What are the customs fees for importing from China?

[arbaxter]

Hello

I am looking to purchase an order of mobile phones from China, to be shipped over to the UK. Does anyone know what the customs fees will be?

1) What will the Chinese customs charge? and how do I pay this?
2) What will UK Customs charge? and how do I pay this?

ps, Im buying 5 nokia mobile phones and they are being sent by TNT

Cheers

[dzug]

ICBW but I wouldn't have thought Chinese customs would charge anything.

UK customs will charge import duty and VAT. Don't know the amounts other than 17.5% for VAT. TNT will pay it for you and charge you an admin fee for doing so. You will have to pay before they will deliver.

[Ethel]

Sadly it isn't straightforward as different goods attract different rates of duty, which can differ depending on the country you are importing from.

However, you will only pay one set of duties - to the UK, not China.

TNT will give you a bill when they deliver the goods - the rates will be worked out for you.

As all the charges can amount to near 50% of the value, I strongly advise you to telephone Customs and Excise for advice before placing an order - they are very helpful.

0845 010 9000

Another tip - Customs and Excise are now part of Inland Revenue. Be aware that the tax man will take an interest if you import quantities that are over and above 'personal use'.