Import and duty question.

[iSam]

Quick question: I am hoping to buy an item from America (sports equipment) that comes to £16 plus shipping at about £5. One of my friends said that because the product costs less than £18 I wouldn't be charged VAT and duty.

Is this true and does the shipping count in the value of the product?

Thanks

 

[Werewolf]

it's true.

shipping is only taken into account when the cost of the goods themselves reach £18.