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Any ways to pre-pay customs fees?

I am thinking of buying some goods from the USA. Are there any ways to pay the Customs charge in advance (perhaps by using the appropriate courier) and so avoid the rip-off fee that the Post Office charges for processing this payment for you?

Comments

  • cyberbob
    cyberbob Posts: 9,480 Forumite
    1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    I am thinking of buying some goods from the USA. Are there any ways to pay the Customs charge in advance (perhaps by using the appropriate courier) and so avoid the rip-off fee that the Post Office charges for processing this payment for you?
    If you use a courier such as Fedex or DHL they will charge you far more than the £8-£12 that RM charge you for dealing with the customs and excise on your behalf.
  • martindow
    martindow Posts: 10,651 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    Not sure, but even if you can there will still be a customs clearance fee to be paid. Incidentally the PO at 8 pounds is cheaper than any other carriers I have used.
  • RFW
    RFW Posts: 10,447 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Photogenic Name Dropper
    I am thinking of buying some goods from the USA. Are there any ways to pay the Customs charge in advance (perhaps by using the appropriate courier) and so avoid the rip-off fee that the Post Office charges for processing this payment for you?
    You'd need to contact HMRC regarding importing but that's generally only for business and larger amounts.
    .
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