Trying to source and buy a second cpap or apap in the uk

Hi Mark,

You've tagged on to two old threads. I'll give you the same answer to both of them.

Everything I said back in 2016 about Import Duty and Value Added Tax (which are two separate things) was still true ten days ago. But on 31 December, 2020, Britain left the EU.

And if you now log on to the UK government website to ask about these, you will find it says 'This is now out of date'.

And I don't know when HMRC will put up revised information. Until they do, I suggest you call them. The number is: 0300 322 9434

Hi, I just got my device delivered in UK from a seller in USA, and saved £489 in the process.

Here is what you 'd need to do. I bought a machine from Cpap.com (I had to send a scan of my prescription, but that is now on file, forever). I purchased a HDM Z2 APAP device. Previously I had used a Z1 and wanted to keep the same basic equipment. In the UK, another Z1 would cost £899. I paid US$489 for my Z2 (£352). It then cost me £61 for 3 day shipping. I did get called by the shipper (DHL) on 3 separate occasions and asked for VAT and Customs Duty (approx £90 each). However, I had previously learn't that describing a CPAP device with Commodity code 90 19 20 20 00 makes it Duty exempt - because it is a Medical device for your personal use. Finally to cope with VAT, you need to complete the form at https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... led-person and send this to your shipper. That entitles you to VAT exemption (as a "disabled" person, since you have a prescription). HRMC advised me that was the correct action to take. This form along with the commodity code tells your shipper to not charge you for VAT and Duty. Expect to have to call the VAT & Duty helpline of your chosen shipper at least 3 separate times to confirm this detail - throughout the shipping process. The parcel arrived at my house this morning with a DHL label fixed saying "Do not charge VAT or Duty on this import". The result is, my overall saving is £486 or US$674, and I got a more recent model than my UK supplier could supply. If you need any more advice on buying from the USA, drop me a line.

Hi Mark,

Well done. And thanks for posting the details. Seems things have changed a tad with respect to HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs). It used to be CPAP imports attracted no VAT but some duty. Looks like it's now – provided you add that commodity code AND provided you send the right form to your shipper – no VAT and no duty.