Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/05/16

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Who modifies gear (in the USA)?
From: "Noel H. Charchuk" <nhcharch@calcna.ab.ca>
Date: Sat, 16 May 1998 08:37:23 -0600 (MDT)

Steve, Jeff and others on the list. I live in Canada, and Canada Post is
just as stupid about items moving back and forth across the border. The
$35 duty referred to is likely the GST, Goods and Sales Tax on the
declared value of the item. I have ordered a number of items from the
States, usually used equipment, which is not dutiable, and they charge GST
on it, plus a 5-7$ "processing fee", so when someone sends a $10 item, it
gets 0.70$ GST tacked on, and a $5 fee. Big Ripoff, indeed. I recently had
to pay this for a light meter I sent to the States and the buyer decided
to return it, as it wasn't what he wanted. I ended up paying postage down,
and the processing fee to get back my property. On a $20 non-sale, I am
out $10 for postage and "fees".
I think there is a way around the duty, but you would have to get some
expert customs advice, but any item being sent for work to be performed,
and then returned should not be subject to any fees, duties or taxes. What
is really annoying is we are supposed to be in some sort of free trade
agreement in North America.
Now I'll get off my soapbox. 

Noel Charchuk
Calgary, Alberta

On Sat, 16 May 1998, steve wrote:

> 
> 
> ----------
> >From: "Jeff S" <segawa@netone.com>
> 
> >Does anyone modifiy Leica M bodies in the US of A? Lacking that, are there
> >any complications involved in sending gear to Reinhold Mueller in Canada,
> >regarding import declaration, duties, etc? Looking to have an M3-type lens
> >release (I've discovered the value of the finger guard the hard way,
> >watching an Elmar meet the sidewalk) and winder couplings added to my M4.
> >Think it's due for a C-L-A anyhow.
> >
> Jeff, I wouldn't send another camera to Canada if I could help it. Half the
> time the come back two weeks later in the same box because the reciepient
> didn't pay a 35.00 duty. I have been waiting a month for a repaired IIIF
> sent by  Canadian post, which is better than ups for skipping duty.
> Steve
> 
> 
>