UKC

Ok, one for the UKC hive mind. I am interested in an item of used Astro gear being sold by a private seller in Romania (part of EU). Whilst the price and condition of the item are attractive, I have a nasty feeling I'm going to end up in a world of pain with customs charges - as per this link - https://www.royalmail.com/receiving-mail/pay-a-fee 

Price of item would be £140 before any charges, if that makes any difference. It's a specialised astro tripod so quite bulky and heavy. 

Any expert input?

Thanks

Paul

Yep. Prepare for a bill which cannot be costed until you get it.Especilly if the sender sends the wrong paperwork.

from my limited layman knowledge....

customs charges are applicable on the value, irrespective of being 2nd hand etc.

there are some exemptions, like if it's broken (no value), or being shipped for servicing / repair..... but everything rests on the sender to get the paperwork right.

but rejoice, we all have our freedom.

Unfortunately it's probably not worth it.

20% import VAT at customs

Import duty will probably be applicable (if new this is exempt under the post brexit trade deal only if the goods were manufactured in the EU, I have no idea on the rules for second hand) and trying to estimate the relevant rate is a minefield - oh plus VAT is charged at 20% on any import duty charges.

This isn't even taking into account the fact that if the seller sends incomplete customs paperwork, there is a good change it will just get returned to sender.

Brexit - the gift that keeps taking

I have been contacted by you to pay duties and taxes on my parcel, what is this?
If you are receiving a parcel from outside the United Kingdom DPD has to declare it through HM
Customs and Revenue (HMRC). Such goods purchased from overseas may be liable for import Customs
charges. In this case, in order to receive your parcel, you must first pay these import charges that apply.
Why do I have to pay?
You have to pay UK Duty & VAT on imports with a basket value of more than £135. Please note that VAT
is charged on the total value which includes the price you paid for the goods, carriage costs, and
insurance as well as any duty you may owe.
How are these charges calculated?
These import charges are normally calculated based on the type of product and the value that has
been declared from the Customs information supplied by the sender of the goods.
HM Revenue and Customs have provided a useful guide on understanding more about Duties and
Taxes on goods sent from abroad, which you can access here.
Administration Fee
A standard administration fee of £5 plus VAT will be charged in addition to any Duties and Taxes.

(Sorry for the formatting, it's a c&p from an email)

Thanks all, you have confirmed my suspicions and made my mind up. It ain't worth it.....

Paul

Unfortunately I wouldn't bother if I were you. It's very sad that we are forced to find workarounds to trade goods or run a business. It's more than sad it's disgraceful. Good luck.