Canadian purchasing of US online site

[Enerchi]

Can I ask other Canadians to advise me of what to expect when I order from a US site to deliver jewellry to Ontario? What hidden extra's am I facing?

I know the prices are in US, I know there will be a Fedex shipping charge of $50US (from NY to Ont), I understand there will be HST of 13% but while google searching, is there duty on top? My search came up with no duty (due to free trade) on diamond jewellry...

Is this the case? Hoping other's with experience will be able to help me. I've only ordered with a US pick up in the past, so this is a new thing for me. Thanks!

 

[anne_h]

There is no duty any more. You will be charged PST + GST on the declared value of the jewelry item.

I've ordered many times from the US. It's where all the goods are! Some times being outside it is annoying.

Anne

 

[hlmr]

You will also be responsible for any brokerage fees incurred at customs.

 

[Enerchi]

Any idea what those brokerage fees might be hlmr? I thought that was part of the shipping costs?? This is new to me - sorry to be shocked at what must be obvious to others

 

[hlmr]

Hi Enerchi. I am trying to remember and am going to estimate between $15 -$25. It depends on the shipping method, the cost of the item, and I believe some brokers charge more than others. You could always call Canada customs and inquire. Have a read through this website, and hopefully your questions will be answered in more detail.

http://canadaonline.about.com/cs/customs/a/shopshipcanada.htm

 

[Dreamer_D]

With FedEx or Canada post the brokerage fee is about $10, really nothing to worry about. Otherwise its just taxes on the canadian dollar value of the goods.

 

[Enerchi]

Thanks Dreamer and hlmr for the info and links. Appreciate the replies! Some thread I was on told a horror story of hidden costs and I got nervous

Ok. Time to chill and just move forward and just order what I want