GST on Delivery Charges: Logistics and Shipping Tax Rates

From online shopping to food delivery and courier services, delivery charges are now a part of almost every purchase. But are these delivery charges taxable under GST? If yes, at what rate? In this guide, we break down the gst on delivery charges, how it applies to different industries, and what sellers and customers need to know.

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    Are Delivery Charges Taxable Under GST?

    Yes. As per GST supply rules, delivery, shipping, or transportation charges are considered part of a composite supply when billed along with the main product or service. This means:

    • If a seller charges separately for delivery, GST is applied at the same rate as the main product or service.

    Delivery Charges GST Rate: By Use Case

    Type of Delivery Service GST Rate Applies To
    Delivery charges with product Same as product e.g., GST on delivery charges of goods
    Food delivery platforms (Swiggy/Zomato) 5% Collected by platform
    Courier and logistics service 18% Standalone shipping or courier billing

    GST on Delivery Charges of Goods

    If you’re an online seller or business delivering goods and charging for shipping:

    • The gst on delivery charges of goods follows the same rate as the product being delivered.
    Main Product GST Rate Delivery Charge GST Rate
    Clothing (₹1000+) 12% 12%
    Electronics 18% 18%
    Books (Exempt) 0% 0% (if part of same invoice)

    GST on Food Delivery Charges

    For platforms like Swiggy and Zomato:

    • Since Jan 1, 2022, the platform collects 5% GST on the total order including delivery.
    • Restaurants no longer charge GST directly to the customer.

    Courier and Logistics Services

    When logistics services are billed separately and not as part of product supply, the following GST rates apply:

    Service SAC Code GST Rate
    Courier or parcel delivery 9968 18%
    Goods transport by GTA (no ITC) 9965 5%
    Goods transport by GTA (with ITC) 9965 12%

    Input Tax Credit on Delivery Charges

    Businesses can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on:

    • Courier/shipping invoices under business GSTIN
    • Freight and delivery services used in supply chain
    • Logistics billed for B2B supply

    Conclusion

    Understanding the gst on delivery charges helps sellers and buyers manage costs and stay tax-compliant. Whether it’s a food order or an eCommerce parcel, delivery services are an integral part of the GST regime and must be handled correctly in invoicing and reporting.

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