The Panerai Source Forums

I've had a look at this website (www.kaktus-straps.com) and I really like them. My question is will I be done for the Vat and duty when the straps come in. Company is based in Switzerland, which is not in EU but does have bilateral agreements with the EU, but not sure if this covers VAT.

Does anyone know if I'll have to pay import vat?

Cheers
Mike

In my experience importing from outside the EU is a lottery at best. I've had numerous straps from Canada with nothing added. I recently had one from the US priced at $100 and got smacked for nearly £40 in 'add ons'

I would wager from within Europe you'll be OK, but don't quote me

I've had a chance to call the HMRC and have been told that if goods are being imported from outside the EU it will be charged VAT and duty unless it is under 18gbp in value.

I have been told by the seller though that he declares the value of all his packages at $20usd to avoid tax/custom problems...so I shouldn't get a tax bill as the pacakge will be below the 18gbp deminimis level.

Goods imported into the UK within the UK don't have an extra VAT/Duty charge when they come in the country. This is regardless of their value.

I'm going to get a couple of these straps from Kaktus...I'll post picks and let you know what they're like when I get them.

Cheers
Mike

Assuming they're being sent insured, under declaring the value is dangerous if they get lost. You'll only get the actual declared value back

I'm buying from a business rather than an individual seller, and paying by credit card via paypal so if they don't turn up I'll dispute the charge on my card. I think the seller is taking the risk by under declaring the value. If it was a more pricey item I'd be more concerned but for a strap I should be ok.