, the recipient may have to pay VAT upon delivery.

4. What is an HS Code?

An HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is a standardized international classification for products. It helps customs authorities identify the type of goods being shipped and apply the correct duties and taxes.

5. How do I enter HS Codes in Stallion Express?

When creating a shipment, you will find a field for HS Codes on the shipment creation page. Simply enter the correct HS Code that corresponds to your product. If you are unsure of the HS Code, you can look it up on the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or the World Customs Organization website.

6. Why are HS Codes important?

HS Codes are required for customs clearance and help ensure:

Accurate tax and duty calculations
Faster customs processing
Compliance with international shipping regulations

7. What happens if I enter an incorrect HS Code or leave it blank?

Providing an incorrect HS Code may result in:

Delays in customs clearance
Additional charges or penalties
Misclassification of your product, leading to incorrect duties

To avoid these issues, always verify the correct HS Code before entering it in Stallion Express.

8. Where can I find my IOSS number and HS Code?

IOSS Number: If you are an online seller, your marketplace (e.g., eBay, Amazon) may provide an IOSS number. If selling through your own website, you must register for IOSS via an EU tax intermediary.
HS Code: Check your product description on international tariff classification databases or use tools like CBSA’s HS Code Finder.

9. Can Stallion Express generate an IOSS number for me?

No, Stallion Express does not generate IOSS numbers. You must obtain one from your marketplace or an EU tax intermediary and manually enter it when creating your shipment.

10. What if I have multiple items with different HS Codes in one shipment?

Each product type should be assigned its respective HS Code. When creating a shipment in Stallion Express, you can enter the appropriate HS Code for each item to ensure accurate customs processing.

11. Who is responsible for VAT and duties if I don’t use IOSS?

If you do not provide an IOSS number, the recipient will be responsible for paying VAT and any applicable duties upon delivery. This may result in delays or unexpected charges for your customers.

12. Can I edit my IOSS number or HS Code after creating a shipment?

No, once a shipment has been processed, you cannot edit the IOSS number or HS Code. Ensure that all details are correct before finalizing the shipment.