Should I mention import duties and surprise fees in my Etsy listing photos?

Hi! Yes—adding a short, clear import-fees note in your Etsy listing photos is a good idea, even if it’s already in your shop policies/FAQ. Most buyers never read policies, but they do scroll photos, and a simple “no surprise fees” clarification can cut down messages and reduce unhappy deliveries.

A few tips so it stays accurate (and doesn’t scare people off):

• Put it in 1 photo near the end (like image #7/#8), not your first image. First photo should sell the product; later photo can handle logistics.
• Keep it neutral and buyer-friendly: “may apply” vs. “will apply,” and avoid sounding like a warning label.
• Be specific about what you mean by “fees” (customs duty/import tax/VAT + carrier handling/clearance fees).
• Acknowledge Etsy checkout taxes: In some countries Etsy collects VAT/GST at checkout (so buyers usually shouldn’t pay that part again on delivery), but customs duties/handling fees can still happen depending on destination rules and order value.
• Shop cover photo: I wouldn’t rely on it as your main disclaimer. Covers are easy to miss (especially on mobile). If you use it, keep it subtle and don’t clutter your branding.

Here’s a clean, commonly understood wording you can use (photos + description), and it won’t overpromise:

Suggested note (short for a listing photo):
“International orders: Import taxes/customs duties and carrier handling/clearance fees (if any) are the buyer’s responsibility and aren’t included unless Etsy collects tax at checkout. Please check your country’s rules before ordering.”

Even shorter version (if space is tight):
“Import fees may apply. Buyer is responsible for any customs/VAT/duties & carrier fees not collected at checkout.”

If you want to reduce questions even more, add the same line to your listing description near shipping info, and consider a quick saved reply you can paste into Etsy Messages when someone asks (it keeps your answers consistent).