option one would be if the shipment was termed DDP (duty, delivered, paid) in that case you pay nothing and just wait for delivery. the courier company will otherwise approach you for customs clearance. you would then have the option of doing the clearance yourself or even to have the courier release the documents to a clearing agent, usually against payment of a "release fee", and of course, their shipping charges if the consignment was not already prepaid. using the courier is the easiest option, but ask them to give you their fees/quote. obviously you should also get the info iro what duties if any are applicable, and of course you have to pay VAT (not on what you paid, but on the ATV + 10%, which is in basic terms the cost of the item inflated by 10%, but the formula is a little complex if duties are involved and forwarding charges in the US blah blah) hope this helps