Overview: ImportCal vs SimpleDuty
When it comes to import duty calculations, businesses need accuracy, speed, and affordability. Both ImportCal and SimpleDuty offer AI-powered solutions, but there are significant differences in their approach, features, and value proposition.
In this detailed comparison, we'll examine both platforms across key criteria to help you make an informed decision for your import duty calculation needs.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | ImportCal | SimpleDuty |
|---|---|---|
| AI Accuracy | 90% (Transparent) | 85-88% |
| Processing Speed | 60 seconds | 2-5 minutes |
| Pricing Model | Beta Lifetime Access | $49-299/month |
| Section 301 Tariffs | Automatic | Manual Selection |
| Anti-Dumping Duties | Included | Limited |
| MPF & HMF Fees | Automatic | Included |
| File Format Support | PDF Commercial Invoices | PDF, Manual Entry |
| Batch Processing | Unlimited Items | Up to 100 items |
| API Access | Coming Soon | Enterprise Only |
| Customer Support | 24-hour response | Business hours |
Pricing Comparison
ImportCal Pricing
Beta Program:
$99.99 USD
One-time lifetime access
Unlimited calculations forever
- No per-shipment fees
- All updates included
- Priority support
SimpleDuty Pricing
Starter:
$49/month
50 calculations/month
Professional:
$149/month
500 calculations/month
Enterprise:
$299+/month
Custom limits
Cost Analysis: For a business processing 100 shipments per month, ImportCal's lifetime beta access pays for itself in less than one month compared to SimpleDuty's professional plan, while providing unlimited calculations forever.
Feature Deep Dive
Speed & Efficiency
ImportCal delivers results in 60 seconds flat, thanks to optimized AI processing and streamlined workflows. This speed advantage becomes crucial when dealing with time-sensitive shipments or high-volume operations.
SimpleDuty takes 2-5 minutes per calculation, which can add up to hours of waiting time for businesses processing multiple shipments daily.
AI Accuracy & Transparency
ImportCal proudly advertises 90% accuracy – a realistic figure that matches expert customs brokers. This transparency builds trust and sets proper expectations.
SimpleDuty claims varying accuracy rates but lacks transparency about their methodology. Real-world testing shows 85-88% accuracy on average.
Special Tariff Handling
ImportCal automatically identifies and applies Section 301 tariffs, anti-dumping duties, and countervailing duties without user intervention. This automation prevents costly oversights.
SimpleDuty requires manual selection of special tariffs in many cases, increasing the risk of errors and missed duties.
Compliance & Documentation
Both platforms provide professional PDF reports suitable for customs clearance. However, ImportCal includes more detailed breakdowns of how duties were calculated, providing better audit trails.
User Experience Comparison
ImportCal User Journey:
- 1Upload commercial invoice in PDF format for best accuracy
- 2AI extracts and classifies products automatically
- 3Review and download complete duty calculation report
Total time: 60 seconds
SimpleDuty User Journey:
- 1Upload invoice or manually enter products
- 2Select country of origin and review classifications
- 3Manually check for special tariffs
- 4Generate and download report
Total time: 2-5 minutes
The Verdict: Which Calculator Should You Choose?
Choose ImportCal If You:
- Want the fastest calculations (60 seconds)
- Need unlimited calculations at a fixed price
- Value transparent accuracy claims
- Want automatic special tariff detection
- Prefer lifetime access options
Consider SimpleDuty If You:
- Only process a few shipments monthly
- Don't mind manual tariff selection
- Have simple product classifications
- Prefer established brands
Final Thoughts
While SimpleDuty has been in the market longer, ImportCal represents the next generation of import duty calculators. With superior speed, transparent accuracy, comprehensive tariff coverage, and lifetime access for beta users, ImportCal delivers unmatched value for businesses of all sizes.
The choice becomes even clearer when you consider ImportCal's beta program offering lifetime access – an opportunity to lock in professional-grade duty calculations forever with a single payment.
Experience the ImportCal Difference
Join thousands of businesses saving time and money with the most advanced import duty calculator available.
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