An international shipping invoice may include charges that are neither transport costs nor government taxes. FedEx’s import processing and duty advancement fees are examples.
Processing an inbound shipment
Under FedEx Italy’s public terms, the Inbound Processing Fee applies from 3 August 2026 to shipments from non-EU countries into EU customs territories. The published amount is €2.40 per shipment, or €0.90 for FedEx International Connect Plus.
When FedEx advances duties and taxes
The same page lists a Disbursement Fee change from 20 July 2026: 2.5% of duties and taxes or €15, whichever is higher. This pays for a carrier service; it is not a customs duty rate.
For example, on a €100 calculation base, 2.5% is €2.50, so the €15 minimum applies. This illustrates one fee, not the total shipping bill.
Will these amounts apply to a Topparcel order?
FedEx Italy’s public price list does not establish the price of a particular Topparcel service. That depends on the service selected and applicable terms. Review the offer before paying. For a separately billed fee, request its name, basis and calculation.
What about VAT and shipment conditions?
The FedEx conditions published for Italy state that VAT is charged according to applicable law. These amounts should therefore not be treated as final tax-inclusive prices for every shipment. Shipments originating outside Europe are also subject to local tariffs and the terms of the entity accepting them.
Match the invoice against the selected service: the charge, calculation base, tax and payer. Do not automatically add every possible surcharge; first establish which services actually apply.
A separate government charge is explained in our article on the €3 customs duty on online purchases from outside the EU. It should not be confused with FedEx’s processing fee.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Disbursement Fee on €100 in duties and taxes?
Under the quoted FedEx Italy formula, €15: 2.5% of €100 is €2.50, so the €15 minimum applies. This is not the complete shipping bill.
Are FedEx import processing and customs duty the same charge?
No. The Inbound Processing Fee pays for a carrier service; customs duty is a government charge.
Can FedEx’s public tariff be treated as the price of a Topparcel order?
No. A particular order depends on the selected service and applicable terms. The public list does not establish the contractual price through Topparcel.
