Overview of tariffs for imports from China to the UK
Are you wondering whether items sent from China to the UK need to pay customs duties? In this article, TPD Sino-UK Freight Forwarding will give you a comprehensive overview of tariffs and their applicability when importing from China to the UK.
1. Learn about tariffs
Customs, also known as import duties, are taxes levied by the government on goods imported into a country. These duties are usually determined based on the value and type of imported goods. The purpose of tariffs is to protect domestic industry and generate revenue for the government.
When importing goods from China into the UK, duties may be imposed depending on a number of factors including the type of goods and their value.
2. Factors affecting tariffs
The following factors will affect whether you need to pay customs duties when importing items from China to the UK:
Value of Goods: The value of imported goods plays an important role in determining whether duties are applicable. In the UK, goods worth less than £135 are generally exempt from customs duties. However, this threshold may differ for certain types of items.
Type of goods: Different types of goods may have different tariff rates and may even be subject to specific regulations. It is crucial to classify your items correctly to determine the applicable duties.
Origin of Goods: The country of origin of goods also affects the application of tariffs. For example, if an item is manufactured in China but shipped from another country, different regulations may apply.
3. Duty calculation and payment
Duties for imports from China to the UK are usually calculated based on the dutiable value. Duty-paid price includes the cost of goods, freight and insurance.
To calculate the exact amount of customs duties, you can use the UK Government's online tool or consult a customs agent. Once customs duties are determined, they need to be paid before the goods are released from customs.
It is worth noting that customs duties are separate from VAT (VAT). Depending on the value and type of imported goods, VAT may also apply to imported goods.
In summary, whether items sent from China to the UK are subject to customs duties depends on a number of factors including the value and type of the items. It is crucial to understand applicable regulations and accurately calculate tariffs to ensure a smooth import process. Consulting a customs agent or using online tools provided by the UK government can help you complete customs procedures efficiently.
