Can we claim back Import Duty/VAT?

mm44uk

Hi, please let me know if I've posted this in the wrong forum as I'm not sure.

My son's friend is over from USA on exchange at University.
Firstly, his parents sent him a parcel of his own Winter clothes (not new), DHL charged around £60 in Import Duty/Tax.
I think he should be able to claim this back, am I right?
If so, How?

Secondly, his family have sent him a couple of parcels for Christmas, I don't know the value, and again DHL are charging Import Duty/Tax, which I understand.
Question is, can he claim this back when he goes home in May?
If so, again, how?

Thanks for any help,

Mike

Caz3121

I don't believe there is any mechanism to claim this back in either direction
He may be able to claim VAT refund for items he has bought in the UK whilst here by completing forms and providing receipts when leaving the UK
Some information on the charges here http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsPortalWebApp/channelsPortalWebApp.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=pageTravel_ShowContent&id=HMCE_CL_000014&propertyType=document

note: Used goods are still liable to the same duty and VAT charges as if they were new. However, this may vary depending on their age and condition.

Hintza

What does the customs declaration say? If it is carrying the value then I think he will have to pay especially on the Christmas items.

If however the courier has just invented a figure then I think you should challenge it.

I have found couriers very quick to charge (and sometimes the charge bears little resemblance to the true cost), whilst using normal post tends to be more accurate and at times forgiving.