Filling out a customs form by hand *maybe* takes 5 min. Not sure why some people thinking filling out one form is such a hassle. Ive sent any number of parcels to people in the UK and elsewhere in the EU, and it's been simple.
I usually keep a small number of the cust. forms at home, fill them out there, then get enjoy the
REAL PITA, which is standing in a long line, with PO workers moving at the speed of maple syrup in winter.
As long as one has all their info handy and ready to write in on the form, I think it's a breeze.
And, knock on wood, all parcels have arrived damage free, and never gotten lost.