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Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Fri Aug 06, 2021 10:13 pm
by Sullivj
So, I want to invest in the Cardo Packtalk Bold Duo.


This seems to be the cheapest place I can find it, but I think I could have to pay import duty? Is that always the case, or might I get away with it? If I do have to pay it, any ideas how much it might be?


https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Cardo-Packtalk-Bold-JBL-Duo-Bluetooth-Motorcycle-Bluetooth-Intercom-New-F-/393306219988?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l6249&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 4:39 am
by keith1200r
Yes, you could be charged duty, VAT and a handling fee. Sometimes things sneak under the radar but that is usually low priced items or items with misdeclared contents labels.

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 6:16 am
by BoB21
Wait till next year when over there?

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 7:18 am
by burridge01
100% you will be charged import duty along with a plethora of other charges from the carrier.
I found My Arrow system for the RT in Italy considerably cheaper than the UK.Ordered them up and 4 weeks later got a bill from FedEx for £237.21.They wanted payment before  delivery (that's a whole different  story)In the end it worked out roughly the same as the UK price and it was a lesson learned.


If I remember rightly there is no duty etc on items under £130 but remember to include the postage in the final price(obviously check yourself to be 100% sure)

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 9:11 am
by PeteM
I've just imported some stuff from Germany and had to pay:
  • 20% VAT
  • 2.6% Customs Duty
  • Collection Charge £12 for the Post Office
Fortunately for me the seller agreed to refund the charges so no cost to me, although it took over a week from paying the charges to it updating on the Post Office system so they could deliver it.


The government website for imports is actually pretty good for understanding what is involved: https://www.gov.uk/goods-sent-from-abroad

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 1:45 pm
by Sullivj
Thanks for all your advice guys. I think BOB21 has nailed it.


I will see if I can purchase it when I’m in Europe and bring it back myself.

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 3:34 pm
by BoB21
Awww thanks. I will have a word with cussies on return. :whistle:

Re: Buying from the EU..?

Posted: Sat Aug 07, 2021 4:56 pm
by Casbar
One word of warning. There is only one importer in the UK who looks after warranty. If you have an issue with a unit not purchased in the UK, the UK support will not help, they will only put you in touch with the US or European distributor. There have been a few who have had problems and been stuck. Have a search on UKGSER there is a chap at the moment who has a faulty Packtalk Bold and he purchased from a non UK distributor, the UK guys will not replace and can only offer advice. Personally I would swallow the difference in price and buy from a recognised UK distributor. But if its a significant saving, then might be worth the risk. I have had an original Packtalk for 6 or 7 years and had no issues, but the previous Cardo G9 I had was faulty and was replaced no questions by the UK shop I bought it from, others haven't been so lucky.