Mobile app for balikbayan box queries, computation launched

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has launched a mobile application that OFWs and balikbayans can use in estimating the amount of customs tax and duties they have to pay for the parcels they send to the Philippines.
Dubbed as the Balikbayan Tax Calculator, the app also answers the public's frequently asked questions on balikbayan box, parcels and other related matters, the BOC said in a statement.
The BOC said the "user-friendly application" is designed to "estimate the amount of customs duties and taxes of commonly sent items based on the declared value provided by the app's user."
The BOC said it decided to come up with the app due to the heavy volume of inquiries on customs tax and duties the bureau receives daily both from the Philippines and abroad.
"Customs encourages the public, not just balikbayan and OFWs, to download and try this mobile application so they would know the basics in importation and payment of duties and taxes," the bureau said.
The app, which is only available on Google Play Store so far, provides its user with a readily available means to get the estimate customs tax and duties of the articles or items they wish to bring in or send to the Philippines. 
Meanwhile, OFWs and returning residents who sent balikbayan boxes to their loved ones in the country can also track their shipments through the Balikbayan Box Tracker link found in the app.

"To fully optimize the functions of the app, users are advised to be ready with information such as value of the items for purpose of tax computation or the Bill of Lading number, for balikbayan box tracking," the BOC said.

This mobile app will also be available soon in the App store to cater iOS users. —KBK, GMA News

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