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Just checking but did you include any sales taxes? UK prices normally include VAT. I'm not sure whether US prices include sales tax.
by DanBC 7y ago
Just checking but did you include any sales taxes? UK prices normally include VAT. I'm not sure whether US prices include sales tax.
- pbhjpbhj 7y agoSeems from https://www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/publications/sales/local_rates_current.htm https://www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/publications/sales/loc... that the total sales tax depends on where the customer receives it, for Manhattan it's ~8.6% total including the 4% that goes to the state. https://www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/publications/sales/local_rates_current.htm https://www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/publications/sales/loc... That still looks like a substantial [raw monetary] saving by causing massive amounts of pollution and flying to USA to shop. I don't know whether customs would impound your stuff when you get back and demand import duties be paid?
- AnssiH 7y agoThe tax-free import limit in EU for air travel is 430 EUR after which you have to pay VAT (and duties, if applicable). I bet many don't do that, though...
- burntoutfire 7y agoYep - especially in the times of weaker dollar, it was customary to ask any relative going to the US to buy a new laptop/camera/whatever for you while he's there. You could save up to 50% this way.
- dfawcus 7y agoWell, for the sandwich case - UK does not charge VAT (or 0 rate). Basically because food is generally VAT free in the UK. Exceptions are eat in at restaurant (VAT), vs take away (no VAT), and take away of certain hot foods (VAT).
- TMWNN 7y agoGenerally same in the US. In California, there is no sales tax on food except for 1) eat-in and 2) take-away of hot food. You see the latter apply in Subway, for example, when purchasing a sandwich with a hot filling (say, meatball marinara) versus cold (roast beef).