Understanding VAT & TAX Compliance for Dropast Orders

As global dropshipping regulations evolve, it's essential to stay compliant with tax rules — especially when shipping to the European Union (EU) and Canada. Since July 2021, the EU has updated its VAT (Value-Added Tax) framework, affecting all imported goods. Additionally, TAX regulations apply to Canadian-bound orders based on product value.

This guide outlines how Dropast helps you manage VAT and TAX compliance based on your shipping destination and business setup.


🇪🇺 VAT for Orders Shipped to the European Union

What Changed on 1 July 2021?

  • The VAT exemption for goods valued under €22 was removed.
  • All goods imported to the EU are now subject to VAT, regardless of their value.
  • The Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) was introduced to simplify VAT declaration and payment for distance sales of goods valued under €150.

What Is IOSS?

The Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) is a system that:

  • Enables sellers to collect, report, and remit VAT directly at the time of purchase
  • Prevents buyers from facing surprise VAT or customs fees at delivery
  • Applies to goods under €150, not subject to excise duties (e.g., alcohol, tobacco), shipped from outside the EU

💡 How Dropast Handles EU VAT

When shipping to an EU country, Dropast offers two flexible options:

Option 1: Use Your Own IOSS Number

  • Dropast will not charge VAT
  • Dropast will use your IOSS number for customs clearance
  • You will be responsible for collecting and paying VAT to the appropriate EU tax authorities

Option 2: Use Dropast’s IOSS Number

  • Dropast will charge VAT based on the product cost only (shipping fees excluded)
  • Dropast will handle VAT payment and reporting on your behalf

📌 Dropast is not considered an electronic interface and does not act as the seller.


📋 Your Responsibilities When Using IOSS

If you use your own IOSS, ensure the following:

  • Display the VAT amount at checkout
  • Collect VAT from the buyer for all eligible shipments
  • Keep each shipment under €150
  • Submit a monthly VAT return and payment via the IOSS portal of the EU Member State where you're registered
  • Maintain records of sales for 10 years
  • Include your IOSS VAT ID during customs clearance

For official EU guidelines, visit the European Commission’s VAT Portal.


🇨🇦 TAX for Orders Shipped to Canada

Dropast charges TAX on orders to Canada under the following condition:

  • If the product cost (excluding shipping) exceeds $15 CAD, a 31% TAX is applied
  • Dropast is responsible for remitting the TAX

📝 Summary

Destination Tax Type When Charged Who Pays Additional Notes
EU VAT On all orders Seller (via IOSS) or Dropast VAT based on product cost only
Canada TAX On orders over $15 Dropast 31% TAX on product cost

✅ Choose the Best Setup for Your Business

Option You Collect VAT Dropast Collects VAT You Handle Customs Dropast Handles Customs
Use Your Own IOSS ✅ Yes ❌ No ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Use Dropast’s IOSS ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No ✅ Yes

Still unsure which option is right for your store? Contact our support team — we’ll help ensure your store stays compliant and competitive in global markets.

Still need help? Contact Us Contact Us