From Steve Taylor Sent Tue, Feb 23rd 1999, 17:53
> OK this is how C&E (Customs and Excise) work out their charges > (more or less anyway) > > They take the order total value (including the shipping costs) > add the relevant duty (3% for CD's I think) and then > add VAT 17.5% > > If the order is marked "Gift" and is less that 36UKP in value then it is > exempt from these charges > If it is not a gift but is less that 18UKP in value it is also exempt. > > So I guess you could somehow claim it was a gift and you may get away > with it and get a refund! > > I have recently heard that they have amended these rules so that no > internet order is exempt from charges - how they tell whether something > was ordered over the internet I don't know > > > It could be the fact that the CD's were all shrinkwrapped, and the Box had a Forced Exposure Stamp on. And I guess they are used to seeing packages from CDNOW etc. But then FE marked the value as $15 which is about 10 UKP, so charges shouldnt apply, i could contest this, but i doubt its worth it (plus there is only a customs Postal address, no phone or email). Actually there wasnt even an invoice with the CD's, that was sent seperately. Steve