How Do I Avoid Customs Charges From USA To UK?

When shipping personal items or purchases from the USA to the UK, the last thing anyone wants is a surprise bill at the door. Customs charges can quickly add up, especially if you’re not familiar with the rules and regulations surrounding import duty from the USA to the UK. Whether you’re relocating, sending gifts, or moving goods, it pays to be prepared.

Importing goods from the USA to the UK involves understanding customs procedures, import duties, and taxes to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected costs.

At UPakWeShip, we specialize in seamless international shipping – and we’re here to help you avoid unnecessary customs charges and ensure a smoother delivery.

What Are Customs Charges and When Do They Apply?

When items are shipped into the UK from outside the country, customs fees may be applied. Customs duties, including UK customs charges and import duties, are based on the total value and value of the goods being imported, which means customs charges can quickly add up. These typically include:

• Import Duty (customs duties and UK customs charges may be included)
• VAT (Value Added Tax)
• Handling Fees

These charges depend on the declared value, item type, and origin of the goods. The customs declaration must accurately reflect the total value of the goods to ensure the correct calculation of customs duties. Even though import duty from the EU to the UK has changed post-Brexit, goods from non-EU countries like the USA often attract higher scrutiny.

Know the Value Thresholds

Customs charges are based on the declared value of your shipment. If your shipment is worth:

• Under £135 – No import duty, but VAT may still apply. The duty rate does not apply below this threshold, so you generally do not need to pay duty or import duties.
• Over £135 – Import duty and VAT are both applicable. The duty rate varies depending on the type of goods, and you may need to pay duty or pay import duties if your shipment exceeds this threshold.

If the value of your shipment exceeds the threshold, you will need to pay duty and VAT based on the duty rate applicable to your goods.

Tip: When sending personal effects or used household goods with a clear declaration of value, you may avoid excessive duty charges. UPakWeShip helps you document this correctly to reduce fees.

Use a TOR (Transfer of Residence) Application When Moving

If you’re relocating from the USA to the UK, you may qualify for duty-free entry of your used personal belongings under the Transfer of Residence (TOR) scheme. The TOR scheme allows your belongings to be legally imported into the UK for personal use without paying import duty.

To benefit:

• Apply online for a TOR1 certificate
• Declare that goods are used, owned for at least 6 months, and not for resale
• Submit documents proving your move

UPakWeShip helps guide customers through the TOR process, making international relocations stress-free and free from import duty.

Fill Out Your Paperwork Accurately

Incorrect or incomplete paperwork is one of the top reasons for customs delays or unexpected fees. Ensure your documents include:

• A detailed inventory list
• Declared value for each item
• Proof of ownership/use for personal items
• Reference number (such as the Customs Declaration Service Immediate reference number)
• Commodity code for each item

We provide all necessary customs forms and guides, helping customers complete them properly. Providing the correct commodity code and reference number helps ensure smooth customs clearance. Choosing UPakWeShip means fewer surprises and fewer delays at customs.

Use the Import Custom Duty Calculator

Want an estimate of what you might pay? Try using an import custom duty calculator online. HMRC and other international shipping websites offer calculators to give you an idea of potential costs based on product type, value, and shipping method. These calculators often use the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) and shipping cost to estimate customs charges, as the CIF value includes the cost of goods, insurance, and freight to the destination port.

However, note that these calculators are only estimates – working with an experienced shipper like UPakWeShip helps ensure better accuracy and real-time advice. Consulting with your shipping company can also help ensure you have the most accurate information for your shipment and comply with all customs requirements.

Mark Items Correctly (e.g. Gifts vs. Purchases)

Shipping a gift? Label it clearly. Gift shipments under £39 are generally exempt from VAT and duties. However, purchases and items such as alcohol and tobacco products—including hand rolling tobacco and smoking tobacco—are subject to different rules and may not qualify for exemptions. For example, if you purchased a knee brace from the USA, it would be treated as a commercial purchase and not as a gift, so VAT and duties would apply. Alcohol and tobacco products are always subject to excise duty, regardless of value, and have specific import restrictions. Note that certain items may be eligible for a reduced rate of VAT, depending on their classification. But if the item looks commercial or lacks a proper declaration, you could still get charged.

Our team at UPakWeShip helps you categorize and label your items properly to avoid unnecessary customs scrutiny.

Why Choose UPakWeShip for USA to UK Shipping?

When it comes to shipping from the USA to the UK, choosing the right partner can make all the difference. UPakWeShip stands out as a leader in international shipping, offering tailored solutions designed to minimize customs charges and streamline the entire process.

Our team understands the complexities of UK customs regulations, including the nuances of import duty, VAT, and excise duty. We provide expert advice on how to prepare your shipment, complete customs declarations accurately, and select the appropriate commodity codes to avoid unnecessary delays or fees.

Beyond customs expertise, we offer competitive shipping costs and flexible options to suit your needs, whether you’re sending personal goods, commercial shipments, or gifts. We collaborate closely with customs officials and courier companies to ensure smooth customs clearance and timely delivery to the intended recipient.

Additionally, we assist with all necessary documentation, including obtaining an EORI number for businesses, guiding you through the Transfer of Residence (TOR) application for relocations, and advising on tax reliefs and duty exemptions where applicable.

Our comprehensive service includes handling hazardous materials according to legal requirements, coordinating with customs brokers, and managing any processing fees involved. We prioritize transparency, so you always know the total cost upfront, avoiding surprise import charges.

With UPakWeShip, you benefit from decades of experience, a dedicated support team, and a commitment to making your shipping experience hassle-free and cost-effective. Whether you’re exporting goods for commercial use or importing personal items for private use, we’re here to help you navigate the UK customs landscape confidently.

• Customs Expertise – We navigate complex UK import laws and help you avoid costly errors
• All-Inclusive Pricing – No hidden fees. Know your costs upfront with our transparent shipping model
• Hassle-Free Paperwork – We guide you through every form, including the Transfer of Residence process
• Decades of Experience – Trusted in international shipping for over 30 years
• Door-to-Door Service – From packing to customs clearance, we handle it all

Whether you’re sending a single box or an entire household, UPakWeShip makes shipping from the USA to the UK easy, affordable, and reliable.

Final Thought

Avoiding customs charges isn’t about tricking the system – it’s about knowing the rules, declaring properly, and working with an experienced shipping partner. With UPakWeShip, your move from the USA to the UK is in good hands – smooth, stress-free, and customs-smart.

Ready to ship? Contact UPakWeShip today for a quote and expert support.
Let’s move it – the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions