If this limit is breached, HM Revenue and Customs can insist on the payment of import duty and VAT of up to 20% on many items, which may include those prized jeans or iPods.

BBC: RELATED BBC SITES

Cross-border transactions inherently take longer thanks to customs and tax considerations, and manufacturing companies are not inclined to rush payment or pay their suppliers until the goods have arrived and are ready to be used on the manufacturing floor.

FORBES: Manufacturing Takes Its Time, High A/P Days