I've found a thread on importing instruments from the UK (from the USA) and it mentioned that if you import from Europe you don't need to pay the VAT. I'm currently investigating buying an new instrument (an organetto) from Italy so, can you experts out there provide some info for me.

1) If I pay the VAT in Italy I don't need to pay it in the UK, if the Italian VAT is at a higher rate than the UK can I not pay the VAT in Italy but in the UK?
2) If I've paid the VAT in Italy are there any other taxes or duties to be paid in the UK (assuming the cost of the instrument is about £400 - £500)?
3) Would the manufacturer's quoted prices include Italian VAT (the one email I've had back from Italy so far doesn't say)?
4) What's the best payment method to use (simplest from my point of view is credit card)?
5) Any tips on importing from the EU?

Cheers,

Darren