Ordering Timing belt kit from U.S.

[ttraina]

I recently ordered a timing belt kit from ECS Tuning for my 2000 1.8T. The price was good and the delivery charge to Canada was advertised as 1/2 price. Even with the exchange rate it looked as if I was going to come out ahead compared to buying from the dealership.

Well the package arrived today and I had to pay $110 duty fees to the delivery person! I think that eliminates any savings I thought I was going to get by ordering from ECS. Should I have expected such a large duty fee? I'll think I'll have to look harder for a Canadian website next time. I'm sure the actual goods are first rate from ECS, it's just the unexpected charge that bugs me.

[[lot]]

Next time you'll order from the US (ebay or online store)ask the seller to ship you the goods with USPS ground. It's definitely the cheapest way. If you are in a hurry ask for USPS airmail parcel post.
Always avoid Fedex and UPS. They'll always charge the highest handling fees.
I don't order from ECS because they only ship with UPS. I prefer German Auto Parts. My experience with them is positive so far.
You'll pay the GST, the PST and generally 8$ for the handling fees...

[ttraina]

Lot, thanks for the tip. I'll remember that when I go shopping for my next item, maybe a skidplate.

[silverspoiler]

Your other option is to have UPS hold your package for pick-up just across the border. Then you can go an pick it up yourself, and bring it back without paying any fees. I've done this several times, and even when I've declared my package at customs, they haven't ever charged me anything. And it is generally a lot cheaper having something shipped within the US.

[MusicBeetle]

so how much did you pay for the timing belt kit whit the custums fee ?

i could of got you the kit for 180$ tax in