Do AliExpress Orders Always Get Stopped by Customs in UK?

Do AliExpress Orders Always Get Stopped by Customs in the UK?

Shopping on AliExpress has become increasingly popular among UK residents thanks to its vast selection and competitive prices. However, many shoppers are understandably concerned about whether their AliExpress orders will always get stopped by UK customs. This is a crucial topic because customs checks can lead to unexpected delays, additional fees, and sometimes even the return or confiscation of parcels. Understanding how UK customs handle AliExpress shipments helps buyers avoid surprises and plan their purchases with confidence.

For UK shoppers, the main worries include customs duties, VAT charges, delivery delays, and the risk of parcels being held or returned. Since Brexit, customs rules for goods arriving from outside the UK have changed, making it even more important for AliExpress users to stay informed. Knowing what to expect and how to minimise customs issues can help shoppers make smarter decisions, avoid extra costs, and ensure a smoother shopping experience on AliExpress.

Wondering if your AliExpress parcel will breeze through UK customs? Before you checkout, check out today’s best deals—you might just save enough to cover those import fees! Find them all on our exclusive promo page.

Do AliExpress Orders Always Get Stopped by Customs in UK?

UK Customs and AliExpress: What Every Buyer Needs to Know

When ordering from AliExpress to the UK, many shoppers worry: Do AliExpress orders always get stopped by customs in the UK? The answer is no, not every package is stopped, but all international parcels are subject to UK customs checks. UK customs may select packages at random or based on certain risk factors. Most small, low-value parcels pass through without issue, but it’s important to understand the process and your responsibilities as a buyer.

Does AliExpress Charge Customs to the UK?

AliExpress itself does not directly charge UK customs duties or VAT. However, since Brexit, all goods imported from China (and other non-UK countries) are subject to UK import taxes. For orders under £135, AliExpress collects VAT at checkout and remits it to HMRC. For orders over £135, you will pay VAT and possibly customs duties to the courier or Royal Mail upon delivery.

• Orders under £135: VAT is included in your AliExpress payment. No extra charges should be due on delivery unless there’s a customs error.
• Orders over £135: VAT and customs duties are collected by UK customs. The courier (e.g., Royal Mail, Parcelforce, DHL) will contact you for payment before releasing your parcel.

Do UK Customs Check Every Package?

UK customs do not check every package arriving from AliExpress or other international sellers. However, all parcels are scanned and some are selected for inspection. Factors that influence customs checks include:

• Declared value and contents of the parcel
• Sender’s country (China is often scrutinised due to high parcel volume)
• Packaging and shipping labels
• Random selection for security or compliance checks

If your parcel is selected, it may be delayed for a few days while customs verifies its contents and value.

AliExpress UK Customs Clearance: What to Expect

AliExpress Customs Update and Tracking Statuses

When tracking your AliExpress order, you might see updates like “Departed country of origin”, “Accepted for transportation by postal service”, or “Customs clearance in progress”. Here’s what these mean:

• Departed country of origin: Your parcel has left China and is en route to the UK.
• Accepted for transportation by postal service: The local post has received your parcel for international delivery.
• Customs clearance in progress: Your parcel is being processed by UK customs.
• The package was successfully handed over after customs clearance: Customs has released your parcel, and it is now with the UK postal service for delivery.

If your tracking shows AliExpress order stuck on “departed country of origin” or “accepted for transportation by postal service” for several days, it usually means your parcel is in transit or waiting to be processed by UK customs. Delays are common, especially during busy periods.

Package Temporarily Detained by Customs UK

Seeing a status like “package temporarily detained by customs UK” can be stressful. This typically means customs officers need to verify the declared value, check for prohibited items, or assess duties. Most parcels are cleared within a few days, but you may be contacted to provide additional information or pay customs charges.

What to do:

• Check your tracking regularly for updates.
• Look out for letters or emails from your courier or Royal Mail requesting payment or documentation.
• If required, provide invoices or proof of payment to verify the value of your order.

AliExpress Package Confiscated by Customs

In rare cases, UK customs may seize or confiscate a parcel if it contains prohibited or restricted items (e.g., counterfeit goods, dangerous products, or items not allowed in the UK). If your AliExpress package is confiscated by customs:

• You will usually receive a notification explaining the reason for seizure.
• AliExpress Buyer Protection may help you claim a refund if the item is not delivered.
• Always check UK import restrictions before ordering high-risk items.

How Much Customs Will I Pay from China to UK?

Understanding VAT, Duties, and Handling Fees

How much customs will I pay from China to UK? It depends on the value and type of goods:

• VAT (Value Added Tax): 20% on most goods, applied to the total cost (item price + shipping).
• Customs duties: Usually 0-12% depending on the product category, but only applied to orders over £135.
• Handling fees: Royal Mail and couriers may charge a processing fee (typically £8-£12) for collecting VAT/duties on your behalf.

Example: If you buy an item for £150 (including shipping), you may pay:

• 20% VAT: £30
• Customs duty (if applicable): e.g., 2% = £3
• Handling fee: £8
• Total extra charges: £41

How to Avoid AliExpress Tax UK

Trying to avoid AliExpress tax in the UK is risky and not recommended. Declaring a lower value or asking sellers to mislabel parcels is illegal and can result in fines, confiscation, or delays. Instead, shop smart by:

• Choosing items under £135 to have VAT included at checkout
• Buying from AliExpress sellers with “Ships from UK” or “Ships from EU” options to avoid international import taxes
• Being aware of the total cost, including potential customs fees, before you buy

How Long Do AliExpress Orders Take to UK?

AliExpress Shipping Times to the UK

How long do AliExpress orders take to the UK? Delivery times vary by shipping method and customs processing:

• AliExpress Standard Shipping: 10-25 business days (average 2-4 weeks)
• Cainiao/China Post: 15-40 business days (3-6 weeks)
• Courier services (DHL, FedEx): 5-10 business days (faster, but higher chance of customs fees)

Delays can occur at UK customs, especially during peak seasons (e.g., Christmas, Black Friday). If your AliExpress order is stuck on “departed country of origin” or “customs clearance in progress” for over two weeks, contact the seller or AliExpress support.

AliExpress Order Stuck in Customs: What to Do?

What to do if your AliExpress order is stuck in customs?

1. Check your tracking for updates—look for statuses like “package temporarily detained by customs UK” or “awaiting payment of customs charges”.
2. If you receive a letter or email from your courier, follow instructions to pay VAT/duties or provide documents.
3. Contact AliExpress customer service if your parcel is delayed for more than 30 days or if you need help with a customs issue.
4. If your package is confiscated, open a dispute on AliExpress with evidence from customs.

AliExpress Buyer Protection covers non-delivery, so you can request a refund if your parcel is lost or seized.

Is AliExpress Safe to Use in UK?

AliExpress Buyer Protection and UK Shoppers

Is AliExpress safe to use in the UK? Yes, provided you shop carefully and understand the terms. AliExpress offers Buyer Protection which covers you if your item does not arrive, is significantly different from the description, or is damaged.

Tips for safe shopping on AliExpress UK:

• Check seller ratings and read reviews before buying.
• Use secure payment methods (AliExpress handles payments securely).
• Be aware of UK customs rules and potential extra charges.
• Open disputes within the protection period if there are problems.

AliExpress UK Customs Clearance: Tracking and Communication

When your parcel arrives in the UK, it goes through customs clearance. You can track your order using the AliExpress app or website. Look for updates like “the package was successfully handed over after customs clearance”—this means your parcel has cleared customs and will be delivered soon.

If your order is stuck or you receive a customs payment request, respond promptly to avoid further delays. Always keep your tracking number and order details handy for reference.

AliExpress Order Tracking Statuses Explained

Common Tracking Updates for UK Buyers

AliExpress tracking can be confusing, especially when your order is in transit or at customs. Here’s what the most common statuses mean for UK buyers:

• Accepted for transportation by postal service: The local post has accepted your parcel for international shipping.
• Departed country of origin: Your parcel has left China and is on its way to the UK.
• Customs clearance in progress: UK customs is processing your parcel. This can take a few days to a couple of weeks.
• Package temporarily detained by customs UK: Customs needs to check your parcel. You may need to provide information or pay charges.
• The package was successfully handed over after customs clearance: Your parcel has cleared customs and is now with Royal Mail or your courier for final delivery.

If your AliExpress order is stuck on “departed country of origin” for more than two weeks, it may be delayed in transit or at customs. Contact the seller or AliExpress support if you’re concerned.

AliExpress Customs Update: When to Take Action

If you receive an AliExpress customs update indicating your parcel is detained or requires payment, act quickly:

• Pay any VAT or duties requested by Royal Mail or the courier.
• Provide any documents requested by customs (e.g., invoice, proof of payment).
• Contact AliExpress support if you need help or if your parcel is held for more than 30 days.

AliExpress UK: Best Practices for Smooth Customs Clearance

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

For UK buyers, AliExpress Standard Shipping is often the best balance of speed, tracking, and customs handling. Courier services are faster but may incur higher customs and handling fees.

Checking UK Import Restrictions

Always check UK import restrictions before ordering. Avoid items like counterfeit goods, restricted electronics, or prohibited chemicals. This minimises the risk of your AliExpress package being confiscated by customs.

Keeping Documentation Ready

Keep all order invoices and payment records in case customs requests proof of value. This helps resolve issues quickly if your package is detained.

Responding to Customs Notifications

If you receive a package temporarily detained by customs UK notification or a request for payment, respond promptly to avoid delays. If you’re unsure, contact the courier or AliExpress support for guidance.

Using “Ships from UK” or “Ships from EU” Options

Many AliExpress sellers now offer “Ships from UK” or “Ships from EU” options. These orders are dispatched from within the UK or European Union, so you avoid international customs checks and extra taxes. This is the safest way to shop on AliExpress for fast, hassle-free delivery.

AliExpress Buyer Protection and Customs Issues

What Happens If Your AliExpress Order Is Lost or Confiscated?

If your AliExpress order is lost, severely delayed, or confiscated by customs, you are protected by AliExpress Buyer Protection. Follow these steps:

1. Contact the seller via AliExpress messaging to explain the issue.
2. If the seller does not resolve the issue, open a dispute before the protection period ends.
3. Provide all relevant evidence (tracking, customs letters, payment proof).
4. AliExpress will review your case and may issue a refund if your parcel is not delivered.

Tracking After Customs Clearance

Once your parcel clears UK customs, tracking updates will show “the package was successfully handed over after customs clearance”. Delivery by Royal Mail or your courier usually takes 1-3 working days after customs release.

AliExpress UK Customs: Frequently Asked Questions

• Does AliExpress charge customs to the UK? No, but VAT is collected at checkout for orders under £135. You pay customs duties and VAT on delivery for orders over £135.
• Do UK customs check every package? No, but all parcels are subject to customs checks. Some are inspected more closely based on risk factors.
• What to do if your AliExpress order is stuck in customs? Check tracking, respond to payment requests, and contact AliExpress support if needed.
• Is AliExpress safe to use in UK? Yes, if you follow best practices and understand customs rules.
• How much customs will I pay from China to UK? 20% VAT on most goods, plus possible duties and handling fees for orders over £135.
• How long do AliExpress orders take to UK? 2-6 weeks on average, depending on shipping method and customs processing.

FAQ: Do AliExpress Orders Always Get Stopped by Customs in the UK?

Do all AliExpress orders to the UK get stopped by customs?

No, not every AliExpress order is stopped by UK customs. However, customs authorities can inspect any international parcel entering the UK. Whether your parcel is checked often depends on factors such as the parcel’s value, contents, and declared information. Smaller, low-value packages are less likely to be held, but it’s always possible for any shipment to be stopped for inspection.

What happens if my AliExpress order is stopped by customs?

If your AliExpress order is stopped by UK customs, customs officers will examine the parcel and assess any duties or taxes due. You may receive a letter or notification from the courier or Royal Mail requiring payment of VAT, customs duties, or handling fees before delivery. Once paid, your parcel will be released and delivered to your address.

Are there customs charges for AliExpress orders shipped to the UK?

Yes, customs charges may apply to AliExpress orders shipped to the UK. Since Brexit, all goods imported from outside the UK—including from China—are subject to VAT and, in some cases, customs duties. The threshold for VAT is £0, so even low-value items may be charged. For more details on customs charges and thresholds, visit the official UK government site.

How can I reduce the chances of my AliExpress order being stopped by customs?

While you cannot guarantee your order will not be stopped by customs, you can reduce the likelihood by:

• Ensuring accurate and honest item descriptions and values are provided by the seller
• Choosing reputable sellers with experience shipping to the UK
• Opting for smaller, lower-value shipments if possible

Remember, customs checks are random, so there’s always a risk.

How are customs fees calculated for AliExpress parcels in the UK?

Customs fees for AliExpress parcels in the UK are generally based on the value of the goods, shipping costs, and the type of items being imported. You will typically pay:

• 20% VAT on the total value (including shipping)
• Customs duty if the value exceeds £135 (rates vary by product category)
• A handling fee (charged by the courier or Royal Mail)

For precise calculations, check the UK government’s import guide (see here).

Can I refuse to pay customs charges for my AliExpress order?

If you refuse to pay customs charges, your parcel will not be delivered. It may be returned to the sender or destroyed after a holding period. In most cases, you will not be refunded by AliExpress unless the seller agrees to accept the return and refund you. Always check the seller’s policies before ordering.

Does AliExpress include UK customs fees at checkout?

Some AliExpress sellers offer an “AliExpress Standard Shipping (VAT Included)” option, where VAT and fees are paid upfront. If you choose this, you are less likely to face additional charges upon delivery. Otherwise, you may be required to pay VAT and customs fees when the parcel arrives in the UK.

What should I do if my AliExpress parcel is delayed at UK customs?

Delays at UK customs are not uncommon, especially during busy periods. If your tracking shows the parcel is “held by customs,” wait for a notification from your courier or Royal Mail. If there is no update for more than a week, contact the shipping company for information. Keep all documentation in case you need to dispute a charge or claim a refund.

About The Author