Paying import VAT on goods from abroad

[wheresthehamster]

I bought a DS on Ebay from a seller in Hong Kong aware that I could be liable for import duties and VAT but took the chance and I received the DS before Christmas and wasn't asked to pay any more.

This morning I have received a VAT invoice from DHL express for £24.69. No import duties purely VAT. It all looks official but how do I know they are not just trying it on? The item and freight costs have been inflated and there is something called 'VAT value adjustment' which all added together puts the true cost of the VAT up by £5.00 which is a bit annoying.

Do I just pay it? And if I don't will they chase me for it? Is it normal for courier companies to shoulder the cost of VAT themselves and reclaim it later?

I believe you do have to pay it, its the import duties for having a new item over the "vat free" limit imported to the UK. There may also be a charge by DHL for handling etc like Parcel Force charge.

DHL wont pay it - they are simply biling you for it as they provided the service and are complying with customs.

Thanks