Thanks everyone so far. I'd like do do a resume:

If you buy something under £18 inc postage, theres no extras.

Books have no vat and probably no extras.

Anything else and you may get hit for duties, VAT, and even an extra £4 fee for the privelage!

It would seem anyone here on "The Island " wanting to order from the USA, could do with a "Buddy" in the States who buys for you and sends it over marked as a low value gift.

Not wanting to incur the wrath of HM Customs, I am not suggesting anyone does this.

What's anyone else think?