Buying Contax G2 kit on Ebay

[wilsonpeter@mac]

Need advice please on buying kit from Ebay.I am in Liverpool,England and thinking of bidding on equipment in the United States.Do I have to pay duty to Customs and Excise?I have never done this before and would appreciate advice from someone who has.

[Fred]

Welcome Peter (or is it Wilson). :)

OK, if you buy anything from outside the EU, you are liable to pay VAT rate for the UK and additional customs charges at a goods value they decide. :confused:

You can minimise this if your buying the goods as a gift. This must be declared on the shipment information though. :confused:

Good luck and enjoy shooting some film. :D

Set up a gallery.

[wilsonpeter@mac]

Fred.Thank you for your advice.Sorry it is Peter.First time ever used a forum like this.

[D.O'K.]

Dear Peter,

I don't know the answer, but am also in Liverpool and have found the people at the HM Customs & Excise offices at Seaforth Dock helpful in answering general inquiries when rung up on (0151) 934 1200. Alternatively there is a national advice line on (0845) 010 9000 (but I haven't tried that...).

Best of luck,
D.O'K.

[wilsonpeter@mac]

Thank you D.O'K.
What a small world.I will call them on Monday.

Many thanks,
Peter

[GRK]

Peter,

I did the same as you and bought my 1st G2 from the states about 2 years ago. I paid $1100 + shipping at the time. I arranged with the shop to state it was a repair. The package was still insured for $1100 so Customs stung me for £144! I complained and it took 3 months to get £129 back- apparently Parcelforce keep £15 as a service charge! i heard that customs charge 17.5% VAT + 6% service. Dont know if thats true though.

I bought my 28mm and my 21mm from private owners abroad with no hassle. Hope you have better luck than me.