talkmagic.co.uk

It's got nothing to do with Europe.... in Canada we are subjected to the same taxes - they are customs/import duties. As mentionned earlier, the reason you ALWAYS get nailed from Ellusionist is that they are a legitimate business, and the value is on the box. The only way around the customs is to write "gift" on the box. While you might be able to tell the E-bay seller you just purchased from to help you out and do this, it's hard to find a legitimate business to do the same - and yes it's illegal.

As Magicforfun mentionned, a lot of times this explains why the item in question is much cheaper from the US. If you buy it from the store in your own country, it's more expensive because THEY had to pay the very same duties.

I would just wish that this fee wasn't hidden... and if it must be paid, then it should be legitimately paid up-front, as part of the purchase cost. This way you won't get a nasty surprise after it's too late to cancel the order. I would definitely have NOT purchased certain items if I would have known that the customs charges would be so ridiculous. Furthermore, what makes me REALLY irate is that these charges are usually based on what "some guy" in the customs office THINKS the thing is worth.... what the hell is that all about? If there is reason to believe that the price on the package is not legit, they will use their own according to some crazy list. I once purchased a USED guitar effects pedal for $40 US, and paid $20 shipping, and then another $40 customs when it arrived at my door. And you have no recourse!!!

Sorry for the rant....