How Import Taxes Work When Buying Car Parts (EU, UK, Worldwide)

Import taxes catch many buyers off guard when ordering parts internationally. Here's how it generally works.

Within the EU

Goods moving between EU member states are not subject to import duties or customs checks — VAT is charged once at the point of sale, and that's the end of it.

Between the EU and UK

Since Brexit, the UK operates outside the EU customs union — however, many sellers now handle UK VAT and duties at checkout so buyers face no additional charges on delivery, similar to a domestic purchase.

Shipping Outside the EU/UK

For destinations outside the EU and UK, import duties and local VAT are typically the buyer's responsibility, assessed by customs in the destination country upon arrival. Rates vary significantly by country and part value, so it's worth checking local rules before ordering.

What a Good Seller Should Tell You

A transparent seller states clearly, before checkout, whether import taxes apply to your destination and who is responsible for paying them — avoiding unpleasant surprises when the parcel arrives.