Guernsey Post customs deal means faster deliveries to UK

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Guernsey Post has reached a deal with the UK customs agency, which should now see faster delivery for gifts being sent to mainland Britain.

The Channel Island postal operator, along with the Guernsey Border Agency, has an agreement with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) that means low-value gifts can be sent directly to recipients in the UK without being cleared by customs first.

The new arrangements apply to gifts under £ 40 in value, but for gifts valued above that level they can also be send direct to the recipient if VAT has been pre-paid.

Previously, only prepaid VAT gifts worth more than £ 40, and sent by Special Delivery, could be delivered directly to the recipient in mainland Britain.

David Bynam, head of network at Guernsey Post, said this was the first time HMRC had allowed his company to pre-customs clear mailed gifts.

“Previously, all gifts under the value of £40 had to be sent to HMRC for clearance and this would delay the delivery of the gift regardless of the delivery service the customer chose.

“Now, for the first time, gifts sent via standard post should arrive faster and gifts sent via Special Delivery are guaranteed for next day delivery. – an ideal service if you need to send that last minute present,” added Bynam.

Guernsey Post noted that gifts will only be accepted for delivery if a return address is provided on the back of the item.