HMRC have issued a press release on changes to the value of goods that travellers can personally bring into the UK from a non EU country, or receive through the post without needing to pay Customs duty or VAT.  The changes come into effect on 1 January 2010 and travellers arriving in the UK by commercial sea or air transport from a non EU country may now bring in up to £390 worth of goods for personal use (previously £340, excluding tobacco and alcohol which have separate allowances without paying Customs duty or VAT).  Those arriving by other means, including by private plane or boat, can bring in goods up to the value of £270 (previously £240).

Individuals who buy goods over the internet or by mail order from outside the EU will now only be charged Customs duty if the value of the package is above £135 and the actual amount of duty due is over £9.  Details of other allowances, including the alcohol and tobacco allowances may be found at www.hmrc.gov.uk/customs/index.htm.

Posted on 25 Jan 2010