[Samo]

Over here, I think they just randomly open parcels. I had some jeans from the US delivered via DHL about 4 years ago now and got hit with customs fees. The jeans cost me £50 and they wanted £35 in fees. I ignored it, they chased a couple times, then stopped. Not heard a thing since (I've probably jinxed it now...)

Also one thing to bear in mind is that if an item is marked up at a low value and goes missing is that you will only be entitled to compensation up to the value on the paperwork. So if you paid $100 for something, but the parcel is marked up at $20, then you won't get any more than $20 if it gets lost.

[lorre]

eeeerrrrmmm interesting has anyone ever marked an item down then made a claim for a higher than stated customs value? The reality is alot of people mark items down but legally it could be seen as a way to commit fraud if the insurance stated is higher

[benji]

But surely you can insure something for whatever you want?
This was in the Guardian... (not a link as the advice may be useful if you can search for it)

Our son in Australia posted his Christmas presents early, hoping to avoid the rush, but we have since received a letter from Parcelforce requesting £47.76 VAT. Knowing it was highly unlikely the goods would be valued at more than £100, we rang the number given and were informed that parcels were selected at random and the customs officer would assess their worth. This may not be the usual form of problem that you deal with but, nevertheless, one that could affect dozens of unsuspecting people in the UK receiving Christmas presents from Australia, or anywhere else for that matter. Is there any form of redress or reasoning that can be followed up? PL, Birmingham

You're right – customs duty and import VAT could be an issue for people receiving mailed gifts bought or sent from outside the EU for delivery to the UK this Christmas. Customs duty is payable on goods with a value over £135 but the duty is waived if the amount of duty calculated is less than £9. Import VAT (17.5%) will be charged by HM Revenue & Customs on bought goods above £18 in value, or £40 for gifts between private individuals. Parcelforce also charges an £8 clearance fee for the administration of a package that incurs HMRC costs, rising to £13.50 for express parcels and high-value packages.

Parcelforce acknowledged that it does not value items itself. "Our role is to present items to the Inland Revenue where the charge is raised," a spokesman said. "The charges are based on the customs declaration form completed by the sender."

This means Parcelforce has merely passed on the charge it has incurred from HMRC. If you and your son both dispute the fee, you should complain to HMRC within 30 days of receiving (and paying for) your goods. Details are available on the HMRC factsheet HM Revenue & Customs Decisions – What to do if you Disagree. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your discussions with HMRC you can have your case reviewed by a different officer from the one who made the decision, or you can have your case heard by an independent tax tribunal for a final decision.

[Big Vern]

having to have ulnar relocation surgery on both arms (although I do get 2 weeks off work for each one!).

Wish I hadnt looked on Youtube though, thought it would be simple keyhole surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lfK7iKTpEY

[kt0626]

Good luck with.that Vern....

[ez-1]

Good luck Vern.
Not sure why I watched that video...

[benji]

Not going to look but good luck mate

[Samo]

Good luck Vern

[Poor Sod]

Yeah I'll pass on the video but wish you luck!

[WhenIRocktheBeat]

Hold your head up Vern!! Wishing you all the best.
-D