duty on new/second hand goods

tofu67

Can anyone recommed a site that gives clear guides to duty payable on goods shipped from abroad? I am a buying a new electric keyboard from a UK music retailer but am responsible for sorting out any duty this end. If they send it directly the VAT will be removed their end. Alternatively I could have it sent to a friend (would pay VAT) have the original packaging removed and sent over as a second hand 'gift'. There would still be duty this end but I would guess that it would be less. If it is too great another alternative would be to have a friend bring one over as luggage (would pay towards cost of flight and get to hang out for a while)

My concern is that the tax I would have to pay on the equipment (£1200 to buy)in addition to shipping would put it out of my price range.

I would be very grateful if anyone is able to give some pointers.

Thanks

Stef

goangoangone

You don't say what nationality or status you have, but this might be of help.
http://www.cbec.gov.in/cae/customs/i...s_forresin.htm
http://www.cbec.gov.in/cae/customs/i.../trans_res.htm
http://www.cbec.gov.in/cae/customs/i...agge-rules.htm

My guess it would be best to try and bring it in as personal baggage. Your friend might have to declare that he's taking it back out. Be careful though, if you get it wrong, it could work out expensive.
I shipped some used kitchen utensils over and the shipper (DHL) labelled it thus instead of "Unaccompanied passenger baggage". As a consequence it incurred duty and countervailing duty of nearly Rs.17000/-, which I had to pay to get the stuff delivered. After a prolonged battle, they are paying me back, admitting it was their mistake.

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GoanGoan......here & there