How does SafePackage™ handle customs duty collection?

SafePackage™ handles customs duty collection end-to-end: it calculates the duties owed on each parcel, files the required information with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and remits payment directly — all in real time, without manual intervention.

As a CBP-approved Qualified Party for duty collection and remittance, SafePackage™ operates within CBP's official compliance framework. Every submission is validated against CBP's current requirements before filing, and payments are processed through CBP-approved channels.

Duty collection models supported

SafePackage™ supports three duty collection structures, configurable to match your operational model:

  • Delivery Duty Paid (DDP): Duties are collected from the shipper or merchant before or at the time of shipping. The recipient receives the package without any additional duty charges on delivery.
  • Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU): Duties are collected from the recipient at or after delivery. SafePackage™ calculates and files the duty information with CBP; the collection from the recipient is handled separately.
  • Hybrid models: For operators whose shipments span both DDP and DDU arrangements, SafePackage™ can be configured to handle mixed duty collection within a single workflow.

How SafePackage™ connects to your systems

SafePackage™ offers five integration paths, so operators can connect in the way that fits their existing infrastructure:

  • UPU Integration: For postal operators in the Universal Postal Union network, SafePackage™ integrates directly with the UPU's Delivery Duties Paid (DDP) service and Customs Declaration System (CDS), enabling posts to select SafePackage™ as their CBP Qualified Party within the UPU framework.
  • IPC Integration: For posts in the International Post Corporation (IPC) network, SafePackage™ is a certified Qualified Party within IPC's Postal Delivery Duties Paid (PDDP) service. The API interface is fully developed and ready for operator onboarding.
  • API Integration: For operators who want direct system-to-system connection, SafePackage™'s API automates the submission of shipment details, duty amounts, and customs data for parcels entering the U.S.
  • File Transfer Solution: For high-volume operators managing large shipment batches, SafePackage™ supports secure data exchange using structured file formats including CSV, XML, and EDI.
  • Web UI Platform: For operators who do not integrate via API, the web portal allows manual upload of shipment information, review of calculated duties, and direct submission to CBP — no technical setup required.

Implementation timeline

Integration can typically be completed in a matter of days, depending on the method:

  • API integration is the fastest path to full automation
  • File transfer configuration is well-suited for large volumes and can be set up quickly
  • Web UI access is available immediately via browser with no setup required

What happens when regulations change

SafePackage™'s compliance engine is maintained by a dedicated team of trade and customs experts. When CBP updates its regulations — as it has done with the end of de minimis — SafePackage™ adapts automatically, so operators remain compliant without having to rebuild their customs workflows.

To book a demonstration or discuss integration options, visit safepackage.com or contact our team.

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