Keep €400 in your wallet by dodging the Belgian VAT trap on the Framework 13 DIY using a freight forwarder

The 2026 Framework Hype: Intel Core Ultra Series 2

The tech landscape in 2026 has shifted heavily toward repairability, and the Framework Laptop 13 (2026 DIY Edition) remains the poster child for this movement. This year’s refresh features the Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, providing a massive leap in NPU performance for local AI tasks and significantly better battery efficiency than previous generations. Enthusiasts are flocking to these [popular products](https://www.comgateway.com/trends/) because Framework has finally perfected the thermal management for the 13-inch chassis.

Start Your Buy For Me Request for Framework Laptop 13 (2026 DIY Edition - Intel Core Ultra Series 2)

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However, there is a catch for those of us living in Brussels or Antwerp. While the hardware is revolutionary, the regional pricing strategy often leaves European buyers feeling like they are subsidizing the rest of the world. The DIY Edition is specifically designed for those who want to bring their own RAM and storage, yet the base price in the US remains significantly more aggressive than what we see at local retailers.

The Hidden Barrier: Why Belgium pays more

The most frustrating obstacle for Belgian techies is the 'VAT premium.' When you buy locally, you are not just paying for the laptop; you are paying a 21% Value Added Tax on top of a base price that is already inflated for the EU market. Furthermore, many of the newest modular expansion cards—like the 2026 high-speed microSD reader and the dual-USB-C modules—often debut as US-only exclusives for the first six months.

By choosing to [shop us store](https://www.comgateway.com) directly, you can access the DIY Edition at its true MSRP. Even after considering the costs of a [freight forwarder](https://www.comgateway.com), the total expenditure often remains €350 to €450 lower than buying the equivalent spec in Europe. This is why many savvy Belgians are turning to [package forwarding](https://www.comgateway.com) to bridge the Atlantic gap.

Shipping Estimates for the Framework 13

To accurately [estimate shipping cost](https://www.comgateway.com/calculator/), you need to know exactly what is landing at the warehouse. The Framework 13 DIY Edition is shipped in eco-friendly, compact packaging that minimizes wasted space.

• Box Weight: Approximately 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs) including the laptop, expansion cards, and the specialized screwdriver kit.
• Box Dimensions: Medium (Approx. 38cm x 28cm x 8cm). It is relatively slim, which helps keep costs down.
• Volumetric Warning: Because the laptop is dense and the box is slim, you likely will not be hit with high volumetric fees. However, if you add large accessories like the Framework Factory Seconds display, always check the [shipping calculator](https://www.comgateway.com/calculator/) first.
• Battery Check: This item contains a high-capacity Lithium-ion battery (UN3481). While shippable, it must be handled according to specific [international shipping rates](https://www.comgateway.com/shipping_rates/) for electronics. Most major carriers like DHL and FedEx handle this routinely, but it is worth noting for your paperwork.

Step-by-Step: Buying from the US Store

If you have tried to check out on the US Framework site with a Belgian credit card, you might have hit a wall. This is where [proxy shopping](https://www.comgateway.com) comes in handy. You can use a [tax-free us address](https://www.comgateway.com) provided by comGateway to avoid US sales tax (like Oregon’s 0% rate) before the item makes its journey to Europe.

Once your Framework arrives at the warehouse, you can select your preferred speed for [international shipping](https://www.comgateway.com/shipping_rates/). Whether you prefer [DHL international shipping](https://www.comgateway.com) for its speed or [FedEx international shipping](https://www.comgateway.com) for its reliability in the Flanders region, having choices ensures you don't overpay for the transit itself.

Customs, Layouts, and Belgium Delivery

Before you hit the buy button, remember the 'hidden barrier' of the keyboard. The US store defaults to QWERTY. If you absolutely need an AZERTY layout, you should order the 'Keyboard-less' DIY version and source the Belgian keyboard module separately, or check if the US store has the International English layout which many Belgian developers prefer anyway.

Regarding the [import tax](https://www.comgateway.com/destinations/BE/), Belgian customs will apply VAT (21%) and potential duties upon entry. Even with these fees, the 'Number Crunch' remains in your favor. When you calculate the US base price + [international shipping](https://www.comgateway.com/shipping_rates/) + Belgian VAT, it still undercuts the Belgian retail price by a significant margin. For a smooth [Belgium delivery](https://www.comgateway.com/destinations/BE/), ensure your declaration forms are accurate to avoid delays at the Brussels sorting facility.

You might also like to check our guide on [prohibited items](https://www.comgateway.com/blogs/category/prohibited-items/) to ensure your other 2026 tech purchases are cleared for flight.