Appalling assistance in customs re bringing a gift in
I would like to express my complete disappointment and disgust at the way DHL have responded to a parcel coming from the UK to South Africa ( Boland) 
My sister bought her niece a dress in the uk for her graduation. 
It was sent via Dhl to South Africa as a gift but with advice from the uk / Wimbledon office to state the value in case it was lost or damaged.
No where did they explain SA customs and fees and calculations. 
Upon arrival here I was alerted of the arrival but presented a bill of almost double the value of the gift! 
I queried this and was kindly advised that my sister goes back to the London office and remedies the description to make it clearer for this side.
Duly done.
However this has not helped the situation at all. They will not amend the charge saying that SA customs has already been paid by DHL and I am liable for the extortionate duty.
Even though they recognize it’s a gift.
I can not afford the duty - I could not afford the dress hence it’s a gift to my daughter! 
The latest rather useless email from DHL lists terms and conditions regarding duty that was NOT made clear to the sender in the UK. not is it helpful in any way but merely states that they are sorry for the unfortunate outcome but ‘tough luck’.
We have recommended they inspect the parcel to check the content and have asked what else can be done to revise this import fee as it is in no way relevant.
Apparently no assistance can be expected and DHL clearly doesn’t care if this is completely incorrect and a huge impact on a young gilt expecting a simple gift from her aunt.
What appalling service and help - we couldn’t have been wiped off easier.
