Smuggling is a crime.
Smugglers evade the payment of UK duty and VAT and undercut legitimate trade.
Uncontrolled smuggling could result in revenue shortfalls which would have to be made up by you, the taxpayer. You can bring back EU duty paid goods for your own personal use or for gifts. Any goods bought as part of your duty free allowance will also count towards the allowable levels. See Notice 1 A Customs guide for travellers entering the UK . UK duty and VAT must be paid on all goods in excess of your duty free allowance even if they are for your own personal use.