UPS import question

[Robbied196]

I'm going to book a UPS collection from a company in Taiwan and delivered to the UK. I can get the quotes and book the collection, but at what point do I pay the Customs, VAT fees?

I've looked around their site but can't seem to find any info. Hopefully, there is someone here who does this all the time.

Many thanks
Rob

 

[Colin Castle]

I bought a new seat for my motorbike frrom the USA last year, a good price at £220, when UPS arrived at my door i had to pay an extra £87, not impressed.

Don't know what the duty will be on an item from Taiwan, if it was me i would speak to customs and just ask them.

I googled; customs duty importing from Taiwan and found some useful info

I have less than 30 posts so can't include the URL's

 

[Jayser100]

UPS usually customs clear 'in the air' to avoid delays on door to door items. As you haven't got an account with them, the delivery driver will most likely be instructed to collect a cheque from you for VAT and duties on your doorstep. I've had that in the past. If you're going to do this regularly, open an account with them. That way, you won't have to pay the driver - they will take a direct debit later and you can download your invoice from your account login.

 

[Mr D]

Customs used to (maybe still do) take payment over the phone.

 

[bharris]

As above you pay the driver. UPS also charge a customs admin fee which was £11 last year. So don't forget to add that to the cost.
At a minimum you will have to pay 20% on the invoice total including the shipping charge for VAT plus the admin fee. You may also have to pay an import charge, which could be anything depending upon what you are importing.

 

[DontAsk]

Customs used to (maybe still do) take payment over the phone.

Customs will already have been paid. It's UPS who need to be paid to reimburse them for the duty and VAT and the additional handling charge.