quoted 20 lines OK this is how C&E (Customs and Excise) work out their charges> 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