> I recall a former posting regarding shipping items to Canada and a way
to
> avoid customs charges.
>
> I am shipping some used parts to Canada in the next few days and do not
> recall the best method. I do recall not to use FedEx or UPS but to use
USPS.
>
> Does anyone recall if shipping as a gift is one way to have the
recipient
> not pay customs fees. We will insure the item for $900.
>
> Advice needed ASAP
>
> William

Canada Post charges a flat $5.00 CDN handling fee, on top of what ever the
shipping charges are.  I believe this is less than FedEx, UPS, etc.

Shipments with a value of less than $20.00 CDN are not subject to any duty
or taxes.  Gifts under $60 CDN are also duty and tax exempt.

For shipments over these values, the receiver must pay GST, PST, HST as
applicable for each province.  No PST in Alberta :)

I believe auto parts can be subjected to a duty (up to 6% I believe) but I
have never had this happen to me.

Typically, USPS - Canada Post is the cheaper way to go.  Keeping the
declared value low, but still reasonable, will minimize the taxes.

Kevin
Calgary, AB