Could you benefit from US Black Friday discounts?

It's easy to envy US shoppers: prices there are so much lower, especially for electronic items, and the Black Friday discounts are even deeper.

But canny British shoppers can take advantage of this themselves - and without having to hop on a plane. Thanks to MyUS.com, it's possible to buy online from US sites that don't offer international shipping, and give a US address.%VIRTUAL-ArticleSidebar-black-friday%

MyUS.com then forwards the goods to the UK, at a price it says can be just a fifth of the normal cost.

"Black Friday is a great time to buy from the US to make the most of the huge discounts offered. Unfortunately, shopping and shipping directly from different merchants can be very expensive," says Ramesh Bulusu, CEO of MyUS.

"Our members are able to shop from multiple US stores and consolidate their purchases into one package, which means big savings on shipping costs. Shopping from the US has never been easier."

It's worth noting, though, that you'll have to make sure you don't fall foul of HM Revenue & Customs. If your goodies are worth more than £135, you'll probably be liable for customs duty of 2.5% - even more if they're worth over £630. The rules are complicated, though, and it's worth checking directly.

Similarly, you'll be liable for VAT at the rate applicable to that particular type of goods - as well as on the postage, packing and insurance for the item, and any duty owed.

All this means that the total price you pay might not be as good as it first appears. MyUS will, though, deal with the paperwork for you.

"MyUS has been in business since 1997 with significant experience in export compliance and fast service. We do the export paperwork for the carrier to collect appropriate duties/taxes upon delivery," says Bulusu. "Our customers save up to 80% on shipping via consolidation and receive packages at the door often in two or three days."

MyUS.com top buys:

Apple iPad mini 16GB Wifi (UK price $343): US price $284 including sale tax and duties
Michael Kors Hamilton Satchel (UK cost $444): US cost $284 including sales tax and duties
Levi's 501 Original Fit Jeans, black (UK price $117): US price $58 including sales tax and duties
Canon EOS 5D Mark III w/24-105mm Lens (UK cost $3,973): US price $3,163 including sales tax and duties
e.l.f Studio Essential Makeup Collection (UK cost £$66): US cost $28 including sales tax and duties