VAT duty on 2nd Hand gear

**Tue Dec 20, 2011 3:25 pm » Post: #1 » Download Post**

I know, I should be speaking to customs and excise really but first can anyone tell me if I'm wrong..... I just purchased a modified SE Rear Shock from Scott in the USA. It is a private sale but I am being asked to pay Import VAT on the unit.
As far as I'm concerned this is a private, not business, purchase of a used item and therefore should not be liable for VAT.

Am I completely wrong?

Mike
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I don't mind dying...I just don't want to be there when it happens!

**Tue Dec 20, 2011 3:30 pm » Post: #2 » Download Post**

Yes you have to pay VAT.

Its Duty then VAT added to the item. I've just had to go through the same thing.
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If I have to take the carbs off once more...

**Tue Dec 20, 2011 3:39 pm » Post: #3 » Download Post**

Thanks...I'll get it paid then.

Cheers
Mike
_________________
I don't mind dying...I just don't want to be there when it happens!

**Tue Dec 20, 2011 4:05 pm » Post: #4 » Download Post**

The only way round this is for the "seller" to write something on the package claiming it's of no commercial value (though this is both illegal and means any damages claim will not be possible). Whether it's new, 2nd hand, gift, private sale between individuals, whatever, it doesn't matter. Import duty and then VAT are due on anything from outside of the EU.
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**Tue Dec 20, 2011 4:24 pm » Post: #5 » Download Post**

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...