Q – I’m planning to order most of my Christmas presents online. I’ve spotted some gifts I’m interested in – but the websites appear to be based outside Ireland. Do I need to worry about customs charges if I order through these websites – and if so, what kind of customs charges could I get hit with ? Paddy – Waterford
A – Yes Paddy you do as this can be quite complicated. Once the sender declares values and content of your package, it becomes liable to all sorts of charges. For instance, on clothing from non-EU based suppliers, as in the US, this is what you will pay extra :
1. Customs Duty – Customs duty is calculated by Customs on the TOTAL cost of the clothing. They add together the purchase price, + any insurance, + freight costs. On this total figure they charge Customs duties of 12%.
2. V.A.T. – After adding the customs duty to the total cost of the clothing, they then add V.A.T.@ 23% on the after Customs duty figure.
In many cases the delivery company used will ask for payment of the customs duties before releasing the clothing to you. Buying in the EU territories does not attract custom duty but there are many rules, regulations and conditions. Those eager enough to know the ins and outs of charges when ordering online can access the link below from the Revenue.ie web site : http://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/leaflets/pn1882.html