German Phrase
Ist das zollfrei?
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to "Is that customs-free?" or "Is this duty-free?". It's used to inquire whether a product is exempt from customs duties or taxes, often implying a lower price due to this exemption.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase when shopping in international airports, on ferries, at border shops, or in any retail environment that caters to international travelers and offers tax-exempt goods. It's a practical question to ask before purchasing items like alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, or luxury goods when traveling abroad.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Istdaszollfrei
Ist (sein)
This is the third-person singular form of the verb 'sein' (to be). It functions as the main verb in this question, asking about the state or characteristic of 'das' (this/that).
das
This is a demonstrative pronoun meaning 'this' or 'that'. In this context, it refers to the item being inquired about, acting as the subject of the sentence.
zollfrei
This is a compound adjective formed from 'Zoll' (customs/duty) and 'frei' (free). It means 'duty-free' or 'customs-free' and describes the status of the item regarding taxes.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigen Sie, ich interessiere mich für diesen Whisky. Ist das zollfrei?
Excuse me, I'm interested in this whisky. Is this duty-free?
Ja, für Reisende außerhalb der EU ist dieser Artikel zollfrei.
Yes, for travelers outside the EU, this item is duty-free.
✕Common Mistakes
Ist das frei von Zoll?
While grammatically understandable, "frei von Zoll" is not the idiomatic or common way to express 'duty-free'. The compound adjective "zollfrei" is the correct and natural term.
Ist das steuerfrei?
While 'steuerfrei' means 'tax-free', it's a broader term. 'Zollfrei' specifically refers to customs duties, which is what people usually mean in airport or border shopping contexts. Not all tax-free items are duty-free, and vice-versa.
↔Alternatives
Kann ich das zollfrei kaufen?
Can I buy this duty-free?
Gibt es hier zollfreie Waren?
Are there duty-free goods here?
Ist das ohne Zoll?
Is this without customs duty?
Cultural Tip
In Germany and other German-speaking countries, duty-free shopping is primarily found at international airports, on certain ferry routes, and sometimes at land border crossings. Be aware of the specific allowances for duty-free goods when entering or leaving a country, as exceeding these limits can result in duties and taxes being applied. Always keep your receipts and boarding passes handy as proof of travel.