USPD & Import taxes

[tetibird]

Hi, excuse my ignorance (which is why I'm here).

I've read all the posts I can about GSP & tax thresholds etc. The gist I get is that the "value" of the item is cost of item+cost of post/ transportation if it is couriered (eg GSP & Fed ex) BUT it is only the cost of item (value under $1000) if via normal post.

Is USPD Priority Mail international a courier? Or is it a "normal" mail where postage is not included & likely to get past customs without paperwork?

They are quoting about US$48 for a small piece of jewellery, & the cheapest option. This pushes me just over the A$1000.

Thanks for any advice given.

[lyndal1838]

What is the USPD?

Ordinary mail is sent through the USPS (United States PostalService).

No matter what service is used you will pay import taxes and duty if the value is over AU$1000 for item + postage.

If you are using the Global Shipping Program you will be charged the duty and taxes when you pay for the item....it will show on the invoice the actual charges that are due.

[iainlouden]

Ring customs on 131 881 and get a definitive answer.

Their website is confusing and seemingly contradictory at times.

[tetibird]

It's frustrating as it keeps going around & around in posts.

Lyndal this is what you said a couple of years ago (bottom of page):

http://community.ebay.com.au/t5/Buying/Australian-buying-from-USA-import-duties-GSP/td-p/754481/high...

Why can't customs make it 100 % clear

I will ring - but I'm not sure I'd even trust a verbal.

Can I also ask if with GSP it includes ALL the taxes & duties at our end or could I still end up with a nasty "extra" surprise?

Many thanks

[lyndal1838]

You are talking about the GSP....that is a courier service (FedEx) so you will probably be paying import charges.

As I said.....if there are import charges thy will be detailed on the invoice before you pay and there should not be any further charges when the item gets to Australia.

When you pay the GSP invoice any charges that you pay will be paid to Australian Customs on your behalf by Pitney Bowes.

I have never bought anything that needs import charges through the GSP so can only tell you what I understand is the case.

[afantiques]

Offer to buy the item for $100 less. Or walk away. Margins on jewellery are usually huge, they may well agree and then you will save yourself import taxes as well  as $100.

[iainlouden]

Yes it goes round and round in posts..that's why I suggested to go to the source rather than rely on posts.

What was stated a couple of years ago in a post  may not be applicable today.

If you want the definitive answer ring customs and get it sorted so you can decide on buying or not buying.

[harley_babes_hoard]

I rang customs and was told the $1000 is goods only not including postage. I have for 6 years been ordering goods to the value of just under 1000 + 200-300 postage. They have been inspected a few times by customs and never had a problem

[harley_babes_hoard]

http://www.border.gov.au/Busi/Impo/Impo

[tetibird]

Thanks Harley.

It may be all theoretical at the momement anyway with the dollar "plunging". I've had a lovely time for the last few years buying books OS & other bits & pieces, but all good things come to an end :(s. Good for farmers & exporters though.