Courier Import Service

  • Home
  • Courier Import Service

Courier Import Service

What is a Courier Import Service? 

A courier import service transports parcels, consignments, or shipments that are sent from other countries into Nepal through courier. This is not like bulk shipment or freight services. A courier import usually refers to items ordered from online sites, gifts from relatives from abroad, personal belongings, samples, and commercial goods.

Namaste Cargo Nepal provides courier import service at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and can deliver the parcels directly at your door in Nepal.

Who Uses This Service?

  • Nepali individuals receiving packages from family or friends abroad

  • Online shoppers buying from Amazon, Alibaba, eBay, or other global platforms

  • Businesses receiving product samples or small commercial orders

  • Returning Nepali citizens bringing personal goods

  • Expatriates receiving items from their home countries

What Can You Import Through Courier? 

Commonly imported items include: 

  • Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and accessories

  • Clothing, shoes, and personal items

  • Cosmetics and skincare products

  • Supplements, vitamins, and non-prescription health products

  • Books, stationery, and educational materials

  • Gifts and personal parcels

  • Small machine parts and tools

  • Product samples for businesses

Items that cannot be imported through courier: 

There are certain commodities that Nepal Customs bans or controls irrespective of their mode of shipment. Examples of these prohibited items are narcotics, arms, counterfeits, some wildlife items, etc. Medicines and certain electronic devices require special clearance certificates.

How the Courier Import Process Works

Step 1: Your Parcel Arrives at TIA

Your international shipment is received at Tribhuvan International Airport. Parcels will be stored at TIA Customs Godown until custom clearance.

Step 2: We Collect Your Delivery Order

We receive the Delivery Order from the airline or carrier.

Step 3: Customs Entry and Document Check

We file customs entry using ASYCUDA World system. Documents required for this process include the commercial invoice, packing list, and AWB. If the package is a gift, then a declaration letter might be required.

Step 4: Duty and Tax Calculation

We calculate customs duty (based on the HS code of your item), 13% VAT, and other possible levies. You will be explained about all the charges before making payment.

Step 5: Custom Clearance and Release

When duties are settled, then the package is released by customs, and then we remove the package from TIA.

Step 6: Door-to-Door Delivery Across Nepal

Kathmandu Valley Delivery within one day or two. The delivery time to other cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, Chitwan, Butwal, and others can take up to three days after.

Courier Import Duties and Taxes in Nepal (FY 2083/84)

The import duty for couriers is calculated by Nepal Customs based on the CIF (Cost Insurance Freight) value of your shipment.

Tax Type

Rate / Status

Customs Duty

Varies by HS code (0% to 40%+ depending on item)

VAT

13% on CIF value + customs duty

Excise Duty

Removed from 360 item categories (FY 2083/84). Still applies to tobacco, alcohol, and certain goods.

Green Tax

Consolidated infrastructure levy (replaces earlier road/infrastructure taxes)


Gift concession: Nepal provides a tax exemption up to NPR 10,000 for gifts imported into the country. The value exceeding NPR 10,000 is taxable according to normal tax rates.

Digital payment benefit: As proposed under Budget 2083/84, a prompt 10% VAT will be refunded immediately on customs payments made digitally. Eligibility can be checked with us at the time of clearance.

Customs rates are according to Finance Bill 2083/84, which will take effect from 16 July 2026, pending parliamentary and presidential endorsement.

How Long Does Courier Import Take?

Stage

Typical Time

Transit to TIA (from most countries)

5-10 days

Customs clearance at TIA

1–2 working days

Delivery within Kathmandu Valley

Same day or next day after clearance

Delivery outside Kathmandu

2-5 additional days

Documents Required for Courier Imports 

  • Commercial invoice: includes details on item, quantity, and valuation in US dollar or other major currency

  • Airway Bill (AWB): supplied by courier company or airline

  • Packing List: when more than one item is sent

  • EXIM Code: necessary for all commercial import items; we can assist you to get this if not available

  • Special permits: applicable for pharmaceuticals (DDA), food items (DFTQC), and electronics (NTA)


In case of personal items and gift items, a sender’s letter is very useful.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I import goods from Amazon or eBay to Nepal? 

Yes. We help process customs formalities for e-commerce shipments arriving in Nepal. We will require proof of purchase (invoice) of the item you have imported with the correct value. The duties will be levied according to the CIF value of the item.

What happens if my parcel is held at TIA?

The package will be retained at TIA Customs Godown #2 until cleared by us. Any demurrage charge will be incurred if the free storage period expires. Our team acts fast to save you from any storage fees.

Do I need an EXIM code for a personal parcel?

No, personal use items do not require an EXIM code. However, commercial items require an EXIM code.

Can someone else receive my parcel on my behalf?

Yes, provided you give an authorized letter. Your package may be collected from us on your behalf and stored safely till collection.

What is the cheapest way to import a small parcel to Nepal?

Air Cargo is the common mode for couriers and similar sizes of packages. If you plan on importing in large quantities, it is economical to go by sea freight through Birgunj ICD. But for couriers, air is the only practical choice.

What if my goods are above the gift concession limit?

Goods beyond NPR 10,000 fall under the regular customs duties regime. We provide exact duties payable prior to shipment.

Why Choose Namaste Cargo Nepal for Courier Imports?

  • Licensed customs clearance agent based in Thamel, Kathmandu

  • Experienced team handling TIA clearance daily

  • Clear, upfront duty calculation before you commit

  • Door delivery across Nepal

  • Assistance with EXIM code, special permits, and documentation

  • We explain the process in plain language 

Chat on WhatsApp