I have mentioned this before, but it doesn't harm to have it shown in other places.
For people importing into the UK the usual import charge is put on all items valued at 18 squid and over.
The charge is normally the going rate of VAT. So if the value of the item is 100 squid, then you will pay 15 squid import duty.
Now for the killer bit.
The import duty, if done thru the Post Office mail delivery will have to be paid for at a main sorting office, due to the fact that postmen are now not allowed to carry any money belonging to the PO on their normal rounds, as it leaves them open to highway robbery (look at the next bit for a good excuse for robbery).
The PO will send you a postcard to tell you it needs to be picked up, but they will charge you 8 squid for sending you the postcard.
So your 100 squid package will be charged 23 squid duty.
If your package comes thru a carrier, they will usually send you a bill for the duty, either electronically or by letter and won't deliver it until the duty is paid.
Bogs