Hotwheels.":29u9382q said:
I've found they usually charge what they like, usually a lot.
You should be charged two things at standard rates: An import tariff + VAT. These will vary according to the category of goods, but "should" be applied at standard rates, not some arbitrary amount. But they can quickly become very expensive.
See here:
https://www.bike-eu.com/laws-regulation ... es-1018983
So 4.7% for frames/components; 15% for complete bikes. Then 19% VAT.
Annoyingly, the VAT is based on the combined cost of the goods PLUS shipping.
In the UK though, some shipping companies also slap on some sort of "handling fee" for getting your parcel through customs.
That works differently in other EU countries. In Germany, for example, there are no arbitrary "customs clearance" fees from couriers (although Ebay does offer this "customes clearance" service, but it's by agreement not slapped on without your consent).
Instead, imported goods are delivered to a local state-run customs house. They then snail-mail you (sometimes several days after your online parcel tracking shows that your parcel arrived), saying that you have 14 days to collect your goods (so don't be away on vacation!). You also need to take all relevant payment documents to prove the purchase value. You then queue (and queue) at the desk, they ask you what's in the parcel, then hand you a box-cutter to open it in front of them. Once satisfied, they calculate the duty/VAT and you then get to take your item home. If you ask nicely, they'll give you some tape to repair the opened packaging.
The whole system avoids unexpected fees, but it can be extremely time-consuming and inconvenient.