Amazon UK query

[MacManiac]

Someone on another social media platform suggested I buy from Amazon UK, as Amazon DE did not have what I was looking for.

I have not used Amazon UK since Brexit. She told me that Amazon UK automatically charge Cyprus VAT at checkout, and that there are no import charges if the item costs less than £150.

Can anyone verify this? Amazon DE delivery charges have gone through the roof recently.

[WHL]

We bought some stuff a while back and had to pay duty at the post office when we picked it up, things might of changed since then?

[Uncle D]

There may also be a customs handling charge. But if you need this item, it may be worth ordering or have it delivered to a person who is due to fly over.

[clive of payia]

I always try Ebay UK or Temu first. Amazon are last resort now due to sky-high postal charges.

[Paul]

Closed my Amazon account due to the number of scams that are been done using the name of Amazon.

[Dominic]

That no import charge thing is baloney.

If you cannot find it on amazon.de, try amazon.es and amazon.fr

[Dominic]

This might be useful:

Amazon in Europe
Amazon United Kingdom (Amazon.co.uk)
Launched in 1998, Amazon UK rapidly became a cornerstone of Amazon’s global expansion and a dominant force in British ecommerce.

Known for its vast selection, Amazon.co.uk offers everything from books and electronics to groceries and fashion. Notable for introducing services like Prime, which offers unlimited one-day delivery on millions of items, plus exclusive access to Amazon TV shows, Amazon UK has significantly shaped shopping habits across the nation.

Consumers can even get Amazon Fresh, a same-day grocery delivery service, plus a wide range of localized product selections that resonate well with British consumers, making it a pivotal player in the UK’s online retail landscape.

Amazon Germany (Amazon.de)
Amazon Germany – like Amazon UK – launched in 1998 as Amazon.de, and quickly established itself as a major online retailer in Europe.

It stands out not only for its extensive product range, which includes electronics, books, and lifestyle goods but also for its specialized services tailored to German consumers. One interesting aspect of Amazon.de is its robust logistics network, which includes same-day delivery options in many urban areas, enhancing convenience for customers.

The platform also integrates local payment systems like SOFORT, catering specifically to German shopping preferences and boosting user experience and satisfaction.

Other European Amazon sites
Amazon Europe doesn’t just stop there.

It extends its reach to France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and Sweden with localized versions of its platform to cater to specific market needs:

Amazon France (Amazon.fr) offers a wide variety of French books and local gourmet food items, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of France.
Amazon Italy (Amazon.it) is known for its extensive selection of Italian fashion and luxury goods, aligning with Italy’s reputation in the fashion industry.
Amazon Spain (Amazon.es) highlights local Spanish products, especially in home and garden categories, appealing to regional tastes and preferences.
Amazon Netherlands (Amazon.nl) focuses on products like bicycles, gardening tools, and local books, reflecting the unique aspects of Dutch culture and consumer habits.
Amazon Sweden (Amazon.se) features local brands, winter sports equipment, and Swedish literature, making it easier for residents to shop for products that resonate with their lifestyles and preferences.

[Ams]

I've bought a couple of things from Amazon UK recently and wasn't charged any VAT or import costs here in Cyprus. I understood it was fine at Amazon's end

[Dominic]

I guess it depends from where the item was ultimately shipped from.

[Uncle D]

I once bought some trainers on Amazon UK, it was shipped from Amazon Ireland and as Ireland is in the EU no charges.

[Ams]

I've just received 2 packages which I ordered from Amazon UK. One was posted from Gateshead, the other from China. In both cases they were delivered straight to me without any request for VAT or customs charges.

The Amazon invoices (found through the 'my orders' page on their website) have a small note at the bottom that says "VAT declared by Amazon in country of delivery". The VAT I was charged was 19%, which I think is the correct rate for Cyprus?

[Dominic]

What was the postage charge?

[Ams]

What was the postage charge?

1 was £14 and the other £6

[Dominic]

That's not bad at all. If I order from amazon.de the minimum postage tends to be 15 - 20 euros.