Shopping on Amazon from Moldova is easier in 2026, but the rules for customs and logistics have shifted. Whether you’re buying a DJI Mini 3 Pro or the latest PC components, here is how to get your package to your door in Chișinău without the headache.
1. 2026 Customs Duties & Taxes: The “M-Pay” Era
While Amazon (US, DE, UK) ships some items directly to Moldova, it is often 3-4x more expensive and limited to specific categories. The most critical update for 2026 is the refined tax threshold. The Moldovan government has aligned more closely with EU standards to manage the surge in international parcels.
- Direct Shipping: Best for lightweight books or small items. Amazon handles the customs deposit (DDP), but the selection is limited.
- Mail Forwarding (Recommended): Services provide you with a local warehouse address in the US or EU. They receive your Amazon package and forward it to Moldova via local couriers like Nova Poshta or Bayshop.
2. 2026 Customs Duties & Taxes in Moldova
This is where most shoppers get stuck. As of January 2026, the Moldovan Ministry of Finance has tightened regulations on international parcels.
| Item Value (CIF*) | Customs Duty | VAT (TVA) | Processing Fee |
| Below €150 | 0% | 0% | ~MDL 10-20 |
| Above €150 | 5% – 10% | 20% | Variable |
*Note: CIF stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight. Taxes are calculated on the total price of the item plus the shipping cost.
*Pro-Tip: CIF stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight. Your tax is calculated on the item price PLUS the shipping cost. If your item is €140 but shipping is €20, you will be taxed because the total (€160) exceeds the €150 limit.
3. The Top 3 Forwarding Services for Moldova (2026)
Direct shipping from Amazon.com (USA) or Amazon.de (Germany) to Moldova is often restricted or costs $50+. Forwarders provide a local warehouse address to bypass this.
- Bayshop (The Local Favorite): Offers the best density of pick-up points in Chișinău (Atrium, Zity Mall). Their “Buy for Me” service is excellent if you face card rejection issues.
- Nova Poshta Global (The Speed King): If you order from Amazon.de, use their German hub. Delivery to Moldova often takes just 5–8 days.
- Shipito (The US Specialist): Best for “Package Consolidation.” If you buy three different items from three Amazon sellers, Shipito combines them into one box, saving you up to 70% on international shipping weight.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering
- Register with a Forwarder: Sign up for a service like Bayshop to get your “Virtual US Address.”
- Set Up Amazon: Go to “Your Addresses” on Amazon and add the warehouse address exactly as provided.
- Checkout: Pay in the store’s currency (USD for Amazon.com, EUR for Amazon.de) to avoid Amazon’s high exchange rates.
- Declare Your Parcel: Once the forwarder receives the item, upload your invoice to their portal. This is mandatory for Moldovan customs.
- Pick Up: Receive an SMS when your package arrives at the pick-up point (e.g., at the Chișinău “Atrium” or “Zity Mall” locations).
5. Pro-Hacks for Moldovan Shoppers
To maximize your savings on trend-rays.com, follow these insider tips:
- The Currency Hack: When checking out on Amazon, always choose to pay in the original currency (USD for US, EUR for Germany). Amazon’s “Currency Converter” often charges 3-5% more than your Moldovan bank (MAIB or Victoriabank).
- Digital Cards for Security: Use a “Digital/Virtual Card” from your banking app for Amazon. In 2026, MAIB Gama or Victoriabank digital cards are highly compatible and offer easy “International Transaction” toggling for security.
- The “Poland Strategy”: For the fastest and cheapest shipping, order from Amazon.pl (Poland). Since Moldova has established strong 2026 logistics corridors with Poland, shipping times have dropped significantly.
6. Forbidden & Restricted Items (2026 Update)
Do not attempt to ship these via forwarders, as they will be confiscated at the border:
- Drones: Drones with a radius over 200m or priced over $500 require special permits.
- Batteries: Spare lithium batteries cannot be shipped alone; they must be inside the device.
- Perishables: No meat, dairy, or fresh produce.
FAQ (People Also Ask)
Q: Can I pay with a Moldovan MAIB or Victoriabank card?
A: Yes, in 2026, almost all Moldovan Visa and Mastercard options work. Ensure “International Transactions” are enabled in your mobile app.
Q: Can I use Apple Pay on Amazon in Moldova?
A: Yes, as of early 2026, Amazon has expanded Apple Pay support for international regions, including Moldova, provided your card supports it.
Q: What is M-Pay and how do I use it for my parcel?
A: If your parcel exceeds €150, you will receive an SMS from the Customs Service. You can go to mpay.gov.md, enter your parcel number, and pay your duties via card or at any terminal.
Q: How long does shipping take from the USA?
A: Standard forwarding takes 10–14 days. Express options via DHL or FedEx (through a forwarder) can take as little as 4–6 days.
Q: What happens if my package is held at customs?
A: You will receive a notification from the “Serviciul Vamal.” You can usually pay the duties online through the M-Pay system using your tracking number.
Q: Is there a “parcel tax” on cheap items from China/USA?
A: The government has discussed a “soft” parcel tax for 2026, often included in the shipping fee or as a flat ~MDL 20 processing fee, making it nearly invisible for low-value items.
