by Chris__M » 23 Jun 2011, 20:54
Anything you get buy from abroad, i.e. from outside the EU, is liable for fees - VAT and/or Import Duty. The VAT will be exactly the same VAT you would pay on purchases here; the Duty only applies to certain items.
This is waived on single packages with a value of under 18 quid, but note that is the total cost declared, including transport.
Note that unless the VAT and Duty are paid in advance (which is relatively rare, and you the recipient would need to arrange it), then the carrier will also charge a handling fee for paying the VAT and Duty for you, and then recouping it from you. This is the bit that I find annoying, as often that charge is a flat rate that can be as high as the VAT/Duty.
On smaller items, you can sometimes get lucky, but you should always plan to have to pay it.
Also, if you are buying an item that should escape VAT charges because of being zero rated (like food items), you should make sure the seller declares it clearly on their customs declaration. Otherwise you will be charged standard VAT, and will not be able to claim this back after the fact.