Ms Carol Lynch:

Yes, because one has to pay an agent to complete the import or export declaration and put it through the system. One hopes that everything is processed in a straightforward manner but there could be documentary checks. The cost may vary depending on the level of trade one is carrying out. A business may be able to negotiate a better rate with an agent if it has a high volume of imports or exports, whereas agents may charge more to deal with a one-off, high-value item. A sum of €50 is a reasonable average per declaration.