Parcels from Lithuania to England – how to avoid extra charges
Sending parcels from Lithuania to England? Which charges apply since Brexit and how to avoid them legally so your parcel reaches the recipient without surprises.
Since Brexit, sending parcels from Lithuania to England has become not only more common but also more complicated. Parcels used to move without customs checks, but the UK is no longer in the European Union, so import requirements and possible extra charges apply to all parcels. With good preparation, though, many charges can be avoided legally.
In this article we look at the charges that most often apply, who levies them and how you can avoid them when sending parcels to England.
What charges apply when sending to England?
1. Import VAT
UK customs may charge 20% VAT on goods or gifts sent if they exceed a certain value threshold.
2. Customs duty
Some goods (especially commercial ones) are also subject to customs duty, depending on the type and origin of the goods.
3. Courier admin fees
Some parcel services charge a customs handling fee, even if no VAT or duty is payable.
When do these charges apply?
Charges depend on:
SituationCharge likely?Personal gift up to £39NoGift over £39Yes – VATPurchased goods over £135Yes – VAT + dutyParcel without a declarationYes – automatic charges
How to avoid extra charges
1. Label the contents correctly
Always state clearly:
- What is being sent
- The purpose of the parcel (“Personal gift”, “Non-commercial use”)
- The value of the goods
An inaccurate or blank declaration = automatic charges.
2. Send it as a gift where possible
If the parcel is for family or friends, mark it as a “Gift”. Gifts up to £39 are not charged (if declared correctly).
3. Don't send commercial goods without documents
Sending goods to a customer in the UK? You must provide:
- An invoice
- Information on the origin of the goods
- An EORI number (if you're a business)
Without these documents, the parcel may be held.
4. Send with companies that handle customs
Most reliable parcel services offer customs brokerage – this helps avoid mistakes and unexpected charges.
5. Don't put goods from several senders in one parcel
This may be treated as commercial carriage – in which case all import charges apply.
What if the recipient still gets a bill?
If everything was labelled correctly but the recipient still receives an extra bill:
- Ask the courier/customs for the documents
- Provide evidence that it's a gift or personal item
- Contact the parcel service that made the declaration
Sometimes errors happen automatically – it's important to act quickly.
What you need to know about documents
Every parcel to the UK must include:
- A description of contents (packing list)
- A declaration of value
- For a commercial parcel – an invoice and EORI number
Without these documents, the parcel may be held and the recipient may have to pay extra.
Parcels that are almost always charged
- New items (clothes, electronics, cosmetics)
- Goods bought online (even if the buyer is a family member)
- Food (especially without permits or if poorly packed)
Tips before sending
Label the parcel clearly – use labels and forms
Choose a provider that helps with the declaration
Give the real value – an understated amount can raise suspicion
Let the recipient know whether to expect any extra paperwork
Related services
- Parcels from Lithuania to England
- Sending gifts to the UK
- Customs brokerage for parcels
- Business parcel logistics to the UK
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions about this article.
Yes, if it’s worth up to £39 and the parcel is marked as a “Gift”.
No – if the parcel is personal or a gift and below the threshold, nothing will be payable.
No – only businesses sending commercial shipments.
Not recommended – it can cause further problems and fines.
On average 4–7 days, depending on the service chosen.
The services we provide
