Consumers ordering from a UK webshop are not always aware that they have to pay VAT or import duty on their purchase since 1 January. By warning shoppers of this, Customs hopes to avoid nasty surprises when the parcel delivery man arrives at the door.
"As a result of corona, more and more people are shopping online. Also at UK webshops," says Mariska Mirer, Post & Courier specialist at Customs. "That's why we are now asking people to be aware of the changed rules about paying VAT and import duties. If you are not aware of this, it can be a nasty surprise."
Since 1 January, orders from UK webshops are subject to the same rules as any other webshop outside the EU. On purchases over 22 euros, consumers in the Netherlands pay VAT. If the purchase value exceeds 150 euros, import duties are added. These costs can be paid at the parcel delivery company, which then also charges customs clearance fees.
