Import to USA, item from CANADA

[_goodtimez]

Hi folks,

Just a quick trading question: I want to buy an old second hand lens from Canada and have it shipped to my sister in NYC. The value is around 1000 USD.
Will my sister have to pay import taxes ?
Thanks

 

[David Murphy]

The last time I checked the duty free limits were $900, at least on travelers landing at ports of entry. My guess is that they won't hold it, but you never know. The worst that could happen is that you could pay a small duty - I'd not worry.

 

[_goodtimez]

Thanks for your replies I appreciate

 

[Doug]

There is no import duty on camera gear into the US...

 

[Nikon Bob]

My experience is that she won't. Coming the other way is another matter.

J can't recall paying import duties on camera gear from the USA but I do recall paying the federal and provincial sales taxes which are not import duties.

Bob

 

[former member]

Have it sent using the Post Office and avoid Fed-Ex and UPS. If there is a way to figure out how to make someone pay extra for something, Fed-Ex and UPS will do it. They seem to err with the side of making a percentage on it.

 

[Nikon Bob]

Yea, I'll second what Brian said about using Canada Post/USPS to deliver it. If you have it sent with a tracking number you should be able to track it on both sides of the border.

Bob

 

[alfredian]

Used, old, & private

Used, old, & private

My understanding is that Used items, especially if they are "old" are pretty much exempt from American duties, especially if the transaction is between private individuals. Have the Canadian shipper, private or business, describe the item as "used camera parts" or "used camera lens" on the Canada Post label/declaration thingy.

Anymore, Canada is a co-member of NAFTA, and lots of really nice Leica gear was manufactured by Leitz Canada, and is therefore, Canadian.

 

[sepiareverb]

As long as you avoid FED-EX and UPS for Canada/US shipments you'll be fine. I sent a camera to Kinderman Canada for repair via UPS and it was tied up in customs for weeks, and there were extra fees Gerry had to pay to take the camera in for repair. USPS/Canada Post only for me from now on.

There are occasional delays crossing the border even with the Post Offices, but it seems a guarantee with the 'premium' carriers.