As discussed all depends on purchase price. 20% VAT along with higher Postage costs from USA is a real leveller and there are fewer bargains now. If you want something badly enough and its an in-demand disc you are going to have to bite the bullet if you cant find one in UK.
I try to buy a few collective items from US Discogs sellers to average out Shipping costs per order.
With ebay, i just set a limit to what I am happy with , including VAT & Shipping.