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Made in Canada conundrum

We all know that some of the very best audio equipment is made in Canada. Some of these legendary companies don't have service facilities in the USA, so if it breaks,like mine did, you send it back to Canada. I just experienced this: Promised about 2 weeks turn-around time, but we're going on 2 months and it's still at Customs in Canada, who are waiting to clear it, having charged me tax, duty, broker fees (FedEx) and a fourth charge for some technicality that I've forgotten. What do US purchasers feel about paying tax, duty and broker fees when they buy Canadian and then pay the same fees again to have the original repaired? Annoyed, like I am, or did you know that? And would you have bought Canadian if you knew this before-hand - like I didn't, because nobody told me. Should I have known this? Opinions, please. (I will keep the Manufacturer's name confidential while I wait for resolution)
springbok10
wilsynet's avatar
wilsynet
264 posts
 
You can be assured that when you're a Canadian visiting the US, the border people working for the US treat you exactly the same -- doing you a favor letting you into the US.

This is just the way the border people are. Customs, border enforcement etc. is a pain both ways.
dev's avatar
dev
832 posts
 
It's a shame this has happened but it does happen on both sides, customs can be a nightmare!

What I don't understand is why there is so much finger pointing, this has me at a loss and shame on the individules doing such, I believe it only demonstrates ignorence and in the end only speaks for the type on person you really are.

It's not the individual citizens of either country you should be up-set with but directing it to our governments, they are the ones causing the issues.
andr
109 posts
 
I’m Canadian but this as nothing to do with my opinion. We live in troubled times and I believe borders and customs people have a job to do. They have instructions and orders and most of them will act accordingly and others…..will have problems adapting. So what else is new.

Most of my audio units come from the U.S. I was privileged to find the best audio technicians in the next large city 200 miles from my place. When I have something that needs repair, I happily drive the distance because I know when I come back, the unit will be top shape. Less hassle, less risk and more efficient than shipping to the manufacturer across the border, even the local supposedly authorized repairman. Most especially when the warranty period is expired. And they always manage to get plans from the manufacturer if the repair needs understanding the design.
tmsorosk
1,013 posts
 
Canadians get the same B.S. from U.S. customs when the situations are reversed , maybe worse .
andr
109 posts
 
I've not been in audio long enough to have several transactions made with the US in order a correct, full experience of the matter. I'll just say that the few times it happened, everything was perfect every time. So what gives ?

I've learned to value generalizations as what they are : generalizations ! I've heard comments such as :
- Krell have stopped repairing units more than 10 yrs old
- Levinson don't answer the phone anymore

To find out later on whole companies or institutions were put on the bench solely because one of their perfectly competent employees got up on the wrong foot a certain day. Even worse that the person who started the rumor was too limited to explain correctly his needs or concerns clearly.
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