Does anyone know how to buy something from Canada?

[sar4937]

I need to purchase an ATV part from a Canadian supplier that does not have an outlet in the USA. I know I need to pay a duty tax, but the exchange rate calculation has me confused a bit. They also want my SS# for the paperwork to import. Has anyone got any advice for a first time importer? Is there a way to keep my SS# secure? More secure? This is an expensive part, with $700 shipping.

 

[MO_mule]

sar4937:

No idea about shipping parts across the 49th parallel but I do not understand why you have to provide a S/S number. A credit card should be all that is required (to guarantee the shipper gets paid -- no flame intended). You're providing a shipping address, too, so it seems a little odd that the Canadians would want your S/S no. I would hold off on that if I were you. Have you "googled" importing from Canada? You may need a customs agent to handle the paperwork so be prepared for $80 to 100 for the agent fee. Doesn't the manufacturer have an office in the US?

I'll ask our shipping guru-ette if she has any hot tips for you.

Chris

 

[Texas Star]

sar4937:

No idea about shipping parts across the 49th parallel but I do not understand why you have to provide a S/S number. A credit card should be all that is required (to guarantee the shipper gets paid -- no flame intended). You're providing a shipping address, too, so it seems a little odd that the Canadians would want your S/S no. I would hold off on that if I were you. Have you "googled" importing from Canada? You may need a customs agent to handle the paperwork so be prepared for $80 to 100 for the agent fee. Doesn't the manufacturer have an office in the US?

I'll ask our shipping guru-ette if she has any hot tips for you.

Chris

I ordered a Grohmann knife from Nova Scotia. They took my money order and there was either no duty or very little, although there was a customs declaration tag on the package. I'm almost sure that the postman just told me to forget the duty. Probably too little for him to mess with it.

I'd be very leery of giving out my SS number.

T-Star

 

[truckemup97]

I would contact a customs broker. Sure, you're going to pay them a small fee, but your SSN will be secure and if things go wrong, they are bonded.

 

[rfo1]

I buy and sell a lot between Canada and the USA. I have never heard of the need to provide a s/s number and I certainly wouldn't provide one.It isn't a Canadian export requirement in my opinion and I can't see Canada/ US Customs requesting that information either.
Good luck with your transaction if you decide to purchase--
rfo1

 

[sar4937]

Is that a Canadian customs broker, or an American one?

 

[bobcat]

If the part is coming into the US, you'd need to get a US Customs broker, I work at the border and we don't require SS #'s . If you pay for the part with a credit card, they'll automatically do the exchange and give you the best rate. Duty depends on a number of factors, where it's made, value of the commodity, etc.,

Good luck...

 

[walnutred]

If it is a very expensive part don't forget the VAT. I think at one time there was a form you could submit to get a refund on the VAT for items leaving Canada for the States.

 

[Gordo1]

No Issue

I am an ex-Canadian.
all you need is a valid credit card. the shipper will ship on confermation of the transaction. Have the part shipped UPS or Fed-Ex. they will notify you when they have the package for delivery to you and advize of any customs paperwork. You will not have to pay any Canadian tax as the part is being exported from Canada.
It is a simple process provided you are prepared to pay all shipping costs.
UPS and Fed-Ex do this stuff every day of the week. Perhaps you should call them first on theie 800 # for clarification.

 

[sipowicz]

I've dealt with Canadians before...just talk real loud and slow.

 

[scottaschultz]

I've dealt with Canadians before...just talk real loud and slow.

...and end every sentence with, "eh?"

Scott