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UK Parcel Tax Refund
Recently, customs inspections have become more stringent, and several parcels have been taxed. However, don't worry, the UK customs system allows for tax refunds. For parcels sent from China to the UK via postal services, as long as they contain non-prohibited items, are for non-commercial purposes, and consist of low-value and small quantities of personal goods, they are eligible for tax refund applications.
The probability of a regular parcel being selected for inspection is around 10%, so the chances are relatively low. However, if a parcel is flagged by customs, the shipping time may be delayed, and you will receive a customs letter requesting you to pay the tax first.
A few days ago, a lovely girl had her parcel selected for inspection, and subsequently received a customs tax invoice as shown in the image below, requiring a payment of £40 in taxes.
Fortunately, the UK customs system is reasonable. As long as you can prove that the items are for personal use, not for commercial purposes, and have low value, you are eligible for a tax refund. However, you need to pay the tax first through the website provided on the invoice before receiving the parcel.
Once you have received the parcel, you can proceed with the tax refund application.
Note: The BOR286 form mentioned below is currently used for Parcel Force and Royal Mail, and full-time students have a higher probability of successful tax refunds compared to others.
Step 1:
Log in to the website provided afterwards.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/vat-customs-dutyimport-vat-relating-to-imports-by-post-bor286
Click to log in to the UK government's tax refund form, and download the following form BOR286 shown in the image.
Step 2: Fill in the form
In the "Charge reference number (this will usually begin with 'EC' or 'ZA' and end 'GB')" section, enter the tracking reference number provided in the customs letter.
Image 1: Fill in the space with your tracking reference number.
Generally, your tracking reference number can be found in the top left corner of the customs letter you received.
In the "Details of Customs Duty or import VAT incorrectly charged" section, explain why you believe the fee should not have been charged. When writing, make sure to express your grievances and emphasize that you are a full-time student with no income. State that the items being shipped have a low value and are for personal use, and emphasize that they were sent by your parents out of love and care, among other reasons.
Image 1: Fill in your reasons on the blank line provided.
Step 3: Print documents such as student proof letter, shipping receipt, tax payment receipt, etc.
Step 4: Pack all these items together and then mail them to the address provided on the BOR286 form.
Step 5: After sending out the package, you can expect to receive a response in approximately 3-5 weeks. If the tax refund is successful, any applicable customs clearance fees, which could amount to around a dozen pounds, will be deducted. Then, you will need to wait for the refunded tax amount to be directly returned to the UK bank account you provided.
Generally, as long as the items are not for commercial use and are normal personal belongings with low value and in small quantities, the paid tax will be refunded. However, there may be a certain clearance fee charged. Let's understand that customs have put in their efforts for a long time.
Regarding the C3 form, it seems that there have been recent changes, and it is no longer required. If you are applying for a tax refund with a different courier company, you just need to contact that specific courier company for assistance in providing the relevant documents, such as DHL's E2 and C285 forms.