Consumer Focus Blog
Welcome to our blog, a space to let you know what we’re up to and share our views and ideas on consumer issues.
Three French hens
14 December 2011
Check for hidden costs when you order presents from outside the EU. You might be liable for customs duty, excise duty or import VAT on these goods, depending on their value and contents. A handling fee is automatically imposed by postal operators if they pay any duty on your behalf (for example Royal Mail charges £8 for this). You can contact HMRC for more information.
Four calling birds
13 December 2011
If you are out when the postman calls with a parcel you can arrange free re-delivery to your home or pick up the parcel from your local Delivery Office.
Five gold rings
12 December 2011
Send jewellery, money, vouchers and valuables by Special Delivery – if you use another service you will not be able to claim any compensation if your item is lost or damaged.
Six geese a laying
9 December 2011
Don’t lay yourself open to losing money – use a cheque or postal order instead of sending cash.
Let me guess
8 December 2011
Chances are I don’t know you, but I think I can still make some reasonable guesses about your behaviour as a consumer.
I’d venture you almost definitely haven’t switched your gas or electricity supplier in the last 12 months. Actually, you probably haven’t done this in the last five years. I’m also guessing you probably haven’t switched ISA provider; and have almost certainly never moved your current account to another bank. There’s a slim chance you’ve changed your mobile phone network, recently, but that was driven by the need to get your hands on a smart-phone, wasn’t it?
Seven swans a swimming
8 December 2011
Glide through the Post Office queues – use one of the self-service kiosks available in larger branches or buy your postage online via Royal Mail’s website.
Time’s running out for British Gas Warm Home Discount
7 December 2011
Did you know time’s running out for vulnerable British Gas customers to get their applications in for a £120 discount?
For those who don’t know the Warm Home Discount scheme came into effect this year. It’s funded by energy companies and replaces social tariffs and voluntary arrangements offered by energy suppliers. It will provide £1.3 billion of financial support to vulnerable energy consumers.
Eight maids a milking
7 December 2011
Fatten up your gifts – wrapping paper alone won’t stop your parcel being damaged in transit. Use padded envelopes and cushioned packaging to help ensure your gifts arrive in good condition.
Nine ladies dancing
6 December 2011
Coloured envelopes make your Christmas cards look festive but if you are sending cards in dark or red envelopes write the address on a white label stuck onto the envelope.
Ten lords a leaping
5 December 2011
You don’t have to be royalty to get a free Certificate of Posting when you post important items – just ask at the Post Office counter.
