Trinidad and Tobago is the largest economy in the Caribbean and a primary destination for Canadian and American exporters. However, shipping to the islands requires navigating a unique "stacked" tax system, including the specific Online Purchase Tax (OPT).
In this guide:
- Carrier Options: Comparing USPS/Canada Post vs. FedEx/UPS vs. Jet Worldwide.
- The 7% OPT: When it applies (and when it does not).
- Duty Calculator: A breakdown of how to calculate landed cost.
- Prohibited Items: What you cannot send.
Common Carrier Options to Trinidad and Tobago
There are three main categories of shipping services available for sending parcels from Canada and the USA to Port of Spain and beyond.
Postal Services
(Canada Post / USPS)
Best for: Small personal items and gifts.
- Lowest cost for light packets.
- Limited tracking updates.
- Clearance can be slower.
Global Couriers
(FedEx / UPS / DHL)
Best for: Urgent documents and time-sensitive parcels.
- Fast, reliable delivery (Priority).
- High "Caribbean Zone" pricing.
- Includes Economy Air options.
Logistics Partners
(Jet Worldwide)
Best for: E-commerce, heavy freight, and distribution.
- Hybrid shipping solutions.
- Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) options.
- Caribbean distribution services.
How are Customs Duty, OPT and VAT calculated?
Unlike many other countries, Trinidad and Tobago uses a "Stacked Assessment" method. You do not just pay tax on the item's value; you pay tax on the shipping costs as well.
Customs Duty is calculated on the CIF value:
Cost of Goods + Insurance + Freight (Shipping Cost).
The Calculation Formula
- Duty: Applied to the CIF Value.
- Online Purchase Tax (OPT): 7% applied to the CIF Value.
- VAT (12.5%): Applied to the total sum of (CIF + Duty + OPT).
Example Calculation: Shipping Clothing
Let's assume you bought clothing online for CAD $150, and shipping/insurance cost $50. Your CIF Value is CAD $200.
*Note: Currency exchange rates (CAD/USD to TTD) will also impact the final cost.
Deep Dive: The 7% Online Purchase Tax (OPT)
The Government of Trinidad imposes a 7% levy specifically targeting e-commerce. It applies to goods that are:
- Purchased online via electronic transaction.
- Imported via air transportation (Transit Shed).
- Consigned to a consumer (not a business).
When does OPT NOT apply?
- If goods are shipped via Ocean Freight.
- If the purchase was made in-person at a physical store.
- If the goods are for a registered business for commercial use.
Common Duty Rates by Category
While rates change, here are common benchmarks for typical shipments:
- Clothing and Apparel: 20% Duty + VAT + OPT
- Auto Parts: 30% Duty + VAT + OPT
- Books (Educational): 0% Duty (VAT Exempt)
- Laptops/Computers: 0% Duty + VAT + OPT
Restricted Items
Before shipping, ensure your package does not contain prohibited items. Common restrictions for Trinidad and Tobago include:
- Camouflage clothing or patterns (Strictly Prohibited)
- Toy guns (or anything resembling a firearm)
- Arms and ammunition
- Currency and coins
- Trademark infringing goods
- Pornographic material
Streamline Your Logistics
Jet Worldwide helps companies set up Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) solutions, meaning you can pay these fees on behalf of your customer or family member, ensuring they are not charged upon delivery.
Ready to ship?
Related Resources
Valuation & Costs
Disclaimer: This post and all Jet Worldwide online content is for general information only. Regulations and tax rates in Trinidad and Tobago are subject to change. Always confirm with the carrier or customs authority prior to shipping.
