https://www.reddit.com/r/geneva/comments/1igsuyj/customs_tax_issue_and_additional_fees_with_la/
created by Claireoe on 03/02/2025 at 16:19 UTC
1 upvotes, 3 top-level comments (showing 3)
Hey everyone,
I’m dealing with a customs tax issue in Switzerland, and I’d love to get some advice.
I ordered a shipment from Hong Kong that was delivered and picked up on **December 4**. However, about two weeks ago, I received a letter stating that I owe **45.05 CHF**—**25.05 CHF for customs tax** and **20 CHF for "frais de rappel incl. 8.1% TVA"**. The issue is that this was the first notice I ever received. I had no idea what this charge was for, especially since the letter was dated **January 16**, long after I had received my package.
Since I’m not currently in Switzerland and can’t speak to them in person or over the phone, I emailed La Poste and submitted an online form explaining the situation. When they finally responded, they included a photo of the package—confirming that the charge is for the shipment I picked up on **December 4**.
Now they’re saying I owe **63 CHF** instead of 45.05 CHF. I’m worried that the fee will continue increasing because of how slow they are to respond over email.
Has anyone dealt with something like this before? Should I try to negotiate the charge since I never received an initial notice, or should I just pay it to avoid further increases? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
Comment by Stunning_Court_2509 at 03/02/2025 at 16:31 UTC
5 upvotes, 0 direct replies
You have to pay it, no way around.
Comment by cuthbert_calculus1 at 03/02/2025 at 20:20 UTC
3 upvotes, 0 direct replies
Been in a similar situation. I paid and then asked them for a refund of the frais de rappel as I didn’t receive the original pay notice. Took some time — but I actually got a refund.
Comment by cccccjdvidn at 03/02/2025 at 17:40 UTC
3 upvotes, 0 direct replies
It's customs tax. You don't get out of paying just because you didn't know about it. Now you do. Pay it