2 hours ago
The whole of the EU imposes heavy taxes on imports from every country - and requires both paper and electronic customs clearance. Recently, to import some thick leather belting from Belgium, the £200 cost would have been increased from£200 to £250 - I sourced the same from India at £85, delivered. Sellers in the US are often reluctant to ship outside the country - and often refuse to use other than the eBay "international shipping' system which adds an incredible £38 for a slim catalogue that was £8 to buy. Problem countries? Italy - don't try to send anything there, the postal system is in disarray (though I hear it might be improving). South Africa? Nothing ever gets through the normal post - the only way is to use an expensive courier - and the rest of Africa is almost as bad. I've also had trouble with the standard post to most countries in South America and now only ship with couriers. BTW - if you use a courier to import, expect some eye-watering extra costs.