Where can I find customs information on sending gifts or other packages to Britain?
All packages and gifts mailed to Britain from the United States are examined by Customs officers who determine whether Customs Duty, Excise Duty and/or Value Added Tax (VAT) must be paid on the packages. Listed below are general guidelines for shipping packages to Britain. However, those shipping goods to the United Kingdom are urged to consult the HM Revenue and Customs document, Notice 143: A Guide for International Post Users which provides in-depth information on the specific charges that apply to shipments. Charges • Customs Duty. This is calculated as a percentage of the value of the items being mailed. Duty is charged on the price paid for the goods, including any local sales tax plus postage, packing and insurance costs. Where the value of a gift falls between £36 and £282 (approximately between $70 and $564, depending on the current exchange rate) per shipment, a flat rate of 3.5% import duty may be applied. • Excise Duty. This is charged on alcohol and tobacco products and is
