How is UK import duty calculated?
Matthew Underwood
Updated on June 03, 2026
Also question is, what is the rate of import duty in UK?
Customs Duty
| Type and value of goods | Customs Duty |
|---|---|
| Anything under £135 | No charge |
| Gifts worth £135-£630 | 2.5%, but rates are lower for some goods - call the helpline |
| Gifts above £630 and other goods above £135 | The rate depends on the type of goods and where they came from - call the helpline |
One may also ask, how are UK customs charges calculated? Customs fees are normally calculated based on the type of goods and their declared value, (which the sender will have noted on the customs documentation CN23 attached to the parcel). High value goods over the threshold provided by HMRC and the UK Government (currently €1000 / £873), the customs charge is £25.00.
Also, how is import duty calculated?
Once you've identified the right commodity code for the goods that you wish to import, you'll be able to look up the rate of duty payable and calculate this cost. Remember that you're calculating duty as a percentage of the total value (goods + shipping costs + insurance).
Do you have to pay import tax from UK?
You'll need to pay customs duty (or import tax) on any goods you move across the US border from the UK, though goods from some countries are exempt due to different international trade agreements. The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces customs rules.
Related Question Answers
What is the import tax?
Import duty is a tax collected on imports and some exports by a country's customs authorities. A good's value will usually dictate the import duty. Depending on the context, import duty may also be known as a customs duty, tariff, import tax or import tariff.How much will customs charge me?
5%How do I avoid customs charges from China to UK?
- 1) Use the correct commodity code.
- 2) Pay the required rate of VAT.
- 3) Register with the CHIEF system to declare your goods.
- 4) Pay any duty required.
- 5) Check your goods aren't banned from being imported from China to the UK or require an import licence.
How much is US import duty?
How does the UK charge import duty on USA goods?| Type and value of goods | Import duty rate |
|---|---|
| Any goods under £135 | No charge |
| Gifts worth £135-£630 | 2.5% (lower for some goods) |
| Gifts above £630 and any other goods above £135 | Depends on the type of goods and country of export. Check the HS code of goods to get the exact rate. |
How much is VAT in UK?
VAT rates for goods and servicesThe standard rate of VAT increased to 20% on 4 January 2011 (from 17.5%). Some things are exempt from VAT , such as postage stamps, financial and property transactions. The VAT rate businesses charge depends on their goods and services.