Your Easy Guide to Importing from the USA to Ireland
If you have ever wanted to snag the latest tech or fashion from American stores but felt intimidated by the paperwork, you are not alone. For many first-time shoppers, the thought of customs forms and surprise taxes can be a bit overwhelming. However, shipping from the USA to Ireland in 2026 is a straightforward process once you understand the basic rules of the road.
When you use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, the process becomes even more manageable. This guide will break down the costs you need to know about so your international shopping experience is smooth and stress-free.
Understanding VAT in Ireland
The most important thing for beginners to know is that almost every item imported into Ireland from outside the European Union is subject to Value Added Tax (VAT). As of 2026, the standard VAT rate in Ireland remains 23%. Unlike some other countries, Ireland does not have a minimum value threshold for VAT; this means even low-value items will incur this tax.
When you shop from the USA, the VAT is calculated based on the total value of the goods plus the cost of shipping and insurance. To avoid surprises at your doorstep, it is a great idea to estimate shipping costs to Ireland early in your shopping process so you can budget for the total landed cost.
Customs Duties and the 150 Euro Threshold
While VAT applies to almost everything, Customs Duty is a bit different. You only have to worry about this if your shipment is valued at more than €150 (excluding shipping and insurance). This €150 limit is known as the "de minimis" threshold for customs duties.
- Shipments under €150: No Customs Duty is charged (though VAT still applies).
- Shipments over €150: Customs Duty is applied. The rate depends on the type of product you are importing.
For example, many electronic items like laptops and smartphones often have a 0% duty rate, while clothing and footwear may have higher rates. If you have specific questions about a particular item, you can always check our FAQ for more detailed information on restricted or specialized goods.
Example Calculation for a 2026 Purchase
Let’s look at a quick example to see how this works in practice. Suppose you are buying a pair of premium sneakers from a US retailer:
| Item Cost | Shipping Cost | VAT (23%) | Customs Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| €100 | €30 | €29.90 | €0 (Below €150 threshold) |
In this scenario, because the sneakers themselves were valued under €150, you only pay the VAT on the total value of the goods and the shipping fee. It is much simpler than most people realize!
How to Pay Your Import Fees
In 2026, most international shipments are handled through a process where the courier pays the taxes on your behalf to Irish Revenue and then collects the payment from you before or at the time of delivery. Some US retailers also participate in the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) scheme, allowing you to pay the Irish VAT directly at the checkout of the US website.
If the retailer doesn't offer this, don't worry. Your shipping provider will notify you once the package reaches Ireland. Keeping an eye on your tracking information is the best way to ensure you don't miss any payment notifications.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
To make your first time importing from the USA as easy as possible, remember these three tips:
- Keep your invoices: Ensure the value declared matches the price you paid to avoid delays at customs.
- Bundle your items: Shipping multiple items in one package can often save you money on the base shipping rates.
- Check for restrictions: Some items, like certain liquids or batteries, have specific shipping requirements.
Shopping globally opens up a world of products that you simply can't find locally. By understanding these simple tax rules, you can enjoy the best of the USA from the comfort of your home in Ireland.
