Quote Originally Posted by madmacs View Post
At that price you'd be as cheap picking it up...
Actually not, unless you are also in the EU somewhere. Goods shipped outside the UK/EU are discounted by 20% as you do not have to pay the EU VAT of that percentage on finished goods. So even if you flew there to pick the outfit up, they would then have to charge you the sales price plus the VAT, and then you would still have to technically declare the goods when you entered into the US, and with that amount being over the typical daily allowance for a US citizen you would probably have to then pay the duty due on top of that. Double whammy that way.

It can really be a wash when ordering something like a kilt or jacket set or even bigger package. US vendors have to pay duty if they source the items from the UK, even on the raw tartan material if they sew it up themselves, although they avoid VAT. UK vendors give US buyers the VAT break compared to UK buyers, but then you have the issue of paying the duty yourself when it comes to the US, unless, as Steve pointed out, you can get it imported via Royal Mails or ParcelForce and it happens to pass through their system without getting dinged by duty, usually best for lower value items, although a single kilt or jacket set can be small enough package and valuation to sneak though. Just remember before you buy from whoever you decide to shop with to factor all the potential costs into the deal. Generally less hidden cost potential from a US vendor for a US buyer, but you can still find a deal from a UK vendor if you shop smart and insure that shipping is via Royal Mails. But it can really all be a wash in the end. Working directly with your kiltmaker is IMHO the best way to work, especially if you find one you like whose products meet your needs and whose prices fit your budget. If you work with one local, the added benefit of personal service, accurate measurement, and easier fix with any problems with the final product.