FedEx “advancement fee” for import duty

[Sloan85]

Ordered items from USA which were delivered by Fedex. A couple of weeks later Fedex sent a duty and tax invoice saying I owe them £13.99 in import tax, and also £12 “advancement fee”.

I understand I owe the import duty but an “advancement fee”?? I have googled this and some sites suggest I don’t have to pay this and that it is a scam. Anyone on here experienced this if have any advice?

[Sloan85]

Fastdruid said:

See here: http://blog.adamowen.co.uk/dont-pay-fedexs-customs...

I tried it and they waived the fee.

Like many I don't really like paying VAT, duty etc but those are the rules etc. The "Advancement fee" however charged by some really sticks in the craw and I would rather use another shipper than one that charges like this. Unfortunately many either don't offer the choice of shippers or only ever offer things like the super duper next day delivery from China option for the others rather than the same level of shipment.

Thanks. I used the template on the above link and they have waived their “fee” so just the VAT to pay.