Heads up: New Customs Regulations (Canada & Possibly USA) on International Packages
Hello Ladies!
As some of you may already know as of December 27th, 2011 the CBSA has introduced new regulations on customs fees for items imported to Canada (and what I have heard the USA) form most other countries. What I have found as of today, is just how much this will effect all products coming from Japan.
Here is a breakdown of the fees assessment:
• For items marked clothing, they are now subject to a 18% customs fee charge for any product purchased by a business over $20.
• For items marked clothing, they are now subject to a 18% customs fee charge for any product that is marked “gift” over $60.
• On top of the 18%, you are also subject to PST and GST if applicable in your state or province (ex. Mine is 5% PST and 5% GST for a running total of 28%)
• On top of this percentage, Canada Post of $8.50 also now charges you a handling fee.
So, say you declare a package for $200 and mark it as a gift. $60 of this is exempt, therefore, you will be taxed 28% of $140 + $8.50 for a grand total of $47.70, or a grand total of $53.50 if the item is not marked as a gift.
I found this out the hard way today, when I had another package from Japan. It was marked the exact same way as the package I received on December 22, 2011 without charge, and today I was charged $67.55 on a package I had ordered.
I am sharing this with you all, because it could add up to crazy amounts on packages, and the CBSA is not required to announce the change in policy. When I called the CBSA, what I have broke down for you in my post, as well as what I have gathered from Canada post they will begin with the most expensive taxable imports (ex clothing) on large purchases and work from there, until the new system is in place.
I hope this was helpful for you all! <3
As some of you may already know as of December 27th, 2011 the CBSA has introduced new regulations on customs fees for items imported to Canada (and what I have heard the USA) form most other countries. What I have found as of today, is just how much this will effect all products coming from Japan.
Here is a breakdown of the fees assessment:
• For items marked clothing, they are now subject to a 18% customs fee charge for any product purchased by a business over $20.
• For items marked clothing, they are now subject to a 18% customs fee charge for any product that is marked “gift” over $60.
• On top of the 18%, you are also subject to PST and GST if applicable in your state or province (ex. Mine is 5% PST and 5% GST for a running total of 28%)
• On top of this percentage, Canada Post of $8.50 also now charges you a handling fee.
So, say you declare a package for $200 and mark it as a gift. $60 of this is exempt, therefore, you will be taxed 28% of $140 + $8.50 for a grand total of $47.70, or a grand total of $53.50 if the item is not marked as a gift.
I found this out the hard way today, when I had another package from Japan. It was marked the exact same way as the package I received on December 22, 2011 without charge, and today I was charged $67.55 on a package I had ordered.
I am sharing this with you all, because it could add up to crazy amounts on packages, and the CBSA is not required to announce the change in policy. When I called the CBSA, what I have broke down for you in my post, as well as what I have gathered from Canada post they will begin with the most expensive taxable imports (ex clothing) on large purchases and work from there, until the new system is in place.
I hope this was helpful for you all! <3