Import Duty/VAT from The States

[samcross]

So I'm looking at ordering some golf clubs from the US of A () and I was hoping someone in the know could fill me in on the % I'll be paying on them, and the handling charge (If there is one), because I want to make sure it is worth the hassle.

Thanks

[Jay]

the threshold for tax and import duty for any item coming into the UK from outside the EU is £18. I think all in all 30%

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/index.htm

[shaithis]

If it is a gift and the tax collectable would have been below ~7 quid, then it won't be charged....anymore and your liable for the bill.

Downmarking the value of goods can get you in trouble with C&E and will void any insurance you had on the shipping.

[pollaxe]

I always get stung for charges whenever I order from overseas.
Today I had to pay a £10 ransom for some connectors I'd bought.
The blurb on the sticker on the box says:

Goods purchased & imported into the EU with a value over £18 (for VAT purposes) and over £120 (for Import Duty purposes), or goods imported from one private person to another private person as a gift with a value over £36, are subject to Customs charges. These reliefs do not extend to Excise goods e.g. tobacco products & alcohol..

I was told by someone whose relation worked for Parcelforce that many of the charges they put on inbound parcels were completely random. I've no idea if it's true but it wouldn't surprise me.

Edit: I should note my charges broke down as follows.
Import Duty £0.00
Excise Duty £0.00
VAT £2.76
Other £0.00
Royal Mail
International
Handling Fee £8.00

Bargain. :|

[Jay]

good point £18 is business use I think

http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsP...nt#downloadopt

[samcross]

After researching, the way I see it now, I'd be paying Import Duty (I'd need to ring them up to confirm this rate), VAT + handling charge :/

Thanks for the help guys, but I think I'll leave it

[Flibb]

You also pay VAT on postage costs

[peterb]

And (IIRC) you VAT on the import duty - duty is applied first (bit like petrol - so you are paying tax on the tax! (the 'justification' is that VAT is paid on the added value, and imposing duty adds to the value of the item)