2. misc-audio
  3. 166527-10261

Fedex Customs problem

I sent my SME 3009 tonearm to Scotland for full service. I was shipped back to me on April 29 via Interparcel [Fedex].
The package is being delayed at the Memphis, TN, Fedex office. A few minutes ago I filled a CBP 5106 form and mailed it to Fedex. 

I still do not understand why I had to fill a form that I am unable to fully understand since I am not in the importing business. I do not understand the trade lingo and abbreviations.

Since 1976 I have been buying audio equipment from the UK [Quad 63s, Linn, Gyrodec, NAIM, etc] more valuable than a used SME 3009 and never had to fill a form or had any problems. Last January I received another SME 3009 that was rewired by the same person in Edinburgh but it came via USPS without insurance and it arrived pretty fast without a problem..

My Garrard 401 is being rebuilt in the UK and I'm afraid to have problems with Customs again but using USPS is risky since my deck costs $1,8K.

I would really appreciate your comments and suggestions.

Cheers,

Horacio


f456gt
jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 
I had no problem with shipping/customs when I bought a used Linn Sondek from a London audio retailer. Ditto for a pair of Quad 57's from another eBay seller in England. Bad luck in your case where you attracted the interest of Customs?
Post removed 
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Use DHL. But I think it has more to do with the shipper, and what they declare when filling things out on their end. I have never had any problem in something like a dozen international shipments. Only time I ever paid anything to customs was $30k of bitcoin miners, and even then it was delivered without any delay. 


More to discover