Yes, interesting question. Antiques imported into UK have to be over 100 years old and then exempt from tax (and that was my problem with the Louis XV suite). My problem was that it was not an original from the time of Louis XV and that was picked up by the expert Customs' asked to value. It was however still an antique- as over 100 years old - but they required proof. I was very lucky I was able to find documentation from the maker's grandson, still in business. Costly business- expert opinion + storage for 3 months, + new transport from Dover
I think that it is different for cultural objects, i.e. works of art.
Tom
I don't think it was an actual cultural object, they usually send you that form when they see it's something old (when you get it it's better to declare it just in case). I had to pay regular import taxes for the amount I paid I guess, it was not that much.
Anyway...of course it's not over yet - the story continues (well at least customs is ok now)
Package arrived this morning in Lugano and was scheduled for delivery today, I was at home waiting like an idiot and tracking got updated 3 times with very different and strange statements, in the end I called them and they told me like "lol they didn't load it in the car because reasons, sorry it will arrive tomorrow then"
I know, I know, Corona and stuff, but still, it's so infuriating when it's so close to delivery and they still fail to do so. I had a free day today and it was perfect. Tomorrow I'll work (from home) and I don't want to be distracted all day because of this.