International buyers beware!

When importing an item, specifically from Canada to the USA and vice versa, UPS and Fed Ex charge outrageous brokerage fees to import the item for you, usually if the item is worth over a certain amount (for UPS, anything over $20 is subject to a brokerage fee). Basically, they charge you a fee to bring the item into another country.
I suggest using USPS or Canada Post when shipping or receiving, because they only charge a flat $5.00 brokerage fee. NO other charges, except any duty taxes/custom fees. You could also clear it for entry into the country yourself, but to do this you have to be relatively close to the a port of entry on the border. Make sure the sender clearly marks that the the buyer will be doing this.

Also, shipping via Air and express, and some other methods instead of ground or standard can eliminate brokerage fees, because they are built in to the price(thats one of the reasons this shipping method is more expensive) Be sure to read online or phone the shipping company ahead of time to verify incase you have any concerns.

I hope this has been helpful and will save you time and a headache! If it has been, please hit the "Yes" button.



The brokerage fees for UPS into Canada can be found here:
http://www.ups.com/content/ca/en/shipping/cost/zones/customs_clearance.html

Brokerage Fees for FedEx can be found here:
http://www.fedex.com/us/customersupport/ftn/faq/rate.html#topthree11