Do you import jewellery from outside the EU?

JackieGems · 26-02-2008, 08:49 PM

After reading the Vat & Excise article, I wonder has any Forum members knowledge of importing jewellery from outside the EU?

I recently brought jewellery into Ireland from an non-EU country. It greatly added to the original costs of the items. The Assay Office is akin to a Butcher's Shop. Items were scratched and left rough to the touch to determine gold content and one ring had piece cut from shank. It rendered the ring useless - only fit for scrap gold.

I had to pay the Assay Office for their 'professional' services, plus another helping of vat at 21% - on top of the vat charged for importing goods into Ireland.

Is there a cheaper way to import from outside the EU? Do any EU countries offer cheaper Assay charges? If so, can we import into that country, even thought we don't live there and have them forward parcel on to us in our home country?

Would love to hear from any of those in the know.

Thanks