Random question regarding import duty.

Twisted_Spirit

Ok, This may or may not be straight forward.

If you won a competition whilst abroad and the item was quite valuable would you pay vat and import duty on it even if it didn't cost you anything/had to pay the shipping back to the UK if it was too big.

I can see information on Gifts which I guess would probably the closest relevant info.

I ask because in the past I have entered competitions in America from a specialist website that you have to incur the shipping costs if you won. Just wondered where I would stand on the rest of the costs.

Thanks

visidigi

Yes, you would be liable for any and all duty and taxes on an item above and beyond the gift threshold.

Whether you pay for it or not, the item still holds a value and its that value on which duties and taxes is based...

Twisted_Spirit

Let's hope I don't win this then

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/collectibles/star-wars-han-solo-in-carbonite-sideshow-collectibles-400072/#

visidigi

As it ships FedEx they will likely call you for payment before release due to its value. And yes, winning that would see a significant amount, the VAT/fee alone would hit you for nearly £1,000 - duty would be additional as it isn't an antique -therefore would be higher than what an antique would clear for.

paddyrg

Twisted_Spirit wrote: »

Let's hope I don't win this then

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/collectibles/star-wars-han-solo-in-carbonite-sideshow-collectibles-400072/#

I'd not want to win it for two reasons - one you guessed at, the other because there's no way the Mrs would allow it in the house!

ERICS_MUM

VAT is also charged on the postage/shipping costs.