@john094 wrote:Thanks to all who replied. I appreciate your help.
The issue is not about knowing the level of import charges of customs, it is about how eBay makes known the final price. In my other purchases from abroad into the EU, eBay has added import charges to the final price before I pay. The shipping charges are also mentioned.
Here the final price was given and it was marked free shipping. eBAy determines the final price at this time. Normally this goes smoothly and the goods arrive because eBay has assured tht all the charges including shipping and customs are in the purchase price. (This is different on non-eBay purchases.)
The shipper is responsible for both the transport and the customs import charges.
The final price I paid did not include any extra customs charges. Nor did eBay indicate that customs charges might be added later after I had paid what I thought was the final price.
The goods are still under way. What should be my reaction if the customs if I am asked by EU customs to pay an extra 25 percent to the purchase price?
I explained this in my reply on your other thread. eBay only collects VAT and import charges on items being imported into the EU if the total value of the shipment is 150 EUR or less.
eBay does make this information available when you make the purchase, but how it is displayed depends on what eBay website you are using at the time, because different countries have different requirements on how to display sales tax and VAT.
It may also depend on what shipping service is being used. If the seller uses eBay International Shipping, then the VAT and duties may be included, but other services (such as the post office) then it may not be included. It is shown at checkout. If there was no charge for VAT when you paid, then you have to pay the courier before they will deliver it.
Either way, you always have to pay VAT on imported goods, 21% in Belgium for most goods. Whether you pay at purchase, or when the item is received. You should be aware of this, if you are buying things from outside the EU.
Here's an example of how it is shown on the listing, on eBay.com. This is a laptop with free international shipping to Belgium.
