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Why was I charged VAT by customs for this postal item from the U.S.?

  • 05-01-2012 3:20pm
    #1
    whirlpool
    Closed Accounts Posts: 2,574 ✭✭✭


    Hi,

    I ordered an item from the U.S. valued at $54.97 USD. When it reached my door here in Ireland, I was ordered to pay €14.62, as a result of Customs & Excise.

    The docket itself read as follows:

    Duty: -
    VAT: 8.62
    Post Office Clearance: 6.00
    Total For Collection: 14.62

    I have received items of the same size and weight from the U.S. via post before and not been subject to this extra charge.

    Can anybody explain this to me please?

    Thanks.


Comments

  • #2
    Geuze
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,026 ✭✭✭✭Geuze


    Imports from outside the EU are subject to 21% VAT, except for some exclusions.

    See here: http://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/index.html

    The VAT is applied to the euro value incl postage.

    An Post charge 6 euro on top as an admin fee.

    They must have just missed your first parcel in the An Post depot.


  • #3
    djk1000
    Closed Accounts Posts: 899 ✭✭✭djk1000


    Because VAT and duty is due on imports from the US. Customs can't physically check every package, so that's why you haven't had to pay on other items before. It's the luck of the draw. The economy being the way it is, more packages are being checked and systems are in place for delivery companies (An Post, UPS etc.) to charge the VAT and duty on behalf of customs.

    Technically, you should be declaring everything you import for duty and VAT whether they catch it or not.


  • #4
    whirlpool
    Closed Accounts Posts: 2,574 ✭✭✭whirlpool


    djk1000 wrote: »
    It's the luck of the draw.


    Ah I see. I didn't understand why certain items were being subject to the charge while other similar items weren't, but now I do.

    Thanks for the responses.

    djk1000 wrote: »
    Technically, you should be declaring everything you import for duty and VAT.

    I was not aware of this. With regards to general online shopping from U.S. websites, and not including items of larger value (e.g. above €100), are you aware of anybody that actually does this?


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