Since June 2014, DHL Express in Germany charges a capital provision commission of 2%, but at least €14.5 (excl. VAT) on the processing of DHL Express shipments. This is payable if the parcel does not go through directly and therefore has to be cleared through customs.

However, this capital provision commission can easily be avoided. All you have to do is give DHL a direct debit authorisation on your account. The customs duties will then be debited directly from your account, so there are no additional costs. This is especially worthwhile if you frequently order goods from China.

1. Write an email to [email protected] and explain that you would like to issue a direct debit authorization for payments to customs. If you have a DHL customer number, it is best to include it. (Alternatively you can also call the DHL Express service hotline).
2. You will receive an email from DHL. In the attached form you have to fill in your bank details. The signed form will then be sent back to you by fax or mail.
3. Within one week you will receive a SEPA mandate by mail. This is the direct debit authorization. Fill out this form, sign it and send it by post to DHL with the enclosed envelope.
4. As soon as you have registered your account with DHL, payments to customs will be debited directly from your account. You will not have to pay a capital provision commission from then on.
   
   

From time to time you may receive a standard mail from DHL which states that they can only issue SEPA authorizations for companies (sole proprietorships, partnerships or legal entities).