Welcome to the forum Paul. Unfortunately, death and taxes are inevitable. Some countries don’t seem to collect (like in the US) and some are vigilant. In the US we are supposed to self report some things but the nuances are left to those with far more expensive than I (I rarely purchase outside the US).
Since brexit, many members here have had to change their buying habits in both the UK and EU as the additional VAT has just become too much on top of the purchase price. It does tend to keep nice watches in country though which can work in your favor if one you want pops up nearby as less people will be interested.
One thing you should be cautious of is posting publicly your desire to know how to circumvent duty/taxes. You won’t find many people willing to talk openly about that subject.
Thanks for the response and you make a great point. I am not suggesting avoiding paying tax/duty just wondering how to keep costs down. I live in Canada and bought things from the US in good faith only to be stung by hidden import fees. Wasn’t sure there were any loopholes like importing cars when they are 25 or 40 years old they are tax exempt
In my experience, Canada is luck of the draw. In general, however, always ask for USPS. Do not use FedEx, ups, DHL, etc. USPS does not charge for Canadian brokerage. The other carriers mostly do.
With USPS, about half the time I pay duty and tax. Other times watches sail right through. I guess it depends how backed up the CBSA inspectors are.
In my experience, Canada is luck of the draw. In general, however, always ask for USPS. Do not use FedEx, ups, DHL, etc. USPS does not charge for Canadian brokerage. The other carriers mostly do.
With USPS, about half the time I pay duty and tax. Other times watches sail right through. I guess it depends how backed up the CBSA inspectors are.
When you have purchased a watch from a different country does it always attract duty and or tax. Is there a way around this other than lying on the description. I’ve seen some fantastic watches online and on here, but when you factor in duty and tax (plus postage, insurance and exchange rates) it takes the shine off. Any tips to keep costs down?[/QUOTE]
Er, buy cheaper watches?
Seriously you can invite sellers to misrecord values on customs declarations: they will or they won't. You can explore grey outlets and maybe make a small saving; maybe. But you'll worry if you've sent your money down a rabbit hole with no redress. You can use paypal friends and family "sending money" rather than paypal "buying something": if it goes wrong you're on your own.
Honestly my advice is to suck it up/take it on the chin.
Thanks for the response and you make a great point. I am not suggesting avoiding paying tax/duty just wondering how to keep costs down. I live in Canada and bought things from the US in good faith only to be stung by hidden import fees. Wasn’t sure there were any loopholes like importing cars when they are 25 or 40 years old they are tax exempt
