*FLASH*Stung with 'customs charge' on favours from America from Etsy

Yeah, I've been stung for this too on items in the past. It isn't the seller underpaying on postage - it's UK customs deciding to add tax and duty on. They can do this for any parcel valued over £7.

The one thing you can do is ask the seller if they would kindly mark the package as a gift or sample rather than merchandise. This avoids customs adding on charges. They don't have to do it and are completely within their rights to refuse, but it's worth a try.

Aw, I've been caught out with the Royal Mail before because as well as the customs fee which I was expecting you they charge you a standard handling fee as well! ;-(

A friend of mine is from Norway - her parents sent her Christmas present and accidentally wrote '2000' on the customs form for the value (I don't know if they wrote it in local currency or what?) ... she was stung with a massive bill

Make yourself feel better for it, flash your favours and we'll all tell you how beautiful they are

Same happened to me for Bridesmaids gifts! I was so upset, but just remember - your favours are perfect

I agree with above (sorry, didn't catch the name) - FLASH THE FAVOURS x

Just to add to the above, this doesn't always stop customs from opening your package. If they do, and they don't believe the package is a gift, you might get charged customs duty anyway.

How annoying.

I've heard of quite a few people who've had this but for some reason I wasn't charged when I ordered my invitations from a US seller on Etsy.

Not sure whether there is a rule for what applies or whether it's pot luck if you get charged or not??

Yeah, customs can be nasty. i know the charges also vary depending on the type of goods too!

Good news! I contacted the seller to confirm that it was correct that I am being charged, and she has issued me a partial refund of £15 bless her!

I suppose the the only good thing to come of this is that I won't do it again!!

Now... A flash!

These are 2inch long little Love Bug magnets. I LOVE that they're black and ivory! They will be given out black for men and white for the ladies presented on top of a recycled brown card box with the little bit of ribbon round them like the photo. So when they're taken home everyone will have a matching pair on their fridge to remind them of our day. We massive VW lovers so ties in beautifully. I LOVE them.

Definitely worth all all this expense and hassle!

I love your favours!!!

I collected them!

Most definitely worth the wait and the hassle!