AliExpress now charging VAT

[dazp1976]

Unfortunately, the mechanism for it happening is still there for goods with an intrinsic value over £15 and less than £135. Most of the time HMRC can't be arsed with small values. As they automatically get the VAT for low value personal imports, they are generally satisfied with that. I think you were unlucky (maybe the Customs Officer had a row with his partner and was in a bad mood). I have had imports of $150 without any duty and also goods worth £8 that were subject to the DHL con (I didn't pay it and they returned the goods and I got a refund). Both of these were before the collection of VAT at source. Now, because the VAT is already paid, most small value goods are just let through. You are more likely to trigger DHL involvement if you go for fast delivery options.

I didn't have a choice on delivery options with that one.
It's outlandish how we get ripped off in the uk tbf.
It's all bollox!

Have another £80 worth of small bits arriving either this/next week. Fingers crossed
Not too concerned though. Some not avail in uk at all (or ever will), and the bits I could get here... I've likely saved £70 off.