Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Privé Concierge, our membership-based luxury shopping service that gives you access to European goods at VAT-exempt export prices.
Featured
How much can I save?
Savings vary by destination country and product category, but you can typically save 10–30% off the purchase price vs buying the same item in the home country. Destination countries without restrictive tariffs in place will realize bigger savings.
Do I need to pay VAT upfront and request a refund later?
No. Unlike traditional tax-free shopping programs, you never pay VAT. Privé secures goods from European retailers at VAT-exempt prices for customers living outside of the EU. The savings are reflected directly in your final price.
How It Works
What is Privé Concierge?
Privé Concierge ("TMC") is a membership-based luxury shopping service that gives you access to European luxury goods at prices below what you would pay at home. Privé sources goods directly from European retailers at VAT-exempt pricing, handles the taxes, tariffs and customs process, and then ships them to your home. You get the savings of tax-free European shopping without the travel, paperwork, or hassle.
What products are eligible?
Most physical goods are eligible, including:
- Luxury fashion, clothing, and shoes
- Leather handbags and goods
- Handbags and accessories
- Jewelry and watches
- Beauty, makeup, and pharmaceutical products
- Electronics
Featured brands include Hermès, Celine, Dior, Moncler, and more. Certain items may be restricted or excluded due to export controls, brand limitations, or customs regulations, such as goods made from exotic materials.
How does the process work?
You find an item you want from a European retailer. You submit the order details through the Privé mobile application, website, browser extension, or other platform where its Services are available. Privé then purchases the item directly from the European retailer at the VAT-exempt export price, handles all export documentation, and ships the item to you. No travel or forms required.
Is this the same as airport duty-free or tourist tax refunds?
No. Traditional tax-free shopping requires traveling to Europe, buying goods yourself with your passport, filling out paperwork, and getting customs stamps at the airport. With Privé, none of this is required. Privé handles the entire sourcing and export process, so you can access European pricing from the comfort of your own home.
How are savings calculated?
Savings are calculated as: the difference between your local retail price of the identical item in your home market, minus costs related to shipping, tariffs, taxes, duties, service fees, or other applicable charges. Actual savings may vary.
Do you offer refunds or exchanges?
Refunds and exchanges are only allowed in cases of defective or damaged products.
Membership
How much does a membership cost?
Privé Concierge membership is $495 per year. Your membership unlocks access to four tiers based on your activity and purchase volume: Insider, Jetsetter, Globetrotter, and First Class. Each tier offers increasing benefits and savings opportunities as you shop more.
Shipping, Taxes & Customs
Will I pay additional taxes, tariffs, or duties?
No. All customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are included in your final price.
Who handles shipping and customs paperwork?
Privé arranges international shipping and prepares all export documentation required for VAT exemption. Customs clearance in your destination country is handled by the carrier and local customs authorities.
Do I need to provide any documents?
In most cases, no additional documents are required from you. Privé manages all purchase, invoicing, and export documentation. You may be contacted by the carrier if customs authorities require additional information.
Legal & Compliance
Is this legal and compliant?
Yes. Privé operates as a licensed commercial entity that purchases goods from European retailers at VAT-exempt export prices and resells them to customers outside the EU. This is compliant with French VAT regulations, including Article 73 G of Annex III to the General Tax Code and Article 262, I of the General Tax Code. This activity is carried out in accordance with French tax ruling Rescrit RI n° 2026-19 and includes managing the export process, documentation, customs formalities, shipping, and any applicable import fees or tariffs. Privé maintains all required documentation. To request more information, please contact support@prive.com.
What happens if my order cannot be fulfilled?
If an item cannot be sourced or exported under the applicable conditions, Privé will notify you before completion and provide available alternatives or cancel the request. A full refund will be issued for any cancelled orders.
Support
Who do I contact for support?
You can contact Privé support directly through the app chat or via email at support@prive.com.