Shipping frameset from US to UK

Hi guys, I am looking to buy a frameset from someone (not a company) based in the US and I am wondering what's the best way to do it? Best company? Also, shall iexpect to pay custom tax on it?
Thanks

try bikeflights.com

and yes, 20% import + handling fee

Thanks mate..that solves it!

Hi there, is bikeflights.com still the best option? thanks

I'd be really dubious about using bikeflights. They take import duties even if they are not required and not levied. Cost me a fortune earlier this year to get a repaired frame back in to the UK even though the shipment was exempt. They even told me they don't refund duties paid in advance!

Frankly get yourself a proper box and deal direct with UPS. Its pretty easy and the discount bikeflights offers disappears with all the sundries added.

Another great option is Ship Bikes. You need to contact them manually for an international quote, but they’re a UPS broker and they’re much cheaper than any UPS quote I’ve received.

Thanks both for the suggestions

any new insight on this? heard people have used bikeflights without paying any tax for an expensive full bike. their calculator is showing a lot of tax for my potential frame only though.

have ordered parts from US based retailers recently and they've come through without any tax liabilities even when the value has been clearly indicated. could this happen with a valuable frame if i just send it via UPS with the appropriate paperwork?

I think it's just pot luck, the handling agents often just swamped and don't have the capacity to process all items.
Long term I think they'll all be paid for electronically at source, which is starting to happen, some retailers even refuse to ship to UK due to these added complexities.

yes, likely this. my other option would be to pay in two instalments and mark the value low to get charged lower tax upon presenting an invoice for partial payment. however, the seller might not be too keen on this and if something happens the claim process gets complicated. there's also a risk that the parcel is inspected properly, the name on the decals googled etc.