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Problems with shipping to Canada

I checked the Forums but this topic doesn't seem to have been addressed before so potential shippers to Canada take heed. In June I shipped an item to Canada by FEDEX where the buyer had agreed to pay shipping and be responsible for paying the import duties. However FEDEX has been unable to collect the fees from the buyer and have informed me that as shipper I am ultimately responsible for payment. Luckily the amount I'm out of pocket is not large ($120) but I just wanted Agoner's to be aware of this possible pitfall especially if shipping high-value items
jaynewt
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I just had the same thing happen to me. Fed Ex wants $35 for a $120 sale. They told me the same thing, they were unable to collect from the buyer, and now the shipper is liable for import duties.

I say, no more shipping to Canada.

John
cytocycle
1,043 posts
 
Yup... this happened to my friend who ebays alot..
USPS or nothing for Canadians.

It has been easier for me to ship internationally than to Canada.

Make Sure you leave Negative Feedback stating having to pay his customs import taxes.
bdgregory
1,710 posts
 
I had the same thing happen (I can tell we both received the same form letter). In my case I sent an email to the buyer (this happened 4 months after the sale) reminding him he agreed to pay these fees. Fortunately for me, he had already paid them (ie 3 days before he received my email), and I never heard again from FEDEX.

My policy now is the same as Cytocycle's - USPS or nothing.
jaynewt OP
17 posts
 
Yes, I filed a dispute with Audiogon and they suspended the members account and encouraged me to leave negative feedback, which I have. I was a bit annoyed at FEDEX for not making this clear when I shipped although I do understand and sympathize with their policy. In any case I've now learnt my lesson, if I can't find a buyer in the US then no sale!
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