Sending a package to Nepal: Customs, VAT and delivery time
From Germany to Kathmandu and throughout Nepal: How to properly prepare business shipments
Nepal lies between India and China and is landlocked. For international shipments, this means longer and sometimes multi-stage transport routes. Small goods and express shipments usually reach Nepal via air freight networks, while larger cargo is often transported via India and then overland.
- Shipping from Germany to Nepal
- Parcel, express and freight solutions
- Shipping to Kathmandu and other regions
- Prepare customs and goods data digitally
- 13% VAT included
- Check import duty according to HS code
- Clarify the importer's EXIM code
- Check import permits before shipping
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For Nepal, the importer should be determined before pickup.
A complete commercial invoice alone is not always sufficient for a commercial import.
Goods description, HS code, goods value and recipient details should be checked before shipment, as well as the importer's EXIM code and any product-specific approvals.
Include 13% VAT in your calculations.
Nepal normally levies a 13 percent value-added tax (VAT). This tax also generally plays a role in the import of taxable goods.
Check the recipient's EXIM code
The Nepalese EXIM code serves as an identification number for registered importers and exporters and is issued by the Department of Customs.
Clarify approval requirements before shipping
The Nepal National Single Window is used to manage licenses, permits, and certificates, among other things. Therefore, for regulated goods, it is essential to check which permits are required before collection.
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Important information about customs and import duties
DAP or DDP to Nepal: Clarify importer and import costs early on.
Before any shipment to Nepal, it should be clearly stipulated who will handle the import clearance.
For DAP The seller organizes the transport to the agreed destination.
Import clearance and the agreed import costs are generally the responsibility of the recipient.
This can include:
- Import duty
- 13% VAT
- Possibly excise or special taxes
- Import permits
- Customs broker fees
- Carrier handling fees
For DDP The seller assumes further import obligations and agreed duties, insofar as the specific carrier and import situation allows this.
In the case of Nepal, it is particularly important that a suitable local importer is available.
The EXIM code is the government identification number for individuals and companies that import goods into or export goods from Nepal. nnsw.gov.np
Therefore, at least the following should be checked before making a binding DDP offer:
- HS code
- Customs value
- Import duty
- 13% VAT
- EXIM code
- Import permits
- other product-specific taxes
- Carrier and customs agent costs
A DDP price should therefore not simply consist of "freight plus 13 percent". The customs world would probably be much more popular if mathematics were truly that friendly.
What is the import duty in Nepal?
Nepal does not have a uniform import duty for all goods.
The amount depends on the specific tariff item.
The WTO indicates an average applied MFN tariff for Nepal in 2025 of:
13,0%
.
For agricultural goods, the average is higher at 16,7 percent, while for non-agricultural goods it is 12,4 percent. World Trade Organization
However, these values are purely averages.
A specific machine may have a completely different customs duty rate than, for example, an electrical appliance, spare part, or consumer product.
Therefore, the following are crucial for a genuine import calculation:
- HS code
- Type of goods
- cart value
- Country of origin
- Special import regulations may apply.
WTO data also show that the Nepalese customs tariff contains numerous different tariff levels. Average values are therefore suitable for classification, but not for price calculation. World Trade Organization
The transaction value is the basis for customs valuation.
The Nepalese authorities generally use the transaction price as the basis for customs valuation.
The importer must provide the relevant invoices and other documentation to verify the declared value of the goods. TEPC
Therefore, the invoice amount should be verifiable and correspond to the actual goods delivered.
What is the value added tax in Nepal?
Nepal raises a:
Value Added Tax, or VAT for short.
The standard tax rate is:
13%. ird.gov.np
VAT generally also applies to taxable imports of goods.
However, tax exemptions or special regulations may apply to individual goods and transactions.
In the case of a normal commercial import, additional costs may arise besides VAT:
- Import duty
- Excise taxes, if applicable
- Import license or permit costs
- Customs broker fees
- Carrier handling fees
Customs duties and VAT should therefore always be calculated separately.
Regular VAT: 13%
EXIM, NECAS and NNSW: Nepal digitizes its customs procedures
Nepalese customs clearance now uses several digital systems.
A key component is:
NECAS – Nepal Customs Automation System.
NECAS is based on ASYCUDAWorld and was introduced in Nepal starting in 2016.
According to the Nepalese Department of Customs, the system is now in use at 28 customs posts.
Features include, but are not limited to:
- web-based customs clearance
- electronic data exchange
- Document upload
- Risk-based selection of shipments
- electronic payments
- digital signatures
In addition, there is this:
Nepal National Single Window, NNSW.
The NNSW consolidates trade-related processes via a common platform.
It includes functions for, among other things:
- EXIM code
- Licenses
- permits
- Certificates
- Tariff search
- Customs and tax information
available. nnsw.gov.np
For German shippers, this means:
The information transmitted electronically should exactly match the commercial invoice and other shipping documents.
Furthermore, companies can further standardize their internal customs processes to address recurring questions.
You can find out more at Answer customs questions automatically.
Sending a package to Nepal: What companies should know before shipping
Nepal is a landlocked country in the Himalayas and borders only India and China.
The most important economic, administrative and logistics center is:
Kathmandu.
Other important cities and trading centers include:
- Birgunj
- Pokhara
- biratnagar
- Bhairahawa
- Lalitpur
- Butwal
Geographical location has a direct impact on international trade.
Air freight can be transported directly to Nepal.
For larger quantities of goods, however, transport often leads first via India and then via a land border crossing to Nepal.
Birgunj is an important trading hub
Birgunj is one of the most important customs locations on the border with India.
The customs region there handles, among other things:
- Vehicles and vehicle parts
- electrical machines
- Industrial equipment
- Raw materials
- Pharmaceuticals (self manufacturing)
introduced.
Customs clearance there is fully computerized. birgunj.customs.gov.np
For larger freight deliveries, this transport corridor therefore plays a significantly more important role than in classic international parcel shipping.
What documents do I need for Nepal?
For commercial imports, the following are typically required:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing List
- Air Waybill or Bill of Lading
- Import declaration
- Importer's EXIM code
- Import license (if applicable)
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Proof of insurance (if applicable)
- further product-specific certificates
The Nepalese trade authorities list, among other things, the invoice, packing list, transport document, and, if applicable, certificate of origin and import license as typical documents. TEPC
A commercial invoice is used for a normal sale of goods.
For samples, warranty replacements, or other goods movements without a classic sale, a pro forma invoice may be useful depending on the process.
Which goods require additional permits?
That depends on the specific product group.
Depending on the goods, the relevant authorities may include, for example:
- Food products
- Pharmaceuticals (self manufacturing)
- Plants
- Animals
- VAT in the Telecommunication Sector
- other regulated products
be involved.
The NNSW is increasingly consolidating such licensing, permit, certificate, and other procedures digitally. nnsw.gov.np
Especially with regulated products, the inspection should therefore take place before the package decides to become a permanent customs tourist somewhere between Frankfurt and Kathmandu.
Are there any customs advantages between Nepal and the EU?
The direction is crucial here.
Nepal is currently benefiting from European:
Everything But Arms, EBA
System.
This means that qualified goods from Nepal can generally be imported into the EU duty-free and quota-free, with the exception of weapons and ammunition. Trade and Economic Security
However, this rule is:
unilaterally Nepal → EU.
This does not mean that a machine or spare part from Germany can automatically be imported into Nepal duty-free.
The European Commission also points out that Nepal is expected to move out of its least developed country status by 2026. Due to the transitional arrangements, the EBA benefits are to continue at least until the end of 2029. Trade and Economic Security
For a German export to Nepal, the Nepalese import duty for the specific goods must still be checked.
How long does it take for a package to reach Nepal?
DHL Parcel currently states a delivery time estimate of:
8 to 14 working days. DHL
DHL Express states the following for Nepal regarding worldwide shipments:
3 business days
The main delivery time is calculated over the course of the week, with an additional day as a guideline for shipments subject to customs duties. DHL
The actual runtime also depends on:
- Target region
- Customs clearance
- Import permits
- Type of goods
- Carrier
Outside the Kathmandu Valley, onward travel may take additional time.
What language should the customs declaration be in?
DHL accepts the following for online postage to Nepal:
English.
For deliveries to branches, the local language can also be used. DHL
For international business shipments, a precise English description is therefore recommended.
Not:
"Parts"
but for example:
“Aluminum pump housing for industrial water filtration system”
This makes the material, product, and use much easier to identify.
Write the address to Nepal correctly
International addresses should be written in Latin letters and Arabic numerals.
One possible format is:
RAM SHARMA
18 INDUSTRIAL ROAD
BANESHWOR
KATHMANDU 44600
NEPAL
Additionally, the recipient's phone number and email address should be provided.
DHL explicitly recommends this so that recipients can be informed about delivery or possible collection options.
These errors are delaying shipments to Nepal
When shipping to Nepal, problems often arise not only during transport, but also due to missing or contradictory import data.
Typical errors are:
- The importer's EXIM code was not verified.
- The product description is too general.
- HS code is missing or incorrect
- The value of the goods cannot be verified.
- Import permit was not checked in advance.
- Packing list missing
- The invoice and customs declaration do not match.
- Recipient data is incomplete
- Import costs were not clarified with the recipient.
For technical products, even an inaccurate product description can lead to a situation where customs tariffs or licensing requirements cannot be clearly determined.
Therefore, it is particularly worthwhile for companies with many international shipments to standardize recurring customs data and responses.
You can find out more at Answer customs questions automatically and simplify processes.
What goods are shipped from Germany to Nepal?
Nepal imports many machines, technical products and consumer goods, as a significant portion of industrial goods are not produced in the country itself.
For German companies, the following products, for example, may be relevant:
- Machines and production facilities
- Machine spare parts
- Electrical Engineering
- Measurement and testing technology
- Pumps and water technology
- Solar and energy technology
- medical devices and accessories
- IT and communication technology
- Tools
- Hotel and catering equipment
- Household and electrical appliances
Smartphones and other electronic devices can also be sent to Nepal.
However, import regulations alone should not be considered for such products. The lithium-ion batteries they contain can trigger additional requirements regarding packaging, labeling, and transport.
For more information, please visit Send your mobile phone safely and internationally.
For retailers and outfitters, kitchen appliances and catering equipment may also be relevant.
Information regarding packaging, weight and shipping can be found at Ship kitchen appliances safely.
Shipping information: Nepal
Standard, express or freight to Nepal.
The most suitable shipping method depends primarily on size, weight, and urgency.
Standard package
For smaller and less time-critical business shipments, a classic international parcel service can be used.
DHL Parcel currently states:
8 to 14 working days. DHL
Express Shipping
Express shipping is available for urgent spare parts, medical equipment, or production materials.
DHL Express Worldwide estimates a delivery time of approximately three working days for Nepal during the main transit period, with additional time required for shipments subject to customs duties.
Freight shipping
For machinery, pallets or larger quantities of goods, air freight as well as combined sea, rail and road transport via India are the most suitable options.
How do goods get from Germany to Nepal?
Nepal does not have its own seaport.
This means that the transport routes differ significantly from those of traditional coastal states.
Air freight is particularly important for time-critical goods.
The most important international access point is:
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
For larger shipments, however, the goods are often first transported to an Indian port and then forwarded by road or rail towards Nepal.
At the border, customs stations such as Birgunj are among the most important trade hubs.
The current Birgunj customs office lists vehicles, electrical machinery, industrial equipment, and raw materials among its typical imports. birgunj.customs.gov.np
For German companies, this means:
When shipping a pallet or machine, the international main route should not be the only factor considered.
Also:
- Transit through India
- Border clearance
- Onward transport within Nepal
- Recipient region
can significantly impact time and costs.
What import costs might arise in Nepal?
Importing goods to Nepal can consist of several cost components.
Depending on the goods, the following can occur:
- Import duty
- 13% VAT
- Excise tax (if applicable)
- Import license or permit costs
- Customs broker fees
- Carrier handling fees
The WTO average of 13 percent import duty should not be confused with the actual rate applied to a specific product. World Trade Organization
For an accurate cost calculation, the HS code and the currently applicable Nepalese tariffs must be used.
Customs valuation should also be taken into account, as Nepal generally works with the transaction value of the goods and may require corresponding documentation. TEPC
How much does a package to Nepal cost?
The shipping price depends in particular on:
- Weight
- Package dimensions
- Volumetric weight
- Carrier
- Standard or express shipping
- Target region
- Type of goods
- Additional Services
Especially in the case of Nepal, the recipient region plays a more significant role.
A shipment to Kathmandu may be logistically easier than a delivery to a remote mountain or rural region.
Additional charges may apply for:
- Remote Areas
- Fuel
- Special handling
- outsize
Therefore, companies should not only consider one carrier.
You can find further practical approaches at How companies can save money on shipping despite rising costs.
Online trade to Nepal: Import costs should not be explained only upon delivery.
Nepal is a classic third-country destination for online shops.
In addition to the price of goods and shipping costs, the customer may incur:
- Import duty
- 13% VAT
- other product-specific taxes
- Carrier handling fees
A general EU-IOSS regulation does not apply to imports into Nepal, of course.
Furthermore, one should not advertise across the board with alleged customs exemption for goods of low value without having checked the current Nepalese regulations and the specific goods.
Under DAP, the recipient generally bears the agreed import costs.
Therefore, it is particularly important to explain any potential additional costs before the order is completed.
For retailers with irregular international shipping, a usage-based shipping model may also be of interest.
You can find out more at Pay per label instead of fixed shipping subscriptions.
Nepal's landlocked location shapes customs and logistics alike.
Nepal's geographical situation makes it unique for international shipping.
The country:
- It has no seaport
- borders only India and China
- is heavily reliant on transit corridors for large flows of goods
- simultaneously uses modern digital customs systems
While physical transport sometimes takes place across multiple countries and modes of transport, customs clearance is becoming increasingly digitalized.
NECAS and the Nepal National Single Window support this change.
This creates an interesting combination for German exporters:
More complex transport routes, but increasingly digital import processes.
Especially with regular B2B shipping, it's therefore not enough to just optimize the carrier.
Also:
- Article master data
- HS codes
- Recipient registrations
- Import permits
should be maintained in a structured manner.
Which carrier is suitable for Nepal?
For shipments from Germany to Nepal, various international parcel, express and freight providers are available.
Depending on the broadcast, the following can be used, for example:
- DHL
- DHL Express
- UPS and international partner networks
- FedEx and its international partner networks
- Air freight forwarders
- international freight partners
When making a comparison, the base price should not be the only factor considered.
When evaluating solutions, organisations should ensure that the system provides:
- Runtime
- Customs service
- Tracking
- Insurance
- Weight limits
- maximum package dimensions
- Target region
- Remote area surcharges
A small package to Kathmandu therefore does not necessarily require the same shipping solution as a machine for a factory outside the Kathmandu Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping
Can I send a package from Germany to Nepal?
Yes. Parcels, express shipments, and business goods can be sent from Germany to Nepal. Since Nepal is not part of the EU, shipments require complete customs information.
How long does it take for a package to reach Nepal?
DHL Parcel currently estimates a delivery time of 8 to 14 business days. DHL Express Worldwide estimates approximately three business days for the main route, with additional processing time for shipments subject to customs duties.
What is the value added tax in Nepal?
The standard Nepalese VAT rate is 13 percent. This tax generally also applies to taxable imports of goods.
What are the customs fees in Nepal?
The import duty depends on the specific tariff heading. The WTO indicates an average applied MFN duty of 13 percent for 2025. However, this average does not replace the need to verify the actual HS code. World Trade Organization
What is an EXIM code in Nepal?
The EXIM code is the official identification number for individuals or companies that import goods into or export goods from Nepal. It is issued by the Nepalese Department of Customs.
What is NECAS?
NECAS stands for Nepal Customs Automation System. The system is based on ASYCUDAWorld and is used for electronic customs clearance. According to the customs administration, it has now been implemented at 28 customs offices.
What is the Nepal National Single Window?
The NNSW is a central digital platform for trade and customs processes. It allows users to manage and access EXIM codes, licenses, permits, certificates, and tariff information, among other things.
Do I need an import license for Nepal?
It depends on the specific product. Certain regulated products require licenses, permits, or certificates. The relevant procedures are increasingly being handled through the Nepal National Single Window.
Does the EU EBA regulation also apply to German exports to Nepal?
No. Everything But Arms grants Nepal preferential access to the EU market. The arrangement does not automatically reduce Nepalese import duties on goods shipped from Germany to Nepal.
What language should the customs declaration be in?
DHL accepts English for online postage. In-branch postage can also be purchased in the local language.
What documents do I need for Nepal?
Typically, a commercial invoice, packing list, transport documents, and complete product information are required. Depending on the goods, an import license, certificate of origin, proof of insurance, or other permits may also be necessary.
Why does freight to Nepal sometimes take longer?
Nepal has no seaport of its own. Large international trade flows therefore often have to be transported via third countries and then overland to Nepal. In addition, border clearance and onward transport within the country can take time.
