Send a package to Curaçao
Easily compare shipping costs to Willemstad
Do you want to send a package to Curaçao? Paket International compares available offers for you. This allows you to see price, delivery time, and services at a glance. Curaçao is politically part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. However, the island is outside the EU customs territory. Therefore, goods require complete customs documentation.
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- Prepare customs data digitally
- Check shipment history online
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Three basics for shipping to Curaçao
These steps will help you avoid typical follow-up questions:
Select Curaçao as a separate customs destination
Use Curaçao instead of the Netherlands as the destination country. The ISO country code is CW. This ensures the correct shipping route is selected.
Make the recipient precisely reachable
Please provide your street address, house number, district, and Willemstad. Also include your mobile phone number and email address for delivery instructions.
Calculate import costs realistically
Imports are often subject to customs duties and a 9 percent value-added tax. Excise duties may also apply to certain products.
Shipping from
35.90 €
Delivery in
4-12 days
Guaranteed total cost for Platinum customers
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Important information about customs and import duties
Why DDP can be beneficial for Curaçao
DDP allocates the agreed import costs to the sender. This means the recipient is less likely to have to pay unexpected amounts, creating greater transparency in trade shipments.
DDP can offer the following advantages:
- better predictable total costs
- Fewer payment questions before handover
- lower risk of refusal of acceptance
- clearer processes for business customers
- More transparent ordering in online retail
However, DDP is not available for all goods. Service providers and importers must also be compatible. Local permits remain required.
Clarify customs duties, sales tax, and handling fees in advance. Also, check the importer's status. Our Incoterms guide for island deliveries explains DDP and DAP.
Customs duties on shipments to Curaçao
Curaçao is not part of the customs territory of the European Union. Therefore, every shipment of goods from Germany requires export and import clearance. This also applies to free samples.
The local import duty depends on:
- HS code of the goods
- Product type and material
- Customs value
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Usage
- possible excise taxes
- necessary import permits
Curaçao's customs tariff is based on the Harmonised System. The specific tariff is found in the local commodity nomenclature. Therefore, there is no uniform customs rate for all products.
No automatic EU customs exemption
Curaçao has the status of an overseas country and territory. Certain Curaçao-originating goods therefore receive preferential treatment when imported into the EU. This rule does not automatically work in the opposite direction.
EU origin alone does not guarantee duty-free import to Curaçao. Have any potential benefits checked against the local tariff. Do not rely on the Netherlands' EU membership.
You can find further help regarding Customs clearance for Curaçao and to Export documents for island markets.
Value added tax on imports to Curaçao
Curaçao does not use Dutch or German value-added tax (VAT). Instead, a local "Omzetbelasting," or OB for short, applies. The standard import rate for goods is... 9 percent.
Customs authorities generally calculate this tax based on the customs value. This includes the price of the goods, freight, and insurance up to the first point of unloading. Customs duties and excise taxes may also apply.
Some basic foodstuffs, medicines, and medical supplies have special exemptions. Other products are subject to special excise duties. Therefore, check each commodity code individually.
Local sales tax does not replace import duties. Both amounts can be incurred simultaneously.
Special customs regulations on Curaçao
The customs administration uses ASYCUDA World For electronic declarations. Postal and courier companies often handle import declarations. Formal imports of goods may require a freight forwarder or customs broker.
You will usually need the following for processing:
- Commercial or pro forma invoice
- detailed product description
- HS code per item position
- Quantity and individual value
- Total value and currency
- Net and gross weight
- Country of manufacture and origin
- Freight and insurance costs
- complete recipient details
- CRIB number upon request
- Product approvals if required
The recipient may need a CRIB number. This is used for local tax and customs identification. Please confirm this information with the courier.
DHL accepts English, Spanish, and Dutch for the customs declaration. Dutch or English is usually best. Papiamentu can help with any local queries.
Medicines, animals, plants, and meat products require special attention. CITES-listed goods also need appropriate documentation. The recipient should have the necessary permits before departure.
Compare parcel shipping to Curaçao online
For a Package to Curaçao You will need dimensions, weight, and a complete destination address. For goods, you will also need contents, value, and HS code.
Paket International compares suitable parcel, express, and freight offers. This allows you to easily compare delivery times, tracking, and additional services.
A correct invoice facilitates the import process. Our help section explains the difference between Commercial invoice and pro forma invoice for Curaçao.
Common problems when shipping to Curaçao
The biggest source of errors often lies in the choice of country. Curaçao is not a typical domestic destination for the Netherlands. Missing customs information also leads to inquiries.
Typical problems include:
- The shipping label only mentions "Netherlands".
- The country code is mistakenly NL instead of CW.
- The product description remains too general.
- HS code or country of origin is missing.
- A gift has no realistic value.
- The invoice does not mention any shipping costs.
- The recipient's phone number is missing.
- The district or house number is unclear.
- The requested CRIB number is not available.
- An import permit is missing.
- Batteries do not appear in the booking data.
- The buyer does not know the DAP costs.
Check the label, invoice, and customs information against each other. Have the recipient confirm their details. This saves time on deliveries to islands.
Typical shipping goods for Curaçao
The island's economy relies heavily on imported products. Therefore, shipments range from personal gifts to technical spare parts. Compact and robust goods are particularly well-suited.
Typical package and freight contents include:
- Spare parts for vehicles and boats
- Hotel and catering supplies
- Tools and operating equipment
- Computer and network accessories
- medical devices without cooling
- Solar technology and electrical components
- Diving, sailing and sports equipment
- Samples, printed materials and documents
Some items require an import permit. This includes, among other things, pharmaceuticals, animals, plants, meat products, and protected species. Check the product regulations in advance.
Batteries also require a transport law check. Our guide explains the process. Battery shipping to the Caribbean islandAlso note the Curaçao-relevant trade restrictions.
Shipping information: Curaçao
Shipping methods to Curaçao
The appropriate solution depends on the time required, weight, and value of the goods. Small packages are usually transported by air. Large shipments often reach the island by ship.
Express Shipping
Express shipping is suitable for urgent documents, samples, and spare parts. Detailed tracking facilitates coordination. However, customs inspections may still affect the overall delivery time.
Further information can be found on our page about Express shipping to the Dutch Caribbean.
Standard parcel shipping
Standard shipping is suitable for less urgent shipments. DHL estimates delivery time at 16 to 24 business days. Customs clearance may take additional time.
Airfreight
Air freight is suitable for heavy or time-sensitive business goods. Curaçao International Airport has the IATA code CUR. An agent can coordinate local import.
Sea Freight
Sea freight offers space for pallets, machinery, and containers. The port of Willemstad has container and general cargo facilities. Pre- and post-carriage must be factored into the schedule.
Pallet shipping
Pallets bundle heavy boxes and components. Seaworthy packaging protects against moisture and handling. Check out our solutions for the Pallet shipment to Willemstad.
Transport routes from Germany to Curaçao
Packages are primarily transported by air. Sea freight handles large or price-sensitive shipments. Due to the island's location, there is no continuous road transport.
air route via CUR airport
Curaçao International Airport is located near Hato. The airport connects the island with European and American markets. International cargo companies also use the location.
After customs clearance, there is a short inland leg of the journey. Willemstad and eastern residential areas are closer to the airport. Western island towns require more delivery time.
Sea route to the port of Willemstad
Willemstad has Curaçao's largest port. The container terminal is located in the Schottegat area. General cargo and vehicles are also handled there.
Sea freight can involve multiple transshipments. The port of departure and the shipping company determine the route. Also, factor in port and customs clearance times.
Last mile on the island
Once approved, a courier, freight forwarder, or postal partner takes over. Precise location details aid navigation. A mobile phone number facilitates quick follow-up questions.
Import duties in Curaçao
In addition to the transport costs, several local fees may apply. The HS code, customs value, and type of goods determine the exact amount. The contracted service provider may also charge fees.
Possible cost components include:
- product-dependent import duty
- 9 percent VAT on imports
- Excise tax on certain goods
- Customs broker or forwarding costs
- Preparation and submission fees
- government service fees
- Examination and approval fees
- Storage costs if approval is not granted
The customs value includes the purchase price, freight, and insurance. Customs authorities use it as the basis for calculation. A low invoice value must not artificially reduce the tax burden.
The official online purchasing site states a minimum value of NAF 50. However, since 2025, Curaçao has used the Caribbean Gulden (XCG). Please check the current usage beforehand.
The currency conversion was carried out on a one-to-one basis. Therefore, both numerical values remain mathematically the same. However, the current customs decision remains decisive.
Cost of a package to Curaçao
Shipping costs depend heavily on weight and volume. Service, pickup location, and product contents also affect the price. Therefore, general statements remain imprecise.
These factors shape the offer:
- actual package weight
- calculated volumetric weight
- Length, width and height
- Standard or express shipping
- Pickup and destination address
- Fuel and island surcharges
- Insurance and scope of liability
- bulky goods or special form
- Dangerous goods and battery information
- Return or customs service
Large voids often increase the bulk density. Therefore, use a suitable cardboard box. However, be sure to adequately cushion fragile items.
With DAP, the recipient usually pays the import duties. DDP allocates agreed amounts to the sender. Therefore, always compare the total costs.
Shipping to Curaçao for online shops
Online shops should list Curaçao as a separate destination country. The code CW prevents incorrect assignment to the Netherlands. Additionally, the checkout process requires complete address fields.
The following data belongs in the system for each item:
- understandable product name
- Material and intended use
- HS code
- Sales and customs value
- Country of origin
- Weight and quantity
- Battery or dangerous goods status
- possible import restrictions
Import costs explained before purchase
Online purchases from abroad are subject to local taxes. With DAP (Delivered Payment Services), the service provider usually collects these from the buyer. Clear checkout instructions reduce complaints and returns.
DDP can improve the shopping experience. However, the solution requires a suitable carrier and import process. Our article demonstrates the Display of Curaçao taxes at checkout.
Record recipient data completely
Ask for the district, street, house number, and Willemstad. Provide your telephone number and email address. A CRIB number may be required for import.
Automated data saves manual work. Read more about this. Shop integration for Caribbean orders and the API integration for international shipping orders.
Special features of addresses in Curaçao
Curaçao does not use a comprehensive postal code system like Germany. Therefore, street, house number, and district are particularly important. The recipient should confirm the spelling beforehand.
One possible address format is:
Mevrouw Naomi Martina
Saliña 127
WILLEMSTAD
CURACAO
Add the following information depending on the destination address:
- full recipient name
- Company and department
- Street or Kaya
- House or building number
- district or part of town
- Willemstad or other destination
- Mobile phone number
- Email address
- Delivery instructions for hard-to-find buildings
Write Curaçao in capital letters on the last line. Use Latin letters and Arabic numerals. Avoid adding "Netherlands" to the country name.
DHL specifies a storage period of 30 working days. Nevertheless, the recipient should respond promptly to avoid costly return shipments.
Shipping service provider for Curaçao
Postal services, express delivery companies, and freight forwarders serve the island. Not every service covers all goods. Therefore, compare prices, customs assistance, and the scope of services.
DHL Parcel International
DHL states a standard delivery time of 16 to 24 business days. Packages must not exceed 30 kilograms. Tracking and insurance up to €500 are included.
Standard packages measure a maximum of 120 x 60 x 60 centimeters. The maximum girth is 300 centimeters. Additional insurance covers up to 5.000 euros.
DHL Express
DHL Express is ideal for time-critical documents and goods. Close tracking facilitates communication with the recipient. Customs clearance and response times remain crucial.
UPS
UPS offers international courier solutions to Curaçao. Availability and transit time depend on the sender, contents, and destination address. Special goods require pre-screening.
FedEx
FedEx transports suitable documents, packages, and freight shipments. The service is often suitable for spare parts and samples. Local handling fees may apply.
Cpost International
Cpost International is the local postal operator. The company handles mail and local services. Tracking updates may be delayed for packages handed over to partners.
Freight forwarding companies
Freight forwarders organize air freight, sea freight, and island transport. They are suitable for pallets, machinery, or containers. A local customs broker often complements the service.
Compare in particular:
- full transport price
- Possible island surcharges
- runtime orientation
- permissible dimensions and weights
- Tracking scope
- liability and insurance
- Support with ASYCUDA World
- DDP or DAP offer
- Acceptance of inspected products
- Return options
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping
How do I send a package to Curaçao?
Enter the pickup location, recipient address, dimensions, and weight. Then compare suitable offers. Shipments also require an invoice and customs information.
Does Curaçao belong to the Netherlands for customs purposes?
No. Curaçao belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but not to the EU customs territory. Therefore, separate import rules apply.
Which country code do I use?
The ISO code is CW. Select Curaçao as a separate destination country. Do not use NL for a domestic address in the Netherlands.
How long does it take to ship the package?
DHL estimates delivery time at 16 to 24 business days. Express services may be faster. Customs inspection and deliveries to islands can affect the delivery time.
Which customs languages does DHL accept?
DHL accepts English, Spanish, and Dutch. Please use precise product terms. Generic descriptions like "things" are not helpful to customs.
What documents do I need for goods?
You will usually need a commercial or pro forma invoice. Business deliveries may also require a packing list, licenses, and other documentation.
What is the VAT rate for imports?
The standard import duty is 9 percent. Curaçao calls this tax Omzetbelasting. It is not the same as Dutch VAT.
How does Curaçao calculate the customs value?
The customs value includes the price of the goods, freight, and insurance up to the first point of unloading. The HS code then determines the appropriate customs duty rate.
What is the import duty?
The rate depends on the product. Curaçao uses its own customs tariff according to the Harmonised System. Check each commodity code individually.
Are goods originating in the EU automatically duty-free?
No. LGO status does not automatically grant duty-free access to shipments from the EU. Have potential local benefits checked separately.
Can I send a gift?
Yes, provided the contents comply with import regulations. Gifts require a precise description and a realistic customs value.
Is there an exemption for personal gifts?
Certain occasional private-to-private shipments can benefit from up to NAF 125. Strict conditions and quantity limits apply. Check with the service provider beforehand.
What does the old designation NAF mean?
NAF refers to the former Netherlands Antillean guilder. Since March 2025, the Caribbean guilder (XCG) has been in use. The conversion was one-to-one.
Does the recipient need a CRIB number?
Your customs agent or courier may request it. The CRIB number identifies individuals and companies locally. Clarify this before shipping.
What is ASYCUDA World?
ASYCUDA World is Curaçao's electronic customs system. It supports import, export, and transit procedures. Freight forwarders use it for declarations.
Can I send medication?
Medications may require an import permit. The recipient should clarify the medication, quantity, and intended use with the relevant authority beforehand.
Am I allowed to send food to Curaçao?
Some foods are subject to health or agricultural regulations. Meat products require special attention. Check expiration dates and approvals beforehand.
Does Curaçao use postal codes?
Standard addresses usually don't include a postal code. Therefore, the street, house number, and district must be correct. Please also include a mobile phone number.
Can I book DDP to Curaçao?
This depends on the supplier, the goods, and the importer. Have DDP confirmed before booking. An import permit is still required.
Who pays the import costs under DAP?
With DAP (Delivered at Place), the recipient usually pays the local taxes and duties. Inform them in good time. This will prevent surprises before delivery.
Can I track the broadcast?
Many parcel and express delivery services offer tracking. If the package is handed over to a local partner, updates may appear later. Share the tracking number early.
How long does DHL store packages?
DHL states a delivery time of 30 business days for Curaçao. The recipient should still react quickly. Delayed pickup increases the risk of return.
