How much is import duty?

[Matt99man]

I've found a watch on ebay USA I like that's only £260 new against £430 in the Uk. If its intercepted by customs how much will I pay in duty?

[Dominic H]

You'll pay no duty, only VAT on the purchase price. For a more accurate figure including shipping and insurance, HMRC have a calculator.

http://www.dutycalculator.com/new-import-duty-and-...

[Matt99man]

Thanks Dom.

How do they know the value? Does it go on the invoice with the watch or rrp?

[marcosgt]

Matt99man said:

Thanks Dom.

How do they know the value? Does it go on the invoice with the watch or rrp?

The invoice, unless you take the piss and then they'll just make up something outrageous

If the supplier puts £260 on the invoice and that's what you can buy it for, you won't pay more, but some suppliers will put $20 or something on it and HMRC don't like that if they find it.

M.

[Matt99man]

Sounds like its a worthwhile purchase then :-)

[kazste]

There is apparently some script you can ask the seller to put on the box which means it will be held at customs and you will be contacted for payment for it to be release, instead of parcel force paying it for you and charging another £20 on top.
I found it via Google but can't remember what to put, hope it helps though.

[PJ S]

£8 if not sent via EMS, otherwise £15, not £20.