Me: Hi mate, I want to collect my parcel, small issue though, I want to pay the VAT now and take my parcel, and I want you to invoice me separately for your clearance fee.
Bloke on desk: Erm, OK, I'll just get me manager.
Manager: Hello sir...
Me: Hello, I want to collect my parcel, small issue though, I want to pay the VAT now and take my parcel, and I want you to invoice me separately for your clearance fee.
Manager: We cant do that sir, we've had an email from head office which says we cant relese parcels unless the bill is paid in total.
Me: That's illegal. Section 104 of the Postal Services Act 2000, says that you cannot hold a parcel as a lien against a civil debt. ParcelForce is a PLC and your clearance fee has nothing to do with HMRC or customs in any way. You cannot hold my parcel to ransom against a civil debt with your company. That is a criminal act.
Manager: I can show you the email sir.
Me: I can show you the statute and I think you'll find it trumps your email. I want to pay the VAT and take my parcel as is my legal right. Are you refusing to release the parcel to me?
Manager: Oh, you want to pay the VAT now?
Me: Yes, but not the clearance fee at this time.
Manager: Oh, I see sir, I misunderstood, that will be fine.
Result!!!