I am thinking of buying some used machine parts from the US. I've not done this before, although I have bought horological stuff from several non-EU countries. VAT and Customs duty will be payable to the Post Office, not HMRC directly. I have had a poor experience with a US-sourced shipment when I paid duty on a $100 (USD) item as if it were £100, and paid VAT on a non-VAT item.

To avoid misunderstandings over customs duty and subsequent VAT what is the best description the seller can provide? I'm not looking for a loop-hole, just a way to avoid problems.

For an idea of value the item is approximately £200 and shipping is nearly £70 - it's bulky.

I would appreciate any advice you may have.

Regards
D