Royal Mail customers may face VAT and customs charges

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 07:32 · Archive

Royal Mail customers importing goods to the UK may face VAT and customs charges, particularly during the Christmas period when parcels and gifts from overseas are more common. The charges depend on the type and value of goods, where they come from and who sent them.

For non-gift items valued under £135, VAT is collected at the point of sale. Items containing goods valued over £135, and gifts valued over £39, will incur customs charges that Royal Mail collects directly from the recipient before delivery. Letters, postcards and documents are usually exempt from these charges.

Royal Mail says it is legally required to hand all items arriving in the UK to Border Force for inspection. The organisation explains that any charges are calculated and applied on behalf of HM Revenue & Customs; Royal Mail does not apply the charges itself. The fees vary depending on the contents and origin of the package.

How it is being reported

• Royal Mail £135 HMRC rule for UK households ahead of ChristmasDecember 25 is almost here, and we'll be getting more parcels and letters on the run-up to the big dayThe Mirror · 13 Oct, 07:15
• £135 shopping rule that could see Royal Mail customers charged extra feeSending or receiving gifts from family abroad this Christmas? Watch out for this costly Royal Mail ruleDaily Express · 13 Oct, 07:14

In this story: Royal Mail · HM Revenue & Customs · Border Force · UK

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