eBay

richarrab-0 · ‎20-01-2025

I'm noting that buying items from Japan does not mean paying VAT or other taxes at the time of purchase. I've also received a few smaller buys from Japan recently, and NOT been charged import duties.

Am I being too optimistic to think a Wrist Watch bought on eBay from Japan would slip through UK customs? And whilst on this subject I also recently got a purchase from Australia that slipped through; Am I missing something here?

Thanks for your info. and or ideas

sml192 · ‎21-01-2025

Are you sure you weren't charged VAT?

Ebay is responsible for collecting VAT on overseas items £135 or under. as there is no import duty to pay.

Listing prices are now shown inclusive of VAT (used to be added at checkout) except for auction style listings. Where VAT is included it will be stated in the payments section of the listing and at checkout that that is the case but no actual breakdown is provided (a VAT invoice can be downloaded after purchase).

hlodryk · ‎31-03-2025

so how much would i pay in duties and taxes on a watch that is aprox £170?

richarrab-0 · ‎01-04-2025

It looks as though eBay charges you the vat at checkout, theoretically 20%.
Just out of interest Jauce Japan do not add the VAT and my two recent
purchases from them sailed through UK customs……….no charges.

hlodryk · ‎01-04-2025

Hi,

Thanks for info.
But when I click buy-now option (without confirming the purchase), the payment summary does not include any extra vat charge, just the item price. Delivery is free.

So would it be requested on delivery by DHL?

sml192 · ‎01-04-2025

Yes, as the value of the item is greater than £135 Import VAT and Duty will be collected by the carrier along with their admin fee. I believe DHL send an invoice for the charges after delivery rather than requesting payment before delivery as most other carriers do.

hlodryk · ‎01-04-2025

Thanks,

So how much would it be in total? VAT, customs duties and other cost?

sml192 · ‎01-04-2025

@hlodryk wrote:
Thanks,

So how much would it be in total? VAT, customs duties and other cost

Import VAT is 20%. It looks like there is no Import Duty to pay on a wristwatch but may depend on the exact type of watch. Don't know how much DHL's admin fee is , usually around £10 to £15.