"Use a cross border mail service or just mail direct?" Topic

I'm thinking about placing a large order from Old Glory 15, over USD300 worth, and I'm wondering if it is better to use a cross border shipping service like Shippsy, or just have it shipped direct to me and take the higher shipping rate and quite possibly import duty. I'm in the greater Toronto area.

Any suggestions?

Its been quite a while since I was dinged duty by Canada Post but if its a courier company almost for sure you will be.

What about your FLGS, could they order it for you? I live on the West Coast and sometimes order through Imperial Hobbies in Richmond BC. Very reliable store.

David
kingsfordminiatures.org

I use Shippsy. Much, much cheaper. They charge a $7.95 USD flat rate, plus 11% VAT. No extra brokerage fees or anything. I just got an order from 19th Century Miniatures for OG15s a couple of weeks ago that way myself! (Make sure that 19th Century include your Shippsy customer number in the address).

If you can't pick it up at one of their stores, they can ship it to you, although of course, that will cost a bit more. No idea how much, as I live only a few minutes from one of their locations.

Canada Post is on strike. You won't get your order from OG for a while unless you ask Russ to ship it by courier. You then will definitely get dinged for customs, HST and the lovely $9.95 USD + HST by Customs for their handling fee. Also don't forget the nearly 40% exchange fee. That size of order will most definitely incur the above mentioned fees whether through Canada Post, courier or if you drive across the border and return the same day. I can't answer for Shippsey.

Yes, that's why I use Shippsy Hitman.

If you decide to go for Shippsy, click this link to sign up. You'll get a $10 USD credit.

shippsy.com/r/rc0ypD

Very generous Tony.

A good idea but its stores cover a limited area.

I have never heard of Shippsy, so thanks for that.

There is no easy way to order from the US to Canada. The P&H is outrageous, the customs arbitrary, and the $9.95 USD handling fee (shouldn't that be part of the P&Handling fee????) infuriating. This tends to be lower in combination than the Fedex etc customs 'brokerage' fees, but not by much. And then sometimes, but very seldom, miraculously, something arrives at your door with no additional fees or charges, and you rejoice.