The only way around it is if you can proved you owned the item 12 months before it was sent abroad.

Eg. You own a shock, send it to the states for a mate to borrow. He then sends it back to you (the owner). If you can prove you owned it before it was sent you don't pay VAT.

I couldn't prove anything so got robbed.
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If I have to take the carbs off once more...