Be aware of
Thinking of buying something abroad? The Internet has made it much easier to buy from overseas, but make sure you are aware of the potential problems. This checklist will help you avoid some of the pitfalls of cross-border shopping.
Things to consider
Consider the following before you make an international purchase, whether you shopped on the Internet or by any other means:
- Will it work? Standards and systems vary between countries. Ask the supplier to confirm the compatibility of goods, e.g., for example, electrical goodsitems.
- Check that any guarantee is valid in the UK. You may have to return the product to the supplier's country if there is a problem.
- Check for hidden costs such as VAT, customs duties, delivery charges, postage and packaging. The Customs and Excise website gives information on when VAT and duty has to be paid. However, if your supplier is based in the EU, the price you are given should be inclusive of all taxes.
- How easy will it be to sort out any problems? If problems arise, you might have to take legal action in the country of the seller.
