Reply to "Beware of UPS"

I use UPS Standard (ground) to have my more expensive parts shipped trom he US to me in Canada a lot. We have a "Clears Own" office here. We call UPS before the package arrives and give them the tracking number. They call me when thepackage arrives. I go pick up the papers at UPS , tae it a couple of blocks to Revenue Canada, pay the taxes and go back to UPS and pick up my stuff. NO brokerage fees.

If you receive a UPS AIR shipment, the brokerage is free (included) but you still have to pay the taxes.

If you get a package from UPS Priority, you will automatically be charged a $5 or $7 processing fee PLUS the taxes. If it comes by USPS letter mail or parcel post, the processing fee is only $3 but you still have to pay the GST and (except AB) PST/HST.

If the value is under $20 Can there is no handling fee or taxes to pay. If Customs is busy, lazy, tired, the day your package comes through the mail, you get a break and it just comes with no charges regardless of the value. It's just the luck of the draw.

A downside to US-Can parcel post service is I have never had any luck collecting insurance on lost parts.

The absolute worst experiences I have had on brokerage fees have been with DHL.

I think about half the cost of restoring my Pantera has gone into shipping charges, brokerage and taxes. Don't it really hurt BAD when after all that you end up with parts that don't fit right or are othrwise useless and disappointing?