Guide to Sending Parcels to Iceland

Iceland sits on the active geologic border between North America and Europe, which has produced active volcanoes, abundant hot geysers, and thundering waterfalls. As a result, Iceland is an island of stark beauty and contrast.

While Iceland is home to a mere 365,000 people, it is one of the most developed nations in the world and can boast a very high standard of living. This has led to Icelanders using the internet a lot, which means they also are shopping online much more recently. And since Canada has the largest ethnic Icelandic population outside Iceland, isn't it time to say halló to our Icelandic friends?

Information on this page was taken from Iceland Revenue and Customs and Iceland Post.

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Easily compare the best and cheapest shipping options to Iceland through a variety of carriers using Secureship

Secureship provides safe and affordable shipping from Canada to Iceland. In case you are an everyday shopper or a business, you can easily save up to 50% on your international shipping costs by way of accessing our group buying power.

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IconEasy Tracking Information

Shipments through Secureship come with full, easy to read tracking information to Iceland


IconDisclaimer

While we have made every effort to ensure that the information on this page is accurate, Customs laws and procedures change regularly so it is important to consult a licensed broker in Iceland before shipping any goods.

Full tracking information for parcels to Iceland is available with Secureship
Tracking #:780123123123
Tel: 1-800-463-3339
Signed By: Pikwalia @ Residence
Dec 11, 2024
8:49 am
áRBORG - SELFOSS, AS, IS
Delivered
Dec 10, 2024
7:18 am
AKRANES, AK, IS
In transit
Dec 9, 2024
9:03 pm
AKUREYRI, AK, IS
International Clearance
Dec 9, 2024
8:14 am
KóPAVOGUR, KO, IS
In transit
Dec 9, 2024
12:17 am
Toronto, ON, CA
In transit
Dec 8, 2024
4:30 pm
Ottawa, ON, CA
Pickup Scan

IconTypes of Shipments

Not all types of shipments are created equal. Shipping a television will require different paperwork, duties, and taxes than shipping an accounting statement, for example.

Shipping Documents Only to IcelandDocuments Only

Most documents can be shipped from Canada to Iceland duty-free provided they have no commercial value.

Document shipments include:

  • Annual reports
  • Computer print-outs
  • Diplomas
  • Drawings
  • Driver's licence
  • Gift cards
  • Graphs
  • Intercompany mail
  • Manuscripts
  • Price lists
  • Proposals and bids
  • Specifications sheets
  • Visa applications

The following items may also be shipped from Canada to Iceland duty-free providing they meet customs criteria:

Item Restriction
Event tickets - for stage performances, concerts, or football (soccer) games Maximum shipment weight of 500 g Cannot include tickets from a printing company to an event organiser or ticket sales office
Newsletters Only intercompany documents for internal use without commercial value

Sources:
https://www.ups.com/ga/CountryRegs?loc=en_US

Shipping Gifts to IcelandShipping Gifts

Parcels shipped as gifts from Canada to Iceland of ISK 13,500 (about $135 CAD) or less will be exempt from duty.

Shipments from Individual-to-Individual

A gift shipment from an individual in Canada to an individual in Iceland will be duty-free if its value is ISK 13,500 (about $135 CAD) or less, and:

  • The shipment has no commercial value
  • The label clearly states that the gift is for a birthday, wedding*, confirmation, or Christmas present
  • It is sent to someone related to the shipper

*Wedding gifts exceeding ISK 13,500 ($135 CAD) are exempt from duties provided:

  • They are approved by the Director of Customs
  • Shipped no later than six months from the wedding

Shipments from Business-to-Business

Shipments to a business in Iceland from a business in Canada are not considered as gifts and will incur duties and taxes.

Shipments from Business-to-Individual

Shipments from a business in Canada to an individual in Iceland will incur taxes and charges regardless of the value of the gift.

Gift Checklist

  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment
  • The words 'Gift Shipment' or 'Unsolicited Gift' are included on the commercial invoice, even if the shipment is sent at Christmas time (see sample)
  • List the items in the parcel and write the value of each
  • Sending more than one gift in the parcel? Wrap and tag each one individually.

Sample Commercial Invoice for Gifts

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Personal Shipment / Gift Shipment

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Gift Shipment: LEGO Star Wars Rebel UWing Fighter, 659 piece set

CA $79.99
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Gifts
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $79.99
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge


Multiple Gifts in One Shipment

Multiple gifts in one shipment will be exempt from duty and taxes if each gift is wrapped and tagged individually and the shipper or receiver of the gift is not a business.

Sample Commercial Invoice for Gifts

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Unsolicited Gift: Consolidated Gift Package

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Gift - Roger: LEGO Star Wars Rebel UWing Fighter, 659 piece set

CA $39.99
1 Each Gift - Erica: Handwoven French Canadian Catalogne Blanket

CA $49.99
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Gifts
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $89.98
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Sources:
https://posturinn.is/en/individuals/frequently-asked-questions/are-you-ordering-online/?id=9994506f-90cb-4b80-82b4-6e12396498a9

Shipping personal effects/belongings to IcelandShipping Personal Effects

Icelandic nationals returning to live permanently in Iceland can import their personal goods free of duty and tax providing:

  • They have lived outside of Iceland for 1 year or more
  • The goods are used and have been owned for 1 year or more
  • The goods are declared within 12 months from when the returning citizen takes up residence
  • The value of the does not exceed ISK 140,000 (about $1415 CAD)

Personal effects are for the use of its owner and his or her family. They include items such as:

  • Personal items such as clothing and footwear
  • Household furniture and appliances
  • Audio equipment, computers, artworks, ornaments, books, and musical instruments
  • Sports equipment and outdoor gear
  • Stamp and coin collections
  • Portable instruments required for a profession or trade

The following items are not exempt from duty and tax:

  • Tobacco and tobacco products
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Materials for professional use

Moving Temporarily

Students

Students may ship their personal effects to Iceland if they move there temporarily for their studies.

Personal effects are considered to be:

  • Educational materials (paper and pens, computers and books)
  • Household goods such as linens, shoes, and clothing
  • Furniture used by a student, like a desk and chair
Non-students

Canadian citizens may ship their personal effects to Iceland exempt from duty and taxes when moving temporarily.

Exemption will be granted under the following conditions:

  • The goods have been owned for 1 year or more and have been used
  • The owner has lived in Canada for a minimum of 12 continuous months

Moving Permanently

If you are moving to Iceland after having lived outside of the country for 1 year or more, you may bring your used personal effects into the country tax and duty-free.

The following conditions apply for a tax and duty exemption:

  • Your goods may not be lent, sold or given away for at least after your arrival.
  • Household effects have been owned by the importer and his/her family for at least one year and are exclusively for the household
  • Goods are valued at ISK 140,000 (about $1415 CAD) or less (based on the retail value at the purchase location)
  • The amount applies to each member of family 18 years of age or older
Personal Effects Checklist
  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'Personal Effects' (see sample)
  • A detailed description of each item is provided

Sources:
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf
https://www.skatturinn.is/english/individuals/customs-matters/moving-to-iceland/dutiable-goods/dutiable-goods

Sample Commercial Invoice for Personal Effects

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Personal effects being delivered to my new address.

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
5 Pairs Personal Effects: 5 pairs of various types of shoes

IN $40.00
1 Each Personal Effects: Arc'terix Winter Jacket

CA $478.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Personal Effects
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $678.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Shipping Food, Chocolate, Candies to IcelandFood, Chocolate, Candies

Food and food items like candies and chocolate can be shipped to Iceland providing they meet the customs standards established by the European Union.

You May Ship

  • Chocolate, candy, and confectionery
  • Pasta and vermicelli without meat products
  • Baked goods providing they do not contain meat products
  • Honey
  • Broths and extracts
  • Food supplements
  • Powdered baby milk and food, and foods for special medical diets*
  • Cured, cooked, or smoked fish (up to 20 kg)
  • Live oysters, mussels, and snails*
*Up to 2 kg

Do Not Ship

  • Animal-based products
  • Margarine of animal origin
  • Perishable items - eggs and dairy products
  • Meat and meat products
Food, Chocolate, Candies Checklist
  • Clearly indicate 'Food' on the commercial invoice in the General Description or Remarks section (see sample)
  • Ensure that your food, chocolate, or candies may be imported into the country
  • You are not shipping commercial quantities (for any duty & tax exemption)
  • Check with your carrier that they will accept food shipments

Sources:
https://www.mast.is/en/import-export/mail-orders
https://www.mast.is/en/import-export/what-can-i-bring-with-me-to-iceland

Sample Commercial Invoice for Food, Chocolate, Candies

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Food Shipment - Assorted chocolate bars in their original manufacturer's packaging

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Box Nestle Chocolate Bars in original packaging expiring May 2021 (shelf life of 6 months or longer)

CA $20.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Permanent / Sold
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $20.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Shipping Promotional Material to IcelandSamples

Commercial samples are those that can only be used for demonstration purposes. The purpose is to promote products and solicit sales. Samples are not to be sold.

Samples shipped to Iceland may be exempt from duty and tax if they are of negligible value (up to ISK 5000 - about $50 CAD - and no more than 10 kg in weight), and:

  • Goods have no commercial value
  • Goods are sent to an exhibition or for demonstration purposes
  • There is no more than one sample of each style or quality in the shipment
  • Letters, booklets, and printed material are not intended for redistribution

Before shipping commercial samples to Iceland, you must ensure the following:

  • The commercial invoice must clearly state that the package contains samples
  • Package is labelled 'Mutilated Samples' or 'Marked Samples not for Resale'
Commercial Sample Checklist
  • A Commercial Invoice must be included with your shipment
  • Clearly indicate 'Commercial Samples' on the commercial invoice in the General Description & Detailed Description of Goods (see sample)
  • The item shipped has tearing, perforation, slashing, defacing, or has permanent marking clearing indicating the item as commercial sample

Sources:
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf
https://www.skatturinn.is/english/companies/customs-matters/importing-to-iceland/ata-carnets/-

Sample Commercial Invoice for Commercial Sample

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Commercial Sample - Not for Resale

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Box Commercial Sample - Advanced reading copy of Dan Brown's novel.

CA $20.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Commercial Sample
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $20.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Sending Promotional material to IcelandAdvertising Material

Printed material for advertising purposes is exempt from duty on imports such as:

  • Letters, booklets, and printed material
  • Goods for exhibitions and trade or industrial fairs, including materials used to decorate exhibition booths
  • Office supplies used at conferences, meetings, or celebrations
  • Table coverings and tableware, e.g. with the company logo

Shipping advertising material to Iceland from Canada is fairly easy. Ensure that:

  • A shipment with printed advertisements must be for only one service or product
  • Forms clearly show the name of the company that produces or sells the goods or supplies the services to which they refer

Advertising material shipped for display at a trade fair or exhibition may also be sent using an ATA Carnet. See Temporary Imports for details.

Advertising Material Checklist
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'Promotional Material - Not for Resale' (see sample)
  • A detailed description of each item is provided

Sources:
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf
https://www.skatturinn.is/einstaklingar/tollamal/inn-og-utflutningur/timabundinn-innflutningur/timabundinn-innflutningur

Sample Commercial Invoice for Promotional Material

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Promotional Material - Not for Resale

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Promotional Material: Not for Resale. Product pamphlets to hand out at trade show.

CA $163.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Promotional Material
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $163.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Have your goods warranty repaired in IcelandRepairs

Sending a piece of equipment for repair to Iceland from Canada is easy. Duty and taxes are exempt because of the European Union's inward processing rules. Inward processing means items shipped from Canada to Iceland for repair will be duty-free.

Free warranty repairs done in Canada and returned to Iceland will not incur VAT.

Items Under Warranty

As Canada and Iceland are part of the EU free-trade agreement (CETA), repairs under warranty returning to Canada from Iceland are duty-free and will not be charged GST.

Items No Longer Under Warranty

An item that is no longer under warranty and returns to Canada from Iceland will be charged GST. The GST will be charged on the value of the repair and on any parts required for the repair.

Sending Product for Repair to Iceland

Sending equipment for repair to Iceland is straightforward because of the European Union's inward processing rules, which means items shipped from Canada to Iceland for repair will be duty-free.

Returning Repaired Product to Iceland

Equipment repaired in Canada under a warranty will not incur duty and taxes when they re-enter Iceland.

Repair Checklist
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'REPAIR & RETURN' under the General Description or Remarks, and include the estimated time of return(see sample)
  • Include repair contract with shipment
  • Serial or product number and the cost of repairs should be indicated under the Detailed Description of Goods section
  • Include the original shipping documents or tracking number from when the item was first exported to Iceland or exported to Canada (depending on which case applies)
  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment

Sources:
https://www.tollur.is/upload/files/Tollal%C3%B6g%2088%202005%20%C3%A1%20ensku%20192%2023.%20ma%C3%AD%202006%20fyrir%20vef%20Endanleg%20%C3%BAtg%C3%A1fa%281%29.pdf[Article 10 Goods sent abroad for repairs during their guarantee period]


https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf

Sample Commercial Invoice for Warranty Repair

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Repair and Return - Watch being sent for repair

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Fossil Watch being sent for repair - Model E5, serial # 789456FG7E2 - Repair Cost $76.00

US $163.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Warranty Repair
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $163.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Temporary Imports / Exports for shipments to IcelandTemporary Imports

Temporary imports of certain goods into Iceland will be exempt from duty and taxes for a period of up to 12 months.

Goods that often qualify as temporary imports include:

  • Commercial samples
  • Materials used to decorate an exhibition booth
  • Items that will be used or displayed at an exhibition, meeting, or trade or industrial fair
  • Equipment required to evaluate and test the operation of other goods or equipment
  • Tools and specialised equipment required for repairing, exploring, producing, or manufacturing
  • Equipment, printed matter, office supplies, etc. for use at conferences, meetings, or celebrations
  • Computers and related equipment
  • Equipment intended to ensure the security of participants
  • Printed material, table coverings, and tableware, e.g. with the company logo

ATA Carnets

Advertising shipped for display at a trade fair or exhibition may be sent to Iceland using an ATA carnet.

Temporary imports must meet the following criteria:

  • The goods are not to be altered except through natural wear-and-tear
  • Goods may not stay in Iceland longer than 12 months

Qualifying for Duty & Tax Free Temporary Import

In order to import your goods duty and tax free into Iceland, you can pick from Option 1 or 2 of the Temporary Import Methods listed below.

Each option has its pros and cons. Regardless, each of the following methods requires you to complete a commercial invoice. More details below.

Option # Temporary Import Method Risk of paying
1 Commercial Invoice Only (no other documentation is provided) High - if broker cannot clear goods temporarily
2 Commercial Invoice + ATA Carnet Very Low
1. Complete a Commercial Invoice (CI) only


This is the simplest and quickest option. See example.

NOTE: You should be aware that shipping using this method doesn't guarantee that your items will be imported duty/tax free. Not all brokers will clear goods as temporary imports (i.e. UPS, Fedex, DHL) nor is it a guarantee that customs won't charge any duties and taxes.


2. Commercial Invoice (CI) + an ATA Carnet


Completing an ATA Carnet is great option for items that frequently travel in and out of the country. It's also great because once you have an ATA Carnet, it is accepted by 176 countries worldwide making the application process a one-time thing.

In addition to declaring your commercial invoice as a temporary import, you can get an ATA Carnet for the items that are of temporary nature.

ATA Carnets are beyond the scope of the article however, you can find more information here: http://www.chamber.ca/carnet/

NOTE: It is highly recommended to get an ATA Carnet for items that frequently travel in and out of the country and especially so when it is valued over $2,500 USD

In addition to the 2 options above, the following conditions must also be met in order to qualify for a duty and VAT free exemption:

  • The goods arrive and leave in the same condition, i.e. they undergo no repairs nor are they used in manufacturing
  • Stay no longer than 12 months in Iceland

NOTE:

  • If the above conditions are not followed, duties and taxes will be charged as though the goods have been imported permanently
  • Your Customs broker can clear goods of a temporary nature (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc. typically CANNOT clear goods of temporary nature)
Temporary Imports Checklist
  • Commercial Invoice clearly stating 'Temporary Import'. This must be written in the General Description section and the Detailed Description of Goods. (see sample)
  • The goods arrive and leave in the same condition, i.e. they undergo no repairs nor are they used in manufacturing
  • Stay no longer than the period listed above
  • Include your ATA Carnet with your shipment (if applicable)
  • Include the expected return date or the date that it was originally received within the country (whichever applies)
  • Any above listed items not listed in this checklist

Sources:
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf
https://www.skatturinn.is/english/companies/customs-matters/importing-to-iceland/ata-carnets/

 

Sample Commercial Invoice for Temporary Imports

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Temporary Imports - Trade show booth and display equipment returning Jan 2020

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 box Temporary Imports - Trade show booth and display equipment

CA $1032.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Temporary Imports
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $1032.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Permanent Goods / Sold To an individual or business within IcelandPermanent/Sold Goods

All goods imported into Iceland are subject to customs duties on values of ISK 2,000 or more (about $20 CAD).

As of 1 July 2021, all shipments, regardless of value, will be subject to VAT.

Occasional Shipper

If you only ship occasionally to Iceland, for example items sold on eBay, there isn't too much you need to do. You must:

  • Include 3 copies of the commercial invoice with your shipment
  • Provide a detailed description of the goods on the commercial invoice (in order to avoid customs delays)

Shipments of ISK 2,000 or less (about $20 CAD) will be duty-free. However, VAT will be incurred on all shipments starting from 1 July 2021.

Regular shipper

If you regularly sell and ship goods to Iceland, we suggest you consult with licenced customs broker in Iceland.

There may be specific requirements to consider, for example, obtaining an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number.

Sources:
https://www.skatturinn.is/einstaklingar/tollamal/verslad-a-netinu/
https://www.skatturinn.is/einstaklingar/tollamal/inn-og-utflutningur/

Sample Commercial Invoice for Permanent/Sold Goods

Ship To Invoice
Halldór LaxnessáPósthólf 250
270 Mosfellsbaer
Iceland


Phone: +354 586-8066
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Permanent/Sold: Parts and accessories for Canon B78n camera

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
15 Each Camera Lenses: Canon EF 50mm, Canon EF 85mm & wide-angle lenses.

CA $132.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Permanent/Sold
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $1980.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

IconRequired Documents

Shipping packages internationally requires a lot of documentation. This process alone can be confusing and time-consuming. So we’ve narrowed down what documents you might need and ranked them based on likeliness of being needed.

Document Type When? Details
Shipping Label / Bill of Lading Always required This is a label provided by the carrier (UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.). Always required because the carrier needs to know the parcel's destination.
Commercial Invoice Required for all non-document shipments
For all non-document shipments, you will require 3 copies of the commercial invoice (to be included with your shipping labels). These are for customs purposes and need to be included inside a document pouch outside of the box.

When creating a shipment through the Secureship website, the system will help you create this document automatically.

B13a Required if value exceeds $2,000 per shipment or is a controlled good
A B13a is required if your shipment exceeds $2000 CAD or is a controlled good
and is destined to a country other than the US, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands

Learn more about the B13a form here.
Certificate of Origin (COO) Infrequently required

Allows a reduced or zero-rated import duty.
Canada has a preferential trade agreement with Iceland. A COO proves that an item has been produced, manufactured or processed in Canada.

When an item with a COO is imported into Iceland, it will incur a reduced or zero-rated import duty.
Certificate of Insurance (COI) Infrequently required

Shows that the shipment has been insured.
Banks may request a certificate of insurance when providing letters of credit for the goods. Otherwise, it is generally your choice whether to purchase insurance for the shipment.
ATA Carnet Infrequently required

Used to avoid duties and taxes on shipments of temporary nature.
If you ship goods of temporary nature to and from a country, you can obtain an ATA Carnet to expedite the customs clearance process and ensure that anything of temporary nature is not charged duties and taxes.

See Temporary import section
Packing list Infrequently required

No specific form required, but generally includes information regarding:

  • The exporter, importer and transport company
  • Date of issue
  • Number of freight invoice
  • Type and number of packages
  • Contents of each package
  • Marks and numbers
  • Net weight, gross weight and measurements of each package

Prohibited & Restricted Imports

Prohibited goods are not allowed to be shipped to Iceland while restricted goods may enter the country; however, restricted goods may have quantity limitations or must abide by other rules.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics and dangerous drugs
  • Uncooked meat and meat products
  • Uncooked milk and uncooked eggs
  • Weapons - daggers, switchblade knives, flick stilettos, knuckles, truncheons, crossbows, and handcuffs
  • Finely powdered smokeless tobacco
  • Used riding gear* - saddles, bridles, halters, and leather whips

Restricted Items

  • Telephones and other communications equipment
  • Angling gear and riding clothing*
  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Flowers, bulbs, tubers, and potted plants

NOTE:
Angling gear and riding clothes used outside of Iceland (gloves, boots, and waders) must have a certificate of disinfection issued by an authorized veterinary officer. Otherwise the gear will be disinfected upon entry at the cost to the owners.

Sources:
https://www.skatturinn.is/english/individuals/customs-matters/travelling-to-iceland/duty-free-imports/

Duty & Taxes

Shipments to Iceland have VAT and duty charges calculated using the CIF method, i.e. the sum of the customs value plus insurance fees plus freight costs.

CIF Value = Customs Value + Insurance Amount + Freight Costs

By knowing the CIF value of a shipment, you will be able to predict the duty and taxes owed by the recipient.

Thresholds

The duty threshold for shipments sent to Iceland is ISK 2,000 (about $20 CAD). This is also known as the de minimis value.

As of 1 July 2021, all shipments, regardless of value, will be subject to VAT.


Currency Icelandic krona (ISK)
Duty Exemption (De minimis Value) ISK 2,000 (about $20 CAD)
Duty Calculation Method CIF
TAX (VAT) 24%
Tax Exemption
(De minimis Value)
0*
Tax Calculation Method CIF

*From 1 July 2021, all shipments to Iceland will incur VAT no matter their value.

Even if a shipment left Canada on 30 June 2021 or earlier, it will be liable to VAT if it arrived in Iceland on 1 July 2021 or later.

Duties on Imports

Because of the free trade agreement between Canada and the European Free Trade Association, most shipments from Canada will enter Iceland with a reduced or zero rate of duty.

Excise Duties

Excise duty applies to imported alcohol and tobacco products.


  • Candy0%
  • Chocolate0%
  • Spirits and winesVariable
  • TobaccoVariable
  • Books0%
  • Documents0%
  • Video games & consoles0%
  • Computers & laptops0%
  • Tablets0%
  • Mobiles0%
  • Cameras0%
  • Accessories for Electronics0%
  • Coats0%
  • Beauty products & cosmetics0%
  • Jewellery0%
  • Shirts & pants0%
  • Home appliances0%
  • Toys0%
  • Sports equipment0%

Sources:
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Act_no_96_1995.pdf
https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/iceland/corporate/other-taxes
https://docs.wto.org/dol2fe/Pages/SS/directdoc.aspx?filename=q:/WT/TPR/S361R1.pdf&Open=True
https://www.international.gc.ca/trade-commerce/trade-agreements-accords-commerciaux/agr-acc/european-association-europeenne/fta-ale/background-contexte.aspx?lang=eng
https://www.tariffinder.ca/en/getStarted
https://www.government.is/media/fjarmalaraduneyti-media/media/log-reglur/Regulation_No_630_2008.pdf
https://www.skatturinn.is/english/companies/customs-matters/importing-to-iceland/customs-valuation/

IconIceland Shipping Insurance

You can purchase insurance through Secureship, and it is provided by the carrier that will be transporting your shipment.

Each carrier will charge a different amount per $100 of declared insurance. If you indicate that you need insurance for your shipment, our system will automatically include the insurance costs for your shipment.

Insurance is great to have in case your package is accidentally lost or damaged by the carrier. But be careful, not everything you ship is insurable. Worse - even if your package contains items that are insurable, if it doesn't meet the ISTA 3A packaging standard, the insurance purchased through the carrier would not be available to you.

Here are some items that cannot be insured by the carrier:

  • Personal belongings
  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Liquids (including alcohol)
  • Televisions
  • Jewellery in excess of $500
  • Perishable goods
  • Glass or Ceramic
  • And many more items

For more information, please see the carrier's terms and conditions.

Questions about Shipping to Iceland

Can I ship to Iceland?

Shipping to Iceland from Canada can take between 3-5 business days through the fastest carriers available on the Secureship platform. More economical services, such as Canada Post, can take up to 1-2 months to complete the delivery.

Find out how fast the Secureship trusted carriers can get your shipment delivered to Iceland by getting a quote now.


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