Questions About Customs and Tax for Online Shopping (2017-2018)

[affordablewatchguy]

Hi all! I've been trying to Google customs and GST duties for online purchase of watches, but it's so hard to come across any credible thread.

MWF has discussed this once before, but that was from 2009, and the status quo might have changed tremendously since then.

So for the benefit of Malaysian online shoppers (I plan to RM1,000 price-range watches on Jomashop), what are the protocols for online orders from overseas? Is GST implementation random? Are watches still exempt from customs duties? How much extra charges are we looking at for various price points? e.g: <RM500; >RM1,000; >USD1,000

The only watch I ever ordered online this year was a Vostok (RM350 because I ordered extra bezels), and it went through customs without a problem. So no GST there.

What about you guys? Do share your experiences. Thanks!

[Danielo]

I believe due to GST, any purchase below RM500 (inclusive of shipping costs) is exempt from duty.

If it is over RM500 a 6% GST will be imposed if customs open your parcel for inspection. They do it randomly, so it depends on your luck.

[r3kahsttub]

Recently bought two watches off Seiya Japan. 6% GST off declared value, so you can do the math. Plus RM48 handling fee from Pos Malaysia LCCT to your doorstep (which I thought was ridiculous, but the alternative was to take time off work and go there myself).

[affordablewatchguy]

Was it the only purchase you've gotten taxed for, r3kahsttub, and was the value over RM500?

Yeah, RM48 is pretty steep, seeing as to how it's their job to mail the watch to you, and that you've already paid tax.

[r3kahsttub]

Yup, over RM500. ~RM1,400 and ~RM2,000 respectively.

[Timeless]

Suggest to communicate with shipper/seller to declare the value below than the tax amount, alternatively declares as sample or repaired/serviced goods if feasible. I believe these could probably avoid those taxes.

[affordablewatchguy]

That's a great idea for individual sellers.

The only downside is we'd always want to buy watches from reputable businesses, and reputable businesses seldom declare lower prices.

[ebayer]

Suggest to communicate with shipper/seller to declare the value below than the tax amount, alternatively declares as sample or repaired/serviced goods if feasible. I believe these could probably avoid those taxes.

Declaring a lower value may help avoid GST but may pose a problem if you want to insure the watch.

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[fennek]

watches are duty free ie 0% customs tax but will still attract the 6% GST.

doesnt matter if it’s new or used. the above will apply.


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