Hello Jan -
I am sorry you are dealing with this. I have posted a screen shot of my communication. For me - again just my opinion - I don’t entertain any transactions via bank transfer as a matter of principle . PayPal or Amex Credit card offers the best protection for both buyers and sellers. When he requested bank transfer only - I didn’t want to proceed with the deal. To me it raises a red flag when a seller doesn’t accept PayPal - I won’t proceed with the transaction. Not an accusation - just a matter of being very cautious with large transactions. Extra fees etc charged by PayPal is what is part of the transaction that ensures protection of both parties.
See my message attachment - I did ask explanation for the high import fees and DID NOT hear back. Usually tariff is collected at the border by customs but may vary. I know the tariffs for such items to the US are zero dollars since it falls under the HTC code for scale model toys. So, I was well aware that the GBP1200 he was quoting was entirely false for import to the USA. I have purchased many high dollar steam engines etc from UK and not paid any customs duty based on the US tariff codes.
If you paid that money to customs, you MAY get it back - but it will be long fight. If you paid that money directly to seller, then it is anyone’s guess how you are going to get that back.
